Earlier today I went to a lunch and took a tour at The Children's Village at Christian City. It wasn't the first time I've taken a tour and it won't be the last! I always drive away from a visit with my little brain furiously working trying to figure out how I can help.
As always I am awed by the dedication and caring of those who work at Christian City. It is inspiring to hear them talk about their mission to help kids. Every time I go out there I learn a little more and put those who donate, work, and volunteer on just a bit higher pedestal.
As the saying goes, these folks don't just talk the talk, they walk it. Their impact on the world is so much more than the proverbial pebble tossed in the lake. They throw boulders bigger than most of us could handle! They make some huge ripples.
Today I found out more about those who have donated to help at Christian City. Kool Aide donated a huge chunk to build a really nice playground for the children. Over 200 volunteers then got together and helped to prep and put the playground together.
Heritage Christian Church spent hours picking up rocks and sticks to clear the main area where the playground resides and someday a nice pavillion will rest.
Bob Adams Homes donated a lot to help build the first four cottages and admin offices. That's Phase 1. There are two more phases awaiting volunteers, donations and time.
Who else? There were so many mentioned today who have given so much. Some give $30 a month to support a child, others collect underwear and socks, some donate their time, some simply pray.
I wish I had a huge check book. I wish I had more time to raise money. I wish I could do more than just toss teeny-tiny little pebbles into the pond. However, I know that we all do what we can do and that if enough of us toss our little pebbles together we can make some huge ripples of our own!
They mentioned during the tour that if they could get 1500 people to donate $30 a month then the needs of the children would be covered. They're not quite half way to that goal. I figure that I can scrape up a dollar a day to help a local child in need. Shoot, I spend more than that on bottled water and drinks each day.
I'm going to think more on ways to help. Maybe I'll get a jar and start tossing change in it for the kids. I may not get to $30 each month, but it'll be something! Wouldn't it be cool to start a change for Christian City fund raiser? Hmmm... little ideas bubble and sometimes turn into something worth pursuing.
They need toilet paper, cleaning supplies, zip-lock bags, 13-gallon trash bags, body wash, toothpaste, peanut butter, boxed macaroni and cheese, individually wrapped snacks and drinks, kid type cereals... toothpaste, toothbrushes... pretty much anything that you need as you go about your daily life! I suppose that I could swing getting an extra on some of those things when I go grocery shopping. Ha, I bet if I cleaned out my closets I could find a ton of unopened things I thought I'd try and never used... somehow I don't think they'd appreciate some of the things I might find in my closets! I'll keep thinking.
Want to know more about The Children's Village? Christian City? www.christiancity.org. Call them (770-703-2636) and ask for a tour... they do more than help kids, they have many services to help all ages. They've been around since 1965 helping children, then expanding to help the elderly. I hope you'll take a minute to connect and maybe make a few ripples of your own! - jmd
Showing posts with label children. Show all posts
Showing posts with label children. Show all posts
Friday, March 11, 2011
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Opportunity to Double the Impact of Gifts for Feeding America and Boys & Girls Clubs of America Ends January 15, 2011
/PRNewswire/ -- Consumers can have their gifts for Feeding America and Boys & Girls Clubs of America matched by donating to Bank of America's "Gift for Opportunity" fund through January 15, 2011. The Bank of America Charitable Foundation will match donations to the fund up to $1 million. Contributions can be made at any of Bank of America's 5,900 banking centers across the country or by visiting www.bankofamerica.com/give.
The Bank of America Charitable Foundation contributed $1 million to initiate the "Gift for Opportunity" fund to support Feeding America and Boys & Girls Clubs of America. With this donation, more than $1.2 million has been raised to date, with potential to raise another $1.8 million more through generous consumer donations and the bank's corporate match.
As evidenced by the USDA's Economic Research Service, the issue of hunger continues to affect a growing number of Americans. In fact, more than 50 million Americans, including 17 million children and 3 million seniors, are food insecure. The need for food is particularly great in the wintertime, when food insecure Americans often have to choose between paying for heat and meals for their families.
"As the economy recovers, there are thousands of families that still face making difficult choices as to whether to pay their electric bill or put food on the table," said Kerry Sullivan, President of the Bank of America Charitable Foundation. "With the creation of the 'Gift for Opportunity' fund, we're looking to make peoples' donations go further, easing this burden so that families can get the nourishment they need."
According to Feeding America's Hunger in America 2010 study, 46% of client households served by Feeding America report having to choose between paying for utilities or heating fuel and food. Additionally, child hunger remains alarmingly high. One in four children was at risk of hunger in 2009. Feeding America and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America are two primary organizations addressing food insecurity in children. Feeding America is the nation's leading hunger-relief organization and Boys & Girls Clubs of America's network of some 4,000 clubs provides a safe place for children to obtain healthy meals.
"There are nearly 10 million children under the age of six living in food insecure households," said Vicki Escarra, President and CEO of Feeding America. "The Feeding America network is able to address this issue through our great partnership with Bank of America and the 'Gift for Opportunity' fund. Hunger is a pressing issue year-round, and we could not help food insecure Americans without charitable support. It's through the support of Bank of America and its customers that we're able to make notable progress in the fight against hunger."
"We are grateful to Bank of America for helping Boys & Girls Clubs of America provide the young people we serve with the opportunity for a great future which is a challenge when so many American families are food insecure," said Roxanne Spillett, President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of America. "We simply cannot expect America's young people to reach their full potential if they are denied a healthy and nutritious food supply."
The Bank of America "Gift for Opportunity" fund is administered through the Bank of America Charitable Gift Fund, a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. For more information about the Bank of America "Gift for Opportunity" fund, visit www.bankofamerica.com/give.
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The Bank of America Charitable Foundation contributed $1 million to initiate the "Gift for Opportunity" fund to support Feeding America and Boys & Girls Clubs of America. With this donation, more than $1.2 million has been raised to date, with potential to raise another $1.8 million more through generous consumer donations and the bank's corporate match.
As evidenced by the USDA's Economic Research Service, the issue of hunger continues to affect a growing number of Americans. In fact, more than 50 million Americans, including 17 million children and 3 million seniors, are food insecure. The need for food is particularly great in the wintertime, when food insecure Americans often have to choose between paying for heat and meals for their families.
"As the economy recovers, there are thousands of families that still face making difficult choices as to whether to pay their electric bill or put food on the table," said Kerry Sullivan, President of the Bank of America Charitable Foundation. "With the creation of the 'Gift for Opportunity' fund, we're looking to make peoples' donations go further, easing this burden so that families can get the nourishment they need."
According to Feeding America's Hunger in America 2010 study, 46% of client households served by Feeding America report having to choose between paying for utilities or heating fuel and food. Additionally, child hunger remains alarmingly high. One in four children was at risk of hunger in 2009. Feeding America and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America are two primary organizations addressing food insecurity in children. Feeding America is the nation's leading hunger-relief organization and Boys & Girls Clubs of America's network of some 4,000 clubs provides a safe place for children to obtain healthy meals.
"There are nearly 10 million children under the age of six living in food insecure households," said Vicki Escarra, President and CEO of Feeding America. "The Feeding America network is able to address this issue through our great partnership with Bank of America and the 'Gift for Opportunity' fund. Hunger is a pressing issue year-round, and we could not help food insecure Americans without charitable support. It's through the support of Bank of America and its customers that we're able to make notable progress in the fight against hunger."
"We are grateful to Bank of America for helping Boys & Girls Clubs of America provide the young people we serve with the opportunity for a great future which is a challenge when so many American families are food insecure," said Roxanne Spillett, President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of America. "We simply cannot expect America's young people to reach their full potential if they are denied a healthy and nutritious food supply."
The Bank of America "Gift for Opportunity" fund is administered through the Bank of America Charitable Gift Fund, a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. For more information about the Bank of America "Gift for Opportunity" fund, visit www.bankofamerica.com/give.
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Friday, December 17, 2010
The Coca-Cola Foundation Surprises Five Atlanta Community Organizations with Unsolicited Grants of $10,000 Each
(BUSINESS WIRE)--Five local Atlanta human service organizations working to help those in need this holiday season were surprised with donations of $10,000 each Thursday during a luncheon at The Coca-Cola Company.
“We provide these special holiday contributions to organizations which are helping to change the lives of those in need in our community”
The Coca-Cola Foundation has awarded unsolicited and unrestricted “surprise” grants to local organizations for the past 18 years as part of its “Donations in Lieu of Decorations Initiative,” an annual tradition that directs funding originally planned for holiday decorations and holiday parties to help local people in need.
“We provide these special holiday contributions to organizations which are helping to change the lives of those in need in our community,” said Ingrid Saunders Jones, chair of The Coca-Cola Foundation. “Since The Coca-Cola Company began this initiative in 1992, we have donated more than $500,000 to more than 45 local community organizations.”
The five organizations selected to receive donations this year are:
* Atlanta Children’s Shelter, which provides child development and support services for homeless families striving to become self-sufficient.
* City of Refuge, which provides individuals and families with food, clothing, shelter, job training and placement, housing, healthcare and education.
* CredAbility, which helps individuals move from financial crisis to financial control through budget, credit counseling and debt management plans.
* Families First, which works to foster strong communities by providing solutions for children and families through child well-being and self-sufficiency services.
* Hosea Feed the Hungry and Homeless, which works to rescue, restore and stabilize at risk homeless individuals and families to self-sufficiency.
-----
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“We provide these special holiday contributions to organizations which are helping to change the lives of those in need in our community”
The Coca-Cola Foundation has awarded unsolicited and unrestricted “surprise” grants to local organizations for the past 18 years as part of its “Donations in Lieu of Decorations Initiative,” an annual tradition that directs funding originally planned for holiday decorations and holiday parties to help local people in need.
“We provide these special holiday contributions to organizations which are helping to change the lives of those in need in our community,” said Ingrid Saunders Jones, chair of The Coca-Cola Foundation. “Since The Coca-Cola Company began this initiative in 1992, we have donated more than $500,000 to more than 45 local community organizations.”
The five organizations selected to receive donations this year are:
* Atlanta Children’s Shelter, which provides child development and support services for homeless families striving to become self-sufficient.
* City of Refuge, which provides individuals and families with food, clothing, shelter, job training and placement, housing, healthcare and education.
* CredAbility, which helps individuals move from financial crisis to financial control through budget, credit counseling and debt management plans.
