After stringent review by one of the country's premier charity watchdogs, a Massachusetts-based troop-support group has been added to a list of top-rated charities.
The American Institute of Philanthropy has reviewed Homes for Our Troops' finances and included the group in their "Top-Rated Veterans & Military Charities" listing.
Homes for Our Troops is a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and companies with servicemembers and their families serving at home and abroad.
"Homes for Our Troops is proud to be included in [American Institute of Philanthropy's] list of top rated veterans and military charities," said Tom Benoit, vice president and chief financial officer of Homes for Our Troops. "Our dedicated staff has worked tirelessly to efficiently raise the funds needed to build homes across the country for severely injured veterans.
"The support we receive from our corporate partners and from individuals and companies across the country made it possible for Homes for Our Troops to spend only 7 percent on administration and fundraising in our fiscal year [ending] Sept. 30, 2007, and to complete 11 homes in 2007," he added. "Our goal is to complete 30 homes in 2008."
Founded in 2004, Homes for Our Troops is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing specially adapted homes to servicemembers severely injured while fighting in the global war on terrorism. The organization has provided 25 veterans and their families with homes suited to meet the each veteran's individual challenges. Over the next few years, Homes for Our Troops is committed to providing at least 100 additional homes for injured troops, organization officials said.
Only five of the 32 veterans charities listed in the American Institute of Philanthropy's most recent report are included in the top-rated category, according to institute officials.
The watchdog's review process focuses on the percent of costs spent on "program service costs" and the efficiency of organizations in raising funds.
Rather than just using figures reported by charities in financial disclosure forms, the institute adjusts for direct mail, telemarketing and solicitation costs that are sometimes allocated to program service costs. It also excludes the value of donated goods and services, which can be difficult to measure.
Because of their thorough review process, the institute was described as "the pit bull of watchdogs" by the New York Times. Newsweek said, "It's the toughest of the bunch. Because it disregards certain, potentially suspect, expenses and donations, it fails some nonprofits that the other raters approve."
American Forces Press Service
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Friday, May 30, 2008
Dress for Success Atlanta Dresses 10,000 Women
Dress for Success Atlanta will suit their 10,000 client on Tuesday, June 3 at 1:45 p.m in the organization’s America’s Mart showroom on Spring Street. Founded in 1997, Dress For Success promotes the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Dress for Success Atlanta joined the International Dress For Success community in 1999. Since that time, the organization has worked with numerous agencies and organizations to serve the women of Atlanta through job training, mentorship, and, the provision of work appropriate clothing.
Dress for Success clients are eligible to receive a suiting through several referral agencies. Partnered with a personal shopper, clients browse the Atlanta showroom’s collection of suits, shoes, and accessories to put together several interview-appropriate ensembles. When a client successfully obtains a job, she may return the showroom to shop for several more outfits or uniforms. Dress for Success Atlanta suits over 1,000 new clients each year.
Dress For Success Atlanta’s program director, Victoria Hook, says the “10,000 suiting is a huge milestone for the organization. It shows the need for and importance of programs that empower women. Even after 10,000 suitings, we still are meeting a need that grows every single year.”
Event Schedule
1:45 p.m. Welcome
Announcement of 10,000 suiting participant
Flowers, Ceremony
2:00 p.m.
Suiting of 10,000 client
Photo Opps
Cake
Gifts and acknowledgements
Location:
220 Spring Street NW Suite 102
Atlanta, GA 30303
Directions:
Please visit http://www.dressforsuccess.org/affiliate.aspx?sisid=1&pageid=1
Dress for Success clients are eligible to receive a suiting through several referral agencies. Partnered with a personal shopper, clients browse the Atlanta showroom’s collection of suits, shoes, and accessories to put together several interview-appropriate ensembles. When a client successfully obtains a job, she may return the showroom to shop for several more outfits or uniforms. Dress for Success Atlanta suits over 1,000 new clients each year.
Dress For Success Atlanta’s program director, Victoria Hook, says the “10,000 suiting is a huge milestone for the organization. It shows the need for and importance of programs that empower women. Even after 10,000 suitings, we still are meeting a need that grows every single year.”
Event Schedule
1:45 p.m. Welcome
Announcement of 10,000 suiting participant
Flowers, Ceremony
2:00 p.m.
Suiting of 10,000 client
Photo Opps
Cake
Gifts and acknowledgements
Location:
220 Spring Street NW Suite 102
Atlanta, GA 30303
Directions:
Please visit http://www.dressforsuccess.org/affiliate.aspx?sisid=1&pageid=1
Mrs. Georgia Warns About Lung Cancer, Radon
Tiffany Hudak wears the crown because she is Mrs. Georgia 2008. She wears the bracelet on her wrist because she wants to bring awareness to lung cancer.
Five years ago, Hudak’s mother was diagnosed with lung cancer at a routine doctor’s visit. She died three weeks later.
“There is no way to detect lung cancer early,” she said. “Once it is found, it is too late.”
Lung cancer doesn’t only affect smokers. More than 21,000 people die each year from lung cancer caused by radon. Georgia has the highest rate in the Southeast with 822 deaths last year.
Radon is a cancer-causing radioactive gas that comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water. It is invisible, odorless and tasteless. Regions with a lot of granite have a higher risk for radon.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, all north Georgia counties have a moderate to high potential for radon. Cobb, Fulton, DeKalb and Gwinnett counties have the highest potential for it.
Raised in Elberton, Ga., known as the granite capitol of the world, radon awareness is important to Hudak.
“It is scary. It is all around us,” she said.
Since winning her crown in February 2008, she has thrust the spotlight on her cause. She has been featured in several newspaper articles and will be on the cover of Athena magazine later this year. She hosted the Georgia “Free to Breath” 5k run in April, which raised more than $5,000 for the National Lung Cancer Partnership. And she’s joined forces with the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension.
“Radon is truly a silent killer,” said Becky Chenhall, a UGA Extension radon educator. “It is so easy to ignore because you can’t see, smell or taste it. The only way to know the radon level in your home is to test for it.”
UGA Extension offices distribute free radon test kits. Since the program started five years ago, 22,000 test kits have been distributed.
“We are saving lives by educating and motivating people to take action,” Chenhall said. “The bad news is radon causes lung cancer. The good news is that any radon problem can be fixed.”
Radon is heavier than air. Test kits should be hanged two feet to six feet above the floor in the center of a room. Bedrooms or family rooms are the best rooms to test. Children are at greater risk of radon exposure. The radon level at a child’s breathing level is higher than that found at an adult’s.
Radon test results will never be 0. The average indoor level is 1.3 pCi/L. Any test that measures 4 pCi/L or higher requires action. Nationally, one out of every 15 homes will have high radon. In north Georgia, one out of every five homes could have elevated radon.
When required, mitigation can be done relatively cheap. The gas can be safely released from the home by installing an inline fan and running a ventilation pipe from underneath the home’s foundation to above the roofline. Georgia currently has 10 certified radon mitigators trained to correct radon problems.
by April Sorrow
University of Georgia
April R. Sorrow is a news editor with the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
Five years ago, Hudak’s mother was diagnosed with lung cancer at a routine doctor’s visit. She died three weeks later.
“There is no way to detect lung cancer early,” she said. “Once it is found, it is too late.”
Lung cancer doesn’t only affect smokers. More than 21,000 people die each year from lung cancer caused by radon. Georgia has the highest rate in the Southeast with 822 deaths last year.
Radon is a cancer-causing radioactive gas that comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water. It is invisible, odorless and tasteless. Regions with a lot of granite have a higher risk for radon.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, all north Georgia counties have a moderate to high potential for radon. Cobb, Fulton, DeKalb and Gwinnett counties have the highest potential for it.
Raised in Elberton, Ga., known as the granite capitol of the world, radon awareness is important to Hudak.
“It is scary. It is all around us,” she said.
Since winning her crown in February 2008, she has thrust the spotlight on her cause. She has been featured in several newspaper articles and will be on the cover of Athena magazine later this year. She hosted the Georgia “Free to Breath” 5k run in April, which raised more than $5,000 for the National Lung Cancer Partnership. And she’s joined forces with the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension.
“Radon is truly a silent killer,” said Becky Chenhall, a UGA Extension radon educator. “It is so easy to ignore because you can’t see, smell or taste it. The only way to know the radon level in your home is to test for it.”
UGA Extension offices distribute free radon test kits. Since the program started five years ago, 22,000 test kits have been distributed.
“We are saving lives by educating and motivating people to take action,” Chenhall said. “The bad news is radon causes lung cancer. The good news is that any radon problem can be fixed.”
Radon is heavier than air. Test kits should be hanged two feet to six feet above the floor in the center of a room. Bedrooms or family rooms are the best rooms to test. Children are at greater risk of radon exposure. The radon level at a child’s breathing level is higher than that found at an adult’s.
Radon test results will never be 0. The average indoor level is 1.3 pCi/L. Any test that measures 4 pCi/L or higher requires action. Nationally, one out of every 15 homes will have high radon. In north Georgia, one out of every five homes could have elevated radon.
When required, mitigation can be done relatively cheap. The gas can be safely released from the home by installing an inline fan and running a ventilation pipe from underneath the home’s foundation to above the roofline. Georgia currently has 10 certified radon mitigators trained to correct radon problems.
by April Sorrow
University of Georgia
April R. Sorrow is a news editor with the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
New Cookbook Encourages Families To Cook Together While Learning About Internet Safety
According to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children® (NCMEC), it’s important for families to have conversations about serious subjects like safety while doing something positive together – like cooking. Just in time for June, which is National Internet Safety Month, Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (Red Robin), the gourmet burger experts, and NCMEC have teamed up to provide families with a resource to discuss the rewards and risks of Internet use – “The Next Gourmet Burger Kids’ Recipe Contest” Cookbook. The new cookbook is filled with tasty kid-invented gourmet burger recipes and important NCMEC Internet safety tips. The cookbook will be sold for $5 online at www.redrobin.com until Aug. 10, 2008, and profits* benefit NCMEC.
“As kids’ Internet use continues to increase, so do parents’ concerns about Internet safety. Cyberbullying, social networking and online gaming have created new risks for today’s kids, making it important for parents and guardians to find a way to talk about Internet safety as a family,” said Robbie Callaway, co-founder of NCMEC. “Cooking offers an excellent opportunity for families to spend time together doing something fun, while also talking about this important issue.”
According to NCMEC’s latest online victimization research, approximately one in seven of the youth online, ages 10 to 17-years-old, has received a sexual solicitation on the Internet. As summer is the time when kids nationwide typically spend more time surfing the Internet, learning now how to successfully approach the topic of online safety can help families protect their kids and keep them safer. Examples of NCMEC’s Internet safety tips found in Red Robin’s “Next Gourmet Burger Kids’ Recipe Contest” Cookbook include:
Keep the computer in a common room, and away from places like a bedroom or basement.
Go on the Internet with your kids and let them show you what they like to do online.
Know who your children are talking to online and set rules for social networking, instant messaging, email and Webcams.
Set time limits for computer use and make sure your children have interests other than the Internet.
The cookbook also includes more than 50 kid-invented gourmet burger recipes submitted in Red Robin’s second annual “The Next Gourmet Burger Kids’ Recipe Contest,” and also includes celebrity recipes from AnnaSophia Robb, the 14-year-old star of “Because of Winn-Dixie” and “Bridge to Terabithia,” and Chef CJ Jacobson from Bravo’s “Top Chef 3: Miami.”
Twelve-year-old San Diego, Calif., resident Joey Yarwick was the grand prize winner of the contest with his “Au Brie Burger a la Francais,” which was selected from more than 10,000 gourmet burger recipes Red Robin received from kids ages six to 12. Yarwick’s winning burger is made with ground sirloin, brie cheese, au gratin potatoes, butter, cream, fresh rosemary, salt and pepper.
“We are honored to support the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children through the sale of our second annual ‘The Next Gourmet Burger Kids’ Recipe Contest’ Cookbook because of the tremendous work NCMEC does to support kids and families,” said Eric Houseman, Red Robin president and chief operating officer. “It’s gratifying to share our passion for gourmet burgers in a way that also helps families talk about such an important issue like Internet safety.”
Each gourmet burger recipe included in the cookbook was selected because of its inventive combination of gourmet ingredients and fun flavors. Peaches, artichokes, honey, pesto and chow mein noodles are just a few popular gourmet burger toppings suggested by kids that can be found in the cookbook.
For more information about Red Robin and its “The Next Gourmet Burger Kids’ Recipe Contest” Cookbook, please visit www.redrobin.com or http://newsinfusion.com/video_details.php?videoId=180. To learn more about NCMEC and their Internet safety resources, visit www.missingkids.com or www.NetSmartz.org.
“As kids’ Internet use continues to increase, so do parents’ concerns about Internet safety. Cyberbullying, social networking and online gaming have created new risks for today’s kids, making it important for parents and guardians to find a way to talk about Internet safety as a family,” said Robbie Callaway, co-founder of NCMEC. “Cooking offers an excellent opportunity for families to spend time together doing something fun, while also talking about this important issue.”
According to NCMEC’s latest online victimization research, approximately one in seven of the youth online, ages 10 to 17-years-old, has received a sexual solicitation on the Internet. As summer is the time when kids nationwide typically spend more time surfing the Internet, learning now how to successfully approach the topic of online safety can help families protect their kids and keep them safer. Examples of NCMEC’s Internet safety tips found in Red Robin’s “Next Gourmet Burger Kids’ Recipe Contest” Cookbook include:
Keep the computer in a common room, and away from places like a bedroom or basement.
Go on the Internet with your kids and let them show you what they like to do online.
Know who your children are talking to online and set rules for social networking, instant messaging, email and Webcams.
Set time limits for computer use and make sure your children have interests other than the Internet.
The cookbook also includes more than 50 kid-invented gourmet burger recipes submitted in Red Robin’s second annual “The Next Gourmet Burger Kids’ Recipe Contest,” and also includes celebrity recipes from AnnaSophia Robb, the 14-year-old star of “Because of Winn-Dixie” and “Bridge to Terabithia,” and Chef CJ Jacobson from Bravo’s “Top Chef 3: Miami.”
Twelve-year-old San Diego, Calif., resident Joey Yarwick was the grand prize winner of the contest with his “Au Brie Burger a la Francais,” which was selected from more than 10,000 gourmet burger recipes Red Robin received from kids ages six to 12. Yarwick’s winning burger is made with ground sirloin, brie cheese, au gratin potatoes, butter, cream, fresh rosemary, salt and pepper.
“We are honored to support the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children through the sale of our second annual ‘The Next Gourmet Burger Kids’ Recipe Contest’ Cookbook because of the tremendous work NCMEC does to support kids and families,” said Eric Houseman, Red Robin president and chief operating officer. “It’s gratifying to share our passion for gourmet burgers in a way that also helps families talk about such an important issue like Internet safety.”
Each gourmet burger recipe included in the cookbook was selected because of its inventive combination of gourmet ingredients and fun flavors. Peaches, artichokes, honey, pesto and chow mein noodles are just a few popular gourmet burger toppings suggested by kids that can be found in the cookbook.
