In a community where greater enrollment is often the goal, several members of the Tech community are concerned with keeping their numbers at a status quo.
Construction project manager Steven Johnson and utilities analyst Susan Wardrope work to keep feral cats on campus at a sustainable level, all while preventing more from moving in. Together with a network of campus participants, the group works on its own time—and in most cases, its own dime—to alter, monitor and feed these felines.
A part of Auxiliary Services during his “day” job, Johnson instills the practice of Trap, Neuter and Release (TNR), which works to equalize rather than eliminate feral cat populations. When animal control officers capture these cats, euthanasia is the typical result, as they are well past the age of human socialization. In doing this, a vacuum is created wherein other feral cats will just move into the area, continuing the cycle.
However, the central TNR theory is that a controlled community of altered cats aids in maintaining area populations and keeping more feral cats from moving in.
“The best advantages to having them altered is that they start to concentrate around the feeding stations, and they don’t have any urge to mate,” Wardrope said. “They have their food, their sleeping place and their area that they’re familiar with.”
“They defend their territory, keeping other cats from moving into the area, which stabilizes the population,” Johnson said. “An unaltered male will travel up to three miles. An altered cat will only travel about 300 meters.”
The program at Tech started in 1996. “We’d get reports of cats in the area,” said Johnson, who added he discovered students and employees were leaving food for the animals.
He said they counted 19 adult and juvenile cats on East Campus in those early days. In the first full feral cat census for the Institute, Johnson said they easily counted 179 cats in late 1998—32 in one colony that lived in the president’s glade. (Today, Johnson says, that colony is down to three occasional visitors.) Now, as far as Johnson and his group can tell, about 34 cats call Tech home, including only two or three unaltered females—which Johnson says he is still trying to trap.
According to the duo, 30 to 35 cats on campus is very sustainable. Each feeding station has enough of a colony for one dominant male and one dominant female that protect the territory. This “territorial management practice” leads to a fairly accurate understanding of where overlap between the colonies exists.
Johnson and Wardrope work to answer the call—literally—if someone reports a cat on campus. “I’ll go out that night, see if it’s a new cat or one of our own,” Johnson said. “If it’s a new cat, I’ll try to stake it out and see where it’s going—to established food stations or somewhere else.” Sometimes, Johnson said, people who don’t know about the campus program put a food dish outside of a building for any “strays” they see.
If it is determined that a sighted cat is a new “resident,” Johnson traps it—an undertaking that may require several hours of waiting. (“I know all the third-shift police officers by name.”) He keeps the caged animal in his garage overnight and then carries it to the vet the next morning. The cats are neutered or spayed, vaccinated—many for the first time—and dosed with flea control medication. Males are released the following day after surgery. Females are released three days later. For captured kittens, Johnson either finds adoptive families or takes them to no-kill shelters after they are socialized.
“Without a feeding program to localize a colony, you’ll continue to have mangy-looking cats that are more susceptible to diseases and other vectors that they can catch.” But, in what could be seen as a disadvantage in the program, unaltered females tend to have larger litters because of the better nutrition. “When we first started, cats were giving birth to four, where only 50 percent survived. Now they can give birth to a litter of nine, and seven will survive,” he said.
One challenge Johnson and Wardrope have noticed is well-wishers often will leave food out, which aids in diluting established feeding stations. “We leave a note and let them know,” he said. “We’re trying to get the word out that there is a good program—just by going from 179 to 34 cats shows it’s working.”
But Johnson and Wardrope are by no means acting alone. Roughly 30 people are on his e-mail list, Johnson said, and about six handle the campus-wide feeding stations. Johnson himself handles the heavy lifting: tracking the cats’ movements and trapping them.
“We just started doing this out-of-pocket,” Johnson said. Through the e-mail network, however, people donated food and money for surgeries beyond spaying and neutering.
The duo’s efforts have led to collaborations outside the Institute. When Fulton County’s Animal Control units respond to an on-campus call, Johnson receives a courtesy call if it’s a cat issue. This in turn has expanded his TNR efforts, establishing partnerships with Fulton, Cobb, Douglas and DeKalb counties.
“It’s a quid pro quo,” he says. “Fulton County has the Fix ‘Em Free program. When they found out we were running this initiative at Tech, they offered us use of this program. In exchange, when they have reports of a feral colony somewhere, I’m available to go out and talk to people [about TNR].”
In assisting with feral cat colonies in off-campus communities, Johnson explains the Trap, Neuter and Return philosophy, letting people know the usual fate of a feral animal taken to a shelter. “Once people learn about the program, and Steve offers to take [the cats] in to have them altered and vaccinated, they usually have no problem throwing food out for them,” Wardrope said.
“I volunteer to support both the Fulton County Animal Services and Catlanta, a local organization that is basically the feral cat coordinator of the Lifeline Animal Project.” Catlanta recently received a grant to aid in the spaying and neutering of feral cats within the area. It’s a supplement to what Fulton County currently provides, and the group is now in negotiations with DeKalb County to create a similar “Fix ‘Em Free” program.
“We’ll help get them spayed or neutered, all of them are vaccinated for rabies [and] they can receive additional vaccinations, if requested,” Johnson said, adding that almost all counties have a low-cost program that supplements the cost of altering a cat or dog. “I mainly concentrate on the feral cats, and I’ll go out and do the assessment—is it just a backyard colony; or an abandoned cat colony that’s gone feral. Then I’ll report to the agency that’s going to sponsor it—Catlanta [or] Southern Hope.”
And evidence points to TNR reducing the load on animal shelters. Excepting a spike due to foreclosure increases, Johnson said, Fulton County has noticed a marked reduction in the amount of feral cats brought to the shelter.
According to Johnson, Atlanta-area programs have attracted the attention of several national organizations, including the Humane Society of the United States and Alley Cat Allies (which fights for TNR protocols nationwide). “We haven’t gotten our city commissions to enact ordinances yet, but we’re working toward that.”
Some organizations, however, oppose the principles of TNR, including People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), The Wildlife Society and the American Bird Conservancy. PETA states on its Web site: “Because of the huge number of feral cats and the severe shortage of good homes, the difficulty of socialization, and the dangers lurking where most feral cats live, it may be necessary—and the most compassionate choice—to euthanize feral cats. ... If you leave them where they are, they will almost certainly die a painful death. A painless injection is far kinder than any fate that feral cats will meet if they are left to survive on their own.”
Johnson doesn’t see it that way.
“In a managed colony, human caretakers have just made portions of [the cats’] lives easier by removing the stress of producing multiple litters,” he said. “By offering a tended food station, caretakers provide a steady supplemental food source, which also permits the cats to be observed for injuries and, when necessary, to be trapped for treatment. A minority of cats specialize in bird hunting as opposed to rodent hunting,” Johnson concedes. “But rodents are still the main natural prey species of outdoor cats. Just because one might kill a chipmunk or Carolina wren does not mean they, as a species living within a habitat, deserve to be exterminated.”
Overall, Johnson and Wardrope are trying to get the feral cat management plan under way in the metro area, and then slowly branch out to the outlying counties. And he’s been reaching out to other University System of Georgia units.
But as for Tech, the next steps for the program include establishing the Library and Information Center’s feeding station and then moving further north on campus to the Howey building and the College of Computing. “We’ve gotten reports from the building manager, as well as from the College of Computing, that they’ve seen cats in the area. We’re trying to identify where would be the best place to establish a feeding station.”
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
B98.5FM's 'Tickled Pink' Event to Benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Atlanta Affiliate
PRNewswire/ -- Breast cancer is no laughing matter, but B98.5FM wants its listeners to get "Tickled Pink" about attending an evening of laughs and entertainment while supporting a worthy cause. Building on a successful launch event, B98.5FM today announced its second annual "Tickled Pink" fundraising affair for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Atlanta Affiliate will take place on October 18th.
Held at the Cobb Galleria Center, the festivities will begin at 6:30 p.m. with cocktails and a silent auction and will be followed by dinner and entertainment at 7:30 p.m. Individual tickets are $100 and corporate tables (10 seats) can be purchased for $950.
Attendees will be greeted by familiar voices as B98.5FM's Steve McCoy, Jordan Graye and Kelly McCoy host the event. Entertainment will be provided by comedian Elayne Boosler -- known for opening new doors to women in comedy. Boosler was the first female to get her own comedy special on cable when Showtime aired "Party of One." To date, she has headlined seven cable specials, as well as written, directed, and acted in two half-hour movies: "Comedy From Here" and "The Call."
"Breast cancer is an illness that has touched nearly every American in some way," said David Meszaros, vice president and general manager of B98.5FM and 97.1 The River. "B98.5FM is committed to providing strong community support, and we are thrilled to team up with the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Atlanta Affiliate. Through comedy, this event's contributions will go toward finding a cure."
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in Georgia, and Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Atlanta Affiliate estimates that 4,520 cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in Georgia in 2008.
Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Atlanta Affiliate raises funds to enable women to detect and survive breast cancer. Since its inception Komen Atlanta has raised more than $20 million for the fight against breast cancer. Seventy-five percent of all funds raised by the Affiliate stays in Atlanta to fund breast health programs for women who would not otherwise have access to screening and treatment. Twenty-five percent of funds raised supports the national Komen Foundation Award and Research Grant Program.
WellStar Health Systems, Kroger and Comcast are standing up with B98.5FM to support this evening of entertainment and celebration. For information regarding donations, silent auction participation and sponsorship information, please contact Andrew Rudd at Andrew.rudd@coxradio.com. Overall event information can be obtained by visiting www.b985.com.
McIntosh High School Yard Sale
The Spirit of McIntosh Marching Band is headed to the Gator Bowl to play during the parade and the half-time show. To assist in the cost of transporting the band, they are holding a yard sale on Saturday, August 15th from 6:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. in the high school cafeteria, 601 Walt Banks Road, Peachtree City. If you would like to donate any items to the cause, they can be brought to the school the night before between 3:45 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tax receipts are available. For more information contact Ms. Barbara Baker, Band Director at (770) 631-3231.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Office Depot Foundation Supports Disaster Relief and Recovery Worldwide with Contributions of $257,000 and 1,000 Backpacks for Children
BUSINESS WIRE --The Office Depot Foundation, the independent foundation serving as the primary charitable giving arm of Office Depot (NYSE:ODP), announced that it has made contributions totaling $257,000 along with 1,000 children’s backpacks to eight non-profit organizations to assist with domestic and international relief and recovery efforts, as well as activities related to disaster preparation and planning.
In the short term, these contributions are assisting in the aftermath of the earthquake in China, the cyclone in Myanmar, and widespread tornadoes, floods and wildfires across the U.S. Moving forward, the donations will help businesses and communities to prepare for future disasters and to hasten their recovery efforts when such tragedies occur.
Recent donations include the following:
China Youth Development Foundation (CYDF) - $100,000 for the construction of a school in the area affected by the earthquake that struck China's Sichuan province. Immediately after this disaster, Office Depot associates in China contributed and raised $25,000 for the relief efforts. The Office Depot Foundation is matching this donation with $25,000 and also making another donation of $50,000 from a donor-directed gift received from Office Depot Inc. CYDF is best known for “Project Hope,” which helps dropout students and those at risk of dropping out to continue their schooling in China’s rural, poverty-stricken areas.
Save the Children – 1,000 backpacks containing essential school supplies to help children in the stricken areas when they return to school.
U.S. Chamber of Commerce Business Civic Leadership Center (BCLC) - $70,000, including $5,000 as a challenge grant to the Disaster Assistance and Recovery Program, a BCLC initiative, to fund an economic/community impact assessment study in the region affected by the Midwest floods; and $65,000 to sponsor the National Disaster Help Desk for Business. Accessible through a national toll-free number (1-888-MY-BIZ-HELP), the help desk serves businesses affected by disasters as well as those that want to help.
Doctors Without Borders - $20,000 for the organization’s efforts to assist in China and Myanmar, as well as its ongoing programs to provide immunizations for vulnerable children and adults around the world.
American Red Cross - $30,000 for disaster relief efforts in the areas hit by tornadoes in the central and southern U.S. as well as assistance in the areas affected by wildfires in Florida.
Nourish America - $5,000 to in assist firefighters and law enforcement officials involved with the disasters in Florida.
Humane Society of the United States - $2,000 for assistance with both domestic and international disaster relief efforts.
SCORE and the SCORE Foundation - $30,000 to support disaster planning, preparation and recovery for small businesses, including the development of resources for businesses on the Office Depot Foundation website.
