Showing posts with label brooks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label brooks. Show all posts

Monday, January 04, 2010

The Community Foundation Announces Nonprofit Toolbox

The Community Foundation's commitment to strengthening and supporting our region's nonprofit sector includes more than giving financial grants. Nonprofits can now apply for the Nonprofit Toolbox, a program that helps strengthen organizations’ management, governance and operations.

Nonprofit Toolbox awards are not financial grants; they are custom-designed packages of management consulting to help solve a key organizational challenge or problem. Organizations selected to receive a Nonprofit Toolbox will work with a specialist who will construct a package of appropriate organizational assistance.

Who is eligible to apply? There are a number of eligibility criteria for the Nonprofit Toolbox, one of which is that the nonprofit be located and providing services within the Foundation’s 23-county service area. Review the Guidelines for complete information.

Is there a deadline to apply? Nonprofit Toolbox applications are accepted throughout the year and in 2010 will be reviewed in mid-January, mid-May and mid-September. Review the Guidelines for complete details.

Click here for a full description of the Nonprofit Toolbox and to download the Guidelines and Application Forms.
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Monday, October 12, 2009

American Cancer Society in Fayette County Seeking Volunteers To Serve on Relay For Life Committee

If you want to help lead the fight against cancer in your community, the American Cancer Society invites you to join the Relay For Life committee in Fayette County. The Relay committee shapes the Relay For Life event in your community, and as a member, you can play a vital role in making Relay the best possible experience for all participants. You can also help the American Cancer Society fight cancer and create a world with less cancer and more birthdays for everyone.

In 2009, Relay For Life in Fayette County raised $426,000 to fight cancer through research, programs and services, education and advocacy. Plans are already under way for the exciting 2010 Relay For Life, so now is the time to sign up and get involved on a Relay committee. In fact, the 2010 Relay For Life Kick-Off is already set for Thursday, November 12th at 6:00 pm at Peachtree City Christian Church. Attending Kick-Off is a great way to meet the current committee and to get more information on the volunteer opportunities that are available to you.

Relay For Life began with one man in Tacoma, Washington in 1985 and is now a worldwide movement to end cancer, with 5,000 events in 50 countries raising more than $345 million dollars in 2009. These funds help make the American Cancer Society’s mission possible, and that helps us all move closer to our ultimate goal: A world with less cancer and more birthdays.

In honor of those who battle cancer 24 hours a day, team members typically take turns walking the track throughout the day and night. For those not walking, there is constant action to keep everyone busy. From entertainment, food and games to touching ceremonies and stories of inspiration, there is something for everyone at Relay For Life.

At every Relay For Life event, we celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer through our Survivor's Lap and survivor recognition. The strength of survivors inspires others to continue to fight. We also remember loved ones lost to the disease, and those who have survived and are currently battling cancer with our Luminaria Ceremony. At Relay, people who have walked alongside those battling cancer can grieve and find healing. Finally, we fight back against cancer because we want to put an end to the disease. Relay helps individuals make a commitment to save lives by taking up the fight.

For more information or to join a committee, please call Michelle Blose at (770) 631-0625 or email michelle.blose@cancer.org.

The American Cancer Society combines an unyielding passion with nearly a century of experience to save lives and end suffering from cancer. As a global grassroots force of more than three million volunteers, we fight for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. We save lives by helping people stay well by preventing cancer or detecting it early; helping people get well by being there for them during and after a cancer diagnosis; by finding cures through investment in groundbreaking discovery; and by fighting back by rallying lawmakers to pass laws to defeat cancer and by rallying communities worldwide to join the fight. As the nation’s largest non-governmental investor in cancer research, contributing about $3.4 billion, we turn what we know about cancer into what we do. As a result, more than 11 million people in America who have had cancer and countless more who have avoided it will be celebrating birthdays this year. To learn more about us or to get help, call us anytime, day or night, at 1-800-227-2345 or visit cancer.org.
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Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Outback Suwanee Donates 381 Meals to Benefit Gwinnett Seniors

Outback Steakhouse donated 381 meals to benefit Gwinnett County Senior Services. This is the tenth year the restaurant has relentlessly given back to the community to help provide meals to seniors.

Volunteers and members of The Friends of Gwinnett County Senior Services (Friends) delivered scrumptious meals consisting of “choice” beef, flame-grilled chicken, seasoned green beans, mashed potatoes, and a roll across Gwinnett County. The annual event has generated more than $90,500 in the past ten years.

“I wanted to give back to the seniors and thought this is a good way to do it,” said Outbacker staff member, Christi Solsbeery.

Funds from the Outback at Work Charity lunch will help to subsidize the 135,000 home delivered and congregate meals which are prepared and delivered by the Gwinnett County Senior Services on an annual basis.

“It is anticipated that we will get another great turnout for the next event on Wednesday, October 21,” says Linda Bailey, Manager of Gwinnnett Senior Services. For a minimum order of ten meals at $15 each, you can get your meal delivered to your worksite, please call Melanie Miller at 770.822.8842 or send her an e-mail at melanie.miller@gwinnettcounty.com.
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Sunday, September 20, 2009

Angel Flight Pilot Jack Cantrell Paves Way for New Branch Office in St. Simons

“We are incredibly blessed to have pilots and friends like Jack Cantrell,” states Jeanine Chambers Biron, Executive Director of Angel Flight. “It’s through their dedication and continued commitment that we are flourishing. We are delighted to announce the opening of a new branch office at Malcolm McKinnon Airport in St. Simons with grand opening festivities on September 25 & 26. We are especially grateful to Jack and Kay Cantrell and their network of friends in the area who are making this new office possible so that we can extend our work in the region.”

About 15 years ago Jack Cantrell, who was living in Atlanta at the time, was searching for a way to make use of his plane to help out in the community. In passing, he mentioned this to the minister at his church who told him about Angel Flight. Cantrell was intrigued with the idea of flying passengers in need of transportation to medical treatments. He called Angel Flight the next day, oriented immediately and was flying for them within about a week!

“On one of my first flights I took a man from Georgia to Florida who was going to get a kidney transplant,” enthuses Cantrell. “The man and his wife had taken a taxi to the small airport to meet me and they were waiting patiently by the side of the runway. They weren’t able to fly commercially because his immune system was suppressed due to the drugs he was taking in preparation for the transplant. They were so happy to see me and I was a bit overwhelmed. I was glad to be able to help them out. After that I was hooked! I flew nearly 30 missions that first year. I love to fly and now I have a bigger purpose. I see the difference it makes in people’s lives and that’s something you can’t put a price on!”

“My father was an airline pilot and I always loved flying, Cantrell explains. “But when I was looking at careers I decided to go into medicine. I became a pharmacist and then went into the medical research field, working for Eli Lily in Indianapolis. An opportunity came up to come to Atlanta so I moved here and wound up as a home builder and real estate developer!”