For more information about Red Robin and its “The Next Gourmet Burger Kids’ Recipe Contest” Cookbook, please visit www.redrobin.com or http://newsinfusion.com/video_details.php?videoId=180. To learn more about NCMEC and their Internet safety resources, visit www.missingkids.com or www.NetSmartz.org.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Volunteers Needed to Participate in Evaluating Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Program
The Georgia Center for Child Advocacy in collaboration with the Medical University of South Carolina is looking for 130 adults who work with children and youth from schools, faith-based organizations or youth-serving organizations to help evaluate “Stewards of Children,” a child sexual abuse prevention training program for adults. This could include anyone who works with children in a variety of capacities including youth groups and little league sports teams. This 3-year, multi-site, federally-funded study will determine the effectiveness of the instructor-led and online versions of the training program.
Participants should live or work within I-285 and be between the ages of 18-65. The study will take anywhere from 1 to 3 ½ hours, and CEU credits are available. Participants will receive the actual training and materials at no cost. Compensation is provided to participants. To learn more about how to participate, call Nedra Manners, Study Site Coordinator for GCCA, at 770-942-2391 or email her at nedra.manners@innerharbour.net.
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Fayette Front Page
Community News You Can Use
Fayetteville, Peachtree City, Tyrone
Participants should live or work within I-285 and be between the ages of 18-65. The study will take anywhere from 1 to 3 ½ hours, and CEU credits are available. Participants will receive the actual training and materials at no cost. Compensation is provided to participants. To learn more about how to participate, call Nedra Manners, Study Site Coordinator for GCCA, at 770-942-2391 or email her at nedra.manners@innerharbour.net.
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www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
Community News You Can Use
Fayetteville, Peachtree City, Tyrone
Saturday, May 24, 2008
America Supports You: Challenge Coins Thank Vets, Help Nonprofit Groups
Searching for a tangible way to help Americans express their deep gratitude to servicemembers for their sacrifices, a Tampa, Fla., couple has designed their own challenge coin.
"As Americans, we should honor and acknowledge the sacrifices of members of the U.S. military," said Deb Benson, who co-founded Grateful American Coin Inc. with her husband. "In doing so, we should individually do what we can, however small, to help those servicemen and women who have sustained the most severe injuries."
The Bensons are doing just that with their organization's new coins. The tangible "thank you" bears the five service insignia on one side and the phrase "Thank you for your service from a grateful American" on the other.
Grateful American coins are available for purchase from the organization's site. While purchasers are presenting them to veterans with a heartfelt "thank you," something they've done 2,894 times since December, the net proceeds from their purchase are being donated to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation and America's Vet Dogs.
Both organizations support America's wounded servicemembers.
"Our goal is to write our first checks to these two organizations on our one-year anniversary in November," Benson said.
Grateful American Coin is a supporter of America Supports You, as are its two beneficiary organizations. America Supports You, a Defense Department program, connects citizens and companies with servicemembers and their families serving at home and abroad.
"The America Supports You [relationship] means a lot to our organization," Benson said. "[It] assists with credibility for our young organization while at the same time assisting with exposure for our program."
The work America Supports You does is valuable and needed for organizations like Grateful American Coin, she added.
Military challenge coins, typically bearing a unit's insignia, date back to World War I. Legend has it that a coin identifying the squadron of a pilot shot down and captured behind enemy lines saved him from being executed by the French as a spy. He provided his coin, the only personal property his enemy captors hadn't confiscated, as proof of his identity.
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
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Fayetteville, Peachtree City, Tyrone
Friday, May 23, 2008
Atreus Homes & Communities Donates $500,000 to the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy
Georgia's children will be a little safer thanks to Jon Been, CEO of Atreus Homes & Communities, who has committed to a $500,000 donation to the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy . The Georgia Center is the leading organization committed to protecting, caring for and healing children who have been victims of child sexual abuse. For more than 20 years, nearly 9,000 children and families have benefited from The Center's services. The staff of social workers, therapists, and psychologists at The Center represents the most significant expertise available for interviewing and treating children who have been sexually abused.
“Thanks to the generosity of Atreus Homes & Communities, we will be able to make upgrades to our facility and enhance our overall services to children,” said Nancy Chandler, executive director of the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy. “With more than 20 percent of Georgia’s children suffering - mostly silently - from child sexual abuse, this donation will have an enormous impact on the number of children we're able to reach with hope and healing."
The Georgia Center for Child Advocacy, a nationally-certified child advocacy center, is committed to a healthy and safe community for children. The organization's mission is the protection, care and healing of children through the coordinated delivery of services. With two locations in DeKalb and Fulton counties, it provides evaluation and treatment to aide in each child's long-term recovery and offers a major statewide education program to prevent sexual abuse of children.
Atreus Homes & Communities, formerly HomeLife Communities, is a third-generation family-run homebuilder headquartered in Atlanta that is currently selling new homes in more than 80 neighborhoods nationwide. The company is heavily involved in charitable programs involving children and has built two new homes as part of ABC-TV’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition television program as well as its 2nd Duke Children’s Hospital Miracle House.
"I’ve always been focused on charity work that help children, because they’re the most defenseless of all of us," said Been. “It’s heartbreaking to think that there’s even a need for such a center, but sadly, there is. We need to do everything we can to make sure every child has the opportunity to grow up healthy, emotionally strong and motivated to contribute their best to society.”
The Georgia Center for Child Advocacy's statewide initiative is to train one million Georgia adults in the Stewards of Children curriculum, teaching them to prevent, recognize and respond to child sexual abuse, using more than 125 facilitators they have trained across the state. This training is geared toward educational institutions, youth-serving organizations, the faith community, parent groups and youth recreation.
Child sexual abuse data shows grim statistics. One in four girls and one in six boys are sexually abused before the age of 18. An estimated 39 million survivors of childhood abuse exist in America today. To learn more about the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy, please visit www.georgiacenterforchildren.org.
“Thanks to the generosity of Atreus Homes & Communities, we will be able to make upgrades to our facility and enhance our overall services to children,” said Nancy Chandler, executive director of the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy. “With more than 20 percent of Georgia’s children suffering - mostly silently - from child sexual abuse, this donation will have an enormous impact on the number of children we're able to reach with hope and healing."
The Georgia Center for Child Advocacy, a nationally-certified child advocacy center, is committed to a healthy and safe community for children. The organization's mission is the protection, care and healing of children through the coordinated delivery of services. With two locations in DeKalb and Fulton counties, it provides evaluation and treatment to aide in each child's long-term recovery and offers a major statewide education program to prevent sexual abuse of children.
Atreus Homes & Communities, formerly HomeLife Communities, is a third-generation family-run homebuilder headquartered in Atlanta that is currently selling new homes in more than 80 neighborhoods nationwide. The company is heavily involved in charitable programs involving children and has built two new homes as part of ABC-TV’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition television program as well as its 2nd Duke Children’s Hospital Miracle House.
"I’ve always been focused on charity work that help children, because they’re the most defenseless of all of us," said Been. “It’s heartbreaking to think that there’s even a need for such a center, but sadly, there is. We need to do everything we can to make sure every child has the opportunity to grow up healthy, emotionally strong and motivated to contribute their best to society.”
The Georgia Center for Child Advocacy's statewide initiative is to train one million Georgia adults in the Stewards of Children curriculum, teaching them to prevent, recognize and respond to child sexual abuse, using more than 125 facilitators they have trained across the state. This training is geared toward educational institutions, youth-serving organizations, the faith community, parent groups and youth recreation.
Child sexual abuse data shows grim statistics. One in four girls and one in six boys are sexually abused before the age of 18. An estimated 39 million survivors of childhood abuse exist in America today. To learn more about the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy, please visit www.georgiacenterforchildren.org.
Introducting the Community Welcome House, Newnan, Georgia
The Community Welcome Home is a non-profit, 501(c)3. We are not a state or federally funded program. We are sustained by donations, fundraising events and grants. Our mission is "educating the community on the many facets of domestic violence while providing refuge and facilitating change for its victims". Our vision is to end domestic violence.
Our purpose is to raise awareness through education to help facilitate social change to address the shame of being a victim and how they are treated during the legal process. We are a 24 hour a day 7 day a week program. We have a crisis line that is available to answer questions and assist anyone who needs to leave a violent situation. We have individual bedrooms. Our services are free. The average stay is six months. We have counseling on site, group and individual. We believe the following areas must be addressed in order for a victim to heal from the trauma of violence; physical, psychological, social, medical, education, financial, and spiritual needs. We understand that domestic violence can be physical, emotional, sexual, financial, or psychological.
Our program collaborates with resources and addresses nutrition, budgeting, job training, education, hygiene, transportation, employment, housing and day care needs.
Our goal is for our individuals to meet their goals through individual case management to become independent self-sufficient individuals who can provide for their children, end the cycle of abuse and live a life where they understand love does not hurt.
For informaton on our program visit our web site at www.communitywelcomehouse.org, 770-304-0966 We welcome volunteers. We have been in existence since 1990. We are trying to make renovations to make our facility "green".
In 2007 we answered over 800 calls for service and welcome 126 women and children into our program. Currently we have 10 women and 11 children residing at our home. You do not have to live at Community Welcome House to utilize our services.
New Beginnings by CWH is a thrift store that provides on the job training for our residents. The proceeds from the sale of items goes to support the women and children victims of domestic violence. Located at 13 Augusta DR. just off of Jefferson St. in Newnan, Georgia, next to Gentry Pawn, the store hours are Wednesday-Thursday-Friday from 10:00am-2:30pm and Saturday 10:00am-4:00pm. We accept donations. The donations have three ways in which we use them: the immediate needs of residents, storage for future use for those individuals that have completed our program and are ready to move out on their own, and for sale in our store. We do give tax receipts.
Run to Domestic Tranquility May 24th
Saturday May 24th, 7:00am registration begins in beautiful downtown Newnan just off the court square at Jackson and West Washington, First Baptist Church of Newnan; the 3rd annual 5K Run/1 mile Walk, Run to Domestic Tranquility is being held. Contact George Martin at r2sun98@mindspring.com or resister on line at www.signmeupsports.com $20.00 individual $15.00 students and $40.00 maximum for families.
Our purpose is to raise awareness through education to help facilitate social change to address the shame of being a victim and how they are treated during the legal process. We are a 24 hour a day 7 day a week program. We have a crisis line that is available to answer questions and assist anyone who needs to leave a violent situation. We have individual bedrooms. Our services are free. The average stay is six months. We have counseling on site, group and individual. We believe the following areas must be addressed in order for a victim to heal from the trauma of violence; physical, psychological, social, medical, education, financial, and spiritual needs. We understand that domestic violence can be physical, emotional, sexual, financial, or psychological.
Our program collaborates with resources and addresses nutrition, budgeting, job training, education, hygiene, transportation, employment, housing and day care needs.
Our goal is for our individuals to meet their goals through individual case management to become independent self-sufficient individuals who can provide for their children, end the cycle of abuse and live a life where they understand love does not hurt.
For informaton on our program visit our web site at www.communitywelcomehouse.org, 770-304-0966 We welcome volunteers. We have been in existence since 1990. We are trying to make renovations to make our facility "green".
In 2007 we answered over 800 calls for service and welcome 126 women and children into our program. Currently we have 10 women and 11 children residing at our home. You do not have to live at Community Welcome House to utilize our services.
New Beginnings by CWH is a thrift store that provides on the job training for our residents. The proceeds from the sale of items goes to support the women and children victims of domestic violence. Located at 13 Augusta DR. just off of Jefferson St. in Newnan, Georgia, next to Gentry Pawn, the store hours are Wednesday-Thursday-Friday from 10:00am-2:30pm and Saturday 10:00am-4:00pm. We accept donations. The donations have three ways in which we use them: the immediate needs of residents, storage for future use for those individuals that have completed our program and are ready to move out on their own, and for sale in our store. We do give tax receipts.
Run to Domestic Tranquility May 24th
Saturday May 24th, 7:00am registration begins in beautiful downtown Newnan just off the court square at Jackson and West Washington, First Baptist Church of Newnan; the 3rd annual 5K Run/1 mile Walk, Run to Domestic Tranquility is being held. Contact George Martin at r2sun98@mindspring.com or resister on line at www.signmeupsports.com $20.00 individual $15.00 students and $40.00 maximum for families.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Main Street Accepting Applications For Homemade Ice Cream Festival
Main Street Newnan is currently accepting applications for the Homemade Ice Cream Festival, planned for Saturday, July 5, 2008 from 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. on the square in historic downtown Newnan. The Homemade Ice Cream Festival will be held in conjunction with the monthly Market Days on the Square.
Participants must be non-profit organizations or a business must be representing a charity. The registration fee is $15.00.
“The Homemade Ice Cream Festival is a chance to showcase your best recipe of homemade ice cream. It’s fun to share your favorite flavor with others, but it’s also a great chance to raise money for a worthy cause. It’s a friendly competition for a very coveted title,” said Alise Cartledge, Main Street Coordinator.
Only one flavor may be entered per group for judging, however, participants may serve as many flavors as they would like. There will be cash prizes for the top three flavors judged. In addition, participants may sell baked items, and other food/beverages to raise money for their designated organization. Participants may set up at 10:00 a.m., selling starts at noon, and the judging is at 12:30.
Participants must provide their own tables, chairs, signage, decorations, coolers, extension cords, serving utensils, brochures on the organization, etc. Paper goods will be provided at registration by Main Street Newnan which includes 400+ each of spoons, napkins, and 5 ounce bowls.
Prices for ice cream are set at $1.00 for one scoop.
“I encourage citizens to come down and sample these tasty summer treats. You will not be disappointed. In the past, we have had the classic ice cream flavors, and we’ve also had the creative, very interesting flavors. It’s a lot of fun,” continued Cartledge.
In addition to the Homemade Ice Cream Festival, Main Street Newnan will also host Market Days on the Square from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. on July 5th. Approximately 55 vendors set up around the square to offer items handmade, homegrown, or homemade.
For more information on these and other Main Street Newnan events, please visit www.mainstreetnewnan.com or call 770-253-8283. The deadline to register for the Ice Cream Festival is June 30. Space assignments will be provided one week prior to the event.
Participants must be non-profit organizations or a business must be representing a charity. The registration fee is $15.00.
“The Homemade Ice Cream Festival is a chance to showcase your best recipe of homemade ice cream. It’s fun to share your favorite flavor with others, but it’s also a great chance to raise money for a worthy cause. It’s a friendly competition for a very coveted title,” said Alise Cartledge, Main Street Coordinator.
Only one flavor may be entered per group for judging, however, participants may serve as many flavors as they would like. There will be cash prizes for the top three flavors judged. In addition, participants may sell baked items, and other food/beverages to raise money for their designated organization. Participants may set up at 10:00 a.m., selling starts at noon, and the judging is at 12:30.
Participants must provide their own tables, chairs, signage, decorations, coolers, extension cords, serving utensils, brochures on the organization, etc. Paper goods will be provided at registration by Main Street Newnan which includes 400+ each of spoons, napkins, and 5 ounce bowls.
Prices for ice cream are set at $1.00 for one scoop.
“I encourage citizens to come down and sample these tasty summer treats. You will not be disappointed. In the past, we have had the classic ice cream flavors, and we’ve also had the creative, very interesting flavors. It’s a lot of fun,” continued Cartledge.
In addition to the Homemade Ice Cream Festival, Main Street Newnan will also host Market Days on the Square from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. on July 5th. Approximately 55 vendors set up around the square to offer items handmade, homegrown, or homemade.
