Reynoldstown, a historically working-class African-American neighborhood, has recently seen demographic changes in race and income, and some people don’t know their neighbors as well as they used to.
Social work faculty and students are helping to bring the neighborhood together to build community and strengthen ties through a six-week training program this spring that had neighbors starting the process by simply talking to one another.
The students, faculty and community residents dedicated an art project as part of the efforts on Aug. 14, celebrating the training program and its results. The GSU School of Social work partnered with Resources for Residents and Communities in the project.
Mary Ohmer, assistant professor of social work, said the Reynoldstown project was inspired by a similar successful GSU six-week training program in Thomasville Heights that helped to build relationships between neighbors.
“We wanted to create a gathering place to show that if you do this, you can make your community a better place to live,” Ohmer said.
The program, aimed at both youth and adults, included sessions on how to build relationships with neighbors and respect, as well as communication and conflict resolution skills.
Erich Harvey, a resident of Reynoldstown, said the program helped to open his eyes about needs in the area, as well as the possibilities of change.
“The most important thing that I saw was there were people who cared about me and cared about my well being,” Harvey said.
Young Hughley, CEO for Resources for Residents and Communities, said the program helped to bridge the divides between races and ages.
“The unique thing about this project was that it helped to deal with perceptions that the different groups had, and enabled them to sit down and talk with one another,” Hughley said. “It helped them to realize that they have more in common than they thought they did.
“They discovered that they liked each other, and that they were all a member of a community from one neighborhood,” he added.
The effort’s art project reshaped a once unused, vacant area of land bordering the CSX rail yards on Wylie Street between Selman and Kenyon Streets, allowing residents to work together to create a piece of public art, a platform that helps to tell stories about the neighborhood.
GSU alumna Emma Adair, who earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in sculpture this year, helped spearhead the creation of “Memory Map,” a stage where residents painted tiles and created a map of the area, featuring icons that indicated stories that happened in different parts of the neighborhood.
“I wanted to work on this project because I like working on projects that involve a bunch of different, diverse people,” Adair said. “I hope that we keep adding onto it.”
The next phase of the art project includes the installation this fall of sculptures of standing figures with solar-powered lights, said Adair, who is now pursuing her master’s degree in Pennsylvania.
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Friday, August 20, 2010
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Amerigroup Donates More Than 100 Computers to Georgia Nonprofits
/PRNewswire/ -- At a ceremony today in Atlanta, Amerigroup Corporation (NYSE:AGP) announced the donation of more than 100 gently used computers to 13 community organizations throughout Georgia.
The 103 computers will go to organizations that help children and families, such as Families First and Hosea Feed the Hungry and Homeless, and to job readiness organizations, such as Cobb Works and the Goodwill Centers of North Georgia (Duluth/Decatur). The computers also will be used by businesses to take and track orders and to help educate children.
Atlanta organizations such as Families First, the Empty Stocking Fund and Helping Hands Outreach, as well as Savannah organizations Youth Futures Authority/St. Pius Resource Center and Hosea Feed the Hungry and Homeless, each will receive at least 10 computers. Other organizations receiving some of the computers include Zion Hill Community Development Corporation, STAND (Standing to Achieve New Direction), The Ryan Cameron Foundation, The Burke Community Partnership and Vision, Inc. Some of the equipment also is being donated to Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed's Centers of Hope, which are newly renovated recreational centers that have been closed for years.
All of the computers and monitors are HP desktop or laptop models. The contributions are part of an Amerigroup program that donates gently used equipment to community organizations across the country.
"Amerigroup Community Care appreciates the opportunity to partner with these local organizations that strive to help others," said Amerigroup Georgia Chief Operating Officer Francesca Gary, who attended the event. "Amerigroup's mission is to help those who may need a little more assistance in their care, and we value the opportunity to give back to our communities in a meaningful and beneficial manner."
Georgia Sens. Renee Unterman, Jason Carter (grandson of former President Jimmy Carter) and Ronald Ramsey; and Rep. Randal Mangham and DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson all were scheduled to attend the event, which was held at Atlanta's Atlantic Station.
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The 103 computers will go to organizations that help children and families, such as Families First and Hosea Feed the Hungry and Homeless, and to job readiness organizations, such as Cobb Works and the Goodwill Centers of North Georgia (Duluth/Decatur). The computers also will be used by businesses to take and track orders and to help educate children.
Atlanta organizations such as Families First, the Empty Stocking Fund and Helping Hands Outreach, as well as Savannah organizations Youth Futures Authority/St. Pius Resource Center and Hosea Feed the Hungry and Homeless, each will receive at least 10 computers. Other organizations receiving some of the computers include Zion Hill Community Development Corporation, STAND (Standing to Achieve New Direction), The Ryan Cameron Foundation, The Burke Community Partnership and Vision, Inc. Some of the equipment also is being donated to Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed's Centers of Hope, which are newly renovated recreational centers that have been closed for years.
All of the computers and monitors are HP desktop or laptop models. The contributions are part of an Amerigroup program that donates gently used equipment to community organizations across the country.
"Amerigroup Community Care appreciates the opportunity to partner with these local organizations that strive to help others," said Amerigroup Georgia Chief Operating Officer Francesca Gary, who attended the event. "Amerigroup's mission is to help those who may need a little more assistance in their care, and we value the opportunity to give back to our communities in a meaningful and beneficial manner."
Georgia Sens. Renee Unterman, Jason Carter (grandson of former President Jimmy Carter) and Ronald Ramsey; and Rep. Randal Mangham and DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson all were scheduled to attend the event, which was held at Atlanta's Atlantic Station.