“In the back of my mind though, I always wanted to help people and I also wanted to fly,” he says. “I started taking flying lessons about 25 years ago. Once I learned to solo, I’d get up early and fly before I went in to work.” When asked about what keeps him flying for Angel Flight, Cantrell says, ”You get to know people really well when you are flying them back and forth for treatments. They are so inspiring. They just want to get home and get back to work. I admire their fighting spirit.”

Cantrell has so many wonderful stories and memories of his many flights over the years. “You know, every mission is memorable,” he explains. “I am so thankful to be able to do this. We take a lot of burn patients. They have it really rough. Sometimes they can’t take any pain medicine before going in for surgery. It’s very gratifying to also see them afterwards. The difference is incredible.”

Jack and his lovely wife Kay are the founders and owners of Cantrell Properties, a successful building/development/real estate company. They both thrive on activity and they make a great team. In the 1960’s they spent their honeymoon on St. Simons and fell in love with the area. About five years ago they moved from Atlanta to St. Simons. Shortly after that, Cantrell started thinking about how he could improve the availability of pilots and Angel Flight services in the area and over the last couple of years he’s seen the growing need for an office there.

“I was able to secure the space at the Malcolm McKinnon Airport for a branch office and got in touch with Jeanine and the office in Atlanta to set things in motion,” he continues. “With the generous help of Renn Gruber of Renn Gruber Aviation we are throwing a big opening celebration on September 25 & 26 at our new office!”

On Friday, September 25th there will be a luncheon and ribbon cutting ceremony with area dignitaries and VIPS. Festivities will begin at 11:30AM with lunch and a tour of the new Angel Flight office. A fly-in will be held on Saturday, September 26th with brunch and new pilot orientation from 9AM to 1PM. Come out and join the festivities.

Angel Fight is a non-profit organization that provides free air transportation for people that have a medical need that can’t be filled in their local area. Their services are available throughout Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee and the Carolinas. They actively seek both new patients to serve and experienced pilots to fulfill missions.

For more information about the new Angel Flight branch office in St. Simons, Georgia or to schedule a flight call 1-877-4 AN ANGEL or 770-452-7958. Angel Flight is celebrating 26 years of service...find out how you can help hope soar by visiting www.angelflightsoars.org.

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Angel Flight is a non-profit 501(c)(3) volunteer pilot organization. They provide free air transportation for medical treatments that are not available locally and for other compassionate purposes for the benefit of the community. This service is available for any medically stable and ambulatory patient demonstrating a financial need and/or anyone who cannot utilize or access commercial transportation. They help families by eliminating the concern of how to get to necessary medical care, so they are able to focus on a resolution for the medical condition. Hopefully, this will help the patient to a more speedy recovery and will enable the family to resume participation in their communities and workplaces. This organization of volunteer pilots and earth angels (ground volunteers) are totally committed to their mission and has increased over 733% in flights coordinated since the year 2000. The majority of the people served live in Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Angel Flight and their service is funded entirely by corporate and private donations. To request a mission or support the cause, call or go online.
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Thursday, September 17, 2009

Books A Million Bookfair Benefits Advo-Kids CASA

Books A Million in Peachtree City is partnering with CASA to raise funds through their Bookfair program, a special day of discounts and matching contributions. This is a great time to pick up the new book or magazine that you've been wanting.

On Saturday, September 19th from 10 AM until 4 PM all purchases presented with our special Books A Million CASA coupon will earn a 10% discount. Not only will you receive a discount, but Books A Million will contribute a matching amount to Advo-Kids CASA! Click this link to open and print your copy of the coupon flyer.

You can help our contributions grow by forwarding this flyer to your friends and family and urging them to shop at Books A Million on September 19th.

Books A Million is located at 258 City Circle in The Avenue Shopping Center in Peachtree City. Please note that this offer excludes the use of the BAM card or other offers and the coupon must be presented at the cash register with your purchase between the hours of 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

Advo-Kids CASA wishes to thank you as well as Books A Million and their Peachtree City store staff for the kind and willing support!
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Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Atlanta Braves' Tim Hudson to Host Benefit Weekend for Hudson Family Foundation

Atlanta Braves Pitcher Tim Hudson and his wife Kim have announced that their Foundation will host their Inaugural Hudson's Honky Tonk Benefit Weekend on November 20 and 21 in Peachtree City, Georgia. The highlight of the weekend is a Country Music Spectacular featuring country music superstar Blake Shelton and American Idol finalist Josh Gracin performing live at the Fredrick Brown, Jr. Amphitheater in Peachtree City.

Shelton was handpicked by the Hudson's to headline the event for their Foundation because of his strong commitment to children and his deep-rooted devotion to his family, fans, and friends. With over ten years on the country music scene, Blake has had five number one country hits, and a total of fifteen Top 20 hits in his career. Josh Gracin, a former Season 2 American Idol finalist, has seen his own success on the country charts, compiling an amazing ten Top 40 hits.
“This weekend will be a unique experience that we hope will be the one you put on your calendar every year, the one event you don't want to miss,” says Tim Hudson.

Tickets for the Country Music Spectacular are available at the Fred box office, online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are $60.

VIP ticket packages with access to the entire weekend's festivities are also available and include a private VIP dinner party on Friday, November 20 at the Flat Creek Country Club featuring celebrities, professional athletes, live and silent auctions, DJ, and open bar, as well as VIP seating to Saturday's concert, access to a private backstage after party, and logo or name recognition for your company or family on all signage throughout the entire weekend. VIP ticket packages are available now for $2,500 and $5,000. For more information call the Hudson Family Foundation at 404-584-0095 or visit http://www.hudsonfamilyfoundation.com/.

About the Hudson Family Foundation:

Tim and Kim Hudson formed the Hudson Family Foundation in February 2009 and officially launched on June 28 during a private party at the W Atlanta Downtown raising over $28,000 for children and families in need. The Foundation is committed to making a long lasting impact in the lives of children who have a genuine need for assistance with regard to a specific physical, emotional or financial circumstance.

About Tim and Kim Hudson:

The Hudson's have worked tirelessly in the community since Tim began playing baseball for the Oakland Athletics in 1999. Kim is a member of the Board of Directors of the Make-AWish Foundation of Georgia and Alabama. Kim and Tim are Wish ambassadors for Make-AWish, and throughout the baseball season, they fulfill the wishes of critically-ill children by hosting batting practice visits with the team's players and coaches. Kim and Tim serve as honorary co-chairs for the annual Celebration of Wishes gala, and each Christmas, the Hudson's take 75 Make-A-Wish children and their siblings on a holiday shopping spree.