* Families First, which works to foster strong communities by providing solutions for children and families through child well-being and self-sufficiency services.
* Hosea Feed the Hungry and Homeless, which works to rescue, restore and stabilize at risk homeless individuals and families to self-sufficiency.
-----
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Monday, October 18, 2010
American Legion Foundation Awards Nearly $700,000 in Grants
/PRNewswire/ -- The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation has awarded $666,670 to 21 non-profit organizations. These grants are awarded to support worthwhile projects that benefit children. Grants for 2011 went to the following organizations and foundations:
American Academy of Pediatrics of Elk Grove Village, Illinois was awarded $14,725 for their project, "Pediatrics Journal-Military Supplement." This grant will produce a supplement to the AAP's Pediatrics journal to provide pediatricians with an overview of the role of the pediatrician in military medicine. The Role of the Pediatrician in Military Medicine will be published and distributed to 70,000 subscribers. The Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
American Legion Children's Home of Ponca City, Oklahoma was awarded $44,000 for their project, "American Legion Children's Home National Awareness Initiative Phase III." This grant will allow maintaining website, duplication of a 6 minute documentary, print thousands of brochures and purchase new display materials. The American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
Child Find of American, Inc . of Highland, New York was awarded $45,000 for their project, "Parent Help for Military Families Information and Outreach Project." This grant will fund the production and dissemination of Parent Help information and outreach materials targeted to - U.S. Military Dads and Moms. The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors this grant.
Children's Organ Transplant Association of Bloomington, Indiana was awarded $46,500 for their project, "One Million Miracles Initiative." This grant will update, produce and distribute COTA publicity materials, including public service announcement and targeted communications resources. The Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Foundation of Avon, Connecticut was awarded $22,295 for their project, "Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Information Clearinghouse." This grant will create a CdLS Information Clearing house, providing a high-level of current, relevant information to parents and professionals.
Father Flanagan's Boys Home dba Boys Town of Boys Town, Nebraska was awarded $62,000 for their project, "Boys Town National Hotline Public Service Announcement." This grant will develop, produce and distribute an additional Teen TV PSA in 2011.
Georgia State University Research Foundation, Inc. of Atlanta, Georgia was awarded $28,900 for their project, "Home Safety at Your Fingertips: the iSafety Program." This grant will produce an interactive iPhone app that will teach parents via video, audio, pictures, and interaction to locate home hazards and remove them.
Kansas Braille Transcription Institute, Inc. of Wichita, Kansas was awarded $6,500 for their project, "Red, Sight and Blue, I Can 'See' Her Too." This grant will produce and distribute 1,000 packets of educational information of the U.S. Flag and the Tactile/Braille American Flag to blind students in grades K-12 throughout the United States by way of the National Organization of Parents of Blind Children. The American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
Make-A-Wish Foundation of America of Phoenix, Arizona was awarded $31,572 for their project, "Branding the Adopt-A-Wish Program." This grant will create promotional materials that will enable Make-A-Wish to promote the Adopt-A-Wish program to donors and potential donors. The American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
Mercy Flight Southeast, Inc. of Leesburg, Florida was awarded $10,000 for their project, "Project Outreach USA." This grant will produce promotional materials to health facilities informing them of the services provided by Mercy Flight when planning long distance health care with families.
National Autism Association of Nixa, Missouri was awarded $50,000 for their project, "Autism Safety Toolkit." This grant will produce the Autism Safety Toolkit and make it available to families free of charge to help them protect their children and prevent future wandering incidents. The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors this grant.
National Braille Press of Boston, Massachusetts was awarded $13,270 for their project, "Literacy Guides for Sighted Parents of Blind Children." This grant will produce two guides for sighted parents of blind children that teach them about the importance of literacy, Braille, and tactile graphics, and how to introduce them to their children.
National Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) of Seattle, Washington was awarded $49,000 for their project, "Flex Training: A Blended Approach to Pre-Service CASA/GAL Volunteer Training." This grant will develop a Flex Training Pre-Service Curriculum that will enable prospective volunteers to obtain over half of their needed training online. The Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
National Marfan Foundation of Port Washington, New York was awarded $25,000 for their project, "The 'Marfan Question' Web-Based Video Series for Children and Teens." This grant will produce thirty to forty short (2 to 5 minute) easily accessible online videos about the diagnosis and management of Marfan syndrome and related connective tissue disorders.
National Meningitis Association, Inc. of Atlanta, Georgia was awarded $40,000 for their project, "They Think They're Invincible; You Know They're Not." This grant will provide a direct-to-parents postcard mailing and radio public service announcements in two additional states. The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors this grant.
National Organizations for Youth Safety of Gainesville, Virginia was awarded $25,000 for their project, "Youth-Empowered Community Engagement to Prevent Distracted Driving." This grant will produce a youth engagement guide addressing youth traffic safety. The Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
Our Military Kids of McLean, Virginia was awarded $50,100 for their project, "Informational Video and Brochures." This grant will create a video and information brochures that can be used to promote the organization to prospective grantee families and prospective donors. The American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
Songs of Love Foundation of Forest Hills, New York was awarded $25,000 for their "Songs of Love Outreach Project." This grant will produce and distribute 20,000 Songs of Love brochures and update SOL website.
The American Legion of Fultondale, Alabama was awarded $12,000 for their project, "The Crippled Lamb Program." This grant will allow The American Legion to purchase copies of "The Crippled Lamb" for the pediatric units in Alabama hospitals. The Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
The National Children's Cancer Society (N.C.C.S.) of St. Louis, Missouri was awarded $25,000 for their project, "Beyond the Cure (BTC)." This grant will create a video to educate and inspire childhood cancer survivors to embrace the future-to recognize their conquests and to successfully handle the challenges ahead of them.
Young Marines of Washington, DC was awarded $40,808 for its "Red Ribbon Project." This grant will enable the Young Marines to distribute their Drug-Demand Reduction program kits to youth in more than 300 communities.
-----
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage & @TheGATable @HookedonHistory
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
Twitter: @artsacrossga, @softnblue, @RimbomboAAG
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
Twitter: @FayetteFP
American Academy of Pediatrics of Elk Grove Village, Illinois was awarded $14,725 for their project, "Pediatrics Journal-Military Supplement." This grant will produce a supplement to the AAP's Pediatrics journal to provide pediatricians with an overview of the role of the pediatrician in military medicine. The Role of the Pediatrician in Military Medicine will be published and distributed to 70,000 subscribers. The Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
American Legion Children's Home of Ponca City, Oklahoma was awarded $44,000 for their project, "American Legion Children's Home National Awareness Initiative Phase III." This grant will allow maintaining website, duplication of a 6 minute documentary, print thousands of brochures and purchase new display materials. The American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
Child Find of American, Inc . of Highland, New York was awarded $45,000 for their project, "Parent Help for Military Families Information and Outreach Project." This grant will fund the production and dissemination of Parent Help information and outreach materials targeted to - U.S. Military Dads and Moms. The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors this grant.
Children's Organ Transplant Association of Bloomington, Indiana was awarded $46,500 for their project, "One Million Miracles Initiative." This grant will update, produce and distribute COTA publicity materials, including public service announcement and targeted communications resources. The Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Foundation of Avon, Connecticut was awarded $22,295 for their project, "Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Information Clearinghouse." This grant will create a CdLS Information Clearing house, providing a high-level of current, relevant information to parents and professionals.
Father Flanagan's Boys Home dba Boys Town of Boys Town, Nebraska was awarded $62,000 for their project, "Boys Town National Hotline Public Service Announcement." This grant will develop, produce and distribute an additional Teen TV PSA in 2011.
Georgia State University Research Foundation, Inc. of Atlanta, Georgia was awarded $28,900 for their project, "Home Safety at Your Fingertips: the iSafety Program." This grant will produce an interactive iPhone app that will teach parents via video, audio, pictures, and interaction to locate home hazards and remove them.
Kansas Braille Transcription Institute, Inc. of Wichita, Kansas was awarded $6,500 for their project, "Red, Sight and Blue, I Can 'See' Her Too." This grant will produce and distribute 1,000 packets of educational information of the U.S. Flag and the Tactile/Braille American Flag to blind students in grades K-12 throughout the United States by way of the National Organization of Parents of Blind Children. The American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
Make-A-Wish Foundation of America of Phoenix, Arizona was awarded $31,572 for their project, "Branding the Adopt-A-Wish Program." This grant will create promotional materials that will enable Make-A-Wish to promote the Adopt-A-Wish program to donors and potential donors. The American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
Mercy Flight Southeast, Inc. of Leesburg, Florida was awarded $10,000 for their project, "Project Outreach USA." This grant will produce promotional materials to health facilities informing them of the services provided by Mercy Flight when planning long distance health care with families.
National Autism Association of Nixa, Missouri was awarded $50,000 for their project, "Autism Safety Toolkit." This grant will produce the Autism Safety Toolkit and make it available to families free of charge to help them protect their children and prevent future wandering incidents. The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors this grant.
National Braille Press of Boston, Massachusetts was awarded $13,270 for their project, "Literacy Guides for Sighted Parents of Blind Children." This grant will produce two guides for sighted parents of blind children that teach them about the importance of literacy, Braille, and tactile graphics, and how to introduce them to their children.
National Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) of Seattle, Washington was awarded $49,000 for their project, "Flex Training: A Blended Approach to Pre-Service CASA/GAL Volunteer Training." This grant will develop a Flex Training Pre-Service Curriculum that will enable prospective volunteers to obtain over half of their needed training online. The Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
National Marfan Foundation of Port Washington, New York was awarded $25,000 for their project, "The 'Marfan Question' Web-Based Video Series for Children and Teens." This grant will produce thirty to forty short (2 to 5 minute) easily accessible online videos about the diagnosis and management of Marfan syndrome and related connective tissue disorders.
National Meningitis Association, Inc. of Atlanta, Georgia was awarded $40,000 for their project, "They Think They're Invincible; You Know They're Not." This grant will provide a direct-to-parents postcard mailing and radio public service announcements in two additional states. The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors this grant.
National Organizations for Youth Safety of Gainesville, Virginia was awarded $25,000 for their project, "Youth-Empowered Community Engagement to Prevent Distracted Driving." This grant will produce a youth engagement guide addressing youth traffic safety. The Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
Our Military Kids of McLean, Virginia was awarded $50,100 for their project, "Informational Video and Brochures." This grant will create a video and information brochures that can be used to promote the organization to prospective grantee families and prospective donors. The American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
Songs of Love Foundation of Forest Hills, New York was awarded $25,000 for their "Songs of Love Outreach Project." This grant will produce and distribute 20,000 Songs of Love brochures and update SOL website.