For more information on these and other Main Street Newnan events, please visit www.mainstreetnewnan.com or call 770-253-8283. The deadline to register for the Ice Cream Festival is June 30. Space assignments will be provided one week prior to the event.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Little Rubber Ducks will be Raced for Prizes Saturday, May 24 to Benefit Special Olympics Georgia
Thousands of yellow rubber adopted ducks will be dumped into the Little Hooch at Six Flags White Water Park in Marietta Saturday, May 24 and raced for prizes at the third annual Duck Derby.
If your duck wins, you’ll receive a great prize. Prizes include a 47 inch flat screen TV and two roundtrip airline tickets, giftcards and an AT&T Blackberry Curve.
Money raised from the event will benefit the athletes of Special Olympics Georgia.
Duck adoptions are available for $5 each, or you can buy a “Quack Pack” with five duck adoptions, a Jr. souvenir duck, coupons from some Special Olympics sponsors for $25. When you adopt a duck, a number will be assigned to you and your duck or ducks.
The park opens at 10 a.m. and the race starts at 2 p.m. Visit atlantaduckderby.com to adopt your duck online.
If your duck wins, you’ll receive a great prize. Prizes include a 47 inch flat screen TV and two roundtrip airline tickets, giftcards and an AT&T Blackberry Curve.
Money raised from the event will benefit the athletes of Special Olympics Georgia.
Duck adoptions are available for $5 each, or you can buy a “Quack Pack” with five duck adoptions, a Jr. souvenir duck, coupons from some Special Olympics sponsors for $25. When you adopt a duck, a number will be assigned to you and your duck or ducks.
The park opens at 10 a.m. and the race starts at 2 p.m. Visit atlantaduckderby.com to adopt your duck online.
Canon U.S.A., The National Center For Missing & Exploited Children And The New York Yankees Once Again Join Forces To Help Protect Kids
Canon U.S.A., Inc., The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children® (NCMEC) and the New York Yankees are once again combining efforts to help raise greater awareness of issues related to locating missing children at Canon’s fifth annual promotional night at Yankee Stadium, when the Yankees take on the Baltimore Orioles.
During pre-game ceremonies, Ted Nakamura, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Systems Group, Canon U.S.A., will present John Walsh, co-founder of NCMEC and host of the television series “America’s Most Wanted,” with a check for $760,000, representing the amount of money raised and invested by Canon U.S.A. on behalf of NCMEC.
"Canon’s commitment to building a better world for future generations is echoed in our corporate philosophy, Kyosei – all people, regardless of race, religion, or culture, harmoniously living and working together into the future – and we can find no cause more worthy than the protection of our most precious resource, our children," said Joe Adachi, president and chief executive officer, Canon U.S.A.. "For the fifth year now, Canon has worked with NCMEC and the New York Yankees to bring into focus the many ways digital cameras, printers and photos can play a key role in helping to locate missing children. To date, Canon’s support of NCMEC has contributed to the recovery of 167 missing children."
Since 1998, Canon U.S.A. and NCMEC have collaborated to educate the public about the growing issue of child abduction. The Canon4Kids program, a partnership between Canon U.S.A. and NCMEC, donates product to help law enforcement quickly disseminate photos and information about missing children, produces PSAs with missing children photos, and educates parents about tips for taking and maintaining updated photos of their children.
"Time is the enemy in the search for a missing child. So, we need to move now. We cannot wait until tomorrow," said Ernie Allen, president and chief executive officer of NCMEC. “For the past ten years, Canon USA has worked hand-in-hand with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children and provided vital technology to police departments across America. As a result law enforcement is better prepared, responding more swiftly and effectively than ever before, and more missing children are coming home safely than at any time in the nation's history."
In cooperation with Canon4Kids, the New York Yankees sponsor the “Tag-A-Kid Program” at Yankee Stadium. Through this initiative, wristbands are offered at customer service booth locations throughout the Stadium to assist security personnel in identifying seating locations of lost children and reuniting them with their parents. Promotion of the program is featured on the centerfield matrix and DiamondVision boards, as well as on the new light-emitting diode (LED) side scoreboards.
As part of the Canon4Kids program, more than 1,800 pieces of donated Canon equipment (digital cameras, fax-phones, printers and scanners) have been distributed to law-enforcement agencies in 44 states, Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia and internationally. The program also includes the placement of public service announcements with photographs of missing children in newspapers and magazines across the country to help in the recovery process.
Canon U.S.A. also protects future generations by helping to preserve nature’s most valuable resources through the support of a wide range of environmental and youth programs. Canon U.S.A. supports the Canon Envirothon, one of North America’s largest high school environmental education competitions; the PBS Nature series; supports Yellowstone National Park; and many additional local programs. For more information, visit www.usa.canon.com/environment
During pre-game ceremonies, Ted Nakamura, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Systems Group, Canon U.S.A., will present John Walsh, co-founder of NCMEC and host of the television series “America’s Most Wanted,” with a check for $760,000, representing the amount of money raised and invested by Canon U.S.A. on behalf of NCMEC.
"Canon’s commitment to building a better world for future generations is echoed in our corporate philosophy, Kyosei – all people, regardless of race, religion, or culture, harmoniously living and working together into the future – and we can find no cause more worthy than the protection of our most precious resource, our children," said Joe Adachi, president and chief executive officer, Canon U.S.A.. "For the fifth year now, Canon has worked with NCMEC and the New York Yankees to bring into focus the many ways digital cameras, printers and photos can play a key role in helping to locate missing children. To date, Canon’s support of NCMEC has contributed to the recovery of 167 missing children."
Since 1998, Canon U.S.A. and NCMEC have collaborated to educate the public about the growing issue of child abduction. The Canon4Kids program, a partnership between Canon U.S.A. and NCMEC, donates product to help law enforcement quickly disseminate photos and information about missing children, produces PSAs with missing children photos, and educates parents about tips for taking and maintaining updated photos of their children.
"Time is the enemy in the search for a missing child. So, we need to move now. We cannot wait until tomorrow," said Ernie Allen, president and chief executive officer of NCMEC. “For the past ten years, Canon USA has worked hand-in-hand with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children and provided vital technology to police departments across America. As a result law enforcement is better prepared, responding more swiftly and effectively than ever before, and more missing children are coming home safely than at any time in the nation's history."
In cooperation with Canon4Kids, the New York Yankees sponsor the “Tag-A-Kid Program” at Yankee Stadium. Through this initiative, wristbands are offered at customer service booth locations throughout the Stadium to assist security personnel in identifying seating locations of lost children and reuniting them with their parents. Promotion of the program is featured on the centerfield matrix and DiamondVision boards, as well as on the new light-emitting diode (LED) side scoreboards.
As part of the Canon4Kids program, more than 1,800 pieces of donated Canon equipment (digital cameras, fax-phones, printers and scanners) have been distributed to law-enforcement agencies in 44 states, Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia and internationally. The program also includes the placement of public service announcements with photographs of missing children in newspapers and magazines across the country to help in the recovery process.
Canon U.S.A. also protects future generations by helping to preserve nature’s most valuable resources through the support of a wide range of environmental and youth programs. Canon U.S.A. supports the Canon Envirothon, one of North America’s largest high school environmental education competitions; the PBS Nature series; supports Yellowstone National Park; and many additional local programs. For more information, visit www.usa.canon.com/environment
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Free Webinar: No Event? No Problem--The Power of Grassroots Fundraising
No Event? No Problem: The Power of Grassroots Fundraising
Please join us to discover new and innovative ways to raise money through grassroots fundraising.
In this free interactive webinar, you will learn about:
-Proven fundraising methods outside official events
-Easy ways to attract new donors by tapping into your supporters' existing networks
-Methods used by YMCA Metropolitan Dallas to raise thousands online.
The details:
Guest speaker: Sharon Bradley, Camp Grady Spruce
YMCA Metropolitan Dallas
Date: Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Time: 2:30-3:30pm Eastern Standard Time
Cost: Free
Sign up Now
We hope you can join us. This promises to be an informative session. Space is limited.
Best Regards,
Mark Sutton
Chief Executive Officer
Firstgiving, Inc
Please join us to discover new and innovative ways to raise money through grassroots fundraising.
In this free interactive webinar, you will learn about:
-Proven fundraising methods outside official events
-Easy ways to attract new donors by tapping into your supporters' existing networks
-Methods used by YMCA Metropolitan Dallas to raise thousands online.
The details:
Guest speaker: Sharon Bradley, Camp Grady Spruce
YMCA Metropolitan Dallas
Date: Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Time: 2:30-3:30pm Eastern Standard Time
Cost: Free
Sign up Now
We hope you can join us. This promises to be an informative session. Space is limited.
Best Regards,
Mark Sutton
Chief Executive Officer
Firstgiving, Inc
Rummage Sale May 24th
The Summit of South Fayette is having a rummage sale Sat. May 24th from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Everything from clothing and books, to furniture and appliances. There will also be a bake sale for shoppers. All proceeds will go toward the Summit's youth program. More specifically, for their mission trip to Louisville, KY this summer. So, come out, find some things you like, some things you need, and spend some money for a great cause.
National Missing Children's Day is May 25
Every year in America an estimated 800,000 children are reported missing, more than 2,000 children each day. Of that number, 200,000 are abducted by family members, and 58,000 are abducted by non-family members. The primary motive for non-family abductions is sexual. Each year 115 children are the victims of the most serious abductions, taken by non-family members and either murdered, held for ransom, or taken with the intent to keep.
The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) wants to remind the public that National Missing Children’s Day is May 25, which coincides with the three-day Memorial Day holiday weekend this year. The organization wants parents to know there are things they can do to keep their children safe and it urges parents to take 25 minutes and review the attached safety tips which are a part of NCMEC’s Take 25 national child safety campaign.
“We know teaching children about safety works,” said Ernie Allen, president and CEO of NCMEC. “It is important that parents take the time to talk to their children about safety.”
An analysis of attempted abduction cases by NCMEC found that in 88% of the cases, the child escaped would-be abductors through their own actions, by yelling, kicking, pulling away, running away or attracting attention.
May 25th is the anniversary of the day in 1979 when 6-year-old Etan Patz disappeared from a New York street corner on his way to school and has been observed as National Missing Children’s Day since 1983 when it was first proclaimed by President Ronald Reagan. Etan’s story captivated the nation. His photo, taken by his father, a professional photographer was circulated nationwide and appeared in media across the country and around the world. The powerful image of Etan has come to symbolize the anguish and trauma of thousands of searching families. The search for Etan continues. He is still missing.
Next year will be the 25th anniversary of the creation of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. It is the leading nonprofit organization dealing with the issues of missing and exploited children. Since the organization was created, the recovery rate of missing children has increased from 62% in 1990 to 96% today. In 2007, NCMEC assisted law enforcement in the recovery of more missing children than in any other year in the organization’s 24 year history.
The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) wants to remind the public that National Missing Children’s Day is May 25, which coincides with the three-day Memorial Day holiday weekend this year. The organization wants parents to know there are things they can do to keep their children safe and it urges parents to take 25 minutes and review the attached safety tips which are a part of NCMEC’s Take 25 national child safety campaign.
“We know teaching children about safety works,” said Ernie Allen, president and CEO of NCMEC. “It is important that parents take the time to talk to their children about safety.”
An analysis of attempted abduction cases by NCMEC found that in 88% of the cases, the child escaped would-be abductors through their own actions, by yelling, kicking, pulling away, running away or attracting attention.
May 25th is the anniversary of the day in 1979 when 6-year-old Etan Patz disappeared from a New York street corner on his way to school and has been observed as National Missing Children’s Day since 1983 when it was first proclaimed by President Ronald Reagan. Etan’s story captivated the nation. His photo, taken by his father, a professional photographer was circulated nationwide and appeared in media across the country and around the world. The powerful image of Etan has come to symbolize the anguish and trauma of thousands of searching families. The search for Etan continues. He is still missing.
Next year will be the 25th anniversary of the creation of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. It is the leading nonprofit organization dealing with the issues of missing and exploited children. Since the organization was created, the recovery rate of missing children has increased from 62% in 1990 to 96% today. In 2007, NCMEC assisted law enforcement in the recovery of more missing children than in any other year in the organization’s 24 year history.
Monday, May 19, 2008
America Supports You: USO Dedicates New Lounge at Reagan National Airport
Servicemembers transiting through Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, near Washington, D.C., now have a new area to spend time between flights after the recent dedication of a new United Service Organizations lounge.
This newly relocated lounge, which began offering services in March, provides a home away from home for traveling servicemembers and their families. It offers active-duty military personnel, National Guardsmen, reservists, Merchant Marines, and their families a variety of free amenities.
Lounge visitors can enjoy high-definition TV with a movie library of current feature films, a fully-stocked snack bar, wireless Internet access, and domestic and international calling courtesy of Verizon.
"Offering these free services gives us a chance to say thank you to those who sacrifice so much for our country," said Elaine Rogers, president of the USO of Metropolitan Washington. "We are so lucky to have such dedicated sponsors who have enabled us to provide these lounges."
This lounge, like all USO lounges was made possible by the generosity of corporate sponsors. URS Corporation, Turner Construction, the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, and corporate partners Verizon, CACI and Pitney Bowes all contributed to making the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport USO lounge possible.
USO of Metropolitan Washington dedicated the new lounge May 8. Senior leaders from the military and government, including Bobby Sturgell, acting administrator of the FAA, and Virginia Sen. Patsy Ticer, performed the ribbon cutting ceremony.
USO is a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and companies with servicemembers and their families stationed at home and abroad.
This newly relocated lounge, which began offering services in March, provides a home away from home for traveling servicemembers and their families. It offers active-duty military personnel, National Guardsmen, reservists, Merchant Marines, and their families a variety of free amenities.
Lounge visitors can enjoy high-definition TV with a movie library of current feature films, a fully-stocked snack bar, wireless Internet access, and domestic and international calling courtesy of Verizon.
"Offering these free services gives us a chance to say thank you to those who sacrifice so much for our country," said Elaine Rogers, president of the USO of Metropolitan Washington. "We are so lucky to have such dedicated sponsors who have enabled us to provide these lounges."
This lounge, like all USO lounges was made possible by the generosity of corporate sponsors. URS Corporation, Turner Construction, the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, and corporate partners Verizon, CACI and Pitney Bowes all contributed to making the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport USO lounge possible.
USO of Metropolitan Washington dedicated the new lounge May 8. Senior leaders from the military and government, including Bobby Sturgell, acting administrator of the FAA, and Virginia Sen. Patsy Ticer, performed the ribbon cutting ceremony.
USO is a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and companies with servicemembers and their families stationed at home and abroad.
Pentagon Delivers Nearly 100 Tons of Supplies to Battered Burma
The U.S. military has flown nearly 100 tons of humanitarian relief supplies into Burma to assist its cyclone-stricken people, a senior Pentagon official said here today.
Today, five more plane loads of relief supplies were delivered by U.S. military aircraft as part of Joint Task Force Caring Response, Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman told reporters.
That makes for a total of about 98 tons of U.S. military-delivered supplies to Burma, including water, food, blankets and more, Whitman said.