The Hudson's also actively support Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. They host a golf tournament each year during Spring Training called Birdies and Baseball and also co-host a 3-course golf tournament each summer.

The Hudson's charitable work has not gone unrecognized. On September 4, 2009, Tim became an eight-time Roberto Clemente Award recipient, which recognizes those players who best exemplify the game of baseball through sportsmanship, community involvement, and positive contributions to their teams.
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Monday, September 14, 2009

Welfare Watch - Tax Revenues Down Further

Georgia is in trouble. We are like a family in bad economic times whose worse fear is being realized. Our income is going down even further in an already bad economy. Governor Sonny Perdue announced today that net revenue collections for the month of August 2009 (FY10) totaled $1,052,466,000 compared to $1,259,631,000 for August 2008 (FY09), a decrease of $207,165,000 or 16.4 percent. The percentage decrease year-to-date for FY10 compared to FY09 is 13.1 percent.

Certainly policy and budget makers will be looking at these numbers with renewed concern. Already, all State agencies have been asked to cut their present budget by 5%. These cuts are on top of cuts that they sustained in the budgetary process in the legislature. Further cuts can be anticipated.

But where can they cut further?

The State has grown by almost a million people since 2004, yet it expects to collect the same amount of revenue as it did in 2004.

This year's budget was balanced by combining budget cuts, dipping into various reserve funds and Federal Stimulus dollars. A $3 billion deficit was met by requiring cuts to needed human services, medical care, and education. State employees who do the work of the State were ordered to take additional furlough days. With news of continuing declining revenues of over one billion dollars, more cuts will be required to makeup the deficit.

If nothing else happens.

DHR's workforce has been devastated with requirements to take 9 additional furlough days. While this is the most expedient means of cutting the budget while preserving infrastructure, needed services will be cut back significantly. Aging services were particularly hit hard. The gains in child wellbeing, safety and permanency for foster children are threatened by cuts of more than 15% to family support services and the furlough days for direct care workers.
Reserve funds have been tapped out as much as possible. Further Federal stimulus money has not been promised and what has been promised has been spent.

The family of Georgia just does not have anymore to cut unless it wants its children to suffer.
Waste and fraud has been eliminated as much as possible.

Efficiencies that were realized are now threatened. In DHS, caseloads have been reduced by increased investments, effective practices and management. It takes people to do the work and 80% of the budget is people. "We the willing, led by the unknowing, have done so much, for so long, with so little, we are now qualified to do anything with nothing.” is the cynical mantra of those doing the work.

It will take the best of our leadership to make the best policy decisions to address what is a mounting crisis. A balanced approach is needed. Cut, cut, cut across the board is not what Georgian's are looking for. They are looking for Georgia to be the best in the country in child welfare, health care, public safety and education. Cuts must be balanced with revenue increases.

In my family in bad economic times we not only cut our expenditures, we also had to figure out how to bring in additional income. Georgians understand that cuts are needed. These cuts need to be balanced with revenue enhancements.

Welfare Watch, an email newsletter of the Georgia Association of Homes and Services for Children as a public service.
http://www.gahsc.org
Normer Adams, Editor

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Friday, September 11, 2009

Covenant Presbyterian Church to Host Second Annual Lynn Wheeler Benefit Golf Tournament, Sept. 30

Covenant Presbyterian Church in Fayetteville, Ga., will be hosting the Second Annual Lynn Wheeler Benefit Golf Tournament at Durham Lakes Golf and Country Club in Fairburn, Ga., on Wednesday, Sept. 30.

The wife of Dr. Douglas Wheeler, music coordinator in the Department of Visual and Performing Arts at Clayton State University, Lynn Wheeler personifies determination and courage. 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. On their part, the members of Covenant want to be able “to bless Lynn as she has blessed us.” Thus, the church held the first benefit tournament in July 2008. This year’s find-raiser will tee off at 1 p.m. at Durham Lakes. Single players are $85, four-member teams are $340. Donations are also accepted.

For more information on the tournament, contact Joseph Starr at (678) 637-2731.
A unit of the University System of Georgia, Clayton State University is an outstanding comprehensive metropolitan university located 15 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta.
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Monday, September 07, 2009

Space Auction Opens with a “Big Bang”

More than three hundred space fans have already secured a virtual paddle number in order to bid today in an online charity SPACE auction at www.astronautscholarship.org/auction.pl

While no remnants of the Big Bang (that we know of!) are available, astronauts John Glenn, Jim Lovell, Buzz Aldrin and 30 more legends have their space artifacts and signature on the auction block for this event which benefits the nonprofit Astronaut Scholarship Foundation.

Bids are already rolling in on the 30 lots of space artifacts and memorabilia. Up for grabs are such rare items as a couch segment from the famous Apollo 13 Command Module, an American flag carried to the moon onboard Apollo 14, a Skylab astronaut jacket worn in space and a John Glenn autographed issue of LIFE magazine.

“The auction is a great way for the astronauts to show our support for such a worthy cause,” said Apollo 13 astronaut Fred Haise. “The proceeds from the artifacts we donate help pave the way for the future innovators of science and technology in America by the college scholarships the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation provides.”

The auction promises a bang for anyone who has ever gazed up at the sky. The launch window for bidding closes on September 12, 2009 at 5 PM EDT.

All auction proceeds go directly to support the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation’s mission of offering scholarships to top science and technology college students. To date the Foundation has dispersed more than $2.8 million to students nationwide.

The Astronaut Scholarship Foundation (ASF) is a 501(c)(3), nonprofit organization established in 1984 by the six surviving members of America’s original Mercury astronauts. Its mission is to aid the United States in retaining its world leadership in science and technology by providing scholarships for college students who exhibit motivation, imagination, and exceptional performance in these fields. Today, more than 80 astronauts from the Gemini, Apollo, Skylab, Space Shuttle and Space Station Programs have joined in this educational endeavor. For more information, call 321-455-7015 or log on to www.AstronautScholarship.org.

About the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation

More than 70 astronauts are helping the United States retain its world leadership in science and technology by providing scholarships for college students who exhibit motivation, imagination, and exceptional performance in the science or engineering field of their major.

The Astronaut Scholarship Foundation was established originally in 1984 as the Mercury Seven Foundation by the six surviving members of America's original Mercury Seven astronauts, Mrs. Betty Grissom (widow of the seventh, Virgil "Gus" Grissom), William Douglas, M.D. (the Project Mercury flight surgeon), and Henri Landwirth, an Orlando businessman and friend of the astronauts. The founding astronauts were Malcolm Scott Carpenter, L. Gordon Cooper Jr., John H. Glenn Jr., Walter M. Schirra, Alan B. Shepard Jr., and Donald K. (Deke) Slayton. Currently, Apollo astronaut Al Worden is Chairman of the foundation's Board of Directors and five-time shuttle astronaut Robert "Hoot" Gibson serves as Vice Chairman.