The American Legion of Fultondale, Alabama was awarded $12,000 for their project, "The Crippled Lamb Program." This grant will allow The American Legion to purchase copies of "The Crippled Lamb" for the pediatric units in Alabama hospitals. The Sons of The American Legion sponsor this grant.
The National Children's Cancer Society (N.C.C.S.) of St. Louis, Missouri was awarded $25,000 for their project, "Beyond the Cure (BTC)." This grant will create a video to educate and inspire childhood cancer survivors to embrace the future-to recognize their conquests and to successfully handle the challenges ahead of them.
Young Marines of Washington, DC was awarded $40,808 for its "Red Ribbon Project." This grant will enable the Young Marines to distribute their Drug-Demand Reduction program kits to youth in more than 300 communities.
-----
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Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage & @TheGATable @HookedonHistory
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www.FayetteFrontPage.com
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Thursday, September 02, 2010
NASCAR Driver Tony Stewart and the Office Depot Foundation Team Up to Donate 4,000 Book Bags to Atlanta-Area Children in Need
(BUSINESS WIRE)--Office Depot® (NYSE:ODP), a leading global provider of office products and services, and the Office Depot Foundation announced today that Tony Stewart, driver of the No. 14 Office Depot/Old Spice Chevy Impala in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series™, will join the Foundation today, September 2, to donate 4,000 book bags to non-profit organizations and schools in the Atlanta area.
“The Foundation is tremendously excited to offer this award-winning program for the 10th consecutive year”
The donations will be made during a special “Back-to-School Celebration” event beginning at 4 p.m. local time at the Office Depot store located at 2625 Piedmont Road in Atlanta. In addition to Stewart, special guests will include Andrea Boone, commissioner of Constituent Services for Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed and Saundy Hutto, director for new business development and marketing with Speedway Children’s Charities.
This year, the Office Depot Foundation is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its National Backpack Program. Since the program began in 2001, Office Depot and the Office Depot Foundation have donated approximately 2.3 million backpacks and book bags to children in need.
“The Foundation is tremendously excited to offer this award-winning program for the 10th consecutive year,” said Mary Wong, president of the Office Depot Foundation, who will participate in the event. “Every year, we have seen our backpacks and book bags bring hope to children whose families might not be able to afford to buy one for them. Parents and teachers alike tell us that we truly are helping children to build self-confidence, boost self-esteem and achieve greater success in the classroom – all as a result of being properly prepared for school.”
Stewart will help host the “Back-To-School Celebration” event as he prepares for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series™ Emory Healthcare 500 race at Atlanta Motor Speedway (Sunday, Sept. 5, 7:30 p.m. EDT, ESPN). He is a two-time Sprint Cup Series race winner at the 1.54-mile track. Stewart is partnering with the Office Depot Foundation for the second year in a row and is helping the organization donate more than 300,000 backpacks and book bags throughout this 2010 back-to-school season.
“I am very proud to partner with the Office Depot Foundation again this year and to be able to help kids in need across the country,” Stewart said. “I can tell you from experience how rewarding it is to see the look on these kids’ faces when they get a new book bag – it’s an automatic boost of confidence for them and helps them feel ready to take on the new school year just like everybody else. No matter what career path you choose in life, education is the foundation to success, and every kid deserves to head back to school with the tools they need to succeed.”
The non-profit organizations and schools scheduled to participate in the September 2 donation event include:
* Atlanta Public Schools
* Clayton County Schools
* DeKalb County School System/DeKalb County Public Schools Foundation
* Fulton Education Foundation
* CaringWorks
* CHRIS Kids, Inc.
* City of Refuge
* Communities In Schools of Atlanta
* Easter Seals North Georgia
* Georgia Alliance to End Homelessness, Inc.
* Metro Atlanta CASA
* SafeHouse Outreach
* Walter F. White Elementary School
* Women’s Resource Center to End Domestic Violence
The Foundation is hosting more than 20 “Back-to-School Celebrations” in cities across the U.S. – five of which will include Tony Stewart. The Office Depot Foundation is partnering with a number of national non-profit organizations – including the Tony Stewart Foundation, the National Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Association, Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA), Feed The Children, the Kids In Need Foundation, Nourish America, Zach Bonner’s Little Red Wagon Foundation and the National Foundation for Women Legislators – whose members participate in all 50 states. For the third consecutive year, donations will be made to children of the Navajo Nation in Arizona and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe in South Dakota.
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“The Foundation is tremendously excited to offer this award-winning program for the 10th consecutive year”
The donations will be made during a special “Back-to-School Celebration” event beginning at 4 p.m. local time at the Office Depot store located at 2625 Piedmont Road in Atlanta. In addition to Stewart, special guests will include Andrea Boone, commissioner of Constituent Services for Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed and Saundy Hutto, director for new business development and marketing with Speedway Children’s Charities.
This year, the Office Depot Foundation is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its National Backpack Program. Since the program began in 2001, Office Depot and the Office Depot Foundation have donated approximately 2.3 million backpacks and book bags to children in need.
“The Foundation is tremendously excited to offer this award-winning program for the 10th consecutive year,” said Mary Wong, president of the Office Depot Foundation, who will participate in the event. “Every year, we have seen our backpacks and book bags bring hope to children whose families might not be able to afford to buy one for them. Parents and teachers alike tell us that we truly are helping children to build self-confidence, boost self-esteem and achieve greater success in the classroom – all as a result of being properly prepared for school.”
Stewart will help host the “Back-To-School Celebration” event as he prepares for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series™ Emory Healthcare 500 race at Atlanta Motor Speedway (Sunday, Sept. 5, 7:30 p.m. EDT, ESPN). He is a two-time Sprint Cup Series race winner at the 1.54-mile track. Stewart is partnering with the Office Depot Foundation for the second year in a row and is helping the organization donate more than 300,000 backpacks and book bags throughout this 2010 back-to-school season.
“I am very proud to partner with the Office Depot Foundation again this year and to be able to help kids in need across the country,” Stewart said. “I can tell you from experience how rewarding it is to see the look on these kids’ faces when they get a new book bag – it’s an automatic boost of confidence for them and helps them feel ready to take on the new school year just like everybody else. No matter what career path you choose in life, education is the foundation to success, and every kid deserves to head back to school with the tools they need to succeed.”
The non-profit organizations and schools scheduled to participate in the September 2 donation event include:
* Atlanta Public Schools
* Clayton County Schools
* DeKalb County School System/DeKalb County Public Schools Foundation
* Fulton Education Foundation
* CaringWorks
* CHRIS Kids, Inc.
* City of Refuge
* Communities In Schools of Atlanta
* Easter Seals North Georgia
* Georgia Alliance to End Homelessness, Inc.
* Metro Atlanta CASA
* SafeHouse Outreach
* Walter F. White Elementary School
* Women’s Resource Center to End Domestic Violence
The Foundation is hosting more than 20 “Back-to-School Celebrations” in cities across the U.S. – five of which will include Tony Stewart. The Office Depot Foundation is partnering with a number of national non-profit organizations – including the Tony Stewart Foundation, the National Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Association, Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA), Feed The Children, the Kids In Need Foundation, Nourish America, Zach Bonner’s Little Red Wagon Foundation and the National Foundation for Women Legislators – whose members participate in all 50 states. For the third consecutive year, donations will be made to children of the Navajo Nation in Arizona and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe in South Dakota.
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Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Eagle Ranch Celebrates 25 Years of New Beginnings for Children and Families
/PRNewswire/ -- What began as the vision of a young man with a heart to help hurting children has become Georgia's largest single-campus home for children in crisis and a global model for children's homes. April marks the 25th anniversary of the opening of the first home at Eagle Ranch, which now is able to house and serve 66 children (42 boys and 24 girls).
Many North Georgians remember the compelling story of Eagle Ranch's start. Founder Eddie Staub, a newcomer from Alabama, faced a bank's deadline to raise enough money to purchase 180 acres in southern Hall County. The last dollar for the land purchase came just three days before the deadline, inspiring a CNN television report about "the miracle on Chestnut Mountain."
Twenty-five years later, the miracles at Eagle Ranch continue. The old barn that once served as Staub's makeshift office is still standing but is now surrounded by six boys' homes, four girls' homes, an on-campus school, an administration and counseling center, a chapel, athletic center and a recently completed lodge. All of it is sheltered amid a rural pasture setting that has expanded to 270 acres. The program remains firmly centered in its focus on Christian principles and teachings.
"The theme for our 25th anniversary celebration has focused on Eagle Ranch as a 'home for new beginnings,'" Staub said. "We're thankful to have had the opportunity to sow seeds for a fresh start in the lives of hundreds of children since our inception."
The famous deadline that forced Staub to make full payment on the land set the tone for a no-debt philosophy that Eagle Ranch has maintained to this day.
"No construction or development has ever taken place at the Ranch until all funds have been secured," Staub said. "This philosophy has been a hallmark of our fiscal policy that has allowed us to avoid paying interest on debt - and invest even more in the children entrusted to our care."
The Ranch's current $3.2 million budget is supported fully by private donations and funds.
"Today's economy has challenged all charitable organizations, and we are no exception," Staub noted. "But we are continually grateful for the faithful giving of so many people. The community continues to recognize the great need of children in this region and wants to support their care and healing to create stronger future generations."
Like the growth of its facilities and campus, the Eagle Ranch mission has evolved well beyond its original focus. The Ranch initially housed and counseled boys, then opened the doors to girls in 2001. In addition, an on-campus SACS-accredited school was also established in 2001 to provide extra help to Ranch children in grades 6-9.
Along with home life and education, professional counseling remains central to the Ranch's therapeutic approach. But even this key aspect of the overall program has grown from the early years. Though the child is still the primary focus, his or her entire family is now brought into counseling sessions. Family reunification in some shape or form - whether it includes one or both of the child's natural parents, grandparents, or other legal guardians - is the end goal. The programmatic innovation of Eagle Ranch is well-recognized by childcare professionals.
"Eagle Ranch is a family of sacrificial, compassionate caregivers who model what each provider of out-of-home care for children and youth should be about - family-centered practice built on a belief that every child deserves a safe and loving home where they can thrive," said Mark Washington, Assistant Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Human Services, Division of Family and Children Services. "Clearly, this is a place that has the hand of God on it."