"We continue to offer our assistance," Whitman said. "At this time, at this moment, at this hour, there has not been additional clearance granted for us to deliver any more supplies. But, as we know, these things have been executed on almost a day-to-day basis with respect to the clearance process."
Cyclone Nargis struck Burma on May 2. The storm killed as many as 30,000 people and left hundreds of thousands homeless, according to news reports. Thousands of Burmese are reported missing more than week after the storm struck.
The military committee, known as a junta, that rules Burma has been reluctant to grant landing rights to U.S. aircraft to assist in humanitarian-relief efforts there.
Whitman said he believes that nongovernmental relief agencies in Burma are distributing the U.S.-provided supplies.
"There are any number of other aid agencies that are helping with the distribution of humanitarian-relief supplies" in Burma, he said.
Meanwhile, Whitman said, a number of U.S. military aircraft and additional supplies are positioned at Utapao, Thailand.
"So, they are available, and we do have relief supplies to put aboard them should we get permission later today to fly more flights in tomorrow," Whitman said.
Delivery of food and water appear to be the main priorities for relief agencies in Burma at the moment, Whitman said.
In addition, helicopters are available aboard the USS Essex and other U.S. Navy ships in the Bay of Bengal near Burma, Whitman said.
"These are assets that would only be used once permission has been granted by the Burmese government," he said.
News reports cite the approach of another storm that may strike Burma. "We're watching it," Whitman said.
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Today, five more plane loads of relief supplies were delivered by U.S. military aircraft as part of Joint Task Force Caring Response, Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman told reporters.
That makes for a total of about 98 tons of U.S. military-delivered supplies to Burma, including water, food, blankets and more, Whitman said.
"We continue to offer our assistance," Whitman said. "At this time, at this moment, at this hour, there has not been additional clearance granted for us to deliver any more supplies. But, as we know, these things have been executed on almost a day-to-day basis with respect to the clearance process."
Cyclone Nargis struck Burma on May 2. The storm killed as many as 30,000 people and left hundreds of thousands homeless, according to news reports. Thousands of Burmese are reported missing more than week after the storm struck.
The military committee, known as a junta, that rules Burma has been reluctant to grant landing rights to U.S. aircraft to assist in humanitarian-relief efforts there.
Whitman said he believes that nongovernmental relief agencies in Burma are distributing the U.S.-provided supplies.
"There are any number of other aid agencies that are helping with the distribution of humanitarian-relief supplies" in Burma, he said.
Meanwhile, Whitman said, a number of U.S. military aircraft and additional supplies are positioned at Utapao, Thailand.
"So, they are available, and we do have relief supplies to put aboard them should we get permission later today to fly more flights in tomorrow," Whitman said.
Delivery of food and water appear to be the main priorities for relief agencies in Burma at the moment, Whitman said.
In addition, helicopters are available aboard the USS Essex and other U.S. Navy ships in the Bay of Bengal near Burma, Whitman said.
"These are assets that would only be used once permission has been granted by the Burmese government," he said.
News reports cite the approach of another storm that may strike Burma. "We're watching it," Whitman said.
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Community gardens popular in metro Atlanta
HHG Note: Plant a Row for the Hungry raised over 10,000 pounds of produce for local charities last year in Fayette County.
Whether their motivation is feeding their families or beefing up their wallets, more than ever Atlantans are coming together to plant community gardens, says a University of Georgia garden expert.
“There has been a significant increase in interest in community gardening this year alone,” said Bobby Wilson, who coordinates the Atlanta Urban Gardening Program. “There is always an increase in the spring, usually only 60 to 75 percent of the new gardens survive. We think this year many more will survive because of food prices and because people are concerned about what is going on their food in terms of chemicals.”
The program currently includes more than 225 gardens in Dekalb and Fulton counties, said Wilson, who is the UGA Cooperative Extension agent in Fulton County. But interest is growing. Attendance at a recent garden leadership meeting was double what it typically is.
“We try to provide assistance,” he said. “What we are finding is a lot of people don’t know anything about what they are doing. All they know is they want to grow their own fresh vegetables.”
Many gardeners in Wilson’s service area want to become certified to sell their extra produce to participants in the federal Woman, Infant and Child (WIC) Nutrition Program. Some gardening groups set up stands at local family and children services buildings to provide WIC recipients with fresh produce. They also go to farmers markets to sell their wares.
Community gardening not only nourishes the body, he said, it nourishes the mind and soul, too. It gives a sense of belonging, is a source of exercise and provides a venue for social networking.
“Gardening is more than growing fresh vegetables, it’s therapeutic,” he said. “We have found that a lot of people have participated not for what they do in the garden, but because they wanted to be a part of the internal structure. It makes them feel like they are a part of something important.”
Food from gardens in the program helps feed 300 homeless people at the Peachtree and Pine Shelter every month. Many gardeners also donate food to the Atlanta Community Food Bank through the Plant a Row for the Hungry program. This year’s goal is 30,000 pounds.
For more information, call your local UGA Extension agent at 1-800-ASK-UGA1.
By April Sorrow
University of Georgia
April Sorrow is a news editor with the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
Whether their motivation is feeding their families or beefing up their wallets, more than ever Atlantans are coming together to plant community gardens, says a University of Georgia garden expert.
“There has been a significant increase in interest in community gardening this year alone,” said Bobby Wilson, who coordinates the Atlanta Urban Gardening Program. “There is always an increase in the spring, usually only 60 to 75 percent of the new gardens survive. We think this year many more will survive because of food prices and because people are concerned about what is going on their food in terms of chemicals.”
The program currently includes more than 225 gardens in Dekalb and Fulton counties, said Wilson, who is the UGA Cooperative Extension agent in Fulton County. But interest is growing. Attendance at a recent garden leadership meeting was double what it typically is.
“We try to provide assistance,” he said. “What we are finding is a lot of people don’t know anything about what they are doing. All they know is they want to grow their own fresh vegetables.”
Many gardeners in Wilson’s service area want to become certified to sell their extra produce to participants in the federal Woman, Infant and Child (WIC) Nutrition Program. Some gardening groups set up stands at local family and children services buildings to provide WIC recipients with fresh produce. They also go to farmers markets to sell their wares.
Community gardening not only nourishes the body, he said, it nourishes the mind and soul, too. It gives a sense of belonging, is a source of exercise and provides a venue for social networking.
“Gardening is more than growing fresh vegetables, it’s therapeutic,” he said. “We have found that a lot of people have participated not for what they do in the garden, but because they wanted to be a part of the internal structure. It makes them feel like they are a part of something important.”
Food from gardens in the program helps feed 300 homeless people at the Peachtree and Pine Shelter every month. Many gardeners also donate food to the Atlanta Community Food Bank through the Plant a Row for the Hungry program. This year’s goal is 30,000 pounds.
For more information, call your local UGA Extension agent at 1-800-ASK-UGA1.
By April Sorrow
University of Georgia
April Sorrow is a news editor with the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Retired Baseball Players Visit Troops in Afghanistan
Jeff Nelson, a former New York Yankees relief pitcher, signs a baseball for a fan at a Morale, Welfare and Recreation-sponsored event at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, May 11, 2008. The Heroes of the Diamond Tour brought four retired Major League Baseball players to visit with deployed servicemembers. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Jessica R. Dahlberg
The Heroes of the Diamond Tour brought four retired Major League Baseball players to visit servicemembers here May 11.
The Morale, Welfare and Recreation-sponsored event featured Tim Salmon, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim right fielder; Dean Palmer, Detroit Tigers third baseman; Mike Remlinger, Atlanta Braves relief pitcher; and Jeff Nelson, New York Yankees relief pitcher.
"We were glad that these players came, because a few were fresh out of the league," said Brian P. Lee, director and tour manager.
Lee said he sought players that servicemembers could recognize. For one soldier, Lee's pick in ball players was right on the money.
"I have been watching Tim Salmon since I was a kid," Army Sgt. Jeff M. Lucenti said. "This is the first person I have been excited to see, and it means a lot because I was at the last game he played in."
Lucenti said he was honored to meet one of his childhood heroes. Others shared the sentiment, as well.
"We really appreciate the players coming out and sharing with us," said Air Force Lt. Col. Rob Rocco. "Today is Mother's Day, and yet they sacrifice time to be here with us."
The major leaguers said the feelings were reciprocal.
"We wanted to come and show how much we support you," Remlinger said. "Being here with these soldiers and listening to their stories makes me realize how real this war is."
Palmer agreed and said that being able to talk with the servicemembers and listening to the things they have experienced has been one of the best experiences of his life.
The players autographed photos, papers and other memorabilia members brought in.
Some, like Rocco, plan on sending their new "treasures" home.
"What is more American than baseball?" asked Rocco, who added that he was very excited about sending his daughter a baseball that all the "heroes" signed. "This event was great."
A newly arrived airman also shared his reaction to the event.
"I haven't been here 24 hours," said Air Force Capt. Andres Munera. "This really is a huge morale builder for me, since this is a fresh beginning for me, and my son is going to love this ball they all signed."
By Army Pvt. Tamara Gabbard
Special to American Forces Press Service
Army Pvt. Tamara Gabbard is assigned to 382nd Public Affairs Detachment.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Thoroughbred Charities of America Given UPS Donation of $10,000
BUSINESS WIRE--The UPS Foundation (NYSE:UPS) has pledged $10,000 to Thoroughbred Charities of America (TCA) to support its mission of providing a better life for thoroughbreds, both during and after their racing careers.
“Although UPS was thrilled to see Big Brown cross the finish line first at the Kentucky Derby, we were saddened to learn of the tragic loss of Eight Belles,” said Ron Rogowski, UPS’s director of sponsorship. “The UPS Foundation wanted to honor this incredible filly by making a donation to TCA to support this organization’s focus on the continued humane treatment of animals.”
TCA is a fundraising organization that gives annual grants to equine-related non-profits that focus on the following sectors: thoroughbred rescue, rehabilitation and retraining for secondary careers post-racetrack; research in all equine scientific fields; equine educational organizations and thoroughbred-based educational programs; support of backstretch workers including disabled jockeys, farm and track employees; and therapeutic riding programs that incorporate thoroughbreds.
UPS long has been a sponsor of horse racing and its supporting organizations. The company became the Official Delivery Company of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association in 2006 and has created several cross promotions with its other sponsorships, including NASCAR. UPS also has an exclusive marketing agreement with jockey Kent Desormeaux and IEAH Stables, the ownership group for Kentucky Derby champion Big Brown.
Founded in 1951 and based in Atlanta, Ga., The UPS Foundation's major areas of focus include community safety, nonprofit effectiveness, economic and global literacy, environmental sustainability and diversity. The UPS Foundation pursues these initiatives by identifying specific projects where its support can help produce a measurable social impact. In 2007, The UPS Foundation donated more than $46 million to charitable organizations worldwide. Visit community.ups.com for more information about UPS's community involvement.
Friday, May 16, 2008
UPS Foundation Supports China Disaster Relief Effort
BUSINESS WIRE--UPS (NYSE:UPS) is contributing more than US$1 million (7 million RMB) in cash and in-kind support to the earthquake relief efforts in China through its charitable arm, The UPS Foundation.
UPS is making a cash donation of $500,000 to the American Red Cross in support of Red Cross earthquake response efforts on the ground, led by the Red Cross Society of China. UPS has pledged an additional $500,000 for in-kind support to aid the delivery of relief supplies.
An additional US$50,000 (350,000 RMB) has been pledged locally to the China Charity Federation for medicine, biscuits, clothing, quilts, drinking water, tents, umbrella, torches, candles and masks among other items. The China Charity Federation is a China-based non-governmental humanitarian agency that provides assistance to low-income families and offers social relief work to those in need.
“The devastation in Chengdu is heartbreaking,” said Lisa Hamilton, president, The UPS Foundation. “Through the efforts of the Red Cross and the China Charity Foundation, UPS intends to be a part of the effort to alleviate some of the suffering there.”
“The American Red Cross is grateful for the compassionate support of The UPS Foundation. Their generosity enables the Red Cross to carry out our humanitarian mission and allows us to make a difference in the lives of the individuals and families that have been affected by this terrible disaster,” said Jeffrey T. Towers, Chief Development Officer for the American Red Cross. “I would like to thank the UPS Foundation, and the entire UPS family, for their longstanding support.”
UPS employees also are being encouraged to make donations to this effort through the Red Cross at www.redcross.org or through Aidmatrix at www.aidmatrix.org/china. UPS also is a major sponsor of AidMatrix, an online system that connects donors and aid agencies for the more efficient delivery of goods destined for emergency relief sites.
In another move in Asia, UPS has expanded its support of relief efforts in Myanmar to include in-kind shipping and logistical support and expertise. UPS will deploy a UPS supply chain expert to Thailand as part of the United Nations’ Logistics Emergency Teams in support of the World Food Program’s aid efforts to Myanmar.
UPS also is providing an airplane to fly relief supplies from Utah to Thailand where they will be processed for transport to Myanmar. Further, UPS is assisting CARE International’s operation in Thailand by assembling aid packages to be distributed to families including blankets, jerry cans (for water), plastic sheeting, clothes, kitchen and hygiene items.
UPS previously announced its initial effort to support the Myanmar relief efforts through CARE, which has been established in Myanmar for 14 years.
Executive Leadership Program for Nonprofit Organizations
GCN, Georgia State University's Nonprofit Studies Program and Emory University's Center for Ethics are proud to announce the 2nd Annual Executive Leadership Program for Nonprofit Organizations (ELPNO).
The week long residential program will take place June 22-27, 2008 at the Emory Conference Center and Hotel. ELPNO builds on and enhances management and leadership knowledge, skills and aptitudes that can be immediatly applied to participants' workplaces. The Application Deadline is extended to May 16, 2008. Download the Application and Brochure and Apply Today!!
Click here to download the 2008 ELPNO brochure (pdf)
For those seeking more information, please contact Alan (Lanny) Parsons at GCN, at either 678 916 3018 or lp@gcn.org.
The week long residential program will take place June 22-27, 2008 at the Emory Conference Center and Hotel. ELPNO builds on and enhances management and leadership knowledge, skills and aptitudes that can be immediatly applied to participants' workplaces. The Application Deadline is extended to May 16, 2008. Download the Application and Brochure and Apply Today!!
Click here to download the 2008 ELPNO brochure (pdf)
For those seeking more information, please contact Alan (Lanny) Parsons at GCN, at either 678 916 3018 or lp@gcn.org.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Dollar General Literacy Foundation Promotes Literacy with $4.9 Million in Grants
BUSINESS WIRE--The Dollar General Literacy Foundation is awarding grants totaling $4.9 million to 327 nonprofit organizations in the fight against illiteracy.
More than 44 million adults in the U.S., which is the equivalent of the entire population of Florida, Kentucky, New Mexico and New York, read at the lowest level of literacy, according to the National Adult Literacy Survey.
The Dollar General Literacy Foundation aims to reduce that number every year. This year’s grants will serve approximately 75,000 individuals and families living in the 35 states where Dollar General operates stores. The grants support outreach to low-level literacy adults and their families. Adult basic education, GED preparation, English as a second language, family literacy and workforce literacy are among the initiatives supported by these grants.
“The Dollar General Literacy Foundation is proud to help our neighbors learn to read and improve their education through these grants,” said Dollar General CEO Rick Dreiling. “Each grant recipient is doing tremendous work, offering hope to those who want to better their own lives through literacy and education. We are delighted to make the educational dreams of others a reality through our grant programs.”