The original Mercury Seven Foundation began on a shoestring budget, and the first seven scholarships, at $1,000 each, were awarded in 1986. As more money was raised the amount and number of scholarships increased gradually. The foundation now awards annually 19 scholarships each worth $10,000, for a total of $190,000. To date, the foundation has awarded $2.8 million in scholarships to deserving students nationwide.

Scholarship money is raised through astronaut appearances, fund-raising events, corporate and individual donations, and astronaut autographs. In 1995, with the realization that the five remaining Mercury astronauts would not be able to raise scholarship funds forever, the Board of Directors voted to broaden the membership and to change the name to the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation. Astronauts from the Mercury, Gemini, Apollo, Skylab, and Space Shuttle programs have now joined in this worthwhile endeavor.

The Astronaut Scholarship Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation.
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Friday, August 14, 2009

Park Springs Members and Staff Present Check for $5,574 to Alzheimer’s Association

Money raised to be used in metro Atlanta

Park Springs Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), the Southeast’s premier CCRC, presented a check in the amount $5,574 to the Alzheimer’s Association, Georgia Chapter on Thursday, August 6 at its community in Stone Mountain, Ga.

“More than 200,000 people in the state of Georgia are affected by Alzheimer’s disease,” said Rhita Pfleger, director of development for the Alzheimer Association’s Atlanta region. ”The Members and staff at Park Springs have again stepped up to help find a cure. The Alzheimer’s Association is so appreciate of the continued efforts by Park Springs on our behalf. Every 70 seconds someone is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s – Park Springs has helped to champion those touched. The monies they raised will be used in the metro Atlanta area to continue programs and services to enhance care and support of individuals, families and caregivers,” she added.

Leisure Services at Park Springs and its Members held an assortment of events beginning in May to raise the funds. Events included bake sales, breakfast buffets, music concerts and movie screenings. Park Springs CCRC has been a supporter of the Alzheimer’s Association since its inception five years ago.

The Alzheimer's Association, Georgia Chapter was formed in July 2002 when the Greater Georgia, Central Georgia and Augusta chapters of the Alzheimer's Association merged into a single entity dedicated to serving the entire state. Prior to this merger, the Atlanta Area Chapter had been serving the metro area since 1982. The goals of the Georgia Chapter remain consistent with those of the national office: advancing research, enhancing care and support, raising public awareness and building capacity.

Coming together as one statewide chapter has allowed the Alzheimer's Association, Georgia Chapter to reach more people more effectively and more efficiently. There are seven regional offices, along with the state office in Atlanta. It is estimated that 199,457 Georgians have Alzheimer's and nearly 500,000 others are affected through their roles as caregivers. In fiscal year 2007, the Georgia Chapter was able to serve over 124,000 individuals through programs and services. The Associations mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research and promotion of brain health, and to enhance care and support for all individuals, their families and caregivers. For more information or to volunteer, visit http://www.alz.org/georgia/index.asp.
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Thursday, August 13, 2009

Jeffrey Fashion Cares Atlanta Announces 2009 Live Auction Items

Featuring an Array of Unparalleled Auction Items Including a Napa Valley Wine Experience and New York Fashion Week Getaway with Tickets to the Jason Wu Runway Show for his Spring 2010 Collection

Jeffrey Fashion Cares, benefiting the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Atlanta Affiliate and the Atlanta AIDS Partnership Fund (AAPF), has announced the live auction items for its 2009 event on Monday, August 31st at 55 Allen Plaza in Downtown Atlanta. Patrons will have the opportunity to bid on a variety of items and unparalleled opportunities during the fashionable fête, including a unique Napa Valley wine experience for four and a New York Fashion Week getaway that includes coveted tickets for the Jason Wu runway show for his Spring 2010 Collection. The event also includes a silent auction, which will feature items from Jeffrey Atlanta. Silent auction items will be on display at Jeffrey Atlanta in Phipps Plaza through Sunday, August 30.

In addition to giving attendees the option to make installment payments on their tickets or patronships, bidders online and at Fashion Cares can also choose to make payments on this year’s live auction items in a discreet, confidential way. Fashion Cares is accepting bids now on both the silent and live auction items that will be carried over to the night of the event. There is also an option to “Buy It Now” for ‘must-have’ items bidders can’t live without. For up-to-date information on all auction items, visit www.jeffreyfashioncares.com and then, email bids@jeffreyfashioncares.com to place a bid or secure items prior to the event.

“We are very fortunate to have so many generous organizations behind our efforts to present an array of unforgettable live auction items at this year’s event in order to help us meet our goals in raising money and awareness for our beneficiaries. We also understand the current economic climate has taken a toll on everyone; and feel it is more important than ever to present viable payment options to our attendees,” say Event Chairs Sacha Taylor and Lila Hertz.
Live auction items to be auctioned off at event include:

Napa Valley Wine Experience--May 6 - 9, 2010

A unique Napa Valley wine experience for two couples, along with time in San Francisco is complete with luxury accommodations, “behind the scenes” winery and vineyard activities, as well as your very own private wine guide.
- Four Delta first-class, round-trip, unrestricted airline tickets from any location in the US.
- Accommodations for four at the winery, Cardinale, for three nights. Cardinale is a wine inspired by the mountain terroir of its Napa Valley estate and select vineyards along the Mayacamas and Vaca Ranges. Cardinale's densely planted, low yielding vines endure the challenging elements that produce exceptional grapes. The wine is nurtured and animated through careful mountain viticulture and innovative artisan methods. It is a very special place with beautiful views and wonderful hand crafted wines produced from Jess Jackson’s finest Napa Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards. It is also the sometime California retreat of the thoroughbred racehorse Curlin.
Michael Venezia, Corporate Director of Education of United Distributors Inc., wine connoisseur and gourmand, will be your personal aide de camp during you stay in Napa Valley.
- Private, VIP tours and tastings at Cardinale, Silver Oak and Opus One.
- Also, included is a one-night stay at the W San Francisco for two couples--In the heart of the SoMa district, the city is in reach. Neighbors with the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, W San Francisco faces the beautiful Yerba Buena gardens and is blocks away from Union Square's shops, the Financial District & the Waterfront. Panoramic views of the Bay Bridge and the city skyline fill each of guest room.