While the Ranch looks back on its history during an anniversary celebration planned later this spring, the original vision is still moving forward. Under its Wings Initiative, Eagle Ranch is now reaching out far beyond its borders to help children across the country - and even overseas.
The Wings Initiative provides guidance and training to new or existing children's homes. Wings helps start or retool existing children's homes and has given flight to dozens of programs from Oak Ranch in Sanford, North Carolina, to My Father's House in San Salvador, El Salvador.
As part of its anniversary celebration, Eagle Ranch recently published an updated commemorative edition of "On Eagle's Wings," a history of the Ranch's founding that was written in 1995 to mark the 10th anniversary. Since then, the popular book has been reprinted numerous times along with another book, "Seasons," which includes an inspiring collection of "chicken-soup" style short stories about the Ranch children.
Additional information about the Ranch, its program and an historical scrapbook can be viewed on its website, recently updated for the 25th anniversary, at EagleRanch.org.
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Many North Georgians remember the compelling story of Eagle Ranch's start. Founder Eddie Staub, a newcomer from Alabama, faced a bank's deadline to raise enough money to purchase 180 acres in southern Hall County. The last dollar for the land purchase came just three days before the deadline, inspiring a CNN television report about "the miracle on Chestnut Mountain."
Twenty-five years later, the miracles at Eagle Ranch continue. The old barn that once served as Staub's makeshift office is still standing but is now surrounded by six boys' homes, four girls' homes, an on-campus school, an administration and counseling center, a chapel, athletic center and a recently completed lodge. All of it is sheltered amid a rural pasture setting that has expanded to 270 acres. The program remains firmly centered in its focus on Christian principles and teachings.
"The theme for our 25th anniversary celebration has focused on Eagle Ranch as a 'home for new beginnings,'" Staub said. "We're thankful to have had the opportunity to sow seeds for a fresh start in the lives of hundreds of children since our inception."
The famous deadline that forced Staub to make full payment on the land set the tone for a no-debt philosophy that Eagle Ranch has maintained to this day.
"No construction or development has ever taken place at the Ranch until all funds have been secured," Staub said. "This philosophy has been a hallmark of our fiscal policy that has allowed us to avoid paying interest on debt - and invest even more in the children entrusted to our care."
The Ranch's current $3.2 million budget is supported fully by private donations and funds.
"Today's economy has challenged all charitable organizations, and we are no exception," Staub noted. "But we are continually grateful for the faithful giving of so many people. The community continues to recognize the great need of children in this region and wants to support their care and healing to create stronger future generations."
Like the growth of its facilities and campus, the Eagle Ranch mission has evolved well beyond its original focus. The Ranch initially housed and counseled boys, then opened the doors to girls in 2001. In addition, an on-campus SACS-accredited school was also established in 2001 to provide extra help to Ranch children in grades 6-9.
Along with home life and education, professional counseling remains central to the Ranch's therapeutic approach. But even this key aspect of the overall program has grown from the early years. Though the child is still the primary focus, his or her entire family is now brought into counseling sessions. Family reunification in some shape or form - whether it includes one or both of the child's natural parents, grandparents, or other legal guardians - is the end goal. The programmatic innovation of Eagle Ranch is well-recognized by childcare professionals.
"Eagle Ranch is a family of sacrificial, compassionate caregivers who model what each provider of out-of-home care for children and youth should be about - family-centered practice built on a belief that every child deserves a safe and loving home where they can thrive," said Mark Washington, Assistant Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Human Services, Division of Family and Children Services. "Clearly, this is a place that has the hand of God on it."
While the Ranch looks back on its history during an anniversary celebration planned later this spring, the original vision is still moving forward. Under its Wings Initiative, Eagle Ranch is now reaching out far beyond its borders to help children across the country - and even overseas.
The Wings Initiative provides guidance and training to new or existing children's homes. Wings helps start or retool existing children's homes and has given flight to dozens of programs from Oak Ranch in Sanford, North Carolina, to My Father's House in San Salvador, El Salvador.
As part of its anniversary celebration, Eagle Ranch recently published an updated commemorative edition of "On Eagle's Wings," a history of the Ranch's founding that was written in 1995 to mark the 10th anniversary. Since then, the popular book has been reprinted numerous times along with another book, "Seasons," which includes an inspiring collection of "chicken-soup" style short stories about the Ranch children.
Additional information about the Ranch, its program and an historical scrapbook can be viewed on its website, recently updated for the 25th anniversary, at EagleRanch.org.
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Wednesday, December 09, 2009
Amerigroup Foundation Supports Empty Stocking Fund
/PRNewswire/ -- The Amerigroup Foundation announced today that it is awarding a grant of $10,000 to the Empty Stocking Fund, Inc.
For more than 80 years, the Empty Stocking Fund has brought holiday cheer to underprivileged children in the Atlanta area. Through contributions received from Atlanta citizens, local businesses and foundations, the Empty Stocking Fund provides gifts for tens of thousands of children from birth to 13 years of age in nine Georgia counties -- Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale counties. During the 2008 holiday season, the Empty Stocking Fund distributed more than 210,000 items to over 52,000 children. The organization was able to coordinate their efforts with the participation of two full-time employees and more than 4,000 volunteers.
"Each year, the Empty Stocking Fund helps many children see their holiday wishes come true," said John E. Littel, Chairman of the Amerigroup Foundation. "We at Amerigroup support and admire the organization's mission to empower parents and guardians of children living at or below the poverty level by providing them with an opportunity to give their children gifts during the holidays."
"The Empty Stocking Fund sincerely appreciates the generous grant from the Amerigroup Foundation and the volunteer support of the Atlanta office of Amerigroup, which will greatly assist our efforts to provide toys and gifts to over 50,000 underprivileged children during the 2009 Christmas holiday season," said Don Crawford, Executive Director of the Empty Stocking Fund.
The Amerigroup Foundation periodically awards grants to vital community organizations, including community health centers, service organizations, and local programs that have made a significant difference in the communities served by its corporate underwriter, Amerigroup Corporation. Through its subsidiaries, Amerigroup Corporation administers publicly funded health care programs such as Medicaid and Medicare for state and federal governments. Amerigroup Community Care of Georgia currently brings health care services to 236,000 Georgia citizens enrolled in Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
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For more than 80 years, the Empty Stocking Fund has brought holiday cheer to underprivileged children in the Atlanta area. Through contributions received from Atlanta citizens, local businesses and foundations, the Empty Stocking Fund provides gifts for tens of thousands of children from birth to 13 years of age in nine Georgia counties -- Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale counties. During the 2008 holiday season, the Empty Stocking Fund distributed more than 210,000 items to over 52,000 children. The organization was able to coordinate their efforts with the participation of two full-time employees and more than 4,000 volunteers.
"Each year, the Empty Stocking Fund helps many children see their holiday wishes come true," said John E. Littel, Chairman of the Amerigroup Foundation. "We at Amerigroup support and admire the organization's mission to empower parents and guardians of children living at or below the poverty level by providing them with an opportunity to give their children gifts during the holidays."
"The Empty Stocking Fund sincerely appreciates the generous grant from the Amerigroup Foundation and the volunteer support of the Atlanta office of Amerigroup, which will greatly assist our efforts to provide toys and gifts to over 50,000 underprivileged children during the 2009 Christmas holiday season," said Don Crawford, Executive Director of the Empty Stocking Fund.
The Amerigroup Foundation periodically awards grants to vital community organizations, including community health centers, service organizations, and local programs that have made a significant difference in the communities served by its corporate underwriter, Amerigroup Corporation. Through its subsidiaries, Amerigroup Corporation administers publicly funded health care programs such as Medicaid and Medicare for state and federal governments. Amerigroup Community Care of Georgia currently brings health care services to 236,000 Georgia citizens enrolled in Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
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Wednesday, December 02, 2009
Payless ShoeSource Announces Non-Profit Partners in Southeast Region to Join Payless Gives(TM) Shoes 4 Kids Holiday Giving Program for Children
Payless ShoeSource Announces Non-Profit Partners in Southeast Region to Join Payless Gives(TM) Shoes 4 Kids Holiday Giving Program to Give $1.2 Million in Free Shoes to Children of Families in Need
/PRNewswire/ -- Leading family footwear retailer, Payless ShoeSource, announced today that more than 750 nonprofit partners located across the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and in 10 Latin American countries have officially joined Payless in its Payless Gives Shoes 4 Kids program, a grass-roots effort aimed at giving more than $1.2 million in free shoes to children of families in need this holiday season.
Payless will give more than 77,000 total gift coupons redeemable through Feb. 28, 2010, toward a new pair of kids' shoes at any of its more than 4,500 stores located in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and in Latin American countries including the Dominican Republic, Trinidad & Tobago, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador, Panama, Honduras, Nicaragua and Colombia.
A total of nearly 150 nonprofit partners chosen from the United States' Southeast region include, among others:
-- Kids to Love Foundation (Huntsville, AL)
-- Our House (Little Rock, AR)
-- Horton's Kids (Washington, DC)
-- Clothes to Kids (Clearwater, FL)
-- YWCA of Tampa Bay (St. Petersburg, FL)
-- Albert T. Mills Enrichment Center (Atlanta, GA)
-- Family Scholar House (Louisville, KY)
-- Great Expectations Foundation (New Orleans, LA)
-- We Care Community Services (Vicksburg, MS)
-- Florence Crittenton Services (Charlotte, NC)
-- Epworth Children's Home (Columbia, SC)
-- Agape Child and Family Services (Memphis, TN)
-- CHIP of Roanoke Valley (Roanoke, VA)
To see all of the selected 2009 Payless Gives non-profit organizations in your region, state or city, please visit www.paylessgives.com.
Payless said that all the charity partners should receive their free shoe gift coupons by today along with a personal letter from Matt Rubel, chairman and chief executive officer of Collective Brands, Inc., the parent company of Payless, and LuAnn Via, chief executive officer and president of Payless, with a special request to get the coupons into the hands of the children that need them in time for the holidays. The quantity of gift coupons per agency is based on agency size and the number of constituents served and includes an average of about 100 coupons per charity partner. Many non-profit partners will also provide transportation for group shopping trips to the local Payless stores and already shopping trips have been coordinated for children in Los Angeles, San Juan and Cincinnati by charity partners.