Since its inception, the Dollar General Literacy Foundation has awarded grants totaling more than $24.5 million. In addition to cash grants, Dollar General’s Learn to Read free literacy referral program has directed more than 50,000 individuals to organizations in their respective communities that help people learn to read.
The Dollar General Literacy Foundation accepts proposals on an annual basis. The Foundation will begin accepting 2009 program proposals online on January 5, 2009. Proposals must be submitted by March 6, 2009. To receive future requests for proposals, send your organization's name, a contact name and mailing address to The Dollar General Literacy Foundation, P.O. Box 1064, Goodlettsville, TN 37072-1064. For more information on the Dollar General Literacy Foundation or for a complete list of grant recipients, visit www.dollargeneral.com.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
FACTOR to Meet May 19th
The FACTOR Collaborative Meeting will be Monday, May 19 at the Fayette Family YMCA; 11:30am lunch begins/noon meeting starts; Guest speaker Paula Semple, Region 3 Community Facilitator for GA Family Connection Partnership will be sharing helpful information regarding Cultural Diversity and Childrearing Differences. This information, along with training 3 members will receive in June from GA Family Connection Partnership will help us in addressing our Hispanic community's needs. Please RSVP to 404-291-1602 or bsmith719@bellsouth.net for lunch by Friday afternoon.
Secretary of State Handel Applauds Governor Perdue for Signing HB 1104
Georgia Secretary of State Karen Handel and Representative Katie Dempsey joined Governor Sonny Perdue as he signed House Bill 1104, a bill to strengthen Georgia’s Charitable Solicitations Act.
“This legislation provides common sense changes that will help better protect Georgia citizens from fraud, ease administrative burdens on charities, and does more to stop dishonest solicitors from operating in our state,” Secretary Handel said.
House Bill 1104 will increase the transparency of financial arrangements between a charity and its paid solicitor and require paid solicitors to inform the person being solicited that the contract disclosing the financial arrangements between the paid solicitor and the charity is available from the Georgia Secretary of State.
The legislation ensures that the Secretary of State has jurisdiction over charitable solicitors acting on behalf of a charity located in Georgia which is soliciting contributions from outside the state, over solicitation originating in Georgia, and over out-of-state charities soliciting Georgia citizens.
HB 1104 was introduced by Representative Katie Dempsey and passed the House chamber 148-1. Senator Judson Hill of Marietta carried the bill in the Senate. The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 49-0.
Karen Handel was sworn in as Secretary of State in January 2007. The Secretary of State's office offers important services to our citizens and our business community. Among the office’s wide-ranging responsibilities, the Secretary of State is charged with conducting efficient and secure elections, the registration of corporations, and the regulation of securities and professional license holders. The office also oversees the Georgia Archives and the Capitol Museum.
“This legislation provides common sense changes that will help better protect Georgia citizens from fraud, ease administrative burdens on charities, and does more to stop dishonest solicitors from operating in our state,” Secretary Handel said.
House Bill 1104 will increase the transparency of financial arrangements between a charity and its paid solicitor and require paid solicitors to inform the person being solicited that the contract disclosing the financial arrangements between the paid solicitor and the charity is available from the Georgia Secretary of State.
The legislation ensures that the Secretary of State has jurisdiction over charitable solicitors acting on behalf of a charity located in Georgia which is soliciting contributions from outside the state, over solicitation originating in Georgia, and over out-of-state charities soliciting Georgia citizens.
HB 1104 was introduced by Representative Katie Dempsey and passed the House chamber 148-1. Senator Judson Hill of Marietta carried the bill in the Senate. The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 49-0.
Karen Handel was sworn in as Secretary of State in January 2007. The Secretary of State's office offers important services to our citizens and our business community. Among the office’s wide-ranging responsibilities, the Secretary of State is charged with conducting efficient and secure elections, the registration of corporations, and the regulation of securities and professional license holders. The office also oversees the Georgia Archives and the Capitol Museum.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
6th Annual Johnny Cochran Celebration of Life (Country & Gospel Music Galore!), Tyrone, GA
On Saturday, May 17th at 6pm, the community is invited to a free backyard country and gospel concert to benefit Promise Place, the Council on Domestic Violence that serves Fayette, Pike, Upson and Spalding counties. The Sixth Annual Johnny Cochran Celebration of Life concert will be held at 306 Tyrone Road in Fayetteville. Please bring your lawn chairs, dinner and refreshments will be available. For more information on Promise Place or on this event, please call 770-460-1604.
FFP Note: Great fun, lots of music, fun things to bid on, plenty to eat and lots of good fellowship. Cochran does this every year in his backyard (plenty big) donating his time and efforts to get quality music and involvement from the community (auction items, last time around Chic-fil-A was there along with some other names you'd recognize but we can't remember, etc.). I'm sitting in a chair my husband and I bid on and won as I type this. Doing good and having fun at the same time, what could be better?
FFP Note: Great fun, lots of music, fun things to bid on, plenty to eat and lots of good fellowship. Cochran does this every year in his backyard (plenty big) donating his time and efforts to get quality music and involvement from the community (auction items, last time around Chic-fil-A was there along with some other names you'd recognize but we can't remember, etc.). I'm sitting in a chair my husband and I bid on and won as I type this. Doing good and having fun at the same time, what could be better?
Monday, May 12, 2008
Marines, Sailors Prepare for Possible Operations in Burma
Marines and Sailors with the Essex Amphibious Readiness Group are preparing for possible humanitarian assistance operations to aid cyclone-stricken Burma.
The Essex Amphibious Ready Group, along with 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is steaming to support potential humanitarian-assistance operations in the wake of Cyclone Nargis, which struck Burma May 1 and 2. Some estimates have put the death toll at more than 100,000. So far, the Burmese military government has allowed only one U.S. shipment of relief supplies.
"This is what we are here for," Navy Chief Petty Officer Andres Carillo, of the USS Essex, said. "It's our mission to help those in need."
The amphibious readiness group includes the forward-deployed amphibious ships USS Essex, USS Juneau, USS Harpers Ferry and USS Mustin. The servicemembers are working to fill more than 14,000 5-gallon plastic water bladders with fresh water. In the event of humanitarian operations, the water could be loaded onto landing craft and helicopters to be distributed to those affected by the cyclone.
"We are capitalizing on the excess water the ship has to support the victims who need it," said Marine Capt. Ray Howard, embark officer for 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. "We want to be able have the water distributed by the quickest means possible and be on call for help so that when within reach we can send the water via helicopter and boat to the disaster areas."
The process of filling up the bladders requires a great deal of manpower and hard work, Carillo said.
Marines and sailors set up shop before filling the water bladders. The Essex's Repair Division manufactured a fresh water distribution system that mirrored a miniature farming irrigation system. Afterward, both Marines and sailors prepared large boxes to store the water bladders for transport. During the filling process, they check the pipes of the water distribution system to ensure no leakage occurs.
After each bag is filled, Marines and sailors pack the clear plastic water bladders into the boxes.
"It's great to see the Marines and sailors working together to accomplish the mission," Howard said. "It's a great show of joint-service camaraderie."
The Essex Amphibious Ready Group, along with 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is steaming to support potential humanitarian-assistance operations in the wake of Cyclone Nargis, which struck Burma May 1 and 2. Some estimates have put the death toll at more than 100,000. So far, the Burmese military government has allowed only one U.S. shipment of relief supplies.
"This is what we are here for," Navy Chief Petty Officer Andres Carillo, of the USS Essex, said. "It's our mission to help those in need."
The amphibious readiness group includes the forward-deployed amphibious ships USS Essex, USS Juneau, USS Harpers Ferry and USS Mustin. The servicemembers are working to fill more than 14,000 5-gallon plastic water bladders with fresh water. In the event of humanitarian operations, the water could be loaded onto landing craft and helicopters to be distributed to those affected by the cyclone.
"We are capitalizing on the excess water the ship has to support the victims who need it," said Marine Capt. Ray Howard, embark officer for 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. "We want to be able have the water distributed by the quickest means possible and be on call for help so that when within reach we can send the water via helicopter and boat to the disaster areas."
The process of filling up the bladders requires a great deal of manpower and hard work, Carillo said.
Marines and sailors set up shop before filling the water bladders. The Essex's Repair Division manufactured a fresh water distribution system that mirrored a miniature farming irrigation system. Afterward, both Marines and sailors prepared large boxes to store the water bladders for transport. During the filling process, they check the pipes of the water distribution system to ensure no leakage occurs.
After each bag is filled, Marines and sailors pack the clear plastic water bladders into the boxes.
"It's great to see the Marines and sailors working together to accomplish the mission," Howard said. "It's a great show of joint-service camaraderie."
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Delta’s Force for Global Good Joins Habitat for Humanity Rebuilding Efforts in Hurricane-Damaged Mississippi Gulf Coast
FFP Note: It's amazing how many of our larger companies give so much back to communities across the country. Almost every company site we've visited has an outreach program of some sort. They donates services, dollars, products and time to charities and causes around the world. Amazing. Delta's people and corporate Delta are everywhere, giving.
Equipped with hammers, nails and plenty of good will, nearly 60 Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) employees will partner with Habitat for Humanity to help build 30 homes with families in the Mississippi Gulf Coast during a weeklong trip to the region starting this weekend. Delta’s Force for Global Good – a program that unites employees and customers who invest their personal time and money to support philanthropic efforts throughout the world – will do their part during the 2008 Carter Work Project to help provide the stability of safe, decent and affordable housing for residents of the Mississippi Gulf Coast who are in need of permanent housing. In 2005, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita left thousands of people along the Gulf Coast without clean water, sewers, roads or adequate shelter.
“Delta’s Force for Global Good establishes meaningful partnerships worldwide that promote our mission of helping create positive change,” said Ed Bastian, Delta’s president and chief financial officer. “Thanks to the passion of our employees, Delta has a rich heritage of giving back to the communities we serve. Through our work with Habitat for Humanity, we not only improve the quality of life for others through home ownership, but also enrich our own lives and the lives of our customers through the spirit of giving.”
“We’re so grateful for the friend Habitat for Humanity has in Delta Air Lines, whose employees have so enthusiastically embraced our mission,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. “The Delta Force for Global Good is a perfect expression of the concern Delta has for families living in terrible housing conditions, and it’s exciting to see the lasting impact the partnership is having across the globe.” Delta launched its Habitat partnership in December 2006 when it unveiled a Delta Boeing 767-300 aircraft proudly featuring a unique Habitat for Humanity paint schematic and Delta’s Force for Global Good decal. Other builds by Delta’s Force for Global Good have been held in Johannesburg, South Africa; Brooklyn, N.Y.; Accra, Ghana; and Karjat, India. To date, Delta employees have donated more than 7,000 hours of service to Habitat through Delta’s Force for Global Good program.
Habitat for Humanity’s hurricane-response program began immediately after Hurricane Katrina and expanded after Hurricane Rita to help low-income, hurricane-affected families in Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas and Alabama build permanent housing – all of which comply with the 2006 International Residential Code for wind zones of 150 miles per hour. More than 1,300 Habitat hurricane-response homes have been built or are under construction.
Habitat for Humanity International is an ecumenical Christian ministry that welcomes to its work all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its founding in 1976, Habitat has built more than 250,000 houses worldwide, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than 1 million people. For more information, visit http://www.habitat.org/.
Delta Air Lines operates service to more worldwide destinations than any airline with Delta and Delta Connection flights to 305 destinations in 58 countries. Delta has added more international capacity than any major U.S. airline during the last two years and is the leader across the Atlantic with flights to 38 trans-Atlantic markets. To Latin America and the Caribbean, Delta offers more than 478 weekly flights to 58 destinations. Delta's marketing alliances also allow customers to earn and redeem SkyMiles on nearly 16,409 flights offered by SkyTeam and other partners. Delta is a founding member of SkyTeam, a global airline alliance that provides customers with extensive worldwide destinations, flights and services. Including its SkyTeam and worldwide codeshare partners, Delta offers flights to 474 worldwide destinations in 104 countries. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes and check flight status at delta.com.
Equipped with hammers, nails and plenty of good will, nearly 60 Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) employees will partner with Habitat for Humanity to help build 30 homes with families in the Mississippi Gulf Coast during a weeklong trip to the region starting this weekend. Delta’s Force for Global Good – a program that unites employees and customers who invest their personal time and money to support philanthropic efforts throughout the world – will do their part during the 2008 Carter Work Project to help provide the stability of safe, decent and affordable housing for residents of the Mississippi Gulf Coast who are in need of permanent housing. In 2005, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita left thousands of people along the Gulf Coast without clean water, sewers, roads or adequate shelter.
“Delta’s Force for Global Good establishes meaningful partnerships worldwide that promote our mission of helping create positive change,” said Ed Bastian, Delta’s president and chief financial officer. “Thanks to the passion of our employees, Delta has a rich heritage of giving back to the communities we serve. Through our work with Habitat for Humanity, we not only improve the quality of life for others through home ownership, but also enrich our own lives and the lives of our customers through the spirit of giving.”
“We’re so grateful for the friend Habitat for Humanity has in Delta Air Lines, whose employees have so enthusiastically embraced our mission,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. “The Delta Force for Global Good is a perfect expression of the concern Delta has for families living in terrible housing conditions, and it’s exciting to see the lasting impact the partnership is having across the globe.” Delta launched its Habitat partnership in December 2006 when it unveiled a Delta Boeing 767-300 aircraft proudly featuring a unique Habitat for Humanity paint schematic and Delta’s Force for Global Good decal. Other builds by Delta’s Force for Global Good have been held in Johannesburg, South Africa; Brooklyn, N.Y.; Accra, Ghana; and Karjat, India. To date, Delta employees have donated more than 7,000 hours of service to Habitat through Delta’s Force for Global Good program.
Habitat for Humanity’s hurricane-response program began immediately after Hurricane Katrina and expanded after Hurricane Rita to help low-income, hurricane-affected families in Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas and Alabama build permanent housing – all of which comply with the 2006 International Residential Code for wind zones of 150 miles per hour. More than 1,300 Habitat hurricane-response homes have been built or are under construction.
Habitat for Humanity International is an ecumenical Christian ministry that welcomes to its work all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its founding in 1976, Habitat has built more than 250,000 houses worldwide, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than 1 million people. For more information, visit http://www.habitat.org/.
Delta Air Lines operates service to more worldwide destinations than any airline with Delta and Delta Connection flights to 305 destinations in 58 countries. Delta has added more international capacity than any major U.S. airline during the last two years and is the leader across the Atlantic with flights to 38 trans-Atlantic markets. To Latin America and the Caribbean, Delta offers more than 478 weekly flights to 58 destinations. Delta's marketing alliances also allow customers to earn and redeem SkyMiles on nearly 16,409 flights offered by SkyTeam and other partners. Delta is a founding member of SkyTeam, a global airline alliance that provides customers with extensive worldwide destinations, flights and services. Including its SkyTeam and worldwide codeshare partners, Delta offers flights to 474 worldwide destinations in 104 countries. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes and check flight status at delta.com.