Compliments of: Delta, W San Francisco & United Distributors

New York Fashionista Fantasy TripGrab your best girlfriend and jet off to New York Fashion Week—September 2009--as you rub elbows with world's most fashionable set. You may even catch a glimpse of Anna Wintour!
- Two Delta first-class, round-trip, unrestricted airline tickets from any location in the US.
- Two Nights, Three Days at The St. Regis New York--In the heart of Manhattan, a refined atmosphere and gracious service rank The St. Regis New York among the top hotels. In 2008, it received the Mobil Travel Guide Five-Star Award and AAA Five Diamond Award for the 15th consecutive year.
- Two tickets for the Jason Wu Runway Show for his Spring 2010 Collection.
- Two $500 gift certificates for a shopping spree at Jeffrey.
A $200 gift certificate at any of Chef Laurent Tourondel’s BLT restaurant concepts.
- Two $100 Bliss Certificates for spa treatments--The new Bliss 57, which is walking distance from The St. Regis, features an over-the-top treatment menu that includes their famous facials, mesmerizing massages, and mind-boggling body treatments. Their latest spa location caters to our indigenously uptown clientele (celebrities, supermodels, moms) by offering the same unique vibe, along with some aaah-inspiring improvements.
Lastly, celebrate your trip to NY with a $250 gift certificate to the Four Seasons NY’s newest addition, The Garden, an expansive wine & champagne bar serves small plates such as charcuterie & artisanal cheeses

Compliments of: Delta, Bliss, Jeffrey Kalinsky, BLT, Jeffrey, Four Seasons NY, Dan Normandin & Fashion Cares

Tiffany & Co. Earrings
How about an early Holiday Gift? Have an Anniversary coming up? A Birthday?
A Pair of 18kt Yellow Gold and Platinum Paloma Picasso Rubellite and Diamond earrings. 186 Diamonds totaling 4.11 Carats & 2 Oval Rubellites totaling 11.55 carats—Retails for $26,675

Compliments of: Tiffany & Co.

Elton John's Oscar Party
Walk the red carpet and be immersed in paparazzi flash bulbs, enjoying every bit of the glitz and glamour during this celebrity filled event.
- Two Delta first-class, round-trip, unrestricted airline tickets from any location in the US
- Invitation for two to private cocktails & dinner during the 81st Academy Awards--Sunday, March 7, 2010
- Admittance for two to a private Elton John Performance.
- Admittance for two to the Post-Oscar Elton John Party.
- Two Nights at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills, CA--Ideally situated at the crossroads of Beverly Hills and Los Angeles, the SLS Hotel is a landmark of sleek sophistication, just steps from The Beverly Center, the sparkling storefronts of Rodeo Drive, and favorite celebrity haunts.

Compliments of: Delta, ING, Elton John AIDS Foundation & Jeffrey Fashion Cares

Barcelona Bliss
-Where Miro meets the Mediterranean, medieval quarters showcase modernista masterpieces and Catalan cuisine complement caliente clubs, the W Barcelona is an avant-garde icon rising above a stunning waterfront in Spain’s most dynamic and stylish city.
- Six nights, Seven Days at the newly-built, W Barcelona (Opens October 2009).
- Two Massages from Bliss Spa.
- Two welcome drinks in the rooftop bar, Eclipse, with VIP access during your stay.
- Daily use of a poolside, VIP Cabana and a W beach picnic basket.
- Two W Beach Towels designed by Spanish glam illustrator, Jordi Labanda.

Compliments of: W Barcelona

The “Uptown” Atlanta Ultimate ExperiencePlace all aside and head to the posh St. Regis Atlanta for a complete getaway for two couples & wine experience of a life time!
- A night’s stay in the Empire Suite, which has two bedrooms (valued at $6,000 a night)--The 2,800 square-foot Empire Suite surrounds guests with every possible luxury and the potential for many more through the services of a bespoke St. Regis Butler. With a full kitchen and elegant dining area, a piano and a fireplace, the suite is a natural venue for intimate gatherings.
- A dinner party for four in the Empire Suite to include a private wine tasting with The St. Regis Wine Director & 3rd Best Sommelier in the World, Herve Pennequin.
- A private tour of the “back of the house” during your stay.
- Spa treatments of your choice at Remede Spa.
- A 16”X8” watercolor painting of your choice from French Artist Georges Nasri, whose art adorns the walls at the St. Regis Atlanta.

Compliments of: St. Regis Hotel, Remede Spa & Huff Harrington Fine Art, LTD.

The “Downtown” Atlanta Ultimate ExperienceIn Atlanta’s exciting Downtown, the W is a lush hideaway infused with natural elements and sensual style, where revitalization and rejuvenation beckon amid major corporations, specialty shopping, upscale living and everything cool about Hotlanta.
- A weekend night’s stay in a WOW Suite.
- Two Spa treatments of your choice at Bliss (Pick from either: Blissage75 or Dew Diligence Facial).
- Two cool cocktails from either Drink Shop, Wet Bar or Living Room.
- A private tour of the “back of the house,” including the W Residences.
- Dinner for six at nearby French American Brasserie where you will start the evening with a glass of champagne & canapés on the Rooftop Terrace. Then, Chef Stephen Sharp will prepare a savory four-course dinner for six, in their intimate wine cellar. Expect an innovative French inspired menu with wine pairings, created just for you and tailored to your palate.
- Helicopter Tour of Downtown and Buckhead, taking off from the W’s Rooftop Helipad (25-Minute Tour).

Compliments of: W Atlanta Downtown, Air Atlanta, French American Brasserie

Jeffrey Fashion Cares 2009, which includes a Pre-Show Cocktail Reception, Couture Fashion Show and Silent & Live Auctions, will kick-off Monday, August 31 at 7 p.m. at 55 Allen Plaza in Downtown Atlanta -- with fashion superstar, Jason Wu, as this year’s special guest. Immediately following the show, a VIP After-Party hosted by the W Atlanta Downtown Hotel & Residences will feature a musical performance by another special guest--Fred Schneider of the B-52’s. Jeffrey Fashion Cares, now in its 17th year, will once again benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Atlanta Affiliate and the Atlanta AIDS Partnership Fund (AAPF). Last year’s sold-out event raised an unprecedented $800,000 with 95 cents on the dollar being donated to its beneficiaries.

2009 Presenting Sponsors to date include, Atlanta Magazine, Delta, Dennis Dean Catering, the Elton John AIDS Foundation, ING, Jeffrey, Nordstrom, Tiffany & Co., W Atlanta Downtown Hotel & Residences and We Rent Atlanta.