“The Office Depot Foundation was born nearly 15 years ago in the wake of Hurricane Andrew’s devastating impact on South Florida, where our global headquarters are located,” notes Foundation President Mary Wong. “Through the years, we have steadily expanded our scope to focus not just on disaster relief, but also on the long-term process of recovery and rebuilding. These new contributions help us to accomplish all of these goals.”
The Office Depot Foundation’s emphasis on disaster relief and recovery is one of the strategic priorities included in its 5 X 5 Program™, which also focuses on helping children get ready for life and work, helping non-profit organizations become more professional and productive, enhancing global development and strengthening local communities. To learn more, please visit www.officedepotfoundation.org.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Eric Boulton to Participate in Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta “Rehab Summer Games” at Philips Arena on Monday, July 28
Atlanta Thrashers forward Eric Boulton will be on hand for the annual Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta “Rehab Summer Games”, which take place Philips Arena on Monday, July 28 from 9:30 a.m. – Noon. The “Rehab Summer Games” allow more than 350 area children to compete in various events such as basketball, wheelbarrow races, tricycle races, dance contests, obstacle courses and more.
The Games are a unique and motivational way to incorporate therapy goals into a patient’s summer activities. The patients train hard during physical, occupational and speech therapy sessions and the Games give them a chance to show off all of their skills.
Boulton will be on hand to meet the children and their families, play games and sign autographs during the event. This is the ninth annual event for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and the sixth consecutive year that Philips Arena has hosted the event.
WHO: Thrashers Forward Eric Boulton
WHAT: Ninth annual Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta “Rehab Summer Games”
WHEN: Monday, July 28 from 9:30 a.m. – Noon (Boulton will be on hand from 10-11:30 a.m.)
WHERE: Philips Arena
The Games are a unique and motivational way to incorporate therapy goals into a patient’s summer activities. The patients train hard during physical, occupational and speech therapy sessions and the Games give them a chance to show off all of their skills.
Boulton will be on hand to meet the children and their families, play games and sign autographs during the event. This is the ninth annual event for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and the sixth consecutive year that Philips Arena has hosted the event.
WHO: Thrashers Forward Eric Boulton
WHAT: Ninth annual Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta “Rehab Summer Games”
WHEN: Monday, July 28 from 9:30 a.m. – Noon (Boulton will be on hand from 10-11:30 a.m.)
WHERE: Philips Arena
Gwinnett Habitat Celebrates Two Decades with Anniversary Homecoming Festival
Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity is proud of the incredible progress it has achieved for two decades. To commemorate this anniversary, the public is invited to come and celebrate its many successes at its twentieth anniversary festival. No need to bring hammers and saws to this Habitat function, because this one is all play and no work. Festivities will take place at the site of its first multi-family home construction site in Tucker, Georgia, on Saturday, August 30th, 2008. This exciting activity-filled “Ground Breaking Party” will begin at 2:00 pm and continue until 8:00 pm. Admission is free with a donation of any amount.
An incredible line up of local musicians will serenade the crowd, courtesy of Music for Charities, while free splashy waterslides and bouncy moonwalks will beguile energetic little ones. Local restaurants will be selling delicious food and frosty beverages on the site and other vendors will peddle their wares. All vendors will donate a portion of their proceeds to Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity. Dynamic singer Tammy Allen headlines to top off the event with high energy grooves designed to inspire the crowd to their feet.
Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity’s Anniversary Homecoming Festival is a way they want to say “thank you” to the thousands of area volunteers and sponsors who have made the last twenty years possible. “Almost a hundred families have homes in Gwinnett County, and their kids have grown up going to Gwinnett’s great schools, because of hours of construction done by volunteers,” says Beth Stubbings, Gwinnett Habitat’s Director of Development. “We couldn’t help those families if we didn’t have such terrific community support.”
All proceeds from this event will support Gwinnett Habitat’s Annual Campaign, providing essential operational support for its construction activities. The site of the Homecoming Celebration is 210 Pounds Road in Tucker, Georgia, where Gwinnett Habitat will begin building multi-family townhomes in September of 2008.
An incredible line up of local musicians will serenade the crowd, courtesy of Music for Charities, while free splashy waterslides and bouncy moonwalks will beguile energetic little ones. Local restaurants will be selling delicious food and frosty beverages on the site and other vendors will peddle their wares. All vendors will donate a portion of their proceeds to Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity. Dynamic singer Tammy Allen headlines to top off the event with high energy grooves designed to inspire the crowd to their feet.
Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity’s Anniversary Homecoming Festival is a way they want to say “thank you” to the thousands of area volunteers and sponsors who have made the last twenty years possible. “Almost a hundred families have homes in Gwinnett County, and their kids have grown up going to Gwinnett’s great schools, because of hours of construction done by volunteers,” says Beth Stubbings, Gwinnett Habitat’s Director of Development. “We couldn’t help those families if we didn’t have such terrific community support.”
All proceeds from this event will support Gwinnett Habitat’s Annual Campaign, providing essential operational support for its construction activities. The site of the Homecoming Celebration is 210 Pounds Road in Tucker, Georgia, where Gwinnett Habitat will begin building multi-family townhomes in September of 2008.
Dr. Mark Daddona Receives Exceptional Service Award from Red Cross for Work in DeKalb, Rockdale and Newton Counties
At the annual meeting and volunteer recognition program for the Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter of the American Red Cross, Dr. Mark Daddona, director of the Center for Academic Success at Clayton State University, was recognized with the Exceptional Service Award.
"It is truly an honor to receive this award and a privilege to represent the American Red Cross while serving the residents of DeKalb, Rockdale and Newton Counties during their difficult time of need,” says Daddona.
Daddona has served as the Disaster Action team assistant captain for DeKalb, Rockdale, and Newton counties for the last two years. He has responded with his team to more than 40 local fires and disasters providing emergency assistance such as food, shelter, and clothing to victims.
Most recently, Daddona was promoted from assistant to captain of the Disaster Action team. Now, he coordinates six disaster response teams. He provides leadership, guidance, supervision at large fires, and mental health services to clients and other Red Cross volunteers.
Over the years, Daddona has also responded to many national disasters as a Red Cross Mental Health volunteer. He served as a volunteer in a two week deployment in Hattiesburg, Ms., following Hurricane Katrina. Also, in March 2007, he spent three days assisting grieving families after the tragic Bluffton University bus crash in Atlanta.
A unit of the University System of Georgia, Clayton State University is an outstanding comprehensive metropolitan university located 15 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta.
"It is truly an honor to receive this award and a privilege to represent the American Red Cross while serving the residents of DeKalb, Rockdale and Newton Counties during their difficult time of need,” says Daddona.
Daddona has served as the Disaster Action team assistant captain for DeKalb, Rockdale, and Newton counties for the last two years. He has responded with his team to more than 40 local fires and disasters providing emergency assistance such as food, shelter, and clothing to victims.
Most recently, Daddona was promoted from assistant to captain of the Disaster Action team. Now, he coordinates six disaster response teams. He provides leadership, guidance, supervision at large fires, and mental health services to clients and other Red Cross volunteers.
Over the years, Daddona has also responded to many national disasters as a Red Cross Mental Health volunteer. He served as a volunteer in a two week deployment in Hattiesburg, Ms., following Hurricane Katrina. Also, in March 2007, he spent three days assisting grieving families after the tragic Bluffton University bus crash in Atlanta.
A unit of the University System of Georgia, Clayton State University is an outstanding comprehensive metropolitan university located 15 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta.
“Falcons Fit & Green” Initiative
The Atlanta Falcons Youth Foundation and The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation (the
foundations), in partnership with Safeplay Systems and Nike, are leading a $600,000 “Falcons Fit & Green” initiative, which will support development of up to 10 green playgrounds in Metro Atlanta in 2009.
The “Falcons Fit & Green” initiative advances the values of the Atlanta Falcons Youth Foundation, which works to improve youth fitness across Georgia, and the values of the Falcons owner, Arthur Blank, through his family foundation’s Inspiring Spaces program, which works to promote green practices and to increase access to great public spaces. Learn more about the work of the foundations through their 2007 online annual report.
Nike is participating through its Let Me Play campaign, which gives excluded youth around the world a chance to play. As a partner in this effort, Nike will donate shoes and sports equipment to all of the “Falcons Fit & Green” grant recipients. Through its Reuse-A-Shoe program, Nike’s Let Me Play campaign collects and recycles worn out sneakers. The recycled material – Nike Grind – is used to produce rubber and foam surfaces suited to playgrounds and running tracks.
Nike will contribute towards a recycled, rubber safety surface to a select number of “Falcons Fit & Green” grant recipients – determined through the competitive grant application process – enabling these organizations to devote all of the grant funds to the playground equipment itself. Safeplay Systems, a Marietta, Ga., based company, will employ its EcoPlay® technology to construct the green playgrounds. EcoPlay® equipment is manufactured from post-consumer recycled plastic milk jugs. Not only is EcoPlay® a recycled product, it is also recyclable, making it a “sustainable” product. All EcoPlay® playground structures are PVC-Free and Fiberglass-Free.
“Falcons Fit & Green” Financial Model
The foundations are seeking grant applicants for green playgrounds in Metro Atlanta
communities. The “Falcons Fit & Green” initiative expects to fund up to 10 green playgrounds.
See Appendix 1 for a list of the 28 Metro Atlanta counties.
The foundations will invest up to $300,000 in grants for playgrounds. Nike will contribute up to $100,000 in shoes and playground equipment and grants to install their Nike Grind surface. Safeplay Systems will contribute up to $50,000 to provide playground equipment and installation.
The maximum grant award from the foundations will be $30,000. The initiative requires
applicants to contribute $15,000 in matching funds. Safeplay Systems will donate $5,000 in equipment or services. Nike will donate $1,000 worth of shoes and sports equipment to each grant recipient. With this funding model, grant recipients will be able to construct playgrounds valued at $51,000 (this includes playground equipment, installation, borders and mulch).
A typical project budget would be:
AFYF/AMBFF grant $30,000
Grantee matching funds $15,000 (Note 1; Note 2)
Nike sports equipment $1,000
Safeplay contribution $5,000
Total $51,000
Based on the competitive application process, a select number of grant recipients (up to 10) will be awarded a grant from Nike to install a Nike Grind surface. This will enable organizations to devote more of its foundation grant award to playground equipment, thereby acquiring a playground valued at more than $50,000.
Through its Let Me Play campaign, Nike will make grant awards directly to a select number of “Falcons Fit & Green” grant recipients to cover costs of materials and installation of a recycled rubber safety surface (instead of the standard mulch), using vendors authorized by Nike. These grant recipients will work directly with Safeplay Systems to determine final budget allocations for playground equipment and pay Nike’s vendors directly.
Note 1: Applicants may elect to contribute a greater amount if they choose to upgrade
their playground build.
Note 2: In addition to contributing the $15,000 in matching grant funds, as required,
applicants may choose to free up additional funds for playground equipment (as opposed to installation) by recruiting community volunteers to assist with the playground build. Applicants electing to organize a Volunteer Day will free up funds needed to erect a playground valued at more than $50,000. The grant applicants will negotiate final terms directly with Safeplay Systems. The Atlanta Falcons will work to organize cheerleader or player visits to each Volunteer Day.
“Falcons Fit & Green” grant recipients will have flexibility in choosing EcoPlay® playground models and specific playground features. An example of a playground design valued at $50,000 (including equipment, installation, borders and mulch) is attached. This is an example and does not represent the only option or arrangement.
(Above is an example of an EcoPlay® playground. Playground equipment can be developed based on grantee specifications.)
Typical playgrounds will require a space of 2,500 square feet (or 50 feet by 50 feet). With their $50,000 budgets, “Falcons Fit & Green” grant recipients will negotiate with Safeplay Systems for the specific playground equipment and features. (To view equipment options, visit www.safeplaysystems.com and click the 2008 Online Catalog button.)
Grant recipients receiving additional awards from Nike, for the recycled Nike Grind surfaces, will work directly with Nike’s vendors on the surface installation and will work directly with Safeplay Systems to configure final project budgets to optimize playground equipment and features.
Foundation staff will review all applications. With input from outside experts, foundation staff will select up to 10 organizations to receive grants through the “Falcons Fit & Green” initiative (see the attached timeline for details of the grant process).