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Thursday, August 12, 2010
Sponsor a Child Today and Give Hope for a Better Tomorrow
I bet you would be shocked to know that every 30 seconds in the United States, a child is abused. And, that annually, there are over 100,000 abuse cases reported in Georgia alone. Many more children need a safe place to live, free from the threat of abuse in the night, or abandonment in the morning.
Since 1965, The Children’s Village at Christian City has been “home” to over 1,000 abandoned, abused, and neglected children! Christian City is a nonprofit, nondenominational organization that provides these special children a safe haven in a loving, family centered, residential setting. They also provide foster care placement in well qualified homes in the community.
The Children’s Village cares for children both by private placement and from the Department of Family and Children Services. With a focus on family, education and healing, Christian City is known and respected throughout the State of Georgia for providing a program of excellence. We minister to those who are dealing with life crisis, such as the death of a parent, divorce, or sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. The program’s family environment allows children from every background to have access to a traditional family unit and support systems to help mend their wounded spirits. The Children’s Village may be the only home some children ever know.
On a 500 acre campus in Union City, the children live in cottages with full time house parents. Each cottage functions as one big family including daily chores, homework, regular church attendance and traditional sit-down meals. Dedicated house parents are an important component of why the Children’s Village has so many successes in turning broken-spirited, angry or sad children, into productive, successful, good hearted kids. Many of these children grow up to become happy, healthy adults who serve the community as firefighters, school teachers, air line employees, or in the legal field. Sara’s story demonstrates this well:
Sarah’s father was in prison and her mother had the mental capacity of a third grader and was unable to care for her. She spent her adolescent years living at Christian City. Sarah says, “If it weren’t for Christian City, I don’t know where I would be. I came to Christian City at the end of my 6th grade…I was twelve. I had been living in and out of emergency shelters. My house parents treated me as their own child from the first time we ever met. Even if I was hard to get along with, they still loved me. We had a great life and were very connected as a family. My house parents encouraged me in my school work and in extra activities. When I was struggling academically, they hired a tutor. They were always there to help me with my homework, and then later to help me apply for a good college. I recently graduated from Goizueta School of Business and am planning to go to law school. I am where I am today, because of the positive influence of my house parents and of Christian City.”
Christian City has a new focus on fundraising through their Child Sponsorship Program, where you can Sponsor a Child for as little as $30 a month. This is an easy way to support The Children’s Village and is very simply done with a check, debit, or credit card. If you are able to give less than “a buck a day” on a monthly basis, would you please consider Sponsoring a Child Today?
For more information on The Children’s Village at Christian City access www.christiancity.org or call Heidi Becker at 770-703-2636.
Note from Georgia Front Page: The Children's Village at Christian City is one of "our" charities. We can vouch for the fantastic work they do with children and with all ages. They are a great group of caring people who are ethical, honest, and give their hearts and time to help so many. We hope you'll join us in supporting these kids! - JMD
Since 1965, The Children’s Village at Christian City has been “home” to over 1,000 abandoned, abused, and neglected children! Christian City is a nonprofit, nondenominational organization that provides these special children a safe haven in a loving, family centered, residential setting. They also provide foster care placement in well qualified homes in the community.
The Children’s Village cares for children both by private placement and from the Department of Family and Children Services. With a focus on family, education and healing, Christian City is known and respected throughout the State of Georgia for providing a program of excellence. We minister to those who are dealing with life crisis, such as the death of a parent, divorce, or sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. The program’s family environment allows children from every background to have access to a traditional family unit and support systems to help mend their wounded spirits. The Children’s Village may be the only home some children ever know.
On a 500 acre campus in Union City, the children live in cottages with full time house parents. Each cottage functions as one big family including daily chores, homework, regular church attendance and traditional sit-down meals. Dedicated house parents are an important component of why the Children’s Village has so many successes in turning broken-spirited, angry or sad children, into productive, successful, good hearted kids. Many of these children grow up to become happy, healthy adults who serve the community as firefighters, school teachers, air line employees, or in the legal field. Sara’s story demonstrates this well:
Sarah’s father was in prison and her mother had the mental capacity of a third grader and was unable to care for her. She spent her adolescent years living at Christian City. Sarah says, “If it weren’t for Christian City, I don’t know where I would be. I came to Christian City at the end of my 6th grade…I was twelve. I had been living in and out of emergency shelters. My house parents treated me as their own child from the first time we ever met. Even if I was hard to get along with, they still loved me. We had a great life and were very connected as a family. My house parents encouraged me in my school work and in extra activities. When I was struggling academically, they hired a tutor. They were always there to help me with my homework, and then later to help me apply for a good college. I recently graduated from Goizueta School of Business and am planning to go to law school. I am where I am today, because of the positive influence of my house parents and of Christian City.”
Christian City has a new focus on fundraising through their Child Sponsorship Program, where you can Sponsor a Child for as little as $30 a month. This is an easy way to support The Children’s Village and is very simply done with a check, debit, or credit card. If you are able to give less than “a buck a day” on a monthly basis, would you please consider Sponsoring a Child Today?
For more information on The Children’s Village at Christian City access www.christiancity.org or call Heidi Becker at 770-703-2636.