For more information and to purchase tickets to Jeffrey Fashion Cares 2009 event, including patron and corporate sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.jeffreyfashioncares.com/atlanta or call (404) 745-0293.
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Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Ga Coalition to End Homelessness: News from the Hill

HUD Makes Additional Funds Available to Public Housing Authorities

Facing Shortfalls Last week, HUD announced that additional funds have been made available to PHAs participating in the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program. The additional funds are available to PHAs that are experiencing funding shortfalls that limit them from serving families already housed through the program. Currently, HUD plans to award $41 million to minimize the impact on families and prevent the termination of housing vouchers. Please note that PHAs are urged to contact HUD no later than August 14 if they believe they will have to terminate standing vouchers due to insufficient funds in fiscal year 2009. HUD is determining the degree of the budget shortfall through email from PHAs, so it is imperative that agencies that suspect they will experience a budget shortfall in FY09 contact HUD immediately.

More Information

SELHA Introduced in Senate

On July 28, the Services for Ending Long-Term Homelessness Act (SELHA) was re-introduced in the Senate. The legislation, S. 1523, was introduced by Senators Richard Burr (R-NC) and Jack Reed (D-RI) and is co-sponsored by Senator Mark Begich (D-AK). SELHA would create a new program within the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at HHS to fund an array of services in permanent supportive housing, with a focus on helping people move toward recovery and self-sufficiency. Under the legislation, households experiencing long-term homelessness could receive services that would continue once they are housed. S. 1523 was referred to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

Congress in Recess

Both the House and Senate are now in their August recess and are expected to return after Labor Day. At that point, the Senate will continue work on fiscal year 2010 appropriations bills, and both chambers will work on a number of other housing- and homelessness-related bills.

HRE Posts CoC Registration Training Modules

Last week, HUD posted training modules for the 2009 Continuum of Care (CoC) Registration on the Homelessness Resource Exchange (HRE). The training materials are designed to assist with the completion of the new electronic CoC application submission process. HUD has posted web-based training modules reviewing both CoC registration and an overview of e-snaps. Training modules for completion of Exhibit 1 and Exhibit 2 in e-snaps will be available on HRE later this month.
More Information

The Technical Assistance Collaborative & the Consortium for Citizens With Disabilities Release Resource on HPRP for People with a Disability

Late last month, the Technical Assistance Collaborative (TAC) and the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) Housing Task Force released a new issue of Opening Doors, their joint housing publication for the disability community. Issue 32 provides people in the disability community with information on how to serve homeless and at-risk people with disabilities using Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP) funds. Specifically, the publication provides information on HPRP target populations, grantees and timelines; how public housing authorities can play a role in HPRP activities; how HPRP funds can be used to prevent and end homelessness; and how HPRP can be used to assist extremely low income people with disabilities.

Issue 32 of Opening Doors

National Law Center On Homelessness and Poverty & the National Coalition For The Homeless Release Report on Local Anti-Homelessness Laws

Last month, the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty (NLCHP) and the National Coalition for the Homeless (NCH) released "Homes Not Handcuffs," a report that tracks the criminalization of homelessness across the United States. The report details specific city measures that disproportionally target homeless people, including laws criminalizing sleeping or eating in public spaces.

More Information and Download Report

National Law Center on Homelessness & Poverty Releases DV Q&A Document

Recently, the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty (NLCHP) released a Questions and Answer (Q&A) document for advocates. The Q&A focuses on domestic violence shelters and federal civil rights statutes. Specifically, the Q&A covers the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Fair Housing Act, Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The resource provides details about how these civil rights laws impact domestic violence shelters and their services.

Download Q&A Document

Information contained in this release is provided by live RSS news feed from the National Alliance To End Homelessness, Washington D.C.

Visit Us On The Web At www.gahomeless.org
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Sunday, August 09, 2009

Atlanta Hawks Foundation Announces 2009 Charitable Grant Recipients

$40,000 awarded to Ferst Foundation for Childhood Literacy, Girls On The Run, North Metro Miracle League and the Ryan Cameron Foundation

The Atlanta Hawks Foundation has announced the Ferst Foundation for Childhood Literacy, Girls On The Run, the North Metro Miracle League and the Ryan Cameron Foundation as the recipients of its 2009 charitable grants. Each organization was awarded $10,000 from the Hawks Foundation.

“During these tough economic times, we recognize that many non-profits are being asked to provide services to more people and to do so with fewer resources,” said Tracy White, Atlanta Hawks Sr. Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “As a result, the Hawks Foundation is particularly pleased to be able to award grants this year, and it is our hope that these funds will allow our partners to serve even more communities and individuals.”

The Ferst Foundation for Childhood Literacy provides books for preschool children in all 159 counties in Georgia. Children who register for this program receive a book at their homes every month through the U.S. mail until their fifth birthday. Additional literacy support materials are also provided.

Girls On The Run educates and prepares young girls for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living by empowering third-eighth graders to have a stronger sense of identity and positive self image. Groups of 16 girls meet twice a week at Atlanta area schools, parks and community centers where they discuss social issues and participate in physical fitness activities. The curriculum covers three topics – Self awareness and self care, selecting healthy relationships, and empowerment and community service – and culminates in a non-competitive 5K race for group members.

The North Metro Miracle League provides adapted sports programs and inclusive social activities for children with disabilities in the Atlanta area. The Hawks Foundation’s grant will help fund the organization’s Summer Fitness Day Camp, which features seven weeks of physical therapy facilitated by special education/adapted PE teachers and teen volunteers.

The Ryan Cameron Foundation seeks to create healthy transitions from childhood into adulthood for Atlanta area youth by offering resources and programs designed to empower, inspire and encourage positive growth. The Hawks Foundation and Ryan Cameron Foundation are teaming-up to create the SALUTE Program, which will focus on helping kids understand working together to achieve a goal as well as overcoming barriers and obstacles. The program also includes the Fourth Annual Youth Golf Clinic and Youth Health Fair.

The Hawks Foundation makes grants to non-profit, tax-exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Visit the community section of www.hawks.com for more information.

Atlanta Hawks 2009-10 season tickets start as low at $10 per game and are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting www.hawks.com or calling 1-866-715-1500. New this year, fans also have the option of purchasing the exciting 13-game Playoff Plan, which includes the home opener and 12 additional games versus 2009 playoff teams – including the Lakers, Cavaliers, and Celtics. Groups of 20 or more can guarantee their ticket purchases before the public on-sale date by placing a deposit through the Hawks ticket sales department at 1-866-715-1500 or www.hawks.com. Individual regular season game tickets will go on sale at a later date. The Hawks, a member of the National Basketball Association since 1949, play in the Southeast Division, along with the Charlotte Bobcats, Miami Heat, Orlando Magic and Washington Wizards.
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Thrashers Foundation Awards $50,000 in Grants to Local Charity Organizations

The Atlanta Thrashers Foundation has awarded $50,000 in grants to six local charity groups in recognition of and to help benefit their work in the Atlanta community, it was announced today. The organizations receiving grant money include the Agape Community Center, Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities, Children’s Restoration Network, C.H.O.I.C.E.S, CURE Childhood Cancer and Yes Atlanta!