Completed playgrounds will carry Atlanta Falcons Youth Foundation and/or Falcons brand marks, as well as signage that: (1) memorializes the number of recycled milk jugs used to build the playground and the number of recycled shoes used to create the Nike Grind surface; and (2) that recognizes efforts from the grant recipient, and other local partners, AFYF, the Atlanta Falcons, AMBFF and, when appropriate, Nike’s Let Me Play campaign.
Grant recipients will work with the foundations to coordinate media and communications plans to promote the playground builds.
Values – The “Falcons Fit & Green” initiative is about more than equipment. The foundations expect winning grant proposals to establish children’s play areas within compelling outdoor spaces that draw families and engage broad segments of the population year-round.
The “Falcons Fit & Green” initiative is one of a number of efforts around the country designed to establish spaces that foster authentic play among kids, promote spontaneity in children’s activities and are used by broad segments of the community.
Site Selection – “Falcons Fit & Green” playgrounds may be located within state or local parks, on school or university campuses, within community gardens, at community centers or recreation centers, at facilities run by youth-serving nonprofit organizations, within neighborhood green spaces, proximate to public trails or paths, or in other settings.
Because the physical locations where “Falcons Fit & Green” playgrounds could be built may be owned by local or state government agencies or even private developers, the initiative expects the strongest applications to demonstrate partnerships with all of the appropriate nonprofit organizations, government agencies and businesses.
The applicant organization must be a public charity with a 501(c)(3) designation from the IRS or a unit of government.
Preference will be given to applications demonstrating:
• the greatest access and uses by a broad segment of the population, as opposed to projects that propose to limit access to children served by a single organization during certain hours;
• new, creative ways for “Falcons Fit & Green” playgrounds to enhance usage and
accessibility of existing outdoor spaces;
• creative ways to sustain community engagement on the issue of outdoor play and on the issue of kids’ involvement in recycling and other green practices.
The initiative is open to:
• applications that seek to use “Falcons Fit & Green” playgrounds to launch or bolster any local or statewide campaigns designed to get more kids and families active in outdoor spaces;
• new playgrounds, as well as renovations or upgrades made to existing outdoor facilities;
• joint applications, where two or more nonprofits come together to request combined
funds for integrating two playgrounds. Joint proposals must demonstrate the potential for increased impact.
Metrics for success include increased number of children (and families) spending more time in outdoor play areas as well as an increased number of children (and families) participating in recycling and other green practices.
In particular, the initiative uses the collection and recycling of used milk jugs and worn out sneakers as real and symbolic ways to spur activism among kids and the broader community (see the attached “Falcons Fit & Green” grant application form for specific questions and reporting requirements, or go to www.AYFY.org and click on “Falcons Fit & Green” for more information).
In the AFYF staff review of applications, proposals with the most creative and effective approach for involving kids in recycling efforts will be considered for the Nike Grind donated surface.
Nike expects to donate shoes and sports equipment to all “Falcons Fit & Green” grant award recipients, even those sites not receiving a donated Nike Grind surface.
Finally, the “Falcons Fit & Green” initiative seeks to harvest and promote innovation beyond the selected grant award recipients. AFYF will harvest stories and ideas from across all of the grant applicants and promote the most interesting innovations via AFYF web sites and other PR mechanisms.
“Falcons Fit & Green” Timeline
• Thursday, July 17, 2008 – AFYF and AMBFF release RFP for “Falcons Fit & Green”
initiative and begin accepting applications.
• Tuesday, August 5, 2008 – AFYF and AMBFF host workshop for organizations
interested in applying for grants. Interested organizations should RSVP by noon on
Friday, August 1, 2008, to LBond@Falcons.nfl.com. The August 5 workshop will run
from 9 a.m. to Noon and be held at The Arthur M. Blank Family Office, 3223 Howell
Mill Road, NW, Atlanta, GA 30327.
• Wednesday, October 15, 2008 – AFYF and AMBFF must receive completed
applications (including demonstration of $15,000 matching requirement) for the “Falcons Fit & Green” by Noon on Wednesday, October 15, 2008.
• Wednesday, October 15, 2008 – Monday, December 1, 2008 – Foundation staff review
grant proposals and select grant award recipients.
• Tuesday, December 2, 2008 – Announcement of up to 10 “Falcons Fit & Green” grant recipients. The announcement may take place in conjunction with an Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation Speaker Series event scheduled for December 2, 2008, featuring Dr. William McDonough, a leader in the sustainability movement whom Time magazine called in 1999 “Hero for the Planet”. One or more winners for the Nike Grind surface will be announced at this time also.
• Wednesday, December 3, 2008 – Wednesday, January 14, 2008 – Grant recipients
determine their specific playground designs and features – including budgets – with
Safeplay Systems and, when appropriate, Nike and Nike Grind vendors.
• Thursday, January 15, 2008 – Grant recipients submit their final playground designs, approved by Safeplay, to the foundations and pay Safeplay $15,000 in matching funds.
• February 2009 – $30,000 AFYF/AMBFF grant awards delivered to up to 10 grant
recipients.
• February – March 2009 – Schedule Volunteer Days during this period.
• April 1, 2009 – Target completion date for 10 new “Falcons Fit & Green” playgrounds.
• April 22, 2009 – Dedication for 10 new “Falcons Fit & Green” playgrounds on Earth Day.
Appendix 1
28-County Metro Atlanta Region
• Barrow
• Bartow
• Butts
• Carroll
• Cherokee
• Clayton
• Cobb
• Coweta
• Dawson
• DeKalb
• Douglas
• Fayette
• Forsyth
• Fulton
• Gwinnett
• Haralson
• Heard
• Henry
• Jasper
• Lamar
• Meriwether
• Newton
• Paulding
• Pickens
• Pike
• Rockdale
• Spalding
• Walton
foundations), in partnership with Safeplay Systems and Nike, are leading a $600,000 “Falcons Fit & Green” initiative, which will support development of up to 10 green playgrounds in Metro Atlanta in 2009.
The “Falcons Fit & Green” initiative advances the values of the Atlanta Falcons Youth Foundation, which works to improve youth fitness across Georgia, and the values of the Falcons owner, Arthur Blank, through his family foundation’s Inspiring Spaces program, which works to promote green practices and to increase access to great public spaces. Learn more about the work of the foundations through their 2007 online annual report.
Nike is participating through its Let Me Play campaign, which gives excluded youth around the world a chance to play. As a partner in this effort, Nike will donate shoes and sports equipment to all of the “Falcons Fit & Green” grant recipients. Through its Reuse-A-Shoe program, Nike’s Let Me Play campaign collects and recycles worn out sneakers. The recycled material – Nike Grind – is used to produce rubber and foam surfaces suited to playgrounds and running tracks.
Nike will contribute towards a recycled, rubber safety surface to a select number of “Falcons Fit & Green” grant recipients – determined through the competitive grant application process – enabling these organizations to devote all of the grant funds to the playground equipment itself. Safeplay Systems, a Marietta, Ga., based company, will employ its EcoPlay® technology to construct the green playgrounds. EcoPlay® equipment is manufactured from post-consumer recycled plastic milk jugs. Not only is EcoPlay® a recycled product, it is also recyclable, making it a “sustainable” product. All EcoPlay® playground structures are PVC-Free and Fiberglass-Free.
“Falcons Fit & Green” Financial Model
The foundations are seeking grant applicants for green playgrounds in Metro Atlanta
communities. The “Falcons Fit & Green” initiative expects to fund up to 10 green playgrounds.
See Appendix 1 for a list of the 28 Metro Atlanta counties.
The foundations will invest up to $300,000 in grants for playgrounds. Nike will contribute up to $100,000 in shoes and playground equipment and grants to install their Nike Grind surface. Safeplay Systems will contribute up to $50,000 to provide playground equipment and installation.
The maximum grant award from the foundations will be $30,000. The initiative requires
applicants to contribute $15,000 in matching funds. Safeplay Systems will donate $5,000 in equipment or services. Nike will donate $1,000 worth of shoes and sports equipment to each grant recipient. With this funding model, grant recipients will be able to construct playgrounds valued at $51,000 (this includes playground equipment, installation, borders and mulch).
A typical project budget would be:
AFYF/AMBFF grant $30,000
Grantee matching funds $15,000 (Note 1; Note 2)
Nike sports equipment $1,000
Safeplay contribution $5,000
Total $51,000
Based on the competitive application process, a select number of grant recipients (up to 10) will be awarded a grant from Nike to install a Nike Grind surface. This will enable organizations to devote more of its foundation grant award to playground equipment, thereby acquiring a playground valued at more than $50,000.
Through its Let Me Play campaign, Nike will make grant awards directly to a select number of “Falcons Fit & Green” grant recipients to cover costs of materials and installation of a recycled rubber safety surface (instead of the standard mulch), using vendors authorized by Nike. These grant recipients will work directly with Safeplay Systems to determine final budget allocations for playground equipment and pay Nike’s vendors directly.
Note 1: Applicants may elect to contribute a greater amount if they choose to upgrade
their playground build.
Note 2: In addition to contributing the $15,000 in matching grant funds, as required,
applicants may choose to free up additional funds for playground equipment (as opposed to installation) by recruiting community volunteers to assist with the playground build. Applicants electing to organize a Volunteer Day will free up funds needed to erect a playground valued at more than $50,000. The grant applicants will negotiate final terms directly with Safeplay Systems. The Atlanta Falcons will work to organize cheerleader or player visits to each Volunteer Day.
“Falcons Fit & Green” grant recipients will have flexibility in choosing EcoPlay® playground models and specific playground features. An example of a playground design valued at $50,000 (including equipment, installation, borders and mulch) is attached. This is an example and does not represent the only option or arrangement.
(Above is an example of an EcoPlay® playground. Playground equipment can be developed based on grantee specifications.)
Typical playgrounds will require a space of 2,500 square feet (or 50 feet by 50 feet). With their $50,000 budgets, “Falcons Fit & Green” grant recipients will negotiate with Safeplay Systems for the specific playground equipment and features. (To view equipment options, visit www.safeplaysystems.com and click the 2008 Online Catalog button.)
Grant recipients receiving additional awards from Nike, for the recycled Nike Grind surfaces, will work directly with Nike’s vendors on the surface installation and will work directly with Safeplay Systems to configure final project budgets to optimize playground equipment and features.
Foundation staff will review all applications. With input from outside experts, foundation staff will select up to 10 organizations to receive grants through the “Falcons Fit & Green” initiative (see the attached timeline for details of the grant process).
Completed playgrounds will carry Atlanta Falcons Youth Foundation and/or Falcons brand marks, as well as signage that: (1) memorializes the number of recycled milk jugs used to build the playground and the number of recycled shoes used to create the Nike Grind surface; and (2) that recognizes efforts from the grant recipient, and other local partners, AFYF, the Atlanta Falcons, AMBFF and, when appropriate, Nike’s Let Me Play campaign.
Grant recipients will work with the foundations to coordinate media and communications plans to promote the playground builds.
Values – The “Falcons Fit & Green” initiative is about more than equipment. The foundations expect winning grant proposals to establish children’s play areas within compelling outdoor spaces that draw families and engage broad segments of the population year-round.
The “Falcons Fit & Green” initiative is one of a number of efforts around the country designed to establish spaces that foster authentic play among kids, promote spontaneity in children’s activities and are used by broad segments of the community.
Site Selection – “Falcons Fit & Green” playgrounds may be located within state or local parks, on school or university campuses, within community gardens, at community centers or recreation centers, at facilities run by youth-serving nonprofit organizations, within neighborhood green spaces, proximate to public trails or paths, or in other settings.
Because the physical locations where “Falcons Fit & Green” playgrounds could be built may be owned by local or state government agencies or even private developers, the initiative expects the strongest applications to demonstrate partnerships with all of the appropriate nonprofit organizations, government agencies and businesses.
The applicant organization must be a public charity with a 501(c)(3) designation from the IRS or a unit of government.
Preference will be given to applications demonstrating:
• the greatest access and uses by a broad segment of the population, as opposed to projects that propose to limit access to children served by a single organization during certain hours;
• new, creative ways for “Falcons Fit & Green” playgrounds to enhance usage and
accessibility of existing outdoor spaces;
• creative ways to sustain community engagement on the issue of outdoor play and on the issue of kids’ involvement in recycling and other green practices.