Note from Georgia Front Page: The Children's Village at Christian City is one of "our" charities. We can vouch for the fantastic work they do with children and with all ages. They are a great group of caring people who are ethical, honest, and give their hearts and time to help so many. We hope you'll join us in supporting these kids! - JMD
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Salvation Army Issues a Call to Action for Metro Atlanta Residents
/PRNewswire/ -- Never has the demand for The Salvation Army's work been so dire, nor more taxing on its program staff, volunteers and operational resources. Record-breaking unemployment, hot weather, and the economy have The Salvation Army fielding some 40,000 calls a day from metro Atlanta residents struggling to make ends meet this summer. The Salvation Army is issuing a Call To Action asking metro Atlanta residents to phone, mail, or click donations of $50 or more to help raise an additional $300,000 in much-needed revenue by September 30, 2010.
"It's disheartening for our staff and volunteers to see and hear the calls for help from hurting individuals and families," says Major James Seiler, The Salvation Army Metro Atlanta Area Commander who says the Army is working diligently to try to meet the needs of the callers. "People are not just calling on the phones for our assistance."
Seiler notes an August 4th Back To School Bash at The Salvation Army's Lawrenceville facilities where more than 900 people showed up in hopes of receiving one of the 482 back to school backpacks the organization was distributing, as well as, the fact that since opening a new shelter for homeless families in November 2009, "177 families (which included 253 homeless children) have moved from the shelter to permanent housing and yet the beds are once again filled and calls are coming in everyday from more families seeking shelter."
While partnerships with agencies such as Georgia Power and United Way have provided the necessary funds to grant these callers emergency financial assistance, the cost to continue to serve these individuals and families in need is taxing the organization's operational expenses.
"Thus far, we've had to restructure our phone systems to allow a greater number of calls to get through, but the number of calls has already shut-down our phone system twice. We've also spent an additional $140,000 in overtime and other staff expenses to allow more hours to schedule appointments."
Seiler says with the recession forcing many local organizations to reduce their workforce and operational hours, The Salvation Army is one of the few remaining agencies where these callers can be referred and possibly receive help. "But, we need the community's full support to continue to meet these needs."
The Salvation Army is asking metro Atlanta residents with the capacity to give, to make a minimum $50 donation today through a number of user-friendly options.
Donations may be made by using the Call To Action link at www.salvationarmyatlanta.org, by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY, by mailing your donation c/o Call To Action, The Salvation Army PO Box 49247, Atlanta GA 30359.
Donors can share the Call To Action message through Facebook and Twitter widgets and get real-time updates at www.salvationarmyatlanta.org, or at www.facebook.com/salvationarmymetroatlanta.
"Additionally, we are reaching out to our major donors, corporate and foundation partners to raise an additional $500,000 in support," explains Seiler. "We are committed to meet these growing needs, and no stone will be left unturned in our efforts to do so."
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"It's disheartening for our staff and volunteers to see and hear the calls for help from hurting individuals and families," says Major James Seiler, The Salvation Army Metro Atlanta Area Commander who says the Army is working diligently to try to meet the needs of the callers. "People are not just calling on the phones for our assistance."
Seiler notes an August 4th Back To School Bash at The Salvation Army's Lawrenceville facilities where more than 900 people showed up in hopes of receiving one of the 482 back to school backpacks the organization was distributing, as well as, the fact that since opening a new shelter for homeless families in November 2009, "177 families (which included 253 homeless children) have moved from the shelter to permanent housing and yet the beds are once again filled and calls are coming in everyday from more families seeking shelter."
While partnerships with agencies such as Georgia Power and United Way have provided the necessary funds to grant these callers emergency financial assistance, the cost to continue to serve these individuals and families in need is taxing the organization's operational expenses.
"Thus far, we've had to restructure our phone systems to allow a greater number of calls to get through, but the number of calls has already shut-down our phone system twice. We've also spent an additional $140,000 in overtime and other staff expenses to allow more hours to schedule appointments."
Seiler says with the recession forcing many local organizations to reduce their workforce and operational hours, The Salvation Army is one of the few remaining agencies where these callers can be referred and possibly receive help. "But, we need the community's full support to continue to meet these needs."
The Salvation Army is asking metro Atlanta residents with the capacity to give, to make a minimum $50 donation today through a number of user-friendly options.
Donations may be made by using the Call To Action link at www.salvationarmyatlanta.org, by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY, by mailing your donation c/o Call To Action, The Salvation Army PO Box 49247, Atlanta GA 30359.
Donors can share the Call To Action message through Facebook and Twitter widgets and get real-time updates at www.salvationarmyatlanta.org, or at www.facebook.com/salvationarmymetroatlanta.
"Additionally, we are reaching out to our major donors, corporate and foundation partners to raise an additional $500,000 in support," explains Seiler. "We are committed to meet these growing needs, and no stone will be left unturned in our efforts to do so."
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Monday, August 09, 2010
Web Users Increasingly Rely on Social Media to Seek Help in a Disaster
/PRNewswire/ -- A new American Red Cross survey shows many web users would turn to social media to seek help for themselves or others during emergencies--and they expect first responders to be listening.
The online survey asked 1,058 adults about their use of social media sites in emergency situations. It found that if they needed help and couldn't reach 9-1-1, one in five would try to contact responders through a digital means such as e-mail, websites or social media. If web users knew of someone else who needed help, 44 percent would ask other people in their social network to contact authorities, 35 percent would post a request for help directly on a response agency's Facebook page and 28 percent would send a direct Twitter message to responders.
Web users also have clear expectations about how first responders should be answering their requests. The survey showed that 69 percent said that emergency responders should be monitoring social media sites in order to quickly send help--and nearly half believe a response agency is probably already responding to any urgent request they might see.
And the survey respondents expected quick response to an online appeal for help--74 percent expected help to come less than an hour after their tweet or Facebook post.