"Kids have already started shopping for their free shoes," said Rubel. "Last year's program was truly amazing and we saw our charity partners coordinate directly with our local store teams to hold special shopping events outside of normal store hours -- many partners and store teams went above and beyond with special touches that included hot coco and other treats for the kids in addition to the free shoes," said Rubel.
"Already this year we've heard similar stories including NFL Hall-of-Famer, Anthony Munoz, and his foundation giving limo service and lunch for a group of second grade children in Cincinnati. Free shoes is an amazing gift to these kids, but to be able to shop with a super star athlete like Anthony makes it all even more special. We are thrilled with the hundreds of charity partners who are joining us this year in our massive holiday giving effort, and we look forward to seeing the smiling faces and hearing the heartfelt, inspiring stories that will result from this year's program."
The company launched the application phase for the Payless Gives Shoes 4 Kids program on Oct. 15 with a call-to-action to the non-profit community to apply to be Payless partners in the shoe-gifting campaign to build a network of hundreds of localized organizations across the Western Hemisphere. This grass root approach is critical for immediate, direct access to kids in need at the holidays. In a 21-day application period, the retailer received nearly 3,000 applicants at its application website www.paylessgives.com and inquiries from nearly 37,000 visitors representing 109 countries across the globe. The application period is now closed.
Payless said its Payless Gives Shoes 4 Kids non-profit network includes a total of more than 750 agencies: more than 670 charities in the United States, more than 70 in Canada, five in Puerto Rico, and 20 throughout Latin America.
"We were overwhelmed by the response from the non-profit community to join us in this important effort - to give a free pair of shoes to children in need this holiday season," said Payless CEO Via. "Our intent is to work with and through a diverse network of localized non-profits that have direct and immediate access to the children. Our chosen partners - more than 750 in all -- represent every state in the U.S., as well as organizations across Canada and in Puerto Rico and 10 Latin American countries in which we have stores. Together we've created a diverse international network of non-profits located in small towns, mid-sized and large cities, as well as rural areas so that we can blanket these countries and most effectively reach those in need."
Payless initiated the Payless Gives Shoes 4 Kids program last year in response to the economic crisis, its impact on the underprivileged, the significant need across the United States for children's shoes, and to support smaller, localized nonprofits with a tool to assist them in helping those in need during the holidays. The retailer expanded the program internationally across the Western Hemisphere for 2009 because the need for children's shoes continues, the need is international and Payless is in a strong position to help.
A striking number of children don't have shoes that fit. Studies show that properly fitting shoes can enhance self confidence in children and aid in their proper development and growth. As well, with rising unemployment and food costs, it is difficult for parents to cover basic needs, thus making the holidays an even more stressful time for struggling families.
Greater Horizons of Kansas City, also a nonprofit, served as the independent third-party to manage the bulk of the selection process, based on Payless' core selection criteria, for the Payless Gives Shoes 4 Kids charity partners. For a complete list of the Payless Gives Shoes 4 Kids partners, please go to www.paylessgives.com.
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/PRNewswire/ -- Leading family footwear retailer, Payless ShoeSource, announced today that more than 750 nonprofit partners located across the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and in 10 Latin American countries have officially joined Payless in its Payless Gives Shoes 4 Kids program, a grass-roots effort aimed at giving more than $1.2 million in free shoes to children of families in need this holiday season.
Payless will give more than 77,000 total gift coupons redeemable through Feb. 28, 2010, toward a new pair of kids' shoes at any of its more than 4,500 stores located in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and in Latin American countries including the Dominican Republic, Trinidad & Tobago, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador, Panama, Honduras, Nicaragua and Colombia.
A total of nearly 150 nonprofit partners chosen from the United States' Southeast region include, among others:
-- Kids to Love Foundation (Huntsville, AL)
-- Our House (Little Rock, AR)
-- Horton's Kids (Washington, DC)
-- Clothes to Kids (Clearwater, FL)
-- YWCA of Tampa Bay (St. Petersburg, FL)
-- Albert T. Mills Enrichment Center (Atlanta, GA)
-- Family Scholar House (Louisville, KY)
-- Great Expectations Foundation (New Orleans, LA)
-- We Care Community Services (Vicksburg, MS)
-- Florence Crittenton Services (Charlotte, NC)
-- Epworth Children's Home (Columbia, SC)
-- Agape Child and Family Services (Memphis, TN)
-- CHIP of Roanoke Valley (Roanoke, VA)
To see all of the selected 2009 Payless Gives non-profit organizations in your region, state or city, please visit www.paylessgives.com.
Payless said that all the charity partners should receive their free shoe gift coupons by today along with a personal letter from Matt Rubel, chairman and chief executive officer of Collective Brands, Inc., the parent company of Payless, and LuAnn Via, chief executive officer and president of Payless, with a special request to get the coupons into the hands of the children that need them in time for the holidays. The quantity of gift coupons per agency is based on agency size and the number of constituents served and includes an average of about 100 coupons per charity partner. Many non-profit partners will also provide transportation for group shopping trips to the local Payless stores and already shopping trips have been coordinated for children in Los Angeles, San Juan and Cincinnati by charity partners.
"Kids have already started shopping for their free shoes," said Rubel. "Last year's program was truly amazing and we saw our charity partners coordinate directly with our local store teams to hold special shopping events outside of normal store hours -- many partners and store teams went above and beyond with special touches that included hot coco and other treats for the kids in addition to the free shoes," said Rubel.
"Already this year we've heard similar stories including NFL Hall-of-Famer, Anthony Munoz, and his foundation giving limo service and lunch for a group of second grade children in Cincinnati. Free shoes is an amazing gift to these kids, but to be able to shop with a super star athlete like Anthony makes it all even more special. We are thrilled with the hundreds of charity partners who are joining us this year in our massive holiday giving effort, and we look forward to seeing the smiling faces and hearing the heartfelt, inspiring stories that will result from this year's program."
The company launched the application phase for the Payless Gives Shoes 4 Kids program on Oct. 15 with a call-to-action to the non-profit community to apply to be Payless partners in the shoe-gifting campaign to build a network of hundreds of localized organizations across the Western Hemisphere. This grass root approach is critical for immediate, direct access to kids in need at the holidays. In a 21-day application period, the retailer received nearly 3,000 applicants at its application website www.paylessgives.com and inquiries from nearly 37,000 visitors representing 109 countries across the globe. The application period is now closed.
Payless said its Payless Gives Shoes 4 Kids non-profit network includes a total of more than 750 agencies: more than 670 charities in the United States, more than 70 in Canada, five in Puerto Rico, and 20 throughout Latin America.
"We were overwhelmed by the response from the non-profit community to join us in this important effort - to give a free pair of shoes to children in need this holiday season," said Payless CEO Via. "Our intent is to work with and through a diverse network of localized non-profits that have direct and immediate access to the children. Our chosen partners - more than 750 in all -- represent every state in the U.S., as well as organizations across Canada and in Puerto Rico and 10 Latin American countries in which we have stores. Together we've created a diverse international network of non-profits located in small towns, mid-sized and large cities, as well as rural areas so that we can blanket these countries and most effectively reach those in need."
Payless initiated the Payless Gives Shoes 4 Kids program last year in response to the economic crisis, its impact on the underprivileged, the significant need across the United States for children's shoes, and to support smaller, localized nonprofits with a tool to assist them in helping those in need during the holidays. The retailer expanded the program internationally across the Western Hemisphere for 2009 because the need for children's shoes continues, the need is international and Payless is in a strong position to help.
A striking number of children don't have shoes that fit. Studies show that properly fitting shoes can enhance self confidence in children and aid in their proper development and growth. As well, with rising unemployment and food costs, it is difficult for parents to cover basic needs, thus making the holidays an even more stressful time for struggling families.
Greater Horizons of Kansas City, also a nonprofit, served as the independent third-party to manage the bulk of the selection process, based on Payless' core selection criteria, for the Payless Gives Shoes 4 Kids charity partners. For a complete list of the Payless Gives Shoes 4 Kids partners, please go to www.paylessgives.com.
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Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Ingenious Med Partners with Children's Restoration Network for Holiday Charity
/PRNewswire/ -- This holiday season, Ingenious Med is partnering with Children's Restoration Network (CRN) to donate employees' time and treasure to roughly 2,000 Metro-Atlanta children living in group homes and shelters.
CRN kicked off November with a Thanksgiving food drive, an effort to stock 129 shelters with basic needs as well as holiday favorites. The organization looks to volunteers like Ingenious Med to host these food drives throughout Atlanta. Ingenious Med has sponsored a month-long drive within its office complex, giving 14 companies and nearly 450 individuals the opportunity to donate everything from canned foods to grocery gift cards.
Additionally, Ingenious Med will be actively participating in CRN's "Adopt-A-Shelter" holiday program. Not only has Ingenious Med pledged to make its adopted shelter's holidays more enjoyable with volunteered time and gifts, Ingenious Med has engaged to donate time and scholarships to the shelter year-round.
During CRN's "12 Days of Caring" event, volunteers like Ingenious Med will be invited to a gift wrapping party, where they will have the opportunity to meet other volunteers and distribute gifts to the children of all ages.
"Holidays are always tough on those less fortunate, especially homeless children and homeless mothers with children," said Cliff Kinsey, CEO of CRN. "We could not touch so many lives without the help of great corporate citizens like Ingenious Med. We are very grateful to be a part of their Philanthropy."
CRN has been servicing 18 Atlanta counties since 1993, providing shelter for nearly 3,800 needy children each year. Beyond providing the basic necessities of food and shelter, CRN strives to provide education opportunities and special programs and events to bring positive experiences for some of Atlanta's most deserving youth.
"We felt an immediate connection with CRN due to its emphasis on our Atlanta community and the ability it gave us to donate and volunteer all year and not just during the holiday season," said Ingenious Med CEO, Hart Williford. "The passionate staff and volunteers have had such wonderful successes with the shelters and homeless mothers and children they serve. We're enthused on an individual and corporate level about this partnership."
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Arts Across Georgia
CRN kicked off November with a Thanksgiving food drive, an effort to stock 129 shelters with basic needs as well as holiday favorites. The organization looks to volunteers like Ingenious Med to host these food drives throughout Atlanta. Ingenious Med has sponsored a month-long drive within its office complex, giving 14 companies and nearly 450 individuals the opportunity to donate everything from canned foods to grocery gift cards.