The initiative is open to:
• applications that seek to use “Falcons Fit & Green” playgrounds to launch or bolster any local or statewide campaigns designed to get more kids and families active in outdoor spaces;
• new playgrounds, as well as renovations or upgrades made to existing outdoor facilities;
• joint applications, where two or more nonprofits come together to request combined
funds for integrating two playgrounds. Joint proposals must demonstrate the potential for increased impact.
Metrics for success include increased number of children (and families) spending more time in outdoor play areas as well as an increased number of children (and families) participating in recycling and other green practices.
In particular, the initiative uses the collection and recycling of used milk jugs and worn out sneakers as real and symbolic ways to spur activism among kids and the broader community (see the attached “Falcons Fit & Green” grant application form for specific questions and reporting requirements, or go to www.AYFY.org and click on “Falcons Fit & Green” for more information).
In the AFYF staff review of applications, proposals with the most creative and effective approach for involving kids in recycling efforts will be considered for the Nike Grind donated surface.
Nike expects to donate shoes and sports equipment to all “Falcons Fit & Green” grant award recipients, even those sites not receiving a donated Nike Grind surface.
Finally, the “Falcons Fit & Green” initiative seeks to harvest and promote innovation beyond the selected grant award recipients. AFYF will harvest stories and ideas from across all of the grant applicants and promote the most interesting innovations via AFYF web sites and other PR mechanisms.
“Falcons Fit & Green” Timeline
• Thursday, July 17, 2008 – AFYF and AMBFF release RFP for “Falcons Fit & Green”
initiative and begin accepting applications.
• Tuesday, August 5, 2008 – AFYF and AMBFF host workshop for organizations
interested in applying for grants. Interested organizations should RSVP by noon on
Friday, August 1, 2008, to LBond@Falcons.nfl.com. The August 5 workshop will run
from 9 a.m. to Noon and be held at The Arthur M. Blank Family Office, 3223 Howell
Mill Road, NW, Atlanta, GA 30327.
• Wednesday, October 15, 2008 – AFYF and AMBFF must receive completed
applications (including demonstration of $15,000 matching requirement) for the “Falcons Fit & Green” by Noon on Wednesday, October 15, 2008.
• Wednesday, October 15, 2008 – Monday, December 1, 2008 – Foundation staff review
grant proposals and select grant award recipients.
• Tuesday, December 2, 2008 – Announcement of up to 10 “Falcons Fit & Green” grant recipients. The announcement may take place in conjunction with an Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation Speaker Series event scheduled for December 2, 2008, featuring Dr. William McDonough, a leader in the sustainability movement whom Time magazine called in 1999 “Hero for the Planet”. One or more winners for the Nike Grind surface will be announced at this time also.
• Wednesday, December 3, 2008 – Wednesday, January 14, 2008 – Grant recipients
determine their specific playground designs and features – including budgets – with
Safeplay Systems and, when appropriate, Nike and Nike Grind vendors.
• Thursday, January 15, 2008 – Grant recipients submit their final playground designs, approved by Safeplay, to the foundations and pay Safeplay $15,000 in matching funds.
• February 2009 – $30,000 AFYF/AMBFF grant awards delivered to up to 10 grant
recipients.
• February – March 2009 – Schedule Volunteer Days during this period.
• April 1, 2009 – Target completion date for 10 new “Falcons Fit & Green” playgrounds.
• April 22, 2009 – Dedication for 10 new “Falcons Fit & Green” playgrounds on Earth Day.
Appendix 1
28-County Metro Atlanta Region
• Barrow
• Bartow
• Butts
• Carroll
• Cherokee
• Clayton
• Cobb
• Coweta
• Dawson
• DeKalb
• Douglas
• Fayette
• Forsyth
• Fulton
• Gwinnett
• Haralson
• Heard
• Henry
• Jasper
• Lamar
• Meriwether
• Newton
• Paulding
• Pickens
• Pike
• Rockdale
• Spalding
• Walton
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
JKSF Hosts 1st Annual "Reality City" Career Fair
The Jason Keith Smith Foundation (JKSF) invites you to attend our 1st annual “Reality City” Career Fair. This hands-on interactive event will host over (50) Foster Care and other youth of Atlanta to assist them in understanding how to make wise career choices as they transition into a self-sustaining environment. The Jason Keith Smith Foundation seeks to provide an atmosphere of possibilities where the values and potential of young people are nurtured and developed. The (JKSF) is committed to working with organizations and individuals that are dedicated to exposing young adults to life changing opportunities through positive activities.
As a result, the (JKSF) is sponsoring a Reality City Career Fair for Foster Care & other young adults. Our overall mission in sponsoring this affair is to provide fifty (50) young people with access to information, training, and the resources they need in order to experience making “real life” empowering choices about how they live their lives and to help them gain a sense of self-reliance that is necessary to be successful. Our primary focus is on helping youth and young adults tap into the work of infinite possibilities that are all around us and to provide them with tools and resources to access the best of these possibilities.
The Reality City Career Fair will be held:
Saturday, July 26, 2008
7:30 AM – 12:00 noon
Biltmore Lobby Ballroom
817 West Peachtree Street
Atlanta, GA 30303
This event will allow the participants to experience making decisions regarding:
· Selecting living arrangements
· Banking choices and money management
· Entertainment choices
· Grocery and furniture purchases
· Transportation mode (car versus public)
· Career, education and employment
Decisions on choices available will be driven by several scenario-driven factors including income, careers, and others factors.
If additional information is needed, please feel free to contact me at: 404.584.2717. We want to express our appreciation in advance for your time, consideration and participation with building awareness for this noteworthy Reality City Career Fair.
As a result, the (JKSF) is sponsoring a Reality City Career Fair for Foster Care & other young adults. Our overall mission in sponsoring this affair is to provide fifty (50) young people with access to information, training, and the resources they need in order to experience making “real life” empowering choices about how they live their lives and to help them gain a sense of self-reliance that is necessary to be successful. Our primary focus is on helping youth and young adults tap into the work of infinite possibilities that are all around us and to provide them with tools and resources to access the best of these possibilities.
The Reality City Career Fair will be held:
Saturday, July 26, 2008
7:30 AM – 12:00 noon
Biltmore Lobby Ballroom
817 West Peachtree Street
Atlanta, GA 30303
This event will allow the participants to experience making decisions regarding:
· Selecting living arrangements
· Banking choices and money management
· Entertainment choices
· Grocery and furniture purchases
· Transportation mode (car versus public)
· Career, education and employment
Decisions on choices available will be driven by several scenario-driven factors including income, careers, and others factors.
If additional information is needed, please feel free to contact me at: 404.584.2717. We want to express our appreciation in advance for your time, consideration and participation with building awareness for this noteworthy Reality City Career Fair.
America Supports You: Military Couples to Wed with Hollywood's Help
After matching servicemembers re-entering the civilian work force with military friendly employers, "Hire a Hero" is stepping outside its box and trying some matchmaking of a different kind.
The troop-support organization has teamed with Dreamworks Television and Mark Burnett Productions to help two deserving military couples have their dream weddings. The gesture is a thank you for their service and commitment to the country, according to the Hire a Hero Web site.
"Providing something like this is just great," said Rob Barr, a Hire a Hero representative. "It's showing support for the troops, and it's kind of giving them hope that there are really people out there that care."
The next step to helping two couples live happily ever after begins at the Hire a Hero Web site. Military couples who plan on marrying later this year can fill out the entry and share the challenges they've faced while trying to plan a wedding with at least one spouse serving their country.
Just the distance during a deployment, for example, can make things nearly impossible, Barr said. Then the occasional tour extension crops up and completely undoes what the couple may have managed to get done.
"Little things like that," he said. "But they're also looking for military spouses that just said, 'OK. You know what? We're going to go to the courthouse, get married and have a wedding later.'"
Once the midnight July 28 entry deadline passes, it's all up to the Hollywood folks to choose the two lucky couples for the big "Wedding Day" program that will air on a major TV network this fall, Barr said, adding that he has no idea what's in store for the couples chosen.
"They're kind of keeping that top secret information," he said. "All I was told was that they're going to get ... to have their dream wedding."
Barr said he thinks Hire a Hero was approached to help find couples because of the group's involvement with helping former "Apprentice" winner Kelly Perdew find applicants to be his assistant.
"To my knowledge, I think they got our information from someone ... who said, 'Hey, use "Hire a Hero" to look for this kind of person,'" he said.
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
Hire a Hero 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.
The troop-support organization has teamed with Dreamworks Television and Mark Burnett Productions to help two deserving military couples have their dream weddings. The gesture is a thank you for their service and commitment to the country, according to the Hire a Hero Web site.
"Providing something like this is just great," said Rob Barr, a Hire a Hero representative. "It's showing support for the troops, and it's kind of giving them hope that there are really people out there that care."
The next step to helping two couples live happily ever after begins at the Hire a Hero Web site. Military couples who plan on marrying later this year can fill out the entry and share the challenges they've faced while trying to plan a wedding with at least one spouse serving their country.
Just the distance during a deployment, for example, can make things nearly impossible, Barr said. Then the occasional tour extension crops up and completely undoes what the couple may have managed to get done.
"Little things like that," he said. "But they're also looking for military spouses that just said, 'OK. You know what? We're going to go to the courthouse, get married and have a wedding later.'"
Once the midnight July 28 entry deadline passes, it's all up to the Hollywood folks to choose the two lucky couples for the big "Wedding Day" program that will air on a major TV network this fall, Barr said, adding that he has no idea what's in store for the couples chosen.
"They're kind of keeping that top secret information," he said. "All I was told was that they're going to get ... to have their dream wedding."
Barr said he thinks Hire a Hero was approached to help find couples because of the group's involvement with helping former "Apprentice" winner Kelly Perdew find applicants to be his assistant.
"To my knowledge, I think they got our information from someone ... who said, 'Hey, use "Hire a Hero" to look for this kind of person,'" he said.
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
Hire a Hero 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.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Squeezed by Sluggish Economy, Many Find Charity Begins at Home -- On the Computer
(ARA) - The downturn in the economy and rising food and gas prices are taking a toll on charities and non-profit organizations.
Soup kitchens, churches, international aid organizations and schools report donations of all kinds are down as folks struggle to make their own ends meet. For the majority of Americans, giving cash to their favorite cause will be a hardship this year, and charity officials say they are seeing people in higher-income brackets needing food and supplies.
That doesn’t mean, however, that there aren’t ways you can make a difference. One simple thing you can do to support your favorite charity or non-profit organization is log onto one of several charitable search engines that will donate money for every search you conduct, such as www.SearchandGive.com. Using Microsoft’s “Search and Give” is free and easy. Simply select the charity you’d like to support then use the site every time you need to search the Web.
Each time you type a search query into the search box, a penny will be donated to the charity you have selected. Charities you can contribute to include non-profits, local churches, schools, orphanages and foreign aid programs. Microsoft tracks your earnings and makes an annual collective donation to your selected organization.
Nina Gaw, who is both a teacher and the parent of twins who attend St. Gregory the Catholic School in Virginia Beach, Va., received an e-mail through her Hotmail account letting her know about the Search and Give fundraising program last year. “I checked it out, liked what I read and decided to give it a try,” says Gaw.
Since she was the first person at the school to learn about the site, Gaw signed up to be the school’s program coordinator, and as such took on the task of spreading the word about Search and Give to everyone at the school. “To kick off the program, I put up posters around the school, passed out fliers and sent e-mails to everyone I know,” she says.
And her effort paid off. The school raised $3,700 through the program last year. They plan to use the money to upgrade technology at the school. “We’re going to buy three or four Smart Boards this summer, items that weren’t in the budget for the 2008 – 2009 school year due to budget cuts,” she says. “Hopefully we’ll be able to purchase even more next year. Our goal is to double, or maybe even triple our earnings in ’08 – ’09.”
Log on to www.SearchandGive.com to learn more about the program and start earning money for your favorite charity today.
Here are some other ways you can donate to your favorite cause without spending money:
1. Volunteer Your Time.
What better way is there to connect with your community than to give a little back? By volunteering to work a few hours a week at a soup kitchen or as a tutor for underprivileged kids, you’re providing a much needed service the charity doesn’t have to pay to receive.
2. Organize or participate in a fundraising garage sale.
If you have a cause near and dear to your heart, hand out fliers and ask your neighbors to drop off items they no longer need that you can sell at a garage sale for your favorite charity. It’s likely someone in the community would be willing to pay $15 for that dinner table, or $5 for the table lamp your next door neighbor was just going to throw away. A three-day sale in the church function hall -- a place you won’t have to pay to rent -- could easily net thousands of dollars.