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Good info for non-profits courtesy of Pro Bono Partnership of Atlanta
It's always important to thank your donors for their contributions, but did you know that the IRS has specific rules about when you must provide acknowledgments and what those acknowledgments should say? Rules differ depending on whether the donor is giving you money or goods, and whether the donor receives something of value (like an event ticket) in exchange for their donation. To find out more, take the online tutorial at http://www.stayexempt.org/course5red/index.html. Another good resource is IRS Publication 1771.
Thanks again! We've said it before we need to say it again... Becky Smith, Fayette FACTOR provides us with a lot of the info that's posted in this blog. She is one of those super people that seems to always be doing something good for some one or some cause. Thanks Becky! - The Fayette Front Page
Thanks again! We've said it before we need to say it again... Becky Smith, Fayette FACTOR provides us with a lot of the info that's posted in this blog. She is one of those super people that seems to always be doing something good for some one or some cause. Thanks Becky! - The Fayette Front Page
INAUGURAL HONOR FLIGHT FAYETTE GROUP LEAVES MAY 14TH !
Honor Flight Fayette board members, veterans, guardians, volunteers and medical personnel would like to personally invite everyone to help us give a memorable send off, or welcome back, for our inaugural flight on May 14th.
Those involved with this flight will meet at Fayetteville First United Methodist Church, on the square, for sign-in and a breakfast provided by Chick-fil-A. Afterwards we will load the buses between 6:30 and 6:45 a.m. and leave for Hartsfield-Jackson Airport. The buses will return to the church between 9:30 and 10:00 p.m.
It would mean so much to these members of the "greatest generation" to see the streets lined with thankful citizens waving flags and banners and cheering them on for a day trip to see their memorial, which has taken 59 years to become reality. The fact that we are losing these brave men and women at the rate of 1,200 or more each day emphasizes the urgency for this and future trips, and this is a very special opportunity for us all to show our gratitude and ask ourselves "at what cost did they secure my freedom and how can I repay them".
Honor Flight Fayette is a non-profit, grass roots project staffed by volunteers whose sole interest is saying "thank you" to the veterans. It is a labor of love, dedication and determination for us to see that this project is a success so that more flights can be scheduled.
We would like to thank everyone who has given of their time, money, ideas and energy to make this dream come true, and we hope that many of you will decide to join us as guardians on future trips to spend an unforgettable day taking advantage of a personal history lesson from those who were there and lived through it.
Those involved with this flight will meet at Fayetteville First United Methodist Church, on the square, for sign-in and a breakfast provided by Chick-fil-A. Afterwards we will load the buses between 6:30 and 6:45 a.m. and leave for Hartsfield-Jackson Airport. The buses will return to the church between 9:30 and 10:00 p.m.
It would mean so much to these members of the "greatest generation" to see the streets lined with thankful citizens waving flags and banners and cheering them on for a day trip to see their memorial, which has taken 59 years to become reality. The fact that we are losing these brave men and women at the rate of 1,200 or more each day emphasizes the urgency for this and future trips, and this is a very special opportunity for us all to show our gratitude and ask ourselves "at what cost did they secure my freedom and how can I repay them".
Honor Flight Fayette is a non-profit, grass roots project staffed by volunteers whose sole interest is saying "thank you" to the veterans. It is a labor of love, dedication and determination for us to see that this project is a success so that more flights can be scheduled.
We would like to thank everyone who has given of their time, money, ideas and energy to make this dream come true, and we hope that many of you will decide to join us as guardians on future trips to spend an unforgettable day taking advantage of a personal history lesson from those who were there and lived through it.
Honoring Mom Mother’s Day and Every Day
Common images of Mother’s Day include family treating mom to a special lunch, or showering her with greeting cards and flowers. “Instead of Mother’s Day being a one day celebration, we encourage people to make it an every day celebration,” said Beth Dow, president of Home Helpers of Georgia and Alabama. To help baby boomers and other adults honor mom on Mother’s Day and every day, Home Helpers has teamed with aging expert Charles Puchta to offer the following five tips:
HONOR ALWAYS. Know that honor is always positive and privileged. Just as mom is the center of attention and noticeably appreciated on Mother’s Day, there are simple ways to honor mom every day. For example, be involved in her life, involve her in your life, and seek her input and advice on major life decisions.
MAKE IT REAL. Think about how aging or a life-changing illness might affect day-to-day life. If your mom has a medical condition, consider ways to recognize limitations that may challenge her. For example, if she is hard of hearing, put cotton in your ears to get an idea of what it might be like. If she has had a stroke, try not using your right arm and leg for a few hours to experience life from her perspective.
DON’T OVERLOOK THE OBVIOUS. Family often takes routine activities for granted as though they will just happen. For example, managing finances, preparing meals, running errands, doing household chores, attending religious services, and enjoying friends. As your mom ages or faces any health-related challenges, keep in mind that she may have needs that she is unable to manage on her own.
SPEAK MOM’S LANGUAGE. In his best-selling book The Five Love Languages, Gary Chapman shares ways people respond to demonstrations of love. For example, certain people thrive on complements such as “your pie is simply the best,” while others find satisfaction and place great importance on physical touch. Some people thrive on spending quality time together, others appreciate a helping hand, and certain people find that gifts are a tangible symbol of love. Speak the language that best demonstrates to mom how much you care.
ENJOY RELATIONSHIP. Often we need to slow down and take time to consider facets of life we overlook and that matter most. The concept of honor encompasses time and tasks. Time is the relational aspect where we keep in touch and share life. Tasks are things we do like providing a meal, or helping with errands. Whether a hand to hold, a heart to understand, or a kind gesture to enjoy, there are many ways to honor mom.
It seems that adult children tend to look at all they do while mom may focus on those things we are not doing. These tips hopefully share some helpful ideas of how to focus attention in a meaningful way. Take time to talk and share wishes, expectations and preferences.
As a result of obligations, many baby boomers are not able to provide the level of care and support mom needs and deserves. “We have many clients that, due to their adult children’s obligations and responsibilities, depend on us to supplement the care family is able to provide,” said Dow. She added, “While it may not be realistic or possible to address everything, do what you can. West Georgia and East Alabama is fortunate to have wonderful people, agencies and organizations that are ready, willing and able to lend a helping hand.”
HONOR ALWAYS. Know that honor is always positive and privileged. Just as mom is the center of attention and noticeably appreciated on Mother’s Day, there are simple ways to honor mom every day. For example, be involved in her life, involve her in your life, and seek her input and advice on major life decisions.
MAKE IT REAL. Think about how aging or a life-changing illness might affect day-to-day life. If your mom has a medical condition, consider ways to recognize limitations that may challenge her. For example, if she is hard of hearing, put cotton in your ears to get an idea of what it might be like. If she has had a stroke, try not using your right arm and leg for a few hours to experience life from her perspective.
DON’T OVERLOOK THE OBVIOUS. Family often takes routine activities for granted as though they will just happen. For example, managing finances, preparing meals, running errands, doing household chores, attending religious services, and enjoying friends. As your mom ages or faces any health-related challenges, keep in mind that she may have needs that she is unable to manage on her own.
SPEAK MOM’S LANGUAGE. In his best-selling book The Five Love Languages, Gary Chapman shares ways people respond to demonstrations of love. For example, certain people thrive on complements such as “your pie is simply the best,” while others find satisfaction and place great importance on physical touch. Some people thrive on spending quality time together, others appreciate a helping hand, and certain people find that gifts are a tangible symbol of love. Speak the language that best demonstrates to mom how much you care.
ENJOY RELATIONSHIP. Often we need to slow down and take time to consider facets of life we overlook and that matter most. The concept of honor encompasses time and tasks. Time is the relational aspect where we keep in touch and share life. Tasks are things we do like providing a meal, or helping with errands. Whether a hand to hold, a heart to understand, or a kind gesture to enjoy, there are many ways to honor mom.
It seems that adult children tend to look at all they do while mom may focus on those things we are not doing. These tips hopefully share some helpful ideas of how to focus attention in a meaningful way. Take time to talk and share wishes, expectations and preferences.
As a result of obligations, many baby boomers are not able to provide the level of care and support mom needs and deserves. “We have many clients that, due to their adult children’s obligations and responsibilities, depend on us to supplement the care family is able to provide,” said Dow. She added, “While it may not be realistic or possible to address everything, do what you can. West Georgia and East Alabama is fortunate to have wonderful people, agencies and organizations that are ready, willing and able to lend a helping hand.”
U.S. Military Ready to Provide Aid for Stricken Burmese, Official Says
A flotilla of U.S. Navy vessels, rotary- and fixed-wing aircraft, U.S. Air Force planes and thousands of servicemembers are ready to assist Burma's cyclone-stricken people, if asked, a senior Defense Department official said here today.
"We still are prepared and stand ready to provide assistance if Burma should request it and permit access," Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman told reporters.
Burma was hit by a powerful cyclone May 1 and 2. Officials estimate that the storm has killed as many as 30,000 Burmese, with hundreds of thousands likely injured and homeless. But efforts to persuade Burma's military council, or junta, to allow humanitarian aid to flow into the country have been fruitless thus far, according to news reports.
The Pentagon has identified a number of resources that could be tapped to assist the Burmese, including aircraft carriers and other U.S. Navy vessels that are posted in and around the region, Whitman said. U.S. Air Force cargo aircraft that can fly in food and clean water also are available, he said.
Burma is an eastern-Asian nation on the Bay of Bengal that's sandwiched among neighbors India, China and Thailand. Burma is slightly smaller than Texas, but it has nearly double the population, with nearly 58 million Burmese, compared to about 23 million "Lone Star State" residents, according to U.S. State Department and U.S. Census Bureau statistics.
The U.S. Navy has three ships in the Gulf of Thailand, including the USS Essex, which boasts 23 helicopters, 1,800 Marines and five amphibious landing craft, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell told reporters yesterday. The USS Juneau and the USS Harper's Ferry also are in the region, Morrell noted.
The Pentagon also has some U.S. Air Force C-130 cargo aircraft in the region that could be employed in any humanitarian mission for Burma, Whitman told Pentagon reporters today.
The USS Blue Ridge, the flagship of the U.S. Navy 7th Fleet, and the USS Kitty Hawk carrier strike group and the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier also are available to provide assistance to Burma, if needed, Whitman said.
The ships and planes would provide "not an insignificant amount of resources that might be available" if Burma were to request humanitarian assistance from the United States, Whitman said.
The U.S. military has conducted previous humanitarian missions in the Pacific region, such as when Indonesia was battered by a massive tsunami in December 2005.
After that experience, the U.S. military knows it would need portable water purification systems and airfield opening and operating teams for a possible humanitarian-aid mission to Burma, Whitman noted.
"And, those [type of assets] have been tentatively identified for possible deployment should the United States military be asked to render assistance" to Burma, he said.
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
"We still are prepared and stand ready to provide assistance if Burma should request it and permit access," Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman told reporters.
Burma was hit by a powerful cyclone May 1 and 2. Officials estimate that the storm has killed as many as 30,000 Burmese, with hundreds of thousands likely injured and homeless. But efforts to persuade Burma's military council, or junta, to allow humanitarian aid to flow into the country have been fruitless thus far, according to news reports.
The Pentagon has identified a number of resources that could be tapped to assist the Burmese, including aircraft carriers and other U.S. Navy vessels that are posted in and around the region, Whitman said. U.S. Air Force cargo aircraft that can fly in food and clean water also are available, he said.
Burma is an eastern-Asian nation on the Bay of Bengal that's sandwiched among neighbors India, China and Thailand. Burma is slightly smaller than Texas, but it has nearly double the population, with nearly 58 million Burmese, compared to about 23 million "Lone Star State" residents, according to U.S. State Department and U.S. Census Bureau statistics.
The U.S. Navy has three ships in the Gulf of Thailand, including the USS Essex, which boasts 23 helicopters, 1,800 Marines and five amphibious landing craft, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell told reporters yesterday. The USS Juneau and the USS Harper's Ferry also are in the region, Morrell noted.
The Pentagon also has some U.S. Air Force C-130 cargo aircraft in the region that could be employed in any humanitarian mission for Burma, Whitman told Pentagon reporters today.
The USS Blue Ridge, the flagship of the U.S. Navy 7th Fleet, and the USS Kitty Hawk carrier strike group and the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier also are available to provide assistance to Burma, if needed, Whitman said.
The ships and planes would provide "not an insignificant amount of resources that might be available" if Burma were to request humanitarian assistance from the United States, Whitman said.
The U.S. military has conducted previous humanitarian missions in the Pacific region, such as when Indonesia was battered by a massive tsunami in December 2005.
After that experience, the U.S. military knows it would need portable water purification systems and airfield opening and operating teams for a possible humanitarian-aid mission to Burma, Whitman noted.
"And, those [type of assets] have been tentatively identified for possible deployment should the United States military be asked to render assistance" to Burma, he said.
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
Aflac CEO Funds Breast Cancer Symposium in Honor of Company's African-American Female Employees
Dan and Kathelen Amos today announced a personal commitment of $50,000 to the Emory Winship Cancer Institute to host the first scientific symposium in the southeast focused on triple negative breast cancer research. Dan Amos, Aflac chairman and CEO and Kathelen Amos, Aflac Foundation president, made the personal donation in honor of the company's African-American female employees who make up nearly 30 percent of the workforce. The symposium will be held on May 16 at starting at 7 a.m. at the Grand Hyatt in Atlanta.
"After being made aware of the disproportionate impact of this disease on young African American women, Dan and I immediately felt led to become involved," says Kathelen Amos. "This is highly personal for us, not solely out of professional regard for the key roles African-American women play in the leadership at Aflac, but also out of a heightened concern for those we hold dear."
The inaugural Jean Sindab Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Symposium is designed to update oncologists and other healthcare professionals on the most current advances in triple-negative breast cancer, a fast-moving disease that is resistant to new targeted therapies and strikes African-American women more often than white women. In a recent population study, Emory researchers found that almost 47 percent of breast cancers in African-American women under the age of 55 were triple negative.
"We are immensely grateful for Kathelen and Dan Amos' support, which allows Emory Winship Cancer Institute to bring together the nation's top researchers focused on triple negative breast cancer," says Brian Leyland-Jones, MD, PhD, executive director of Emory Winship. "Kathelen and Dan Amos are among only a handful of private philanthropists in the nation who recognize the need for focused attention on this lesser known form of breast cancer."
The symposium will feature a panel of internationally recognized experts in triple-negative breast cancer research. There is no cost to attend. Health care professionals interested in attending the symposium can register at www.cancer.emory.edu/sindabsymposium.
In addition, Emory Winship and Emory Healthcare will host a Community Town Hall Forum focused on breast health issues for African-American women on Thursday, May 15, from 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at Emory Crawford Long Hospital. The forum is an educational opportunity focusing on the broad topic of breast health issues for African-American women, with information on triple-negative disease. For more information or to register for the Community Town Hall, call 404-778-2000.
Both the Jean Sindab Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Symposium and the Community Town Hall Forum are inspired by the legacy of Jean Sindab, PhD. Dr. Sindab was an African-American scholar and activist who lost her battle with breast cancer in 1996 at age 51. Dr. Sindab's memory is honored at Emory Winship through an endowed fund, established in 2005 by an anonymous donor. Today, The Sindab Project is focused on discovering new treatments for triple negative breast cancer.