“Since the team’s inception, the Thrashers have been committed to serving an important role in the Atlanta community by supporting several causes and charities through our foundation,” said Executive Vice President and General Manager Don Waddell. “We are proud of the impact that our organization has been able to make and look forward to continuing those efforts, especially when charities and non-profits are most in need.”

The Agape Community Center will receive $10,000 to help fund the GoGirlGo! program, which is designed to help get girls active and educate them on healthy habits that lead to healthy lifestyles. The center helps neighborhoods build communities by offering programs and facilitating community organizing for residents of the Bolton Community, located in northwest Atlanta.

Atlanta Ronald McDonald House, which creates, finds and supports programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children, will also receive $10,000 from the Thrashers Foundation. The money will help fund the charity’s Adopt-A-Family Program and will benefit two different houses that are operated by the group.

The Thrashers Foundation will provide the Children’s Restoration Network with a $5,000 grant to help with the group’s Project One-on-One, an academic mentoring program focused on children in shelters and group homes who, because of their circumstances, have fallen behind their grade level in school.

C.H.O.I.C.E.S., the Center for Helping Obesity in Children End Successfully, will be receiving a $10,000 grant for their Children’s Nutrition Education and Physical Activity Expos, with special attention to “in-school” health education and fitness awareness. The mission of C.H.O.I.C.E.S. is to provide a parent and child resource center for the clinically diagnosed and at-risk children of obesity.

CURE Childhood Cancer, a group that is dedicated to conquering childhood cancer through research and education, will also receive a $10,000 award for their Open Arms Program. The program delivers hot and healthy meals to all patients, families and front-line caregivers at the AFLAC Cancer Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s Egleston and Scottish Rite campuses.

Finally, the Thrashers Foundation will award $5,000 to Yes Atlanta! for their Coaching for Success program, a comprehensive educational planning and support program designed for youth struggling in school or lacking motivation to achieve their potential. Yes Atlanta! works to redirect “at risk” youth in metro Atlanta through academic and personal development programs and empower them to be self-sustaining and contributing members of their communities.
The Atlanta Thrashers Foundation is dedicated to supporting Georgia-based organizations committed to improving the lives of children. The Foundation will work with children’s charities and programs that focus on the areas of health, wellness, education and youth hockey development.

Since its inception in 1999, the Thrashers Foundation has granted $4 million in overall donations and charitable contributions to more than 2,000 charities throughout Georgia. For more information, please visit: Atlanta Thrashers Foundation
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Thursday, August 06, 2009

2010 Marshall Memorial Fellowship Now Accepting Applications

The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta and the Civic League for Regional Atlanta, in partnership with the German Marshall Fund of the United States, are now accepting nominations for the 2010 Marshall Memorial Fellowship selection process.

The Marshall Memorial Fellowship offers emerging leaders, ages 28-40, the opportunity to explore societies, institutions and people on the other side of the Atlantic. Now in its 27th year, the Marshall Memorial Fellowship hosts individuals from the political, public, corporate, media and nonprofit sectors for a three to four week travel experience designed to strengthen the transatlantic relationship. More information on the German Marshall Fund and the Marshall Memorial Fellowship may be obtained at www.gmfus.org.

Since 2000, over 40 Atlanta leaders have participated in this program.We encourage you to recommend outstanding individuals by using the nomination form here. Candidates must be nominated for the program by a recognized leader in the community and are required to submit a written application and undergo an interview by a panel of regional civic leaders and former Marshall Fellows. Click here for additional information about the selection process.

We are sure that you know of persons who would benefit from this opportunity. Please feel free to also share this information with others who may know of appropriate candidates. Nomination forms must be emailed to info@civicleagueatlanta.org by August 14, 2009. Once received, each eligible candidate will receive an application form, which must be returned by August 31, 2009.
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Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Federal Grants Supermarket

Aug. 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the University of West Georgia’s Education Building in Carrollton

Rep. Lynn Westmoreland and Rep. Phil Gingrey (R-Marietta) will co-host a federal grants workshop to help organizations around the 3th District learn about grant opportunities and how to improve their chances of receiving a grant. As appropriations – or earmarks – become more and more difficult to secure, it has become important for organizations to know how to apply for these competitive grants. The congressmen are bringing in representatives from federal agencies to make presentations and answer questions. The grant workshop will most benefit organizations, small businesses, nonprofits, city and county governments and schools that would be applying for these grants from the federal government. All constituents from Georgia’s 3rd Congressional District are welcome, but reservations are required. Please RSVP by calling Rep. Westmoreland’s District Office at 770-683-2033 or toll free at 866-775-5359 or emailing Andy.Bush@mail.house.gov.
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DHS Seeks Public Comment on Community Service Block Grant

American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Fund Plan

On July 27, the Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) will hold a public hearing from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to hear public comment on the provisions of the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) for American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) Funding as required by federal regulations.

DFCS is the lead agency within DHS that administers the CSBG, which provides assistance to states and local communities by working through a network of community action agencies. This federal grant supports agencies to reduce poverty, revitalize low-income communities and empower low-income families and individuals in rural and urban areas to become more self-sufficient.

The plan and public hearing schedule can be viewed at: www.dfcs.dhr.ga.gov/ARRA. The plan will remain online for 30 days. For more information, call (404) 656-2323 or (404) 657-3426.

Public comments can be submitted by email at CBRPU@dhr.ga.gov or in person during the hearing, which will be on the 21st floor of the DHS building at 2 Peachtree St, NW, Atlanta, GA 30303.
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Sunday, July 19, 2009

Belk Spring Charity Sale Raises More Than $5 Million For Nonprofits

Belk, Inc. announced recently that its semi-annual Belk Charity Sale raised more than $5 million for hundreds of local charities, schools and nonprofit organizations throughout the company’s 16-state market area.

In return for a $5 donation to participating nonprofits, customers received a ticket admitting them to the Charity Sale, held on May 2, 2009, and entitling them to discounts ranging from 20 to 50 percent on merchandise throughout the store. Proceeds from tickets sold at the door were also donated and divided among participating charities.

“Belk welcomes the opportunity to support the good work of charitable and nonprofit organizations in the markets we serve,” said Tim Belk, chairman and CEO of Belk, Inc. “We want to thank everyone who participated in the Charity Sale, which resulted in donations of more than $5 million to benefit nonprofit organizations in their communities.”

The Blue Ridge Humane Society in Hendersonville, N.C., is one example of the many nonprofits that benefited from the Belk Charity Sale. During the sale, humane society volunteers manned an informational booth in the store and showcased one of their favorite pups, Keiko, a four-year-old Chihuahua in need of a home. Although he was not adopted that day, he found a home just one week later.