"The first and best choice for anyone in an emergency situation is to call 9-1-1," said Gail McGovern, American Red Cross president and CEO. "But when phone lines are down or the 9-1-1 system is overwhelmed, we know that people will be persistent in their quest for help and use social media for that purpose."
The Red Cross commissioned the survey in advance of an Emergency Social Data Summit set for Thursday, August 12, in Washington, D.C. The meeting, convened by the Red Cross, will bring together thought leaders and experts in the government, social media, emergency response and the non-profit sectors to discuss better ways to handle information that flows through the web during disasters.
"The social web is creating a fundamental shift in disaster response--one that will ask emergency managers, government agencies and aid organizations to mix time-honored expertise with real-time input from the public," McGovern said. "We need to work together to better respond to that shift."
The Red Cross survey also found that among web users, social media sites are the fourth most popular source for emergency information, just behind television news, radio and online news sites. More web users say they get their emergency information from social media than from a NOAA weather radio, government website or emergency text message system. One in five social media users also report posting eyewitness accounts of emergency events to their accounts.
Online Survey of 1,058 respondents representative of the U.S. population aged 18 and older. Survey conducted on July 22-23, 2010 by Infogroup / ORC.
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The online survey asked 1,058 adults about their use of social media sites in emergency situations. It found that if they needed help and couldn't reach 9-1-1, one in five would try to contact responders through a digital means such as e-mail, websites or social media. If web users knew of someone else who needed help, 44 percent would ask other people in their social network to contact authorities, 35 percent would post a request for help directly on a response agency's Facebook page and 28 percent would send a direct Twitter message to responders.
Web users also have clear expectations about how first responders should be answering their requests. The survey showed that 69 percent said that emergency responders should be monitoring social media sites in order to quickly send help--and nearly half believe a response agency is probably already responding to any urgent request they might see.
And the survey respondents expected quick response to an online appeal for help--74 percent expected help to come less than an hour after their tweet or Facebook post.
"The first and best choice for anyone in an emergency situation is to call 9-1-1," said Gail McGovern, American Red Cross president and CEO. "But when phone lines are down or the 9-1-1 system is overwhelmed, we know that people will be persistent in their quest for help and use social media for that purpose."
The Red Cross commissioned the survey in advance of an Emergency Social Data Summit set for Thursday, August 12, in Washington, D.C. The meeting, convened by the Red Cross, will bring together thought leaders and experts in the government, social media, emergency response and the non-profit sectors to discuss better ways to handle information that flows through the web during disasters.
"The social web is creating a fundamental shift in disaster response--one that will ask emergency managers, government agencies and aid organizations to mix time-honored expertise with real-time input from the public," McGovern said. "We need to work together to better respond to that shift."
The Red Cross survey also found that among web users, social media sites are the fourth most popular source for emergency information, just behind television news, radio and online news sites. More web users say they get their emergency information from social media than from a NOAA weather radio, government website or emergency text message system. One in five social media users also report posting eyewitness accounts of emergency events to their accounts.
Online Survey of 1,058 respondents representative of the U.S. population aged 18 and older. Survey conducted on July 22-23, 2010 by Infogroup / ORC.
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Thursday, August 05, 2010
Start The School Year Right - Donate Your Old Cell Phone to HopeLine
/PRNewswire/ -- Students with the hottest new cell phones on their back-to-school shopping lists have an easy way to get rid of their old ones. Verizon Wireless encourages students and their parents to donate their no-longer-used cell phones and accessories to HopeLine®, the company's cell phone recycling and refurbishing program, to benefit victims of domestic violence.
HopeLine collects no-longer-used wireless phones and accessories in any condition from any wireless service provider. The phones are then refurbished or recycled in an environmentally sound way. Refurbished phones - complete with 3,000 minutes of wireless service - are provided to local domestic violence organizations or local government and law enforcement agencies for use with their domestic violence clients.
As part of the refurbishing and recycling processes, HopeLine's recycling vendor removes all customer information from donated phones, including contacts, text messages, games and apps, and images, prior to distributing the cell phones for reuse.
Donating a no-longer-used wireless phone to HopeLine is an easy way for students to help victims of domestic violence and support domestic violence awareness organizations. Students, graduates and family members can donate their wireless phones and accessories at any Verizon Wireless Communications Store across the country. For students who can't make it to a store, phones and accessories can also be sent by mail with the postage-paid label. Students, faculty members and parents planning activities and events for their schools, colleges or universities should also consider organizing a HopeLine phone drive.
Since the October 2001 launch of the HopeLine cell phone recycling program, Verizon Wireless has collected more than 7 million phones, distributed more than 90,000 phones with free wireless service to victims of domestic violence, and awarded cash grants of more than $7.9 million to organizations working to prevent domestic violence. HopeLine has properly disposed of nearly 1.6 million no-longer-used wireless phones in an environmentally sound way and kept more than 200 tons of electronic waste and batteries out of landfills.
For additional information on Verizon Wireless' HopeLine program and for Verizon Wireless Communications Store locations, visit www.verizonwireless.com/hopeline.
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HopeLine collects no-longer-used wireless phones and accessories in any condition from any wireless service provider. The phones are then refurbished or recycled in an environmentally sound way. Refurbished phones - complete with 3,000 minutes of wireless service - are provided to local domestic violence organizations or local government and law enforcement agencies for use with their domestic violence clients.
As part of the refurbishing and recycling processes, HopeLine's recycling vendor removes all customer information from donated phones, including contacts, text messages, games and apps, and images, prior to distributing the cell phones for reuse.