"After being made aware of the disproportionate impact of this disease on young African American women, Dan and I immediately felt led to become involved," says Kathelen Amos. "This is highly personal for us, not solely out of professional regard for the key roles African-American women play in the leadership at Aflac, but also out of a heightened concern for those we hold dear."
The inaugural Jean Sindab Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Symposium is designed to update oncologists and other healthcare professionals on the most current advances in triple-negative breast cancer, a fast-moving disease that is resistant to new targeted therapies and strikes African-American women more often than white women. In a recent population study, Emory researchers found that almost 47 percent of breast cancers in African-American women under the age of 55 were triple negative.
"We are immensely grateful for Kathelen and Dan Amos' support, which allows Emory Winship Cancer Institute to bring together the nation's top researchers focused on triple negative breast cancer," says Brian Leyland-Jones, MD, PhD, executive director of Emory Winship. "Kathelen and Dan Amos are among only a handful of private philanthropists in the nation who recognize the need for focused attention on this lesser known form of breast cancer."
The symposium will feature a panel of internationally recognized experts in triple-negative breast cancer research. There is no cost to attend. Health care professionals interested in attending the symposium can register at www.cancer.emory.edu/sindabsymposium.
In addition, Emory Winship and Emory Healthcare will host a Community Town Hall Forum focused on breast health issues for African-American women on Thursday, May 15, from 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at Emory Crawford Long Hospital. The forum is an educational opportunity focusing on the broad topic of breast health issues for African-American women, with information on triple-negative disease. For more information or to register for the Community Town Hall, call 404-778-2000.
Both the Jean Sindab Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Symposium and the Community Town Hall Forum are inspired by the legacy of Jean Sindab, PhD. Dr. Sindab was an African-American scholar and activist who lost her battle with breast cancer in 1996 at age 51. Dr. Sindab's memory is honored at Emory Winship through an endowed fund, established in 2005 by an anonymous donor. Today, The Sindab Project is focused on discovering new treatments for triple negative breast cancer.
A Donation That Makes Hopes And Dreams Come True
NAPSI-Every day someone makes the decision to save a life by becoming a marrow donor.
It’s a step that can save the life of the person who needs the marrow donation but it also helps transform the lives of those who donate.
Jackie Byrd is a good example of a person who gave a little bit of herself so that someone else could live. When she was in college she pledged a sorority with a community service project focused on raising awareness in the African American community about the need for more people to join the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) Registry.
When Byrd joined the Registry she recalls thinking, “It will never happen to me. I will never be called. I’m not the one--I’m not the chosen one.”
Many years later, Byrd did receive the call. She was asked to visit her local donor center for additional tests to confirm that she was indeed a match for a patient searching for a second chance of life. A week later a coordinator from the center called to tell her, “You are the one.”
Byrd’s commitment to donate her marrow was something she took very seriously. “As a teacher, I believe in children and I believe in lives, and if I’m going to walk the talk, this was something I had to do. There was no turning back once I was chosen.”
More than 6,000 men, women and children a day search the National Marrow Donor Program Registry for a life-saving donor. These patients have leukemia, lymphoma and other life-threatening diseases for which a marrow transplant could be their only hope for a cure. Patients like Paizley Carwell Bowens.
Paizley was born with sickle cell anemia--an inherited blood disorder that caused her to spend much of her life in and out of hospitals and in constant pain. Even though chemotherapy helped, it was not a cure.
Paizley’s doctors told her mother that she would need a marrow transplant. According to the NMDP, only 30 percent of patients have a matching donor in their family for a transplant. Unfortunately Paizley’s sister was not a match.
And so began Paizley’s search of the NMDP Registry of nearly 7 million people for a donor who could save her life. A donor who Paizley had never met who would be willing to step up and donate when called. That donor was Byrd.
“I thank God for people who are willing to give a little bit of themselves to bless children like me,” said Paizley. “Thanks to Jackie and all the other people who helped me, I will be able to make my hopes and dreams come true.”
Joining the NMDP Registry is easy. A few minutes of paperwork and a quick swab of the inside of the cheek is all it takes to be added to the Registry.
People who are interested in joining need to meet a few basic requirements: be between the ages of 18 and 60, meet general health guidelines and be willing to donate to any patient in need.
For more information about the National Marrow Donor Program and how you can save a life, visit www.marrow.org or call 1 (800) MARROW-2.
Teacher Jackie Byrd provided a life-saving marrow donation to Paizley Carwell Bowens.
It’s a step that can save the life of the person who needs the marrow donation but it also helps transform the lives of those who donate.
Jackie Byrd is a good example of a person who gave a little bit of herself so that someone else could live. When she was in college she pledged a sorority with a community service project focused on raising awareness in the African American community about the need for more people to join the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) Registry.
When Byrd joined the Registry she recalls thinking, “It will never happen to me. I will never be called. I’m not the one--I’m not the chosen one.”
Many years later, Byrd did receive the call. She was asked to visit her local donor center for additional tests to confirm that she was indeed a match for a patient searching for a second chance of life. A week later a coordinator from the center called to tell her, “You are the one.”
Byrd’s commitment to donate her marrow was something she took very seriously. “As a teacher, I believe in children and I believe in lives, and if I’m going to walk the talk, this was something I had to do. There was no turning back once I was chosen.”
More than 6,000 men, women and children a day search the National Marrow Donor Program Registry for a life-saving donor. These patients have leukemia, lymphoma and other life-threatening diseases for which a marrow transplant could be their only hope for a cure. Patients like Paizley Carwell Bowens.
Paizley was born with sickle cell anemia--an inherited blood disorder that caused her to spend much of her life in and out of hospitals and in constant pain. Even though chemotherapy helped, it was not a cure.
Paizley’s doctors told her mother that she would need a marrow transplant. According to the NMDP, only 30 percent of patients have a matching donor in their family for a transplant. Unfortunately Paizley’s sister was not a match.
And so began Paizley’s search of the NMDP Registry of nearly 7 million people for a donor who could save her life. A donor who Paizley had never met who would be willing to step up and donate when called. That donor was Byrd.
“I thank God for people who are willing to give a little bit of themselves to bless children like me,” said Paizley. “Thanks to Jackie and all the other people who helped me, I will be able to make my hopes and dreams come true.”
Joining the NMDP Registry is easy. A few minutes of paperwork and a quick swab of the inside of the cheek is all it takes to be added to the Registry.
People who are interested in joining need to meet a few basic requirements: be between the ages of 18 and 60, meet general health guidelines and be willing to donate to any patient in need.
For more information about the National Marrow Donor Program and how you can save a life, visit www.marrow.org or call 1 (800) MARROW-2.
Teacher Jackie Byrd provided a life-saving marrow donation to Paizley Carwell Bowens.
Help Stamp Out Hunger May 10th
On Saturday, May 10, Campbell Soup Company will join forces with the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) to Stamp Out Hunger! across America. Now in its 16th year, the Stamp Out Hunger! effort is the nation's largest single-day food drive, having collected more than 836 million pounds of food since its inception in 1993.
To help Stamp Out Hunger! this year, simply leave a sturdy bag containing non-perishable foods, such as canned soup, canned vegetables, pasta, rice or cereal next to your mailbox prior to the time of regular mail delivery on May 10. Food items should be in non-breakable containers, such as boxes and cans. The nation's 230,000 letter carriers will then collect donations from homes across the country and deliver them to food bank members of America's Second Harvest - The Nation's Food Bank Network and other hunger relief organizations in more than 10,000 local communities.
"Hunger continues to be a vital issue in this country," said William H. Young, NALC president. "Many Americans may miss the faces of hunger, but we see it daily out on our routes. The problem is hunger can strike anyone -- the elderly, the working class and even innocent children. That's why we need your help to make a real difference."
According to America's Second Harvest, more than 35 million people are food insecure, hungry or at risk of hunger. Approximately one in four people in a soup kitchen line is a child.
A HELPING HAND
Campbell is kicking off the 16th Annual Stamp Out Hunger! effort by donating one million pounds of food to food banks across the country.
"An integral part of our corporate mission is to nourish people's lives everywhere, every day," said Doug Conant, Campbell's president and chief executive officer. "Our commitment to the letter carriers and their extraordinary food drive is an important part of our efforts to fulfill this mission and I hope millions of Americans will join us this year to help Stamp Out Hunger!"
For more information about the annual Stamp Out Hunger! effort in your community, ask your letter carrier, contact your local post office or visit http://www.helpstampouthunger.com/.
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To help Stamp Out Hunger! this year, simply leave a sturdy bag containing non-perishable foods, such as canned soup, canned vegetables, pasta, rice or cereal next to your mailbox prior to the time of regular mail delivery on May 10. Food items should be in non-breakable containers, such as boxes and cans. The nation's 230,000 letter carriers will then collect donations from homes across the country and deliver them to food bank members of America's Second Harvest - The Nation's Food Bank Network and other hunger relief organizations in more than 10,000 local communities.
"Hunger continues to be a vital issue in this country," said William H. Young, NALC president. "Many Americans may miss the faces of hunger, but we see it daily out on our routes. The problem is hunger can strike anyone -- the elderly, the working class and even innocent children. That's why we need your help to make a real difference."
According to America's Second Harvest, more than 35 million people are food insecure, hungry or at risk of hunger. Approximately one in four people in a soup kitchen line is a child.
A HELPING HAND
Campbell is kicking off the 16th Annual Stamp Out Hunger! effort by donating one million pounds of food to food banks across the country.
"An integral part of our corporate mission is to nourish people's lives everywhere, every day," said Doug Conant, Campbell's president and chief executive officer. "Our commitment to the letter carriers and their extraordinary food drive is an important part of our efforts to fulfill this mission and I hope millions of Americans will join us this year to help Stamp Out Hunger!"
For more information about the annual Stamp Out Hunger! effort in your community, ask your letter carrier, contact your local post office or visit http://www.helpstampouthunger.com/.
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Fayetteville, Peachtree City, Tyrone
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Fayette County Solicitor-General Presents Check to Fayette Youth Protection Homes
Fayette County Solicitor-General James K. Inagawa and his staff recently held their second annual charity yard sale. Inagawa held the sale in conjunction with National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and Child Abuse Prevention Month. All the proceeds of this year’s sale were donated to Fayette Youth Protection Homes, a local organization committed to assisting the youngest victims of abuse.
“I am proud to say that we raised over $2,000 with this year’s event” said Inagawa. “Once again, we received wonderful support from the community.”
Inagawa presented a check for $2,007.35 to Rebecca Davenport, Director of Fayette Youth Protection Homes. “Hopefully we can increase awareness of the valuable work done by this organization and encourage others in our community to support the group’s efforts throughout the year.”
“I am proud to say that we raised over $2,000 with this year’s event” said Inagawa. “Once again, we received wonderful support from the community.”
Inagawa presented a check for $2,007.35 to Rebecca Davenport, Director of Fayette Youth Protection Homes. “Hopefully we can increase awareness of the valuable work done by this organization and encourage others in our community to support the group’s efforts throughout the year.”
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Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Partners Help Make Affordable Housing Possible During Habitat for Humanity’s Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project 2008
BUSINESS WIRE--Habitat for Humanity today announced its appreciation for the many partners that are making homeownership possible with low-income families during this year’s 25th annual Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project in the Gulf Coast, May 11-16. Through material, volunteer labor and funding donations, Habitat’s partners are committed to helping address the need for simple, decent and affordable housing. Major partners for the build include the Knight Foundation, The Dow Chemical Company, Gulf Coast Community Foundation, The Home Depot Foundation, The PMI Foundation, Whirlpool Corporation and The Salvation Army.
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“The tremendous support from our partners in so many locations sharing gifts of time, talent and resources, helps Habitat for Humanity continue to expand the important work we do to provide affordable housing across the globe," said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. "As we mark the silver anniversary of Habitat for Humanity’s Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project, I'm deeply grateful for the support we receive in so many ways as we not only build houses, but raise awareness, along the Gulf Coast and around the world.”
“The support we’ve received for this year’s Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project will serve as a catalyst for increasing the work being done in the Gulf Coast by bringing hope, stability and housing solutions to our local communities,” noted Chris Monforton, president and chief executive officer of Habitat for Humanity of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. “Our sponsors’ gifts, whether monetary or material, help us build houses and empower families.”
Partners helping to make the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project 2008 possible include:
- A.O. Smith Water Products Company
- Bank of America
- Cisco
- Citi and Citi Foundation
- Cushman & Wakefield
- Delta Air Lines, Inc.
- DeWalt Industrial Tool Co.
- Dr. Tom and Betsy Clark
- Erik Cullen
- FHLBank Atlanta
- Ferguson
- Gulf Coast Community Foundation
- Habitat for Humanity Romania
- Habitat for Humanity of Greater Stark and Carroll Counties, Ohio
- Habitat for Humanity East Bay
- Heating, Airconditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International
- Hilb Rogal & Hobbs Company
- John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
- LP Building Products
- MASCO
- Mississippi Power Foundation and Southern Company Charitable Foundation
- MoneyGram International
- NCAA
- Nissan North America, Inc.
- Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding - Gulf Coast Operations at Pascagoula
- Pacific Gas and Electric Company
- Sandvik Mining and Construction
- Simpson Strong-Tie
- Square D / Schneider Electric
- The Blue Waters Foundation
- The Dow Chemical Company
- The Home Depot Foundation
- The PMI Foundation
- The Salvation Army
- The Schaffner Family Foundation
- Valspar
- Waste Management
- Weaver Family Foundation
- Whirlpool Corporation
- Yale, and ASSA ABLOY GROUP brand
25 Years of Building with the Carters
Former President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, have been helping Habitat for Humanity shine the spotlight on the need for affordable housing since 1984. That year, the Carters led a small team of Habitat volunteers to New York City to help renovate a six-story apartment building with 19 families in need of decent, affordable shelter. A quarter century later, that modest effort has grown into an internationally recognized annual event that has taken place in communities around the world. For more information, visit www.habitat.org/jcwp/2008/.
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Monastra Foundation Raises $100,000 for Pancreatic Cancer Research
The Joseph C. Monastra Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research raised $100,000 for the fight against pancreatic cancer in its first golf tournament last fall. Now the organization is gearing up for another round against the silent killer when supporters tee off at the Golf Club of Georgia on October 27, 2008.
“We’re thrilled about the participation and the results of our first tournament,” said Pamela Monastra, a board member on the JCM Foundation. The Foundation was founded after Monastra’s father died of the disease in 2002 and the family could not locate an organization dedicated to its cure.
“Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths, yet the fight against it has really just begun,” Monastra said.
Since 2002, the JCM Foundation has raised more than a half million dollars. All funds go directly to research at Johns Hopkins, with a current tri-fold focus on learning how pancreatic cancer spreads, identifying and studying the genes that cause pancreatic cancer, and studying a novel drug for treatment of the disease.
“Many families in our community have been touched by this terrifying disease, which can’t be detected early and leaves no time for surgeries or chemotherapy,” said Monastra. “We want to prevent others from going through the same experiences my family endured when we lost my father.”
Monastra, who has a successful career in real estate marketing, is not the only member of Atlanta’s home building industry who is interested in advancing pancreatic cancer research. Tom Sharp, President of Sharp Residential and current member of the Board of Directors for the JCM Foundation, has also lost friends and relatives to the disease. In addition to lending support through his time and resources, Sharp has encouraged others in the industry to become involved.