Additionally, Ingenious Med will be actively participating in CRN's "Adopt-A-Shelter" holiday program. Not only has Ingenious Med pledged to make its adopted shelter's holidays more enjoyable with volunteered time and gifts, Ingenious Med has engaged to donate time and scholarships to the shelter year-round.
During CRN's "12 Days of Caring" event, volunteers like Ingenious Med will be invited to a gift wrapping party, where they will have the opportunity to meet other volunteers and distribute gifts to the children of all ages.
"Holidays are always tough on those less fortunate, especially homeless children and homeless mothers with children," said Cliff Kinsey, CEO of CRN. "We could not touch so many lives without the help of great corporate citizens like Ingenious Med. We are very grateful to be a part of their Philanthropy."
CRN has been servicing 18 Atlanta counties since 1993, providing shelter for nearly 3,800 needy children each year. Beyond providing the basic necessities of food and shelter, CRN strives to provide education opportunities and special programs and events to bring positive experiences for some of Atlanta's most deserving youth.
"We felt an immediate connection with CRN due to its emphasis on our Atlanta community and the ability it gave us to donate and volunteer all year and not just during the holiday season," said Ingenious Med CEO, Hart Williford. "The passionate staff and volunteers have had such wonderful successes with the shelters and homeless mothers and children they serve. We're enthused on an individual and corporate level about this partnership."
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Arts Across Georgia
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Another Round: Wine-Tasting Benefits Georgia's Children, Again
/PRNewswire/ -- Again, the Venza Group generated a positive impact on the lives of Georgia's foster and adoption families by sponsoring their 2nd Annual Charity Wine-Tasting Event. The crowd sipped and sampled in assistance of Supporting Adoption and Foster Families Together (SAFFT), a newly established organization that declares the following belief: BUILDING and MAINTAINING a supportive foundation for all caregivers improves the overall lives of children in care. This year's event raised $4,415 from the wine tasting, a silent auction, and raffle ticket sales. Coordinated by the Venza Group and Music for Charities, attendees of the event enjoyed free hors d'oeuvres and a live music performance by the Tom Willner Trio. Stirred by the lovely autumn air, the party-goers enjoyed the indoor/outdoor comforts of the Sage Woodfire Tavern's Garden Room for the second year in a row.
Raffle tickets were drawn throughout the evening. The lucky winners were awarded a wide range of prizes, from oil changes to hand-crafted jewelry. Just like last year, a weekend stay at the Escape to Blue Ridge cabin retreat of North Georgia was the grand prize. The silent auction included items such as hot-air balloon rides and donated pieces from the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Stacy and Ashley, SAFFT Director, said the following about their collaboration with the Venza Group and Music for Charities: "The team from Venza Group and Music for Charities truly delivered an amazing night for SAFFT. We raised much needed funding for our organization which will directly benefit the Foster and Adoptive children of Forsyth County Georgia. We want to thank both organizations along with our generous sponsors for hosting such an amazing event and we look forward to working with them in the future on more collaborative efforts to help our children in need."
The Venza Group threw the party to celebrate another extraordinary year of growth and development as one of the Southeast's most trusted training services advisors. Specializing in the hospitality, healthcare, and retail industries, the Venza Group is grounded in the timeless principles that form lasting partnerships. Through consulting, custom courseware development, and the implementation of learning management systems, the Venza Group delivers results clearly aligned with the needs and intentions of their clients.
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Raffle tickets were drawn throughout the evening. The lucky winners were awarded a wide range of prizes, from oil changes to hand-crafted jewelry. Just like last year, a weekend stay at the Escape to Blue Ridge cabin retreat of North Georgia was the grand prize. The silent auction included items such as hot-air balloon rides and donated pieces from the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Stacy and Ashley, SAFFT Director, said the following about their collaboration with the Venza Group and Music for Charities: "The team from Venza Group and Music for Charities truly delivered an amazing night for SAFFT. We raised much needed funding for our organization which will directly benefit the Foster and Adoptive children of Forsyth County Georgia. We want to thank both organizations along with our generous sponsors for hosting such an amazing event and we look forward to working with them in the future on more collaborative efforts to help our children in need."
The Venza Group threw the party to celebrate another extraordinary year of growth and development as one of the Southeast's most trusted training services advisors. Specializing in the hospitality, healthcare, and retail industries, the Venza Group is grounded in the timeless principles that form lasting partnerships. Through consulting, custom courseware development, and the implementation of learning management systems, the Venza Group delivers results clearly aligned with the needs and intentions of their clients.
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Friday, October 16, 2009
The 3rd Annual Hollingsworth House Chair-ity Event Nov. 30th
The 3rd Annual Hollingsworth House Chair-ity Event will be held on Monday, November 30, from 5:00-7:30 pm at The Hollingsworth House in downtown Fayetteville, GA. This will be an elegant holiday affair with delicious food and live entertainment. The event will also feature live and silent auctions of extraordinary chairs and other works of art donated by local artisans.
This is a volunteer driven event and hosts include Congressman Lynn Westmoreland, Senator and Mrs. Ronnie Chance, and Senator and Mrs. Mitch Seabaugh, just to name a few.
All proceeds will help the children who live at Christian City have a wonderful Christmas. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased in advance by calling 770-703-2636.
To become a sponsor of the Chair-ity Event, please contact Heidi Becker at 770-703-2632 or heidib@christian-city.org or contact Belinda Fitch at 770-460-3165. All sponsorships include tickets to the event and recognition for helping less fortunate children to have a wonderful holiday season.
Christian City has been caring for abandoned and abused children in a family centered residential setting since 1965. Over 1,000 children have called Christian City “home.” For more information about this Chair-ity Event, please visit www.chair-ity-event.org. For more information about The Children’s Village, please call770-703-2636 or visit www.christiancity.org.
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This is a volunteer driven event and hosts include Congressman Lynn Westmoreland, Senator and Mrs. Ronnie Chance, and Senator and Mrs. Mitch Seabaugh, just to name a few.
All proceeds will help the children who live at Christian City have a wonderful Christmas. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased in advance by calling 770-703-2636.
To become a sponsor of the Chair-ity Event, please contact Heidi Becker at 770-703-2632 or heidib@christian-city.org or contact Belinda Fitch at 770-460-3165. All sponsorships include tickets to the event and recognition for helping less fortunate children to have a wonderful holiday season.
Christian City has been caring for abandoned and abused children in a family centered residential setting since 1965. Over 1,000 children have called Christian City “home.” For more information about this Chair-ity Event, please visit www.chair-ity-event.org. For more information about The Children’s Village, please call770-703-2636 or visit www.christiancity.org.
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Friday, September 04, 2009
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia Offers The Healing Book to Help Young Life Insurance Beneficiaries Cope with Losing a Loved One
/PRNewswire/ -- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia kicks off Life Insurance Awareness Month by enhancing the support services already available to its group life insurance beneficiaries by offering a new book to help children who are affected by the loss of a loved one - The Healing Book: Facing the Death and Celebrating the Life of Someone You Love (written by Ellen Sabin and published by Watering Can Press).
The Healing Book is a resource that helps children and families express their feelings, ask questions and explore their memories when someone they love has died. It is an activity book, journal and conversation-starter that children can personalize and use in whatever way that best meets their needs during the grieving and remembering process.
"When a loved one dies, it is usually a very difficult time for everyone in the family, especially for children. Therefore, we are glad to offer this helpful book to beneficiaries," said Tom Foran, staff vice president, Product Management/Business Development, Life and Disability. "We want family members to think of us as providing more than a check to them during this challenging time. We want them to see us as a source that offers them valuable tools including grief counseling, legal and financial consultation and other services. We believe The Healing Book is a great complement to the resources we offer to those who are grieving."
Beneficiaries can go to resourceadvisor.anthem.com to order a free copy of this book for their children. In addition, beneficiaries can order free copies for a grandchild, niece or nephew, or a close friend.
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The Healing Book is a resource that helps children and families express their feelings, ask questions and explore their memories when someone they love has died. It is an activity book, journal and conversation-starter that children can personalize and use in whatever way that best meets their needs during the grieving and remembering process.
"When a loved one dies, it is usually a very difficult time for everyone in the family, especially for children. Therefore, we are glad to offer this helpful book to beneficiaries," said Tom Foran, staff vice president, Product Management/Business Development, Life and Disability. "We want family members to think of us as providing more than a check to them during this challenging time. We want them to see us as a source that offers them valuable tools including grief counseling, legal and financial consultation and other services. We believe The Healing Book is a great complement to the resources we offer to those who are grieving."
Beneficiaries can go to resourceadvisor.anthem.com to order a free copy of this book for their children. In addition, beneficiaries can order free copies for a grandchild, niece or nephew, or a close friend.
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Thursday, September 03, 2009
Operation StoryBook Begins Love of Literature in the Cradle
Studies show nearly two-thirds of low-income families own no books for their children, yet book ownership is one of the strongest predictors of future reading success. To prevent the resulting achievement gap, on September 11th Sheltering Arms Early Education & Family Centers will launch Operation StoryBook, a family literacy initiative that begins children’s love of reading in the cradle. Corporate and community volunteers, VIPs, and professional storytellers will share stories with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers during a day-long Read-A-Thon in 17 Sheltering Arms centers across metro Atlanta.
"Ninety percent of children’s brain development occurs in the early years before kindergarten," says Elaine Draeger, President of Sheltering Arms. "Even before they can read, children who grow up in homes rich with printed and spoken word are building skills to become enthusiastic readers."
Operation StoryBook will help families give children this strong start. Anchored by the Children's StoryBook Club, Operation StoryBook will provide 2300 children—most from low-income working families--with 12 new books for their home libraries over the next year. Research-driven curriculum, literacy enrichment activities, and parent storytelling workshops will then bring these books alive for Sheltering Arms’ children and their families.
"For many of us, the values we hold most dear are those we learned through stories…stories shared by family, stories heard in worship, stories read in books," says Rob Cleveland of August House, an Atlanta publisher of children's books. "With our mobile society, children often don’t hear the stories of older generations that in the past taught lessons about character, culture, and community. Operation StoryBook builds children into readers, but it does much more. It turns parents into storytellers." August House’s title, The Archer and the Sun, a Chinese folktale that explains the rising and setting of the sun, is Operation StoryBook's September StoryBook Club selection. On September 11, 2300 children will receive a copy of The Archer and the Sun for their home library.