Donating a no-longer-used wireless phone to HopeLine is an easy way for students to help victims of domestic violence and support domestic violence awareness organizations. Students, graduates and family members can donate their wireless phones and accessories at any Verizon Wireless Communications Store across the country. For students who can't make it to a store, phones and accessories can also be sent by mail with the postage-paid label. Students, faculty members and parents planning activities and events for their schools, colleges or universities should also consider organizing a HopeLine phone drive.
Since the October 2001 launch of the HopeLine cell phone recycling program, Verizon Wireless has collected more than 7 million phones, distributed more than 90,000 phones with free wireless service to victims of domestic violence, and awarded cash grants of more than $7.9 million to organizations working to prevent domestic violence. HopeLine has properly disposed of nearly 1.6 million no-longer-used wireless phones in an environmentally sound way and kept more than 200 tons of electronic waste and batteries out of landfills.
For additional information on Verizon Wireless' HopeLine program and for Verizon Wireless Communications Store locations, visit www.verizonwireless.com/hopeline.
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Thursday, July 29, 2010
How Shopping Smart Can Help Your Favorite Charities
(StatePoint) How do you shop? When faced with aisles of cleaners that all claim to do the same thing, electronics that play the same content or cars that all get you where you need to go, most people choose products based on quality and price.
But a new trend is developing as more consumers are taking into account a company's charitable contributions or standing in the community.
Now more than ever, shoppers want to buy products from good corporate citizens. Especially in light of recent worldwide crises, many companies are providing assistance quickly -- and consumers are taking note. For example, Wal-Mart financially supported Red Cross emergency relief efforts in Haiti after the earthquake and sent pre-packaged food kits, helping to raise its standing in the eyes of many.
But corporate social responsibility isn't limited to international disasters. Many organizations contribute to their local communities daily, supporting such efforts as education, environmental sustainability, disease prevention, animal care and rescue, and safety programs.
If educational causes are important to you, for example, look for products from companies such as Honeywell or Toyota, that have long sponsored programs to assist teachers and students. By providing science education grants to teachers and scholarships to minority and disadvantaged students, Toyota is among many corporations helping enhance community schools, while Honeywell supports classroom safety programs.
Here are some other tips for becoming a more conscientious shopper:
* Do Your Research: There are several publications that report on companies' corporate social responsibility, but you can also go straight to the source and check the Web sites for your most frequently bought purchases. Search "environment" or "corporate social responsibility" to learn what companies are doing to make the world a better place.
* Switch Teams: If a company doesn't give to any charities or causes, or you don't like the ones to which they give, switch products and start buying from a company whose charitable work you support.
* Start with the Cause: Instead of researching companies, you can research causes and organizations to learn which companies are supporting them. You can usually find this information on a nonprofit's Web site or in its annual report. For instance, by visiting the National Safety Council's Web site, you can find lists of corporate partners and the initiatives they co-sponsor, such as free teen driving programs.
* Participate: Take part in corporate-sponsored events. For example, National Public Lands Day is the largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve and enhance U.S. public lands, and has been made possible by a 10-year sponsorship from Toyota. In 2009, 150,000 volunteers built trails and bridges, removed trash and invasive plants, planted trees and restored water resources. If you're interested in attending this year's event, visit publiclandsday.org.
Remember, actions speak louder than words. Buying products benefiting causes and charities close to your heart is more powerful than talking. With every purchase, you can change your community or even the world!
-----
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But a new trend is developing as more consumers are taking into account a company's charitable contributions or standing in the community.
Now more than ever, shoppers want to buy products from good corporate citizens. Especially in light of recent worldwide crises, many companies are providing assistance quickly -- and consumers are taking note. For example, Wal-Mart financially supported Red Cross emergency relief efforts in Haiti after the earthquake and sent pre-packaged food kits, helping to raise its standing in the eyes of many.
But corporate social responsibility isn't limited to international disasters. Many organizations contribute to their local communities daily, supporting such efforts as education, environmental sustainability, disease prevention, animal care and rescue, and safety programs.
If educational causes are important to you, for example, look for products from companies such as Honeywell or Toyota, that have long sponsored programs to assist teachers and students. By providing science education grants to teachers and scholarships to minority and disadvantaged students, Toyota is among many corporations helping enhance community schools, while Honeywell supports classroom safety programs.
Here are some other tips for becoming a more conscientious shopper:
* Do Your Research: There are several publications that report on companies' corporate social responsibility, but you can also go straight to the source and check the Web sites for your most frequently bought purchases. Search "environment" or "corporate social responsibility" to learn what companies are doing to make the world a better place.
* Switch Teams: If a company doesn't give to any charities or causes, or you don't like the ones to which they give, switch products and start buying from a company whose charitable work you support.
* Start with the Cause: Instead of researching companies, you can research causes and organizations to learn which companies are supporting them. You can usually find this information on a nonprofit's Web site or in its annual report. For instance, by visiting the National Safety Council's Web site, you can find lists of corporate partners and the initiatives they co-sponsor, such as free teen driving programs.
* Participate: Take part in corporate-sponsored events. For example, National Public Lands Day is the largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve and enhance U.S. public lands, and has been made possible by a 10-year sponsorship from Toyota. In 2009, 150,000 volunteers built trails and bridges, removed trash and invasive plants, planted trees and restored water resources. If you're interested in attending this year's event, visit publiclandsday.org.
Remember, actions speak louder than words. Buying products benefiting causes and charities close to your heart is more powerful than talking. With every purchase, you can change your community or even the world!
-----
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www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
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Tuesday, July 27, 2010
MetLife Foundation Announces Grants to Twelve Local Food Banks
/PRNewswire/ -- MetLife Foundation today announced grants to twelve food banks. The grants, which total $450,000, will help the food banks respond to increased needs in local communities around the country. Since December 2008, MetLife Foundation has contributed $900,000 to food banks nationwide.