“We were excited to participate in Belk’s Charity Sale,” said Carolyn Paden, executive director of the Blue Ridge Humane Society. “We are always grateful for an opportunity to help homeless animals in our area and to help them find forever-homes.”

The Davenport School of the Arts (DSA) in Davenport, Fla., also participated in the sale. Students in the school’s drama department sold tickets to Belk’s Charity Sale on the night of one of their theatrical productions in an effort to raise funds for their program.

“We appreciate Belk reaching out to us,” said Robert Moszenburg, a drama teacher at DSA. “We look forward to participating in the next Charity Sale event.”
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Volunteer and Support a Family Fun Day at the Fayette County YMCA

Opportunity to Raise Money for Your Non-Profit

The Community Literacy Project, a youth community service team sponsored by the Association of Village PRIDE, Inc., is having a Family Fun Day at the Fayette Family YMCA on July 25 from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm. The youth team is raising money to help build and equip a library in Nigeria.

Food vendors are needed. Any non-profit interested in setting up a vending booth should call the project coordinator at 678-346-0953 or Dawn Oparah at 770-716-9206 or visit the website, www.communityliteracyproject.com, and complete a volunteer form with your information or send an email of interest to community.literacyproject@gmail.com .

There is no cost for setting up the vending booth but the youth group would appreciate a donation from the profits for the day toward their project.

Ways to Volunteer and Support the Project:

Volunteers needed to help staff the day. Activities that will take place are:

· Field Games
· Swimming
· Canoeing
· Moonwalk Jumping
· Face Painting
· Balloons
· Nature Walks
· Toddler fun area
· Indoor Board games
· Entertainment
· Demonstrations in: Acting, Belly Dancing, Step Dancing, and more

Additional Human Resources needed

· Food vendors
· Community Organizations who want to set up booths to share information
· Help in getting the word out in the community about the Family Fun Day
· People with family friendly talent willing to showcase their talent
· Dance Demonstrations
· Praise and Worship Demonstrations (Mimes, Dance ministries, clowns
· A magician
· A caricature artist
· Someone to make balloons into different shapes for kids

Some physical needs

· Baby wading pools
· More Face-painters and face-paint
· A sound system
· Karaoke Machine

If you can help in anyway please let us know or if you need more information about the project please the website or call.

Friday, July 17, 2009

Oogieloves Campaign to Combat Childhood Bullying

Goobie, Zoozie & Toofie Embrace LOVE OUR CHILDREN USA’s Crusade to STOMP Out Bullying with Public Service Campaign

Love Our Children USA announced today its partnership with Kenn Viselman presents…, creators of the latest children’s sensation The Oogieloves, to appear in a public service announcement for the campaign to STOMP Out Bullying, an initiative of Love Our Children USA.

The Oogieloves join celebrities Demi Lovato, JoJo, Brittany Snow and Naturally Seven in a national campaign to end childhood bullying. The three Oogieloves, Goobie, Zoozie and Toofie, help to extend the national campaign to reach even further to preschool and early school-aged children, helping to break the cycle of bullying before it even starts.

Other celebrities and those in the entertainment and sports industries who have supported STOMP Out Bullying include: Elton John, Bette Midler, Ellen Degeneres, Sugarland, John Cusack, Donny and Marie Osmond, Ashleigh Banfield, Dancing With The Stars, Live With Regis and Kelly, The View, truTV, “In The Heights”, the NJ Nets and more.

“Childhood bullying is harmful to children, especially during their preschool years when many of their first non-family relationships are founded,” said Kenn Viselman, president of Kenn Viselman presents. “The Oogieloves are all love, and understand the importance of being respectful to their friends. Goobie, Zoozie & Toofie are a natural fit to help this important campaign reach all children including the very youngest. Children like to emulate the behavior of those that they think are cool. Our expectation is that the Oogieloves can help reinforce the positive behavior to the youngest of children while they are still developing their social skills and appreciate their need to love, respect and honor others.”

“Having the Oogieloves join this campaign will help to expand its reach to the very youngest, most impressionable of children” said Ross Ellis, Love Our Children USA, Founder and Chief Executive Officer. “They will help us in our campaign to educate children of the negative effects of bullying and of the choices that we can all make, even at a very young age and I am thrilled to be able to expand the program to include them.”

Ellis said “STOMP Out Bullying brings awareness and educates kids, parents and schools about the issue. It offers hope for every kid who experiences the harmful effects of bullying and teaches parents to keep open communication with their children and to look for signs. It also educates school administrators across the country, who have swept this issue under the rug for far too long.”

Bullying Statistics

• 1 out of 4 kids is Bullied.
• 1 out of 5 kids admits to being a bully, or doing some "Bullying."
• 8% of students miss 1 day of class per month for fear of Bullies.
• 43% fear harassment in the bathroom at school.
• A poll of teens ages 12-17 proved that they think violence increased at their schools.
• 282,000 students are physically attacked in secondary schools each month.
• More youth violence occurs on school grounds as opposed to on the way to school.
• 80% of the time, an argument with a bully will end up in a physical fight.
• 1/3 of students surveyed said they heard another student threaten to kill someone.
• 2 out of 3 say they know how to make a bomb, or know where to get the information to do it.
• Playground statistics - Every 7 minutes a child is bullied.
• As many as 160,000 students may stay home on any given day because they're afraid of their bullies due to the pain of bullying.

Cyber Bullying Statistics

• 42% of kids have been bullied while online. 1 in 4 have had it happen more than once.
• 35% of kids have been threatened online. Nearly 1 in 5 have had it happen more than once.
• 21% of kids have received mean or threatening e-mail or other messages.
• 58% of kids admit someone has said mean or hurtful things to them online.
• 53% of kids admit having said something mean or hurtful to another person online.
• 58% have not told their parents or an adult about something mean or hurtful that happened to them online.

All of this has everyone worried. Not just the kids on its receiving end, but the parents, teachers and others who may not understand how extreme bullying can get. Love Our Children USA is working aggressively to prevent these issues and to help the kids and teens affected by it.

Ellis stated, “Kids who are intimidated, threatened, or harmed by bullies often experience low self-esteem and depression, whereas those doing the bullying may go on to engage in more serious antisocial behaviors. Some kids are so traumatized by being bullied, that suicide has become an alternative for them. Bullies often have been the victims of bullying or other mistreatment themselves.”

The STOMP Out Bullying campaign focuses its efforts to reduce bullying and cyberbullying, decrease school absenteeism and truancy, educate against homophobia and racism and deter violence in schools, playgrounds and communities across the country. It includes public service announcements, in-school education, online and social media campaigns, posters and brochures and wristbands. The Love Our Children USA’s National Bullying Prevention Awareness Week takes place each year in early October and will be observed October 4-10, 2009.
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