Operation StoryBook is presented by Target, and sponsored by PFG Milton's, Cousins Properties, State Street Global Advisors, Alston & Bird, The Coca-Cola Company, Hollis & Company, Wachovia, and DLA Piper. As a warm-up to the festivities on Friday, on Wednesday, September 9, sponsors and other friends of Sheltering Arms will gather for the CockTales and Legends reception to kick-off Operation StoryBook. The Lovett School will be honored as this year's Sheltering Arms Legends Award winner, in honor of more than 40 years of volunteer service.The community is invited to participate in Operation StoryBook by volunteering, donating books, or sponsoring a child. Information is available on the Sheltering Arms website.
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"Ninety percent of children’s brain development occurs in the early years before kindergarten," says Elaine Draeger, President of Sheltering Arms. "Even before they can read, children who grow up in homes rich with printed and spoken word are building skills to become enthusiastic readers."
Operation StoryBook will help families give children this strong start. Anchored by the Children's StoryBook Club, Operation StoryBook will provide 2300 children—most from low-income working families--with 12 new books for their home libraries over the next year. Research-driven curriculum, literacy enrichment activities, and parent storytelling workshops will then bring these books alive for Sheltering Arms’ children and their families.
"For many of us, the values we hold most dear are those we learned through stories…stories shared by family, stories heard in worship, stories read in books," says Rob Cleveland of August House, an Atlanta publisher of children's books. "With our mobile society, children often don’t hear the stories of older generations that in the past taught lessons about character, culture, and community. Operation StoryBook builds children into readers, but it does much more. It turns parents into storytellers." August House’s title, The Archer and the Sun, a Chinese folktale that explains the rising and setting of the sun, is Operation StoryBook's September StoryBook Club selection. On September 11, 2300 children will receive a copy of The Archer and the Sun for their home library.
Operation StoryBook is presented by Target, and sponsored by PFG Milton's, Cousins Properties, State Street Global Advisors, Alston & Bird, The Coca-Cola Company, Hollis & Company, Wachovia, and DLA Piper. As a warm-up to the festivities on Friday, on Wednesday, September 9, sponsors and other friends of Sheltering Arms will gather for the CockTales and Legends reception to kick-off Operation StoryBook. The Lovett School will be honored as this year's Sheltering Arms Legends Award winner, in honor of more than 40 years of volunteer service.The community is invited to participate in Operation StoryBook by volunteering, donating books, or sponsoring a child. Information is available on the Sheltering Arms website.
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Friday, August 21, 2009
The Avenue Peachtree City Collects Over $1,100 for CARE
The Avenue Marketing Manager Kim Tanalgo-Minshew (first row far left) and The Avenue Peachtree City Merchant Relations Coordinator Lisa Hernandez (first row far right) present the donation check to CARE Coordinator Karen Spangler (center front row) and school counselors (back row L-R) Leslie Fear, Inman Elementary, and Oriska Griggs, Spring Hill Elementary.Generous moviegoers donated over $1,100 to benefit the Fayette County Public School System’s CARE (Children at Risk in Education) program.
Thanks to The Avenue Peachtree City, the CARE program will be able to offer more After School Program (ASP) scholarships to families who need a safe place for their children to stay after the school day ends but are struggling to make ends meet. The scholarships pay for a portion of the ASP tuition for a limited number of weeks. Parents have to pay the other portion of the tuition in order to receive the scholarship.
The Avenue Peachtree City raised the donations through the Movies in the Park event on August 6 that featured “Night at the Museum 2.” Although the event was free, The Avenue Peachtree City allowed patrons to make monetary donations to benefit the school system’s CARE program.
“We are very grateful to The Avenue for their continued support of our CARE program. This donation will make a positive difference in the lives of our students and their families. Many parents who have been able to afford after school care in the past are now having difficulties providing for their families. The scholarships are a way we can take one worry off their plate about where their children are going to be after the school day ends,” says CARE Coordinator Karen Spangler.
The Avenue Peachtree City has other events planned for this year during which the shopping center will collect donations for CARE. Visit www.shoptheavenue.com for more information. In addition to ASP scholarships, CARE also provides other assistance to working families in need such as tutoring scholarships, school supplies and other programs or services to help meet the educational needs of children.
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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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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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Thursday, June 11, 2009
Community Efforts Help Foster Children to Get Back to Being Children
/PRNewswire/ -- The Fulton County Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) designated May as the month to celebrate the tireless efforts of foster care home providers and adoptive parents. On May 16, DFCS honored the parents and are planning a special day at Six Flags Over Georgia for the foster children who often go overlooked.
"We often see an increase in the number of children and families who need our assistance during difficult economic times such as these," said Dannette R. Smith, Director of the Fulton County Department of Family and Children Services. "This is clearly a time when partnering with the community can make a huge difference in the lives of the children we serve."
On June 13, the county's foster care children will spend an entire day at Six Flags Over Georgia. Local community partners pitched in to help plan the special event for the children. The community's acts of kindness began with Six Flags Over Georgia who agreed to provide food and ticket concessions. The Coca-Cola Company sponsored more than 200 one-day passes for the children as well.
Bernard Taylor, Esq., a partner in the law firm of Alston & Bird, LLP, also pitched in by donating a check to help offset some of the event's cost. Taylor, who grew up in the foster care system, knows firsthand the obstacles these children face.
"I just want to give these children a day where they can just be children and not worry about the challenges they have had to live with," said Taylor.
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"We often see an increase in the number of children and families who need our assistance during difficult economic times such as these," said Dannette R. Smith, Director of the Fulton County Department of Family and Children Services. "This is clearly a time when partnering with the community can make a huge difference in the lives of the children we serve."
On June 13, the county's foster care children will spend an entire day at Six Flags Over Georgia. Local community partners pitched in to help plan the special event for the children. The community's acts of kindness began with Six Flags Over Georgia who agreed to provide food and ticket concessions. The Coca-Cola Company sponsored more than 200 one-day passes for the children as well.
Bernard Taylor, Esq., a partner in the law firm of Alston & Bird, LLP, also pitched in by donating a check to help offset some of the event's cost. Taylor, who grew up in the foster care system, knows firsthand the obstacles these children face.
"I just want to give these children a day where they can just be children and not worry about the challenges they have had to live with," said Taylor.
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Thursday, May 21, 2009
Atlanta Braves' Tim Hudson launches family foundation
Atlanta Braves pitcher Tim Hudson and his wife Kim have launched the Hudson Family Foundation, a charitable foundation 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. The Foundation, based in Atlanta, GA, will support children throughout Georgia and Alabama.
"God has placed on our hearts the passion for children in need, in varying degrees, levels, and circumstances," says Kim Hudson. "We are so grateful for the opportunities we have been given to do this type of work thus far, and we are ready to make a bigger personal commitment."
The Hudson Family Foundation will focus primarily on four programs:
Non-Profit Grant Program - Funding for organizations that serve children's needs in the areas of health/medical, education, and/or recreation programs.
Scholarship Program - Financial assistance for graduating high school seniors in Georgia and Alabama.
Take Me Out to the Ballgame! - Braves tickets that provide deserving children the opportunity to experience a Braves game who may not otherwise have the chance to attend a professional baseball game.
Rookie Reader Program - Book donation program that promotes literacy and the love of reading from a young age by donating books to children and youth serving organizations throughout Georgia and Alabama.
Supporters are encouraged to visit the Foundation's newly launched website at www.hudsonfamilyfoundation.com. Simply click on "Get Involved" to learn more about monthly volunteer opportunities, ways to donate, corporate partnerships, fundraising ideas, and much more. The Foundation, will raise funds for grants and other key initiatives through special events, corporate partnerships, and individual donations.
"We are so grateful for the opportunities our family has been given, both on and off the baseball field. It is our responsibility to give back to those in need. But we don't do this because we have to. We truly enjoy it," said Tim Hudson.
The Hudson's will officially launch the Hudson Family Foundation on June 28th during a private party at the W Atlanta Downtown. The Foundation is also planning a public concert event for late Fall.
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-A-Wish Foundation of Georgia and Alabama. Kim and Tim are Wish ambassadors for Make-A-Wish, 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 cochairs 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 Childrens 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. In 2008, Tim became a seven 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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"God has placed on our hearts the passion for children in need, in varying degrees, levels, and circumstances," says Kim Hudson. "We are so grateful for the opportunities we have been given to do this type of work thus far, and we are ready to make a bigger personal commitment."
The Hudson Family Foundation will focus primarily on four programs:
Non-Profit Grant Program - Funding for organizations that serve children's needs in the areas of health/medical, education, and/or recreation programs.
Scholarship Program - Financial assistance for graduating high school seniors in Georgia and Alabama.
Take Me Out to the Ballgame! - Braves tickets that provide deserving children the opportunity to experience a Braves game who may not otherwise have the chance to attend a professional baseball game.
Rookie Reader Program - Book donation program that promotes literacy and the love of reading from a young age by donating books to children and youth serving organizations throughout Georgia and Alabama.
Supporters are encouraged to visit the Foundation's newly launched website at www.hudsonfamilyfoundation.com. Simply click on "Get Involved" to learn more about monthly volunteer opportunities, ways to donate, corporate partnerships, fundraising ideas, and much more. The Foundation, will raise funds for grants and other key initiatives through special events, corporate partnerships, and individual donations.
"We are so grateful for the opportunities our family has been given, both on and off the baseball field. It is our responsibility to give back to those in need. But we don't do this because we have to. We truly enjoy it," said Tim Hudson.
The Hudson's will officially launch the Hudson Family Foundation on June 28th during a private party at the W Atlanta Downtown. The Foundation is also planning a public concert event for late Fall.
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-A-Wish Foundation of Georgia and Alabama. Kim and Tim are Wish ambassadors for Make-A-Wish, 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 cochairs 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 Childrens 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. In 2008, Tim became a seven 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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Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Ronald McDonald House Charities(R) Makes it Easy for Supporters to Give Back Through Its '30 Ways in 30 Days' Campaign
/PRNewswire/ -- In support of National Volunteer Month, Ronald McDonald House Charities(R) (RMHC(R)) is encouraging people to give back to their communities through the Charity's "30 Ways in 30 Days" Campaign. Starting in April, people can visit rmhc.org to get daily inspiration on ways to give back, reminding them that by volunteering they give families one of the biggest gifts of all - more time together while their children are being treated for serious illnesses.