3. Donate gently used goods to your local Goodwill, United Way or Salvation Army shelter.
When you drop off said goods, you’re making more of an impact than you may think. Not only will proceeds from the sale of the items you drop off go towards programs these organizations run, you’re providing work for someone in need of a job.
4. Organize, host or dedicate an event.
While this tends toward a greater time commitment that may span a few months, any charitable organization can benefit immensely from fundraising or awareness events hosted in its name. If you don’t have time to put on a full-fledged event, perhaps you can ask the guests who come to your next dinner party to bring along some canned food to donate to the local food shelf.
5. Share information with the charity.
Sharing crucial information with a charity can be extremely valuable. Whether it's sending along news about events, legislation, research, technology, trends, fundraising/marketing techniques, or complementary organizations, passing information is a time- and cost-saver that any charity would be glad to have.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
Soup kitchens, churches, international aid organizations and schools report donations of all kinds are down as folks struggle to make their own ends meet. For the majority of Americans, giving cash to their favorite cause will be a hardship this year, and charity officials say they are seeing people in higher-income brackets needing food and supplies.
That doesn’t mean, however, that there aren’t ways you can make a difference. One simple thing you can do to support your favorite charity or non-profit organization is log onto one of several charitable search engines that will donate money for every search you conduct, such as www.SearchandGive.com. Using Microsoft’s “Search and Give” is free and easy. Simply select the charity you’d like to support then use the site every time you need to search the Web.
Each time you type a search query into the search box, a penny will be donated to the charity you have selected. Charities you can contribute to include non-profits, local churches, schools, orphanages and foreign aid programs. Microsoft tracks your earnings and makes an annual collective donation to your selected organization.
Nina Gaw, who is both a teacher and the parent of twins who attend St. Gregory the Catholic School in Virginia Beach, Va., received an e-mail through her Hotmail account letting her know about the Search and Give fundraising program last year. “I checked it out, liked what I read and decided to give it a try,” says Gaw.
Since she was the first person at the school to learn about the site, Gaw signed up to be the school’s program coordinator, and as such took on the task of spreading the word about Search and Give to everyone at the school. “To kick off the program, I put up posters around the school, passed out fliers and sent e-mails to everyone I know,” she says.
And her effort paid off. The school raised $3,700 through the program last year. They plan to use the money to upgrade technology at the school. “We’re going to buy three or four Smart Boards this summer, items that weren’t in the budget for the 2008 – 2009 school year due to budget cuts,” she says. “Hopefully we’ll be able to purchase even more next year. Our goal is to double, or maybe even triple our earnings in ’08 – ’09.”
Log on to www.SearchandGive.com to learn more about the program and start earning money for your favorite charity today.
Here are some other ways you can donate to your favorite cause without spending money:
1. Volunteer Your Time.
What better way is there to connect with your community than to give a little back? By volunteering to work a few hours a week at a soup kitchen or as a tutor for underprivileged kids, you’re providing a much needed service the charity doesn’t have to pay to receive.
2. Organize or participate in a fundraising garage sale.
If you have a cause near and dear to your heart, hand out fliers and ask your neighbors to drop off items they no longer need that you can sell at a garage sale for your favorite charity. It’s likely someone in the community would be willing to pay $15 for that dinner table, or $5 for the table lamp your next door neighbor was just going to throw away. A three-day sale in the church function hall -- a place you won’t have to pay to rent -- could easily net thousands of dollars.
3. Donate gently used goods to your local Goodwill, United Way or Salvation Army shelter.
When you drop off said goods, you’re making more of an impact than you may think. Not only will proceeds from the sale of the items you drop off go towards programs these organizations run, you’re providing work for someone in need of a job.
4. Organize, host or dedicate an event.
While this tends toward a greater time commitment that may span a few months, any charitable organization can benefit immensely from fundraising or awareness events hosted in its name. If you don’t have time to put on a full-fledged event, perhaps you can ask the guests who come to your next dinner party to bring along some canned food to donate to the local food shelf.
5. Share information with the charity.
Sharing crucial information with a charity can be extremely valuable. Whether it's sending along news about events, legislation, research, technology, trends, fundraising/marketing techniques, or complementary organizations, passing information is a time- and cost-saver that any charity would be glad to have.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
Thursday, July 17, 2008
I am "Evidence"
Last spring, a young male zebra was found severely injured on I-75 south of Atlanta, Georgia. Noah's Ark Animal Rehabilitation Center in Locust Grove was called by the DNR to see if they could assist. They had him stitched up by a local vet and put a call out to the area veterinary schools to see if they could save his life. Auburn University was the first group to call back with the words, "Get him here."
Now, three months and several surgeries later, the young zebra has gained 60 pounds and has a permanent home with Noah's Ark. His name is Evidence and he made his public debut on July 12, 2008.
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Now, three months and several surgeries later, the young zebra has gained 60 pounds and has a permanent home with Noah's Ark. His name is Evidence and he made his public debut on July 12, 2008.
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Fernbank Museum’s Lost Oasis Benefit Celebrates Record-Setting Year
There were no signs of a tough economy at Fernbank Museum of Natural History’s Lost Oasis benefit on June 14, as the event posted a record-setting year. Hosted by Fernbank’s Artemis guild of young professionals, Tango on the Tundra: Lost Oasis 2008 raised $175,000 for BONES for Kids (Building on Experiences in Science), a fund that supports children’s programming at Fernbank.
Tango on the Tundra: Lost Oasis 2008 featured live music by Limelight, which got partygoers on the dance floor to work off some of the delicious cuisine from Proof of the Pudding, including Macadamia Nut Encrusted Grouper Bites Over Tropical Fruit Orzo, “Fire and Ice” Shooters of She Crab Soup and Cucumber Dill Soup, Prime Beef Encrusted with Peppercorns, Flaming Bananas Foster with Vanilla Ice Cream and many other delicious bites.
While water helped quench patrons’ thirst after their display of impressive dance moves, visitors also caught some refreshment at the open bar, which served up specialty Tango-tinis and Cha-Cha Chills. At the end of the evening, many partygoers headed home with a little something extra—including dinners, clothing, memberships, artwork, jewelry, wines, cooking classes, and even a vacation to Italy—after placing winning bids at the silent auction.
The event honored Adrienne and Kevin Maxim, who have been long-time supporters of Fernbank Museum and the Artemis guild. Co-hosts for Lost Oasis were Ryan and Sam Dunlap and Tracey and Darren Moore.
“It is incredibly rewarding to know that, even in this economy, Darren and I were able to help Fernbank raise a record amount for future children's programming,” said Tracey Moore.
Lost Oasis was not only a success in terms of fundraising, it also kept attendees entertained, well-fed and in good social company throughout the evening.
“Fernbank's 2008 Lost Oasis event proved yet again to be the most exciting party of the summer. It was the culmination of many months of extraordinary effort by our planning committee and the Museum staff,” said Honorary Chair Kevin Maxim. “Adrienne and I were simply in awe of the generosity shown by the event's financial and in-kind donors. Their support will pay long-lasting dividends in the form of Fernbank's future programs for Georgia's children.”
Lost Oasis was sponsored by Coca-Cola and the silent auction was sponsored by The Five Smiths Foundation, The Home Depot, The Isdell Family Foundation, and Adrienne and Kevin Maxim.
Fernbank’s other major fundraiser, the black-tie A Timeless Affair gala hosted by the Museum’s Board of Trustees, will be held Saturday, October 4, 2008.
Tango on the Tundra: Lost Oasis 2008 featured live music by Limelight, which got partygoers on the dance floor to work off some of the delicious cuisine from Proof of the Pudding, including Macadamia Nut Encrusted Grouper Bites Over Tropical Fruit Orzo, “Fire and Ice” Shooters of She Crab Soup and Cucumber Dill Soup, Prime Beef Encrusted with Peppercorns, Flaming Bananas Foster with Vanilla Ice Cream and many other delicious bites.
While water helped quench patrons’ thirst after their display of impressive dance moves, visitors also caught some refreshment at the open bar, which served up specialty Tango-tinis and Cha-Cha Chills. At the end of the evening, many partygoers headed home with a little something extra—including dinners, clothing, memberships, artwork, jewelry, wines, cooking classes, and even a vacation to Italy—after placing winning bids at the silent auction.
The event honored Adrienne and Kevin Maxim, who have been long-time supporters of Fernbank Museum and the Artemis guild. Co-hosts for Lost Oasis were Ryan and Sam Dunlap and Tracey and Darren Moore.
“It is incredibly rewarding to know that, even in this economy, Darren and I were able to help Fernbank raise a record amount for future children's programming,” said Tracey Moore.
Lost Oasis was not only a success in terms of fundraising, it also kept attendees entertained, well-fed and in good social company throughout the evening.
“Fernbank's 2008 Lost Oasis event proved yet again to be the most exciting party of the summer. It was the culmination of many months of extraordinary effort by our planning committee and the Museum staff,” said Honorary Chair Kevin Maxim. “Adrienne and I were simply in awe of the generosity shown by the event's financial and in-kind donors. Their support will pay long-lasting dividends in the form of Fernbank's future programs for Georgia's children.”
Lost Oasis was sponsored by Coca-Cola and the silent auction was sponsored by The Five Smiths Foundation, The Home Depot, The Isdell Family Foundation, and Adrienne and Kevin Maxim.
Fernbank’s other major fundraiser, the black-tie A Timeless Affair gala hosted by the Museum’s Board of Trustees, will be held Saturday, October 4, 2008.
Gwinnett Habitat Celebrates Two Decades with Homecoming Festival Labor Day Weekend
Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity is proud of the incredible progress it has achieved for two decades. To commemorate this anniversary, the public is invited to come and celebrate its many successes at its twentieth anniversary festival.
No need to bring hammers and saws to this Habitat function, because this one is all play and no work. Festivities will take place at the site of its first multi-family home construction site in Tucker, Georgia, on Saturday, August 30th, 2008. This exciting activity-filled “Ground Breaking Party” will begin at 2:00 pm and continue until 8:00 pm. Admission is free with a donation of any amount.
An incredible line up of local musicians will serenade the crowd, courtesy of Music for Charities, while free splashy waterslides and bouncy moonwalks will beguile energetic little ones. Local restaurants will be selling delicious food and frosty beverages on the site and other vendors will peddle their wares. All vendors will donate a portion of their proceeds to Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity. Dynamic singer Tammy Allen headlines to top off the event with high energy grooves designed to inspire the crowd to their feet.
Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity’s Anniversary Homecoming Festival is a way they want to say “thank you” to the thousands of area volunteers and sponsors who have made the last twenty years possible. “Almost a hundred families have homes in Gwinnett County, and their kids have grown up going to Gwinnett’s great schools, because of hours of construction done by volunteers,” says Beth Stubbings, Gwinnett Habitat’s Director of Development. “We couldn’t help those families if we didn’t have such terrific community support.”
All proceeds from this event will support Gwinnett Habitat’s Annual Campaign, providing essential operational support for its construction activities. The site of the Homecoming Celebration is 210 Pounds Road in Tucker, Georgia, where Gwinnett Habitat will begin building multi-family townhomes in September of 2008.
No need to bring hammers and saws to this Habitat function, because this one is all play and no work. Festivities will take place at the site of its first multi-family home construction site in Tucker, Georgia, on Saturday, August 30th, 2008. This exciting activity-filled “Ground Breaking Party” will begin at 2:00 pm and continue until 8:00 pm. Admission is free with a donation of any amount.
An incredible line up of local musicians will serenade the crowd, courtesy of Music for Charities, while free splashy waterslides and bouncy moonwalks will beguile energetic little ones. Local restaurants will be selling delicious food and frosty beverages on the site and other vendors will peddle their wares. All vendors will donate a portion of their proceeds to Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity. Dynamic singer Tammy Allen headlines to top off the event with high energy grooves designed to inspire the crowd to their feet.
Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity’s Anniversary Homecoming Festival is a way they want to say “thank you” to the thousands of area volunteers and sponsors who have made the last twenty years possible. “Almost a hundred families have homes in Gwinnett County, and their kids have grown up going to Gwinnett’s great schools, because of hours of construction done by volunteers,” says Beth Stubbings, Gwinnett Habitat’s Director of Development. “We couldn’t help those families if we didn’t have such terrific community support.”