"Food banks and their partners play a critical role in meeting the needs of communities' most vulnerable residents - children, older adults, and the economically disadvantaged," said Dennis White, president and CEO of MetLife Foundation. "We are pleased to support their work, which is vital to community health and well-being."
The food banks receiving MetLife Foundation grants are:
-- Atlanta Community Food Bank (Atlanta, Ga.)
-- Community FoodBank of New Jersey (Hillside, N.J.)
-- Feeding America Tampa Bay (Tampa, Fla.)
-- The Foodbank, Inc. (Dayton, Ohio)
-- Food Bank of Central New York (East Syracuse, N.Y.)
-- Food Bank for New York City (New York, N.Y.)
-- Foodshare, Inc. (Bloomfield, Conn.)
-- Greater Boston Food Bank (Boston, Mass.)
-- North Texas Food Bank (Dallas, Texas)
-- Northern Illinois Food Bank (St. Charles, Ill.)
-- Rhode Island Community Food Bank (Providence, R.I.)
-- St. Louis Area Food Bank (St. Louis, Mo.)
MetLife Foundation was established by MetLife in 1976 to carry on its longstanding tradition of contributions and community involvement. Grants support health, education, civic and cultural programs. For more information about the Foundation, visit www.metlife.org.
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"Food banks and their partners play a critical role in meeting the needs of communities' most vulnerable residents - children, older adults, and the economically disadvantaged," said Dennis White, president and CEO of MetLife Foundation. "We are pleased to support their work, which is vital to community health and well-being."
The food banks receiving MetLife Foundation grants are:
-- Atlanta Community Food Bank (Atlanta, Ga.)
-- Community FoodBank of New Jersey (Hillside, N.J.)
-- Feeding America Tampa Bay (Tampa, Fla.)
-- The Foodbank, Inc. (Dayton, Ohio)
-- Food Bank of Central New York (East Syracuse, N.Y.)
-- Food Bank for New York City (New York, N.Y.)
-- Foodshare, Inc. (Bloomfield, Conn.)
-- Greater Boston Food Bank (Boston, Mass.)
-- North Texas Food Bank (Dallas, Texas)
-- Northern Illinois Food Bank (St. Charles, Ill.)
-- Rhode Island Community Food Bank (Providence, R.I.)
-- St. Louis Area Food Bank (St. Louis, Mo.)
MetLife Foundation was established by MetLife in 1976 to carry on its longstanding tradition of contributions and community involvement. Grants support health, education, civic and cultural programs. For more information about the Foundation, visit www.metlife.org.
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Extremely Active Hurricane Season Looms - American Red Cross Launches New Disaster Relief Fundraising Drive
/PRNewswire-/ -- The American Red Cross has launched a new fundraising drive in anticipation of a very active hurricane season that could be made even worse by the Gulf Coast oil spill.
"We are worried about predictions of a severe hurricane season and the possibility that people will need to evacuate their homes for longer periods of time, given the oil in the Gulf," said Gail McGovern, president and CEO of the Red Cross.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts three to seven major hurricanes this year. Major hurricanes are those Category 3, 4 and 5 storms that do the most damage -- such as Hurricanes Andrew, Katrina, Rita and Wilma -- with winds of more than 100 mph.
These predictions bear an eerie resemblance to the 2004 and 2005 hurricane seasons, when multiple major hurricanes, including Katrina, struck the United States. More than 35 million people live in regions vulnerable to Atlantic Ocean hurricanes, and many in the Gulf Coast region are already experiencing hardship as a result of the oil spill.
In preparation for this hurricane season, the Red Cross has already spent $30 million training and preparing volunteers and pre-positioning equipment and materials and is gearing up to provide 1 million meals a day, shelter for 350,000 people a day and deployment of 50,000 volunteers.
"Practicing what we preach on preparedness, we are asking the public for their support in advance, rather than after a disaster strikes," said McGovern.
"Contributions to the fundraising drive will support our readiness to the 70,000 disasters the Red Cross responds to every year, whether they are hurricanes that affect millions of people, floods that affect thousands, or a house fire that drives one family from their home," added McGovern.
While media attention has focused on the Gulf oil spill and on Haiti, the American Red Cross has responded to 29 significant disasters in the U.S. so far this year. These have included floods in Tennessee, North Dakota, the mid-Atlantic and Northeast, tornadoes in the South and Midwest, and major fires in communities across the country.
As part of the new disaster response fundraising effort, kicked off just before the height of the hurricane season in August and September, the Red Cross is airing television ads, sending targeted fundraising appeals, using social media and making public appeals for disaster donations.
"Red Cross chapters across the country will be asking for help for disaster relief, and we hope people will respond," McGovern said. "Please click, text or call to donate to the Red Cross to help people affected by disasters. Every single donation brings hope to those in need."
People who want to make a contribution can go to www.redcross.org or call 1-800-REDCROSS to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief -- or text REDCROSS to 90999.
The Red Cross spends about $450 million a year responding to nearly 70,000 disasters across the country -- floods, hurricanes, wildfires, tornados and home fires.
You can help people affected by disasters like floods, fires, tornadoes and hurricanes, as well as countless crises at home and around the world, by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance in response to disasters. Visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. Contributions may also be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.