"RMHC wouldn't be able to serve millions of children each year if it weren't for its strong network of volunteers," said Linda Dunham, chairperson of the Global Board of Trustees for RMHC. "More than 30,000 volunteers donate millions of hours, saving the Charity nearly $2 million annually. And, most importantly they enable us to help more than 10,000 families every day. This April, we're celebrating their contributions and making it easier than ever before for people to join our Friends of RMHC volunteer network and give the gift of time."
The "30 Ways in 30 Days" campaign kicks off a new partnership with VolunteerMatch. Through the partnership, visitors to rmhc.org can now search for volunteer opportunities at local RMHC chapters, and chapters can use www.volunteermatch.org to recruit from VolunteerMatch's network of volunteers, the Web's largest of its kind. In addition, RMHC will shine the spotlight on volunteers through a new online community powered by Facebook Connect on the Charity's Web site that provides a forum for people to share their personal stories, read firsthand testimonials from current volunteers and be inspired by the "30 Ways in 30 Days" tips on how they can lend a helping hand this April and year round.
Some of the simple volunteer tips included in the "30 Ways in 30 Days" campaign include:
-- Prepare and serve a home-cooked meal for families staying at a local
Ronald McDonald House(R)
-- Help a local RMHC Chapter with a golf tournament, auction, gala or
fundraising event to raise awareness for the Charity
-- Stuff backpacks with school supplies for children visiting a local
Ronald McDonald Care Mobile(R)
-- Answer phones, greet visitors or do light office work at a local
Ronald McDonald House or Ronald McDonald Family Room(R)
-- Host a pizza party, ice cream social, or popcorn and movie night at a
local Ronald McDonald House
-- Donate at rmhc.org or drop off spare change in a RMHC Donation Box at
a local participating McDonald's(R) restaurant
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"RMHC wouldn't be able to serve millions of children each year if it weren't for its strong network of volunteers," said Linda Dunham, chairperson of the Global Board of Trustees for RMHC. "More than 30,000 volunteers donate millions of hours, saving the Charity nearly $2 million annually. And, most importantly they enable us to help more than 10,000 families every day. This April, we're celebrating their contributions and making it easier than ever before for people to join our Friends of RMHC volunteer network and give the gift of time."
The "30 Ways in 30 Days" campaign kicks off a new partnership with VolunteerMatch. Through the partnership, visitors to rmhc.org can now search for volunteer opportunities at local RMHC chapters, and chapters can use www.volunteermatch.org to recruit from VolunteerMatch's network of volunteers, the Web's largest of its kind. In addition, RMHC will shine the spotlight on volunteers through a new online community powered by Facebook Connect on the Charity's Web site that provides a forum for people to share their personal stories, read firsthand testimonials from current volunteers and be inspired by the "30 Ways in 30 Days" tips on how they can lend a helping hand this April and year round.
Some of the simple volunteer tips included in the "30 Ways in 30 Days" campaign include:
-- Prepare and serve a home-cooked meal for families staying at a local
Ronald McDonald House(R)
-- Help a local RMHC Chapter with a golf tournament, auction, gala or
fundraising event to raise awareness for the Charity
-- Stuff backpacks with school supplies for children visiting a local
Ronald McDonald Care Mobile(R)
-- Answer phones, greet visitors or do light office work at a local
Ronald McDonald House or Ronald McDonald Family Room(R)
-- Host a pizza party, ice cream social, or popcorn and movie night at a
local Ronald McDonald House
-- Donate at rmhc.org or drop off spare change in a RMHC Donation Box at
a local participating McDonald's(R) restaurant
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Monday, December 29, 2008
Big Brothers Big Sisters Conducts National Search For America's Big Citizen of the Year
/PRNewswire/ -- Big Brothers Big Sisters is conducting a nationwide search for a "Big"-hearted American who has earned the title, America's Big Citizen of the Year. Big Brothers Big Sisters is introducing the Big Citizen of the Year award in recognition of National Mentoring Month, celebrated in January.
Big Brothers Big Sisters is a lead partner in National Mentoring Month, spearheaded by the Harvard Mentoring Project of the Harvard School of Public Health, MENTOR/National Mentoring Partnership, and the Corporation for National and Community Service. The 2009 theme is "Expand Your Universe: Mentor a Child." Mentoring Month includes Thank Your Mentor Day, which in 2009 is January 22.
America's Big Citizen of the Year is Big Brothers Big Sisters' way of expanding its universe, illustrating that changing how our children grow up in America is a citizens' movement that offers opportunities for everyone to get involved.
America's Big Citizen of the Year will be nominated and selected by the public via BigBrothersBigSisters.org. Nominations will come from Americans throughout the country in the form of a 50-100 word description of how a citizen's deeds and actions have made a positive impact on the lives of at-risk children. The winner will be the nominee who receives the most on-line votes.
"America's Big Citizen of the Year is someone who has found a way to make a big difference in the lives of vulnerable children," said Judy Vredenburgh, president and CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. "America's Big Citizen of the Year will be a volunteer, fundraiser, community advocate, police officer, teacher, great neighbor, activist, artist, mentor, Big Brother or Big Sister - an individual whose big acts of kindness, generosity, support and/or selflessness have made huge differences in the lives of at-risk children."
The new award comes as Big Brothers Big Sisters' leaders, donors, professional support staff and volunteers see first-hand the urgent need for what mentoring achieves and how important it is in communities throughout America. With growing economic pressures in families across the country, the need to encourage children to be better students and citizens has perhaps never been greater. Research finds vulnerable or at-risk children who have Big Brothers and Big Sisters are more likely than their peers to succeed in school, behave non-violently and avoid involvement with drugs and other illegal activities. The Big Citizen of the Year award recognizes that successful mentoring takes many supportive people -- families, teachers, religious leaders, coaches, neighbors, philanthropists and so many others.
To nominate someone you know for the Big Brothers Big Sisters Big Citizen of the Year Award, go to BigBrothersBigSisters.org. Submissions will be posted on the website through the month of January, during which time the public can vote for the citizen they believe is worthy of the award. The Big Celebrity dinner will take place in Miami in June, during Big Brothers Big Sisters' national conference.
Learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters and how you can change how our children grow up in America by visiting BigBrothersBigSisters.org.
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Big Brothers Big Sisters is a lead partner in National Mentoring Month, spearheaded by the Harvard Mentoring Project of the Harvard School of Public Health, MENTOR/National Mentoring Partnership, and the Corporation for National and Community Service. The 2009 theme is "Expand Your Universe: Mentor a Child." Mentoring Month includes Thank Your Mentor Day, which in 2009 is January 22.
America's Big Citizen of the Year is Big Brothers Big Sisters' way of expanding its universe, illustrating that changing how our children grow up in America is a citizens' movement that offers opportunities for everyone to get involved.
America's Big Citizen of the Year will be nominated and selected by the public via BigBrothersBigSisters.org. Nominations will come from Americans throughout the country in the form of a 50-100 word description of how a citizen's deeds and actions have made a positive impact on the lives of at-risk children. The winner will be the nominee who receives the most on-line votes.
"America's Big Citizen of the Year is someone who has found a way to make a big difference in the lives of vulnerable children," said Judy Vredenburgh, president and CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. "America's Big Citizen of the Year will be a volunteer, fundraiser, community advocate, police officer, teacher, great neighbor, activist, artist, mentor, Big Brother or Big Sister - an individual whose big acts of kindness, generosity, support and/or selflessness have made huge differences in the lives of at-risk children."
The new award comes as Big Brothers Big Sisters' leaders, donors, professional support staff and volunteers see first-hand the urgent need for what mentoring achieves and how important it is in communities throughout America. With growing economic pressures in families across the country, the need to encourage children to be better students and citizens has perhaps never been greater. Research finds vulnerable or at-risk children who have Big Brothers and Big Sisters are more likely than their peers to succeed in school, behave non-violently and avoid involvement with drugs and other illegal activities. The Big Citizen of the Year award recognizes that successful mentoring takes many supportive people -- families, teachers, religious leaders, coaches, neighbors, philanthropists and so many others.
To nominate someone you know for the Big Brothers Big Sisters Big Citizen of the Year Award, go to BigBrothersBigSisters.org. Submissions will be posted on the website through the month of January, during which time the public can vote for the citizen they believe is worthy of the award. The Big Celebrity dinner will take place in Miami in June, during Big Brothers Big Sisters' national conference.
Learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters and how you can change how our children grow up in America by visiting BigBrothersBigSisters.org.
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Thursday, December 11, 2008
Payless and Fayette Holiday Helpers Grant Wishes of Angels
Helen Rickman of Fayette Holiday Helpers (far left) and Karen Spangler with the school system’s CARE program (far right) accepted the donation of 100 gift coupons at the Payless Shoe Source in Fayetteville from store employees (L-R) Deatrice Hubbard, training supervisor, Vincent Clayton, store manager and Alex Patton, district manager.Thanks to Payless Shoe Source and Helen Rickman of Fayette Holiday Helpers, 100 students in need of shoes on the CARE (Children at Risk in Education) Angel Tree will have their requests granted.
The Shoes 4 Kids program was initiated this year by Payless in response to the economic crisis, its impact on the underprivileged, the significant need across America for children’s shoes and to support smaller, localized nonprofits with a tool to assist them in helping those in need during the holiday season.
Fayette Holiday Helpers received 100 of the 67,000 gift coupons that were distributed nationwide. Each gift coupon is worth $15. Fayette Holiday Helpers, which assists with the CARE Angel Tree project each year, decided to donate all of the gift coupons to help fulfill the wishes of Fayette County’s public school students.
“We are so grateful to Payless Shoes Source and Holiday Helpers for this donation. We had just over 100 requests for shoes this year so this gift is very meaningful to us,” says Karen Spangler, the school system’s CARE coordinator.
A total of 16 schools from all areas of the county will receive the coupons for their Angel Tree participants.
The CARE Angel Tree project is designed to help working families struggling to make ends meet provide basic needs for their children. The tree fulfills nontraditional needs such as clothing, after school program scholarships, eyeglasses and dental work. All adults in the household must be employed in order for students to qualify for the program.
More than 2,600 nonprofits nationwide applied to receive the Payless gift coupons. Holiday Helpers was among the 630 nonprofit agencies selected in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
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