All proceeds from this event will support Gwinnett Habitat’s Annual Campaign, providing essential operational support for its construction activities. The site of the Homecoming Celebration is 210 Pounds Road in Tucker, Georgia, where Gwinnett Habitat will begin building multi-family townhomes in September of 2008.
Lynn Wheeler Benefit Golf Tournament a Big Success
July 14th's Lynn Wheeler Benefit Golf Tournament at Eagle’s Brooke County Club in Locust Grove, Ga., was a big success, thanks to 88 golfers, 30 volunteers, Covenant Presbyterian Church and a host of sponsors dedicated to lending a helping hand to the Wheeler family.
Covenant Presbyterian, located in Fayetteville, Ga., hosted the event as a benefit for Lynn Wheeler, wife of the head of the Clayton State University Music Department, Dr. Douglas Wheeler. The personification of determination and courage, Lynn Wheeler was diagnosed with cancer in February 2005. She went into remission in September of that same year, only to suffer a serious spinal injury in an auto accident on Christmas Day, 2005, an accident that has confined her to a wheelchair and breathing with the help of a respirator.
Undaunted, the Wheelers, who reside in Stockbridge, Ga., have remained strong members of Covenant Presbyterian, and Lynn continues to serve in the church’s children’s ministry and to teach piano. The tournament featured a clinic by former PGA touring professional Greg Powers, lunch by Chick-Fil-A, door prizes, raffles, longest drive and closest to the pin contests, and a new 2008 Ford, courtesy of Allan Vigil Ford, for a hole-in-one. Although no one claimed the Ford, the $5000 in raffle prizes were much appreciated by the winners.
Action on the course saw first place go to the team of; Louis Brown, Michael Joiner (who also won the Grand Prize drawing… clearly it was his day), Lovell Camp, Terry Starr. The second place team was headed up by former ARC and Clayton County Commission chair Crandle Bray, and included Sammy Craig, David Hughes and Tom Ellis.
Third place went to the David Pearson, Will Tomasello, Todd Greek and Adam Depoe. Not winning any golfing prizes, but playing to support the Wheelers, were Clayton State President Dr. Thomas K. Harden, Athletic Director Mason Barfield, golf coach Barry Harwell, Vice President for External Relations Robert “Steve” Stephens, and Clayton State Director of Development Reda Rowell, who, rumor has it, actually outdrove Harwell, a former PGA pro, on one hole. However, Lucy Joiner won the Longest Drive prize and Hughes the Closest to the Hole prize. Rowell vows to do better next time.
Other VIPs in the tournament included Georgia Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle, Dr. Kuo Lee (Med Cross Imaging), Doug Wheeler, and former state senator Terrell Starr.
“We wanted to thank so many people from Clayton State who supported the Benefit Golf Tournament on Monday,” says Doug Wheeler. “We were really overwhelmed with all those who played and contributed in some way.”
Approximately $16,000 was raised by the event, with a net of $12,000 for the Wheelers.
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Fayette Front Page
Community News You Can Use
Fayetteville, Peachtree City, Tyrone
Covenant Presbyterian, located in Fayetteville, Ga., hosted the event as a benefit for Lynn Wheeler, wife of the head of the Clayton State University Music Department, Dr. Douglas Wheeler. The personification of determination and courage, Lynn Wheeler was diagnosed with cancer in February 2005. She went into remission in September of that same year, only to suffer a serious spinal injury in an auto accident on Christmas Day, 2005, an accident that has confined her to a wheelchair and breathing with the help of a respirator.
Undaunted, the Wheelers, who reside in Stockbridge, Ga., have remained strong members of Covenant Presbyterian, and Lynn continues to serve in the church’s children’s ministry and to teach piano. The tournament featured a clinic by former PGA touring professional Greg Powers, lunch by Chick-Fil-A, door prizes, raffles, longest drive and closest to the pin contests, and a new 2008 Ford, courtesy of Allan Vigil Ford, for a hole-in-one. Although no one claimed the Ford, the $5000 in raffle prizes were much appreciated by the winners.
Action on the course saw first place go to the team of; Louis Brown, Michael Joiner (who also won the Grand Prize drawing… clearly it was his day), Lovell Camp, Terry Starr. The second place team was headed up by former ARC and Clayton County Commission chair Crandle Bray, and included Sammy Craig, David Hughes and Tom Ellis.
Third place went to the David Pearson, Will Tomasello, Todd Greek and Adam Depoe. Not winning any golfing prizes, but playing to support the Wheelers, were Clayton State President Dr. Thomas K. Harden, Athletic Director Mason Barfield, golf coach Barry Harwell, Vice President for External Relations Robert “Steve” Stephens, and Clayton State Director of Development Reda Rowell, who, rumor has it, actually outdrove Harwell, a former PGA pro, on one hole. However, Lucy Joiner won the Longest Drive prize and Hughes the Closest to the Hole prize. Rowell vows to do better next time.
Other VIPs in the tournament included Georgia Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle, Dr. Kuo Lee (Med Cross Imaging), Doug Wheeler, and former state senator Terrell Starr.
“We wanted to thank so many people from Clayton State who supported the Benefit Golf Tournament on Monday,” says Doug Wheeler. “We were really overwhelmed with all those who played and contributed in some way.”
Approximately $16,000 was raised by the event, with a net of $12,000 for the Wheelers.
-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
Community News You Can Use
Fayetteville, Peachtree City, Tyrone
Friday, July 11, 2008
Disney Gives Youth a Hand
Youth Service America is accepting applications for Disney Minnie Grants. These $500 grants support youth-led programs that engage children and youth ages 5-14 as community volunteers in the planning and implementation of community service projects. Projects can address a wide variety of themes ranging from national and international disaster relief to community public health to literacy.
To be eligible, projects must take place between October 15 and November 15, 2008. Applications must be submitted by August 30, 2008.
Click Here for more information and application materials.
To be eligible, projects must take place between October 15 and November 15, 2008. Applications must be submitted by August 30, 2008.
Click Here for more information and application materials.
Atlanta Kidney Transplant Recipient to Represent Georgia in National Transplant Games in Pittsburgh
HHG Note: Another inspiring young man! Ken's story is a great reminder as to why we all need to say "yes" as a donor on our driver's license. Good luck in Pittsburgh, Ken!
While many medical students were preparing for board exams in 2006, Ken Sutha was already spending plenty of time in the hospital as a patient.
Diagnosed with kidney disease at age 10, Sutha's condition was stable through high school but worsened during college.
"I knew then that I'd have to either go on dialysis or have a kidney transplant," he says.
Sutha received his kidney from his father, Surachai, at Emory University Hospital in April 2006.
After the transplant, he wanted to find more ways to get involved with transplant patients. He become a camp counselor at Camp Independence in Rutledge, Ga., a camp for children diagnosed with kidney disease or with solid organ transplants. Now in his third year as a counselor, Sutha spends one week a summer sharing experiences with other transplant recipients.
He credits fellow counselors and campers with inspiring him to take up swimming on an advanced level, and his dedication to the sport led to another passion -- training for, and participating in, the National Kidney Foundation Transplant Games.
The Transplant Games, held this year in Pittsburgh July 11-16, are a nationwide sporting event for transplant recipients. The event is the only national athletic competition for recipients of all life-saving organ transplants, as well as the largest gathering of transplant recipients and donor families in the world. Sutha will represent Georgia and compete in the 100-meter medley and race-walking.
"The Transplant Games are something that kind of snowballed once I got into it and everyone found out," Sutha says. "One of the many reasons I am participating is to increase awareness among the general public of the critical need for more organ donors. I want to encourage others to think about organ donation and to talk to their families about it."
Now working on MD/PhD degrees with a focus on stem cell and bone regeneration research at Emory University and Georgia Tech, Sutha believes that his work in biomedical engineering ties in with his transplant surgery.
"I was fortunate enough to receive a living donor kidney from my dad, but in Georgia alone, there are more than 1,950 people waiting for a transplant, and someone to give the gift of life," says Sutha. "I want people to know that transplants work and I am a success story. I'm doing well and leading a normal life. In fact I'm doing more now than I would otherwise."
While many medical students were preparing for board exams in 2006, Ken Sutha was already spending plenty of time in the hospital as a patient.
Diagnosed with kidney disease at age 10, Sutha's condition was stable through high school but worsened during college.
"I knew then that I'd have to either go on dialysis or have a kidney transplant," he says.
Sutha received his kidney from his father, Surachai, at Emory University Hospital in April 2006.
After the transplant, he wanted to find more ways to get involved with transplant patients. He become a camp counselor at Camp Independence in Rutledge, Ga., a camp for children diagnosed with kidney disease or with solid organ transplants. Now in his third year as a counselor, Sutha spends one week a summer sharing experiences with other transplant recipients.
He credits fellow counselors and campers with inspiring him to take up swimming on an advanced level, and his dedication to the sport led to another passion -- training for, and participating in, the National Kidney Foundation Transplant Games.
The Transplant Games, held this year in Pittsburgh July 11-16, are a nationwide sporting event for transplant recipients. The event is the only national athletic competition for recipients of all life-saving organ transplants, as well as the largest gathering of transplant recipients and donor families in the world. Sutha will represent Georgia and compete in the 100-meter medley and race-walking.
"The Transplant Games are something that kind of snowballed once I got into it and everyone found out," Sutha says. "One of the many reasons I am participating is to increase awareness among the general public of the critical need for more organ donors. I want to encourage others to think about organ donation and to talk to their families about it."
Now working on MD/PhD degrees with a focus on stem cell and bone regeneration research at Emory University and Georgia Tech, Sutha believes that his work in biomedical engineering ties in with his transplant surgery.
"I was fortunate enough to receive a living donor kidney from my dad, but in Georgia alone, there are more than 1,950 people waiting for a transplant, and someone to give the gift of life," says Sutha. "I want people to know that transplants work and I am a success story. I'm doing well and leading a normal life. In fact I'm doing more now than I would otherwise."
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Atlanta-area Chrysler, Jeep(R) and Dodge Dealers Contribute to Atlanta's Plan to Build a Playscape for Every Child by 2010
PRNewswire -- More than 250 volunteers from Atlanta-area Chrysler, Jeep(R) and Dodge dealers, The Chrysler Foundation, Whitefoord Elementary School, the Whitefoord Community Program, residents of the Atlanta community and organizers from KaBOOM came together today to build a new playground at Whitefoord Elementary School.
This playground, which was designed by local children, is the first new playground at Whitefoord Elementary in many years and replaces existing equipment that was unsuitable for children to play on. The Atlanta-area Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealers spearheaded the build effort that will provide over 300 neighborhood children with a new, safe place to play.
"Every child should have access to a play area that is safe and encourages physical activity," said Steve Harris, President - Town & Country Dodge Chrysler Jeep. "This new playground, which was designed by local children and built by volunteers is a small part of our long-term commitment to the Atlanta community."
Planning for the playground began at a Design Day event held in May 2008. Local children and community leaders met with organizers from KaBOOM! and Chrysler to develop their "dream" playground. The children's drawings were used to create the final playground design.
"We are so excited to have this playground built at Whitefoord Elementary with the help of KaBOOM! and the Atlanta Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealers," said Patricia Lavant, Principal - Whitefoord Elementary School. "A playground represents what a school is all about. This playground says that Whitefoord Elementary School is a school with vibrant, energetic children ready to meet the educational challenges of the twenty first century."
The project is the fifth of 25 playgrounds scheduled to be built across the country this year by KaBOOM!, The Chrysler Foundation, Chrysler Financial and Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge dealerships and is expected to provide more than 30,000 children with a great place to play each year. The playground is also one of more than 225 builds KaBOOM! will lead across the country in 2008, in an effort to provide an enjoyable place to play within walking distance of every child in America.
"KaBOOM! is committed to bringing play back to the neighborhood one playground at a time," said Darell Hammond, CEO and Co-founder - KaBOOM!. "Every child deserves a place to run, jump, have fun and just be a kid. We are proud to work with Chrysler to give the children of Atlanta a great place to play."
Atlanta was selected in 2007 as one of 31 Playful City USA communities in the inaugural national recognition program, National Campaign for Play, administered by KaBOOM!. Playful City USA is a national recognition program honoring cities and towns across the nation committed to taking action for play. The city of Atlanta developed a three-year initiative titled "Atlanta: A Playspace for Every Child by 2010," that outlines steps to place a playground within reach of every child in Atlanta by the year 2010.