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"We are worried about predictions of a severe hurricane season and the possibility that people will need to evacuate their homes for longer periods of time, given the oil in the Gulf," said Gail McGovern, president and CEO of the Red Cross.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts three to seven major hurricanes this year. Major hurricanes are those Category 3, 4 and 5 storms that do the most damage -- such as Hurricanes Andrew, Katrina, Rita and Wilma -- with winds of more than 100 mph.
These predictions bear an eerie resemblance to the 2004 and 2005 hurricane seasons, when multiple major hurricanes, including Katrina, struck the United States. More than 35 million people live in regions vulnerable to Atlantic Ocean hurricanes, and many in the Gulf Coast region are already experiencing hardship as a result of the oil spill.
In preparation for this hurricane season, the Red Cross has already spent $30 million training and preparing volunteers and pre-positioning equipment and materials and is gearing up to provide 1 million meals a day, shelter for 350,000 people a day and deployment of 50,000 volunteers.
"Practicing what we preach on preparedness, we are asking the public for their support in advance, rather than after a disaster strikes," said McGovern.
"Contributions to the fundraising drive will support our readiness to the 70,000 disasters the Red Cross responds to every year, whether they are hurricanes that affect millions of people, floods that affect thousands, or a house fire that drives one family from their home," added McGovern.
While media attention has focused on the Gulf oil spill and on Haiti, the American Red Cross has responded to 29 significant disasters in the U.S. so far this year. These have included floods in Tennessee, North Dakota, the mid-Atlantic and Northeast, tornadoes in the South and Midwest, and major fires in communities across the country.
As part of the new disaster response fundraising effort, kicked off just before the height of the hurricane season in August and September, the Red Cross is airing television ads, sending targeted fundraising appeals, using social media and making public appeals for disaster donations.
"Red Cross chapters across the country will be asking for help for disaster relief, and we hope people will respond," McGovern said. "Please click, text or call to donate to the Red Cross to help people affected by disasters. Every single donation brings hope to those in need."
People who want to make a contribution can go to www.redcross.org or call 1-800-REDCROSS to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief -- or text REDCROSS to 90999.
The Red Cross spends about $450 million a year responding to nearly 70,000 disasters across the country -- floods, hurricanes, wildfires, tornados and home fires.
You can help people affected by disasters like floods, fires, tornadoes and hurricanes, as well as countless crises at home and around the world, by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance in response to disasters. Visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. Contributions may also be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.
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Friday, July 23, 2010
Major Trail, Rail Corridors get Boost from Norfolk Southern
/PRNewswire/ -- Employees of Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE:NSC) are teaming up with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and local trail-maintaining clubs in a one-day "Spruce-It-Up" campaign to clean and improve one of the nation's longest and most popular scenic trails.
The 2,175-mile Appalachian Trail roughly parallels the 2,500-mile Crescent Corridor, a multistate freight rail network that Norfolk Southern is improving with the help of local, state, and federal partners to create green jobs, stimulate local economies, and help relieve highway congestion.
"These two initiatives - the Appalachian Trail and the Crescent Corridor - demonstrate how the employees of Norfolk Southern share and support our corporate commitment to responsible sustainability practices that are good for communities, customers, and stockholders," said Blair Wimbush, vice president real estate and corporate sustainability officer of Norfolk Southern. "The Appalachian Trail is adjacent to a large portion of our operating territory, and many of our employees are avid hikers and outdoor sports enthusiasts."
Members of the company's official employee volunteer organization, The Thoroughbred Volunteers, are pooling resources in four locations on Saturday, July 24, for the "Spruce-It-Up" campaign. It's the biggest single volunteer project taken on by the organization, founded in 2006.
"We're delighted that Norfolk Southern employees have joined the ranks of volunteers who are dedicated to preserving the Appalachian Trail," said Jeanne Mahoney, volunteer resources coordinator for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. "The trail is a natural resource to be treasured and forever preserved, and this effort helps us achieve our mission."
NS employees will work on the Appalachian Trail at three locations, and another group will work at a seaside state park.
In Atlanta, employees will work with the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club to transport lumber and other materials for refurbishing the Plumorchard Gap Shelter in North Georgia, one of more than 250 backcountry shelters located along the AT.
A group in Harrisburg, Pa., will work with the Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club, clearing brush from the AT at Pine Grove Furnace State Park and spreading stone in a nearby parking lot.
Roanoke, Va., employees, working with the Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club, will clean culverts and ditches and cut back tree overgrowth at AT landmark McAfee Knob near Catawba, Va.
Norfolk, Va., employees will assemble at False Cape State Park on the coast in Virginia Beach, working with the Tidewater Appalachian Trail Club to remove trash and debris. The Tidewater club helps maintain the AT as well as the park.
Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.
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The 2,175-mile Appalachian Trail roughly parallels the 2,500-mile Crescent Corridor, a multistate freight rail network that Norfolk Southern is improving with the help of local, state, and federal partners to create green jobs, stimulate local economies, and help relieve highway congestion.
"These two initiatives - the Appalachian Trail and the Crescent Corridor - demonstrate how the employees of Norfolk Southern share and support our corporate commitment to responsible sustainability practices that are good for communities, customers, and stockholders," said Blair Wimbush, vice president real estate and corporate sustainability officer of Norfolk Southern. "The Appalachian Trail is adjacent to a large portion of our operating territory, and many of our employees are avid hikers and outdoor sports enthusiasts."
Members of the company's official employee volunteer organization, The Thoroughbred Volunteers, are pooling resources in four locations on Saturday, July 24, for the "Spruce-It-Up" campaign. It's the biggest single volunteer project taken on by the organization, founded in 2006.