“Watching a loved one suffer and ultimately pass because of a deadly disease there is no cure or medicine for is devastating,” said Sharp. “Through the efforts of the Monastra family, not only are more people becoming aware of this deadly disease, but there are actually efforts being made to find a cure so others will not have to endure such a heartbreaking situation. I lost my father-in-law, a great friend to pancreatic cancer – I hate for anyone to have to go through that.”
The Joseph C. Monastra Foundation is currently seeking sponsorships for the 2008 golf tournament. For more information on the JCM Foundation, the tournament, donations or volunteering, please visit www.jcmfoundation.com or contact Pamela Monastra at 404-391-2169 or info@jcmfoundation.com.
“We’re thrilled about the participation and the results of our first tournament,” said Pamela Monastra, a board member on the JCM Foundation. The Foundation was founded after Monastra’s father died of the disease in 2002 and the family could not locate an organization dedicated to its cure.
“Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths, yet the fight against it has really just begun,” Monastra said.
Since 2002, the JCM Foundation has raised more than a half million dollars. All funds go directly to research at Johns Hopkins, with a current tri-fold focus on learning how pancreatic cancer spreads, identifying and studying the genes that cause pancreatic cancer, and studying a novel drug for treatment of the disease.
“Many families in our community have been touched by this terrifying disease, which can’t be detected early and leaves no time for surgeries or chemotherapy,” said Monastra. “We want to prevent others from going through the same experiences my family endured when we lost my father.”
Monastra, who has a successful career in real estate marketing, is not the only member of Atlanta’s home building industry who is interested in advancing pancreatic cancer research. Tom Sharp, President of Sharp Residential and current member of the Board of Directors for the JCM Foundation, has also lost friends and relatives to the disease. In addition to lending support through his time and resources, Sharp has encouraged others in the industry to become involved.
“Watching a loved one suffer and ultimately pass because of a deadly disease there is no cure or medicine for is devastating,” said Sharp. “Through the efforts of the Monastra family, not only are more people becoming aware of this deadly disease, but there are actually efforts being made to find a cure so others will not have to endure such a heartbreaking situation. I lost my father-in-law, a great friend to pancreatic cancer – I hate for anyone to have to go through that.”
The Joseph C. Monastra Foundation is currently seeking sponsorships for the 2008 golf tournament. For more information on the JCM Foundation, the tournament, donations or volunteering, please visit www.jcmfoundation.com or contact Pamela Monastra at 404-391-2169 or info@jcmfoundation.com.
Take Mother to a Free rodeo in South Fulton County
Southern K Ranch presents its Eighth Annual South Fulton Community Timed Events Rodeo and Festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 10 in College Park.
This year's free one-day event at 3203 Demooney Road, College Park, GA 30349, will include ladies' barrel racing and steer wrestling. Other events are pony rides, arts and craft vendors, inflatable rides, voter registration and a free health fair sponsored by the Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness and Southern K Ranch.
For directions or more information, call (770) 964-3601 or go to the Web at
http://www.southernkranch.com/contact-us.html.
Southern K Ranch is a nonprofit 501c(3) organization that teaches horsemanship to youth and special-needs children to boost self-esteem and confidence.
This year's free one-day event at 3203 Demooney Road, College Park, GA 30349, will include ladies' barrel racing and steer wrestling. Other events are pony rides, arts and craft vendors, inflatable rides, voter registration and a free health fair sponsored by the Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness and Southern K Ranch.
For directions or more information, call (770) 964-3601 or go to the Web at
http://www.southernkranch.com/contact-us.html.
Southern K Ranch is a nonprofit 501c(3) organization that teaches horsemanship to youth and special-needs children to boost self-esteem and confidence.
Monday, May 05, 2008
Huge Tent Sale at Christian City
On Friday, May 9th from 9am to 2pm. Christian City is hosting a huge tent sale at the baseball field on their campus, next to Graceland Thrift Store at 7345 Red Oak Road, in Union City. Brand new merchandise will be sold at bargain prices including storage rooms full of area rugs, home and garden decor, grills and patio accessories and much more. Proceeds will benefit the abandoned and abused children who live in The Children's Village. For more information call Mike Cater at 770-969-9957. For more information on Christian City and their ministries for children and seniors, call 770-703-2636 or access www.christiancity.org.
Relay For Life Fights Back!
This year’s roaring cheer for the Relay For Life of Fayette County was the national theme: Celebrate. Remember. Fight Back. That and more was accomplished at this year’s event as thousands filled the Kiwanis Fairgrounds for a 12 hour Relay overnight on Friday. May 2nd.
While the money raised didn’t reach the goal hoped for this year, raising nearly $400,000 for a worthy cause was very impressive according to event planners. “Times are tough and people are worried about filling gas tanks and putting food on their dinner tables,” said Co-Chairperson Susan Stitt. “The people of Fayette County, even in tough economic times, are sincerely concerned about those suffering from cancer and demonstrated their caring by donating to and attending the 2008 Relay For Life.”
For 12 hours, some were remembered who lost their battle to cancer while others were honored who continue to fight the disease. Never-to-be-forgotten, were the tributes to caregivers and supporters, who do their best to make the journey with cancer a little easier to endure.
The event started off at 4 p.m. with a sea of purple t-shirts worn by cancer survivors gathered around Heritage Park, where a hand torch was lit and the Torch of Hope Relay began. Five-year-old cancer survivor Mary Evelyn King, the Honorary Torch Bearer, hopped on a golf cart with her mother, Edna King by her side. Both smiled proudly as Mary Evelyn held the torch to mark the beginning of the relay. Mary Evelyn was diagnosed with stage IV neuroblastoma nearly three years ago. The rare childhood cancer affects 1 out of 100,000. Her father, Mark King, watched with heart-felt joy as his little girl beamed from ear to ear.
“We’re starting to breathe easier since she’s been in remission for two years,” he said. “It’s a great victory and blessing to be on this side of it.” King added that there aren’t enough words to express his gratitude to all at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.” Every parent and grandparent should know they have a fantastic resource at that place.”
It was Becky McGahee’s third time participating in Relay. “No matter how many times you attend Relay it gives you a better perspective on life.” said the breast cancer survivor.
For Phyllis Western, a three time cancer survivor, twice with breast cancer and once with melanoma, it’s an event that can’t be missed. “It’s very inspiring to see everyone; survivors, caregivers, friends and supporters,” Western said. “Each year I’m amazed at how many come to support this event.”
By 7:00 PM thousands of men, women and children filled the Kiwanis Fairgrounds to kick off the 12-hour night of activities. The exciting Opening Ceremony was dramatically high lighted with a Black Hawk helicopter performing a fly-bye over the event to show their support. An inspired crowd then took the track. First off was the survivors lap, followed by a caregivers lap. Nearly 120 teams took part in Relay, including employees from Delta Airlines, Fayette County Elementary School students and administrators, and many local churches.
Hundreds, maybe thousands, of luminaria lined the dirt path encompassing the entire fairgrounds.
Some had simple messages honoring or memorializing someone. Others were elaborately decorated with words of love.
There were huge inflatables for kids to jump on and an enormous assortment of food, drinks and dessert- all for sale. And throughout the evening, people continued to keep the pace by circling the track. “This is my second time, and I come because it’s so important to support those who have cancer and those who help people dealing with cancer,” said 16-year-old Divia Meka.
A midnight, a memorial ceremony was held with a scrolling of names who lost their battle to cancer. By 3 a.m., those needing a little breather could watch the movie “The Bee Movie.”
As the event drew to a close at 7 a.m. bleary-eyed folks gathered at the main stage to listen to comments, stories and words of gratitude.
“By dawn the participants are thoroughly exhausted and ready to go home to their warm beds. Our job as organizers is to reward them for a job well done and encourage them to continue the fight, 365 days a year. Cancer never sleeps, and this one night a year, we remember that in a very real way. We cannot give up, we must fight back!”
Submitted by: Susan Stitt
While the money raised didn’t reach the goal hoped for this year, raising nearly $400,000 for a worthy cause was very impressive according to event planners. “Times are tough and people are worried about filling gas tanks and putting food on their dinner tables,” said Co-Chairperson Susan Stitt. “The people of Fayette County, even in tough economic times, are sincerely concerned about those suffering from cancer and demonstrated their caring by donating to and attending the 2008 Relay For Life.”
For 12 hours, some were remembered who lost their battle to cancer while others were honored who continue to fight the disease. Never-to-be-forgotten, were the tributes to caregivers and supporters, who do their best to make the journey with cancer a little easier to endure.
The event started off at 4 p.m. with a sea of purple t-shirts worn by cancer survivors gathered around Heritage Park, where a hand torch was lit and the Torch of Hope Relay began. Five-year-old cancer survivor Mary Evelyn King, the Honorary Torch Bearer, hopped on a golf cart with her mother, Edna King by her side. Both smiled proudly as Mary Evelyn held the torch to mark the beginning of the relay. Mary Evelyn was diagnosed with stage IV neuroblastoma nearly three years ago. The rare childhood cancer affects 1 out of 100,000. Her father, Mark King, watched with heart-felt joy as his little girl beamed from ear to ear.
“We’re starting to breathe easier since she’s been in remission for two years,” he said. “It’s a great victory and blessing to be on this side of it.” King added that there aren’t enough words to express his gratitude to all at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.” Every parent and grandparent should know they have a fantastic resource at that place.”
It was Becky McGahee’s third time participating in Relay. “No matter how many times you attend Relay it gives you a better perspective on life.” said the breast cancer survivor.
For Phyllis Western, a three time cancer survivor, twice with breast cancer and once with melanoma, it’s an event that can’t be missed. “It’s very inspiring to see everyone; survivors, caregivers, friends and supporters,” Western said. “Each year I’m amazed at how many come to support this event.”
By 7:00 PM thousands of men, women and children filled the Kiwanis Fairgrounds to kick off the 12-hour night of activities. The exciting Opening Ceremony was dramatically high lighted with a Black Hawk helicopter performing a fly-bye over the event to show their support. An inspired crowd then took the track. First off was the survivors lap, followed by a caregivers lap. Nearly 120 teams took part in Relay, including employees from Delta Airlines, Fayette County Elementary School students and administrators, and many local churches.
Hundreds, maybe thousands, of luminaria lined the dirt path encompassing the entire fairgrounds.
Some had simple messages honoring or memorializing someone. Others were elaborately decorated with words of love.
There were huge inflatables for kids to jump on and an enormous assortment of food, drinks and dessert- all for sale. And throughout the evening, people continued to keep the pace by circling the track. “This is my second time, and I come because it’s so important to support those who have cancer and those who help people dealing with cancer,” said 16-year-old Divia Meka.
A midnight, a memorial ceremony was held with a scrolling of names who lost their battle to cancer. By 3 a.m., those needing a little breather could watch the movie “The Bee Movie.”
As the event drew to a close at 7 a.m. bleary-eyed folks gathered at the main stage to listen to comments, stories and words of gratitude.
“By dawn the participants are thoroughly exhausted and ready to go home to their warm beds. Our job as organizers is to reward them for a job well done and encourage them to continue the fight, 365 days a year. Cancer never sleeps, and this one night a year, we remember that in a very real way. We cannot give up, we must fight back!”
Submitted by: Susan Stitt
Saturday, May 03, 2008
Promise Place Chocolate Explosion
Saturday, May 17, 2008
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
All you can eat Cakes, Cookie, Pies, Fudge, Mousse and More
- Live Animal Attractions
- Live Music
- Kid Attractions
$10.00 11 & Under
$30.00 Over 12
Promise Place Fundraiser
Hollingsworth House
Hwy 54Fayetteville, GA
(770) 461-3839
(678) 817-7945 Chairperson
Dear Friend of Promise Place,
Promise Place is inviting you to be a part of our May 17th fundraiser called Chocolate Explosion. This fundraiser will allow your business to showcase your chocolate goods to the public and at the same time help Promise Place to raise money towards our domestic violence shelter for women and children. It will be held at the Hollingsworth House on Hwy 54 in Fayetteville between the hours of 1pm and 7 pm.
Promise Place is a non-profit agency that provides domestic violence services to victims of domestic violence and their children. These services include legal advocacy, support groups, 24 hr crisis counseling, teen dating violence prevention program in the high schools, emergency shelter and emergency needs assistance.
In May of 2007, Promise Place was pleased to open up an emergency domestic violence
shelter. This shelter helps women and children escape the violence and provides a safe and confidential environment in which they can gain the tools to rebuild their lives. As you can imagine, there are many costs incurred with providing services and all the proceeds from this Chocolate Explosion will go directly towards paying off the mortgage on the shelter.
At the end of December 2007, Promise Place had provided a safe place of refuge to 97 women and children. One former resident stated, “I was afraid of coming into a shelter because I had all these images in my mind from what you see on television, but when my husband told me he was going to kill me and I found a gun in the house I had no choice but to find a safe place for me and my baby. I came into the shelter with nothing. Promise Place welcomed us in. They helped us start a new life.”
You can help make a difference by donating your best chocolate goods to this event. We are looking for everything chocolate from cakes and fudge to mousse and fancy pastries. If you choose, you can also make a financial donation to go directly towards our fundraising goal. All donations are tax-deductible. Thank you very much for your support.
Sincerely,
Brenda Cox
Board Member
Fundraiser Chairperson
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
All you can eat Cakes, Cookie, Pies, Fudge, Mousse and More
- Live Animal Attractions
- Live Music
- Kid Attractions
$10.00 11 & Under
$30.00 Over 12
Promise Place Fundraiser
Hollingsworth House
Hwy 54Fayetteville, GA
(770) 461-3839
(678) 817-7945 Chairperson
Dear Friend of Promise Place,
Promise Place is inviting you to be a part of our May 17th fundraiser called Chocolate Explosion. This fundraiser will allow your business to showcase your chocolate goods to the public and at the same time help Promise Place to raise money towards our domestic violence shelter for women and children. It will be held at the Hollingsworth House on Hwy 54 in Fayetteville between the hours of 1pm and 7 pm.
Promise Place is a non-profit agency that provides domestic violence services to victims of domestic violence and their children. These services include legal advocacy, support groups, 24 hr crisis counseling, teen dating violence prevention program in the high schools, emergency shelter and emergency needs assistance.
In May of 2007, Promise Place was pleased to open up an emergency domestic violence
shelter. This shelter helps women and children escape the violence and provides a safe and confidential environment in which they can gain the tools to rebuild their lives. As you can imagine, there are many costs incurred with providing services and all the proceeds from this Chocolate Explosion will go directly towards paying off the mortgage on the shelter.
At the end of December 2007, Promise Place had provided a safe place of refuge to 97 women and children. One former resident stated, “I was afraid of coming into a shelter because I had all these images in my mind from what you see on television, but when my husband told me he was going to kill me and I found a gun in the house I had no choice but to find a safe place for me and my baby. I came into the shelter with nothing. Promise Place welcomed us in. They helped us start a new life.”
You can help make a difference by donating your best chocolate goods to this event. We are looking for everything chocolate from cakes and fudge to mousse and fancy pastries. If you choose, you can also make a financial donation to go directly towards our fundraising goal. All donations are tax-deductible. Thank you very much for your support.
Sincerely,
Brenda Cox
Board Member
Fundraiser Chairperson
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