America Supports You: Fund Assists Severely Injured Veterans
An organization that focuses on helping severely injured veterans channels its efforts toward providing the kinds of assistance they don't otherwise get.
The Independence Fund provides "the tools, therapies and guidance that they are otherwise not receiving," said Steve Danyluk, the organization's president.
The Independence Fund, he explained, is built upon three pillars of support. These pillars, according to the Independence Fund Web site, include providing specialized tools and therapies to troops and veterans, promoting the overall well-being of severely injured veterans through physical and leisure activity, and providing advocacy and guidance through veterans and family members who have experienced similar events and injuries.
For example, the Independence Fund provides assistance such as iBot wheelchairs and sports equipment that has been modified so disabled veterans can take part in athletic pursuits or leisure sports.
The fund also provides two different types of therapies to injured troops.
"Sports and art therapy are the two big programs we champion," Danyluk said. "Some of the art has become part of our traveling art exhibit, which is steadily growing and been displayed, most recently at the Indianapolis [Veterans Affairs] hospital, and next at the Arlington Art Center in Virginia."
Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans can apply for funding through the Independence Fund's Web site, where a downloadable document also is available, Danyluk said.
Once an application is accepted, an Independence Fund case director conducts an interview, and a grant funding board then reviews the application to determine whether the candidate receives a grant, Danyluk explained. The funding for grants distributed through the Independence Fund comes mostly in the form of donations, he added.
The Independence Fund is a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting servicemembers and their families serving at home and abroad.
By Meghan Vittrup
American Forces Press Service
The Independence Fund provides "the tools, therapies and guidance that they are otherwise not receiving," said Steve Danyluk, the organization's president.
The Independence Fund, he explained, is built upon three pillars of support. These pillars, according to the Independence Fund Web site, include providing specialized tools and therapies to troops and veterans, promoting the overall well-being of severely injured veterans through physical and leisure activity, and providing advocacy and guidance through veterans and family members who have experienced similar events and injuries.
For example, the Independence Fund provides assistance such as iBot wheelchairs and sports equipment that has been modified so disabled veterans can take part in athletic pursuits or leisure sports.
The fund also provides two different types of therapies to injured troops.
"Sports and art therapy are the two big programs we champion," Danyluk said. "Some of the art has become part of our traveling art exhibit, which is steadily growing and been displayed, most recently at the Indianapolis [Veterans Affairs] hospital, and next at the Arlington Art Center in Virginia."
Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans can apply for funding through the Independence Fund's Web site, where a downloadable document also is available, Danyluk said.
Once an application is accepted, an Independence Fund case director conducts an interview, and a grant funding board then reviews the application to determine whether the candidate receives a grant, Danyluk explained. The funding for grants distributed through the Independence Fund comes mostly in the form of donations, he added.
The Independence Fund is a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting servicemembers and their families serving at home and abroad.
By Meghan Vittrup
American Forces Press Service
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
Fayette DFACS Updates Needs for Upcoming School Year
This is an update for the needs of our children for the upcoming school year:
We are continuing to take requests from DFCS case workers and soon will get requests from school counselors for children who need school supplies. I am attaching a generic list for those of you who might want to help with this project and have not contacted me yet. So far, we have 173 referrals. About 100 of these are already sponsored. We anticipate serving about 450 children through this project.
We also have a school clothing project. Some of you have participated in this project, which we started in 2003. We have had 594 referrals to date, and anticipate about 20-30 requests before school starts on August 11, and a few more after school starts. These children are referred by DFCS case workers or school counselors as well. If you would like to shop for clothing for a specific child or donate a gift card, please contact me for more details, ASAP.
As always, I appreciate you so very much! You truly make a difference for families in our county. Please pass on to your circles if you think they would want to help too!
Sharon Herbert,
Community Resource Specialist
Fayette County DFCS
Fayette County School Supplies – Generic List - 2007
Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten:
Crayola Crayons, 16 count
5” fiskar scissors
Crayola markers, fine tip, 8 pack
Waterless anti-bacterial soap
Index cards, 3x5, plain
Large box of tissue
Elmer’s jumbo glue sticks
No. 2 pencils
Paper towels
Jumbo pencils with erasers
3x5 index card file box with A-Z dividers
Box of Ziploc gallon size bags
Box of Ziploc snack size bags
Box of crayola markers, thick classic
Wide ruled notebook paper
First Grade:
No. 2 pencils
Crayola washable thick classic markers
Crayola washable thin classic markers
Pocket folders with brads (various colors)
Glue sticks
Elmer’s school glue, 4 oz.
Crayola crayons, 16 count
Crayola watercolors, 8 color set
Fiskar scissors, 5”
Wide ruled notebook paper
Box of tissue
Paper towels
Composition notebook, hard cover
Second Grade:
Clipboard standard letter size
Composition book, 70 count, wide rule
Crayola crayons, 24 count
Erasers, pencil cap
Folder, 2 pocket with brads (various colors)
Glue sticks, Elmer’s
3x5 index cards, 100 count, ruled
3x5 A to Z index file card guides
3x5 index file box
Crayola classic set, thick markers
Expo chisel tip dry erase, 4 pack
No. 2 pencils
Fiskar 5” scissors,
Box of tissue
Crayola, washable watercolors
Wide ruled notebook paper
Third Grade:
Notebook dividers with pockets and tabs
Subject dividers for notebooks
No.2 pencils
Crayola crayons, 24 count
Fiskar scissors, 5”
Highlighter, yellow
Elmer’s glue, 4 oz.
Glue sticks
Assorted dry erase markers
Pink pearl large eraser
Paper towels
Box of tissue
2 pocket folder with brads, assorted colors
Crayola colored pencils, 12 pack
2” binder, 3 ring
Crayola washable markers
Pencil top erasers
Ziplock baggies
Wide ruled notebook paper
Fourth Grade:
Set of assorted highlighters
Pack of Expo dry erase markers, assorted colors
Notebook dividers with tabs
Clipboard, 9x12.5”
Box of tissue
No. 2 pencils
Cap erasers
Crayola colored pencils, 12 pack
Wide ruled filler paper
Black sharpie marker
Pack of assorted markers
Fiskar scissors, 5”
Elmer’s glue stick, small
2 pocket folders with brads, assorted colors
Pencil holder for binder
3x5 lined index cards
4x6 ruled index cards, white, 100 count
Fifth Grade:
Highlighters, assorted colors
Colored pencils, 12 count
Red medium point ink pen
Wide ruled filler paper
50 count graph paper, 4 square inch
No. 2 pencils
Elmer’s glue stick
Pocket folders with brads, assorted colors
Protractor
Compass
Box of tissue
Paper towels
Black fine point dry erase marker
Vinyl pencil bag for binder
Fiskar scissors, 7”
4x6, 100 count ruled index cards
¾ inch Magic Scotch tape with dispenser
2” binder, 3 rings
Sixth Grade:
Large 3 ring binder
Notebook pocket dividers
Zippered pencil case
Black and red pens (no gel pens)
Colored pencils
Assorted highlighters
No. 2 pencils
Graph paper
Hole reinforcers
Covers for all books
Box of tissue
Expo dry erase markers, low odor
Wide ruled notebook paper
Seventh Grade:
Large 3 ring binder
Pocket folders with brads, assorted colors
No. 2 pencils
Black and red pens
Yellow highlighters
Colored pencils
Notebook dividers
Ruler and protractor
Glue sticks
Hole reinforcers
3x5 cards
Graph paper
Book Covers
Box of tissue
Expo dry erase markers, low odor
Wide ruled notebook paper
Eighth Grade:
Large 3 ring binder
Notebook dividers, no pockets
Pencil pouch
Blue, black, and red pens
Hole reinforcers
Glue sticks
3x5 cards on spiral
No. 2 pencils
Highlighters
Colored pencils
Box of tissue
Box of band-aids
Pack of AAA batteries
Expo dry erase markers, low odor
Wide ruled notebook paper
Ninth through Twelfth Grade:
Notebook paper, college ruled
No. 2 pencils
Cap Erasers
Pencil pouch
Assorted pocket folders with brads
Erasable pens, black or blue
Small notebook
Large 3 ring binder
Notebook dividers with tabs
3x5 index cards
Assorted highlighters
Colored pencils
We are continuing to take requests from DFCS case workers and soon will get requests from school counselors for children who need school supplies. I am attaching a generic list for those of you who might want to help with this project and have not contacted me yet. So far, we have 173 referrals. About 100 of these are already sponsored. We anticipate serving about 450 children through this project.
We also have a school clothing project. Some of you have participated in this project, which we started in 2003. We have had 594 referrals to date, and anticipate about 20-30 requests before school starts on August 11, and a few more after school starts. These children are referred by DFCS case workers or school counselors as well. If you would like to shop for clothing for a specific child or donate a gift card, please contact me for more details, ASAP.
As always, I appreciate you so very much! You truly make a difference for families in our county. Please pass on to your circles if you think they would want to help too!
Sharon Herbert,
Community Resource Specialist
Fayette County DFCS
Fayette County School Supplies – Generic List - 2007
Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten:
Crayola Crayons, 16 count
5” fiskar scissors
Crayola markers, fine tip, 8 pack
Waterless anti-bacterial soap
Index cards, 3x5, plain
Large box of tissue
Elmer’s jumbo glue sticks
No. 2 pencils
Paper towels
Jumbo pencils with erasers
3x5 index card file box with A-Z dividers
Box of Ziploc gallon size bags
Box of Ziploc snack size bags
Box of crayola markers, thick classic
Wide ruled notebook paper
First Grade:
No. 2 pencils
Crayola washable thick classic markers
Crayola washable thin classic markers
Pocket folders with brads (various colors)
Glue sticks
Elmer’s school glue, 4 oz.
Crayola crayons, 16 count
Crayola watercolors, 8 color set
Fiskar scissors, 5”
Wide ruled notebook paper
Box of tissue
Paper towels
Composition notebook, hard cover
Second Grade:
Clipboard standard letter size
Composition book, 70 count, wide rule
Crayola crayons, 24 count
Erasers, pencil cap
Folder, 2 pocket with brads (various colors)
Glue sticks, Elmer’s
3x5 index cards, 100 count, ruled
3x5 A to Z index file card guides
3x5 index file box
Crayola classic set, thick markers
Expo chisel tip dry erase, 4 pack
No. 2 pencils
Fiskar 5” scissors,
Box of tissue
Crayola, washable watercolors
Wide ruled notebook paper
Third Grade:
Notebook dividers with pockets and tabs
Subject dividers for notebooks
No.2 pencils
Crayola crayons, 24 count
Fiskar scissors, 5”
Highlighter, yellow
Elmer’s glue, 4 oz.
Glue sticks
Assorted dry erase markers
Pink pearl large eraser
Paper towels
Box of tissue
2 pocket folder with brads, assorted colors
Crayola colored pencils, 12 pack
2” binder, 3 ring
Crayola washable markers
Pencil top erasers
Ziplock baggies
Wide ruled notebook paper
Fourth Grade:
Set of assorted highlighters
Pack of Expo dry erase markers, assorted colors
Notebook dividers with tabs
Clipboard, 9x12.5”
Box of tissue
No. 2 pencils
Cap erasers
Crayola colored pencils, 12 pack
Wide ruled filler paper
Black sharpie marker
Pack of assorted markers
Fiskar scissors, 5”
Elmer’s glue stick, small
2 pocket folders with brads, assorted colors
Pencil holder for binder
3x5 lined index cards
4x6 ruled index cards, white, 100 count
Fifth Grade:
Highlighters, assorted colors
Colored pencils, 12 count
Red medium point ink pen
Wide ruled filler paper
50 count graph paper, 4 square inch
No. 2 pencils
Elmer’s glue stick
Pocket folders with brads, assorted colors
Protractor
Compass
Box of tissue
Paper towels
Black fine point dry erase marker
Vinyl pencil bag for binder
Fiskar scissors, 7”
4x6, 100 count ruled index cards
¾ inch Magic Scotch tape with dispenser
2” binder, 3 rings
Sixth Grade:
Large 3 ring binder
Notebook pocket dividers
Zippered pencil case
Black and red pens (no gel pens)
Colored pencils
Assorted highlighters
No. 2 pencils
Graph paper
Hole reinforcers
Covers for all books
Box of tissue
Expo dry erase markers, low odor
Wide ruled notebook paper
Seventh Grade:
Large 3 ring binder
Pocket folders with brads, assorted colors
No. 2 pencils
Black and red pens
Yellow highlighters
Colored pencils
Notebook dividers
Ruler and protractor
Glue sticks
Hole reinforcers
3x5 cards
Graph paper
Book Covers
Box of tissue
Expo dry erase markers, low odor
Wide ruled notebook paper
Eighth Grade:
Large 3 ring binder
Notebook dividers, no pockets
Pencil pouch
Blue, black, and red pens
Hole reinforcers
Glue sticks
3x5 cards on spiral
No. 2 pencils
Highlighters
Colored pencils
Box of tissue
Box of band-aids
Pack of AAA batteries
Expo dry erase markers, low odor
Wide ruled notebook paper
Ninth through Twelfth Grade:
Notebook paper, college ruled
No. 2 pencils
Cap Erasers
Pencil pouch
Assorted pocket folders with brads
Erasable pens, black or blue
Small notebook
Large 3 ring binder
Notebook dividers with tabs
3x5 index cards
Assorted highlighters
Colored pencils
FBI Tips on Avoiding Charity Fraud
HH Note: This is a good reminder we should all take note of as we check our emotions and our pocketbooks.
In recent months, several natural disasters throughout the world—including floods, earthquakes, severe storms, tornadoes, and wildfires—have devastated lives and property. In the wake of these events, which cause emotional distress and great monetary loss to numerous victims, individuals across the nation often feel a desire to help by offering charitable donations.
Unfortunately, these tragic incidents have also prompted criminals to take advantage of this good will by illegally soliciting contributions while claiming to represent legitimate charitable organizations.
“We have seen this time and time again—these scam artists will do anything and everything to steal your identity and your money as you try and make donations to well-deserving charities. If you want your money to go to a good cause, exercise caution to ensure it gets to those in need,” said Special Agent Richard Kolko from Washington, D.C.
The FBI provides the following tips for consumers wishing to make contributions:
* Do not respond to unsolicited (spam) e-mail.
* Be skeptical of individuals representing themselves as officials soliciting via e-mail for donations.
* Do not click on links contained within an unsolicited e-mail.
* Be cautious of e-mail claiming to contain pictures in attached files, as the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders.
* To ensure contributions are received and used for intended purposes, make contributions directly to known organizations rather than relying on others to make the donation on your behalf.
* Validate the legitimacy of the organization by directly accessing the recognized charity or aid organization's website rather than following an alleged link to the sit e.
* Attempt to verify the legitimacy of the non-profit status of the organization by using various Internet-based resources, which also may assist in confirming the actual existence of the organization.
* Do not provide personal or financial information to anyone who solicits contributions: providing such information may compromise your identity and make you vulnerable to identity theft.
To receive the latest information about cyber scams please go to the FBI website and sign up for e-mail alerts by clicking on one of the red envelopes. If you have received a scam e-mail please notify IC3 by filing a complaint at www.ic3.gov. For more information on e-scams, please visit the FBI's New E-scams and warnings webpage.
In recent months, several natural disasters throughout the world—including floods, earthquakes, severe storms, tornadoes, and wildfires—have devastated lives and property. In the wake of these events, which cause emotional distress and great monetary loss to numerous victims, individuals across the nation often feel a desire to help by offering charitable donations.
Unfortunately, these tragic incidents have also prompted criminals to take advantage of this good will by illegally soliciting contributions while claiming to represent legitimate charitable organizations.
“We have seen this time and time again—these scam artists will do anything and everything to steal your identity and your money as you try and make donations to well-deserving charities. If you want your money to go to a good cause, exercise caution to ensure it gets to those in need,” said Special Agent Richard Kolko from Washington, D.C.
The FBI provides the following tips for consumers wishing to make contributions:
* Do not respond to unsolicited (spam) e-mail.
* Be skeptical of individuals representing themselves as officials soliciting via e-mail for donations.
* Do not click on links contained within an unsolicited e-mail.
* Be cautious of e-mail claiming to contain pictures in attached files, as the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders.
* To ensure contributions are received and used for intended purposes, make contributions directly to known organizations rather than relying on others to make the donation on your behalf.
* Validate the legitimacy of the organization by directly accessing the recognized charity or aid organization's website rather than following an alleged link to the sit e.
* Attempt to verify the legitimacy of the non-profit status of the organization by using various Internet-based resources, which also may assist in confirming the actual existence of the organization.
* Do not provide personal or financial information to anyone who solicits contributions: providing such information may compromise your identity and make you vulnerable to identity theft.
To receive the latest information about cyber scams please go to the FBI website and sign up for e-mail alerts by clicking on one of the red envelopes. If you have received a scam e-mail please notify IC3 by filing a complaint at www.ic3.gov. For more information on e-scams, please visit the FBI's New E-scams and warnings webpage.
Monday, July 07, 2008
Golf Tournament Scheduled to Benefit Lynn Wheeler
Monday, July 14 will be a big day for Lynn Wheeler, wife of the head of the Clayton State University Music Department, Dr. Douglas Wheeler.
That’s the day that the Wheeler’s church, Covenant Presbyterian Church in Fayetteville, Ga., will be hosting the Lynn Wheeler Benefit Golf Tournament at Eagle’s Brooke County Club in Locust Grove, Ga. The personification of determination and courage, Lynn Wheeler was diagnosed with cancer in February 2005. She went into remission in September of that same year, only to suffer a serious spinal injury in an auto accident on Christmas Day, 2005, an accident that has confined her to a wheelchair and breathing with the help of a respirator.
Undaunted, the Wheelers have remained strong members of Covenant Presbyterian, and Lynn continues to serve in the church’s children’s ministry and to teach piano. The church’s fund raising golf tournament for the Wheelers will feature a clinic by former PGA touring professional Greg Powers, lunch provided by Chick-Fil-A, door prizes, raffles, longest drive and closest to the pin contests, and a new 2008 Ford, courtesy of Allan Vigil Ford, for a hole-in-one.
The Lynn Wheeler Benefit Golf Tournament is set up for four-person teams in a Ft. Lauderdale format with a shotgun start at 9:30 a.m. Single players may register for $95. Four person teams may register for $380.
For more information on the tournament, call Joseph Starr at (678) 637-2731 or Jack Stillman at (678) 471-1526.
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www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
Community News You Can Use
Fayetteville, Peachtree City, Tyrone
That’s the day that the Wheeler’s church, Covenant Presbyterian Church in Fayetteville, Ga., will be hosting the Lynn Wheeler Benefit Golf Tournament at Eagle’s Brooke County Club in Locust Grove, Ga. The personification of determination and courage, Lynn Wheeler was diagnosed with cancer in February 2005. She went into remission in September of that same year, only to suffer a serious spinal injury in an auto accident on Christmas Day, 2005, an accident that has confined her to a wheelchair and breathing with the help of a respirator.
Undaunted, the Wheelers have remained strong members of Covenant Presbyterian, and Lynn continues to serve in the church’s children’s ministry and to teach piano. The church’s fund raising golf tournament for the Wheelers will feature a clinic by former PGA touring professional Greg Powers, lunch provided by Chick-Fil-A, door prizes, raffles, longest drive and closest to the pin contests, and a new 2008 Ford, courtesy of Allan Vigil Ford, for a hole-in-one.
The Lynn Wheeler Benefit Golf Tournament is set up for four-person teams in a Ft. Lauderdale format with a shotgun start at 9:30 a.m. Single players may register for $95. Four person teams may register for $380.
For more information on the tournament, call Joseph Starr at (678) 637-2731 or Jack Stillman at (678) 471-1526.
-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
Community News You Can Use
Fayetteville, Peachtree City, Tyrone
Atlanta Braves Foundation Raises Nearly $80,000 During Atlanta Braves Foundation Weekend, July 4-6
Atlanta Braves Foundation Weekend generated nearly $80,000 for the Atlanta Braves Foundation and its Grants Program, July 4-6, at Turner Field. Braves memorabilia, including game-worn Braves jerseys, autographed baseballs, photos, lineup cards, and other unique and valuable items were sold and auctioned off all weekend to benefit the Atlanta Braves Foundation.
Top silent auction items included a Brian McCann autographed catcher's mask and batting glove that went for $1500, a Chipper Jones autographed game-worn jersey for $1000, and a framed collection of baseballs signed by each member of the 2008 Atlanta Braves team that sold for $1275.
The Atlanta Braves Foundation is the non-profit arm of the Atlanta Braves that actively supports community organizations and their programs within the metro Atlanta area. Since its inception in 1992, the Atlanta Braves Foundation has provided support to thousands of metro Atlanta based organizations and has contributed more than 2.7 million dollars in financial assistance to the community. Through the generous support of Braves players, employees, sponsors and fans, the Atlanta Braves Foundation continuously strives to improve the quality of life for our youth.
Top silent auction items included a Brian McCann autographed catcher's mask and batting glove that went for $1500, a Chipper Jones autographed game-worn jersey for $1000, and a framed collection of baseballs signed by each member of the 2008 Atlanta Braves team that sold for $1275.
The Atlanta Braves Foundation is the non-profit arm of the Atlanta Braves that actively supports community organizations and their programs within the metro Atlanta area. Since its inception in 1992, the Atlanta Braves Foundation has provided support to thousands of metro Atlanta based organizations and has contributed more than 2.7 million dollars in financial assistance to the community. Through the generous support of Braves players, employees, sponsors and fans, the Atlanta Braves Foundation continuously strives to improve the quality of life for our youth.
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
The Citi Foundation commits $2 million to Habitat for Humanity to Build Affordable Houses with Low-income Families Across the United States
--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Building on nine years of support for Habitat for Humanity projects, the Citi Foundation recently awarded Habitat for Humanity International a $2 million grant to support the construction of affordable houses in the United States.
The grant from Citi, continuing their ongoing commitment to community development, will provide more than 50 Habitat affiliates across the country with partial to full house sponsorships. The grants range in size from $15,000 to $125,000.
“Citi is proud of our long-standing relationship with Habitat and pleased to reaffirm our commitment to this organization,” said Kevin Kessinger, Citi Chief Operations and Technology Officer. “We take tremendous pride in creating opportunities for affordable housing and helping make communities better because we are there.”
In celebration of Habitat’s 25th annual Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project held recently in the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Citi committed $375,000 and dedicated 40 employee volunteers to the project during the week-long event for families affected by the 2005 hurricanes. Since 2001, Citi has been a sponsor of eight Carter Work Projects, contributing more than $3 million to build houses in partnership with low-income families in Georgia, Alabama, Michigan and California and internationally in South Korea, South Africa, Mexico and India.
“We are grateful for the continuous support of the entire Citi family,” said Habitat CEO Jonathan Reckford. “Citi’s generosity through the years has helped provide hundreds of families with safe, decent and affordable housing, changing lives and communities around the world. In addition, employees across Citi’s organization play a vital role in supporting our mission by serving as volunteers.”
The Citi Foundation has donated more than $29 million to Habitat for Humanity to assist in providing low-income families with safe and decent housing since 1999. This funding has supported the construction of more than 350 homes, impacting more than 1,400 individuals.
The grant from Citi, continuing their ongoing commitment to community development, will provide more than 50 Habitat affiliates across the country with partial to full house sponsorships. The grants range in size from $15,000 to $125,000.
“Citi is proud of our long-standing relationship with Habitat and pleased to reaffirm our commitment to this organization,” said Kevin Kessinger, Citi Chief Operations and Technology Officer. “We take tremendous pride in creating opportunities for affordable housing and helping make communities better because we are there.”
In celebration of Habitat’s 25th annual Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project held recently in the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Citi committed $375,000 and dedicated 40 employee volunteers to the project during the week-long event for families affected by the 2005 hurricanes. Since 2001, Citi has been a sponsor of eight Carter Work Projects, contributing more than $3 million to build houses in partnership with low-income families in Georgia, Alabama, Michigan and California and internationally in South Korea, South Africa, Mexico and India.
“We are grateful for the continuous support of the entire Citi family,” said Habitat CEO Jonathan Reckford. “Citi’s generosity through the years has helped provide hundreds of families with safe, decent and affordable housing, changing lives and communities around the world. In addition, employees across Citi’s organization play a vital role in supporting our mission by serving as volunteers.”
The Citi Foundation has donated more than $29 million to Habitat for Humanity to assist in providing low-income families with safe and decent housing since 1999. This funding has supported the construction of more than 350 homes, impacting more than 1,400 individuals.
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