"We're delighted that Norfolk Southern employees have joined the ranks of volunteers who are dedicated to preserving the Appalachian Trail," said Jeanne Mahoney, volunteer resources coordinator for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. "The trail is a natural resource to be treasured and forever preserved, and this effort helps us achieve our mission."
NS employees will work on the Appalachian Trail at three locations, and another group will work at a seaside state park.
In Atlanta, employees will work with the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club to transport lumber and other materials for refurbishing the Plumorchard Gap Shelter in North Georgia, one of more than 250 backcountry shelters located along the AT.
A group in Harrisburg, Pa., will work with the Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club, clearing brush from the AT at Pine Grove Furnace State Park and spreading stone in a nearby parking lot.
Roanoke, Va., employees, working with the Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club, will clean culverts and ditches and cut back tree overgrowth at AT landmark McAfee Knob near Catawba, Va.
Norfolk, Va., employees will assemble at False Cape State Park on the coast in Virginia Beach, working with the Tidewater Appalachian Trail Club to remove trash and debris. The Tidewater club helps maintain the AT as well as the park.
Norfolk Southern Corporation is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.
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Sodexo's 'Feeding Our Future®' Program Provides 13,000 Summer Lunches to Atlanta Children
/PRNewswire/ -- Leveraging a $20,000 "Feeding Our Future®" grant from the Sodexo Foundation, the Sodexo account at UPS Headquarters and The Coca-Cola Company celebrated serving 13,000 free lunches to Atlanta's children. Former U.N. Ambassador Andrew Young acknowledged volunteers for their efforts during a special barbeque held for city youth yesterday at the Andrew and Walter Young Family YMCA. Sodexo's Feeding Our Future program provides school children who rely on free and reduced-price meals during the academic year with nutritious lunches during the summer break.
"With nearly one in four children living in households that find it increasingly difficult to put food on the table, there are bound to be additional challenges when the school doors close for the summer," said Stephen J. Brady, president of the Sodexo Foundation. "As the leading food service provider to public schools throughout this country, we understand the needs that exist and we are determined to make a positive impact that leads to the elimination of hunger in this country."
Every day, an estimated 17 million U.S. children rely on school breakfast and lunch programs as their only guaranteed meals. When schools shut down for the summer, federal meal programs feed only about three million, leaving 13 million children at risk for hunger. To help bridge this gap, the Sodexo Foundation, the independent charitable organization of Sodexo, Inc., has provided free lunches to children through its summer feeding program, Feeding Our Future, since 1997. The Sodexo Foundation provides grants to local Sodexo accounts to purchase food for the meals and local Sodexo employees prepare the meals each day.
In addition to Atlanta, Feeding Our Future will be providing more than 300,000 summer lunches in 19 other cities in the United States: Boston, Mass., Buffalo, N.Y., Camden, N.J., Chattanooga, Tenn., Chicago, Ill., Denver, Colo., Detroit, Mich., Fort Worth, Texas, Honolulu, Hawaii, Houston, Texas, Los Angeles, Calif., Miami, Fla., New York, N.Y., Oklahoma City, Okla., San Jose, Calif., St. Cloud, Minn., St. Louis, Mo., Terre Haute, Ind. and Washington, D.C.
Feeding Our Future is a program of the Sodexo Foundation, an independent charitable organization supporting hunger-related initiatives that focus on eliminating the root causes of hunger in the U.S. Sodexo pays all administrative costs of the Foundation to ensure that all money raised is directed to those in need.
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"With nearly one in four children living in households that find it increasingly difficult to put food on the table, there are bound to be additional challenges when the school doors close for the summer," said Stephen J. Brady, president of the Sodexo Foundation. "As the leading food service provider to public schools throughout this country, we understand the needs that exist and we are determined to make a positive impact that leads to the elimination of hunger in this country."
Every day, an estimated 17 million U.S. children rely on school breakfast and lunch programs as their only guaranteed meals. When schools shut down for the summer, federal meal programs feed only about three million, leaving 13 million children at risk for hunger. To help bridge this gap, the Sodexo Foundation, the independent charitable organization of Sodexo, Inc., has provided free lunches to children through its summer feeding program, Feeding Our Future, since 1997. The Sodexo Foundation provides grants to local Sodexo accounts to purchase food for the meals and local Sodexo employees prepare the meals each day.
In addition to Atlanta, Feeding Our Future will be providing more than 300,000 summer lunches in 19 other cities in the United States: Boston, Mass., Buffalo, N.Y., Camden, N.J., Chattanooga, Tenn., Chicago, Ill., Denver, Colo., Detroit, Mich., Fort Worth, Texas, Honolulu, Hawaii, Houston, Texas, Los Angeles, Calif., Miami, Fla., New York, N.Y., Oklahoma City, Okla., San Jose, Calif., St. Cloud, Minn., St. Louis, Mo., Terre Haute, Ind. and Washington, D.C.
Feeding Our Future is a program of the Sodexo Foundation, an independent charitable organization supporting hunger-related initiatives that focus on eliminating the root causes of hunger in the U.S. Sodexo pays all administrative costs of the Foundation to ensure that all money raised is directed to those in need.
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Monday, July 12, 2010
2010 Walk to Cure Diabetes: JDRF Georgia Chapter and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Ga. Need Your Help
/PRNewswire/ -- As the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation's (JDRF) largest and most successful event, the Walk to Cure Diabetes brings together corporations, families, friends and schools to walk three miles in support of the three million Americans living with type 1 diabetes. This year's event will take place Saturday, October 16, at Centennial Olympic Park and Sunday, October 17, at Johns Creek Technology Park.
For the second year in a row Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGA) will team up with JDRF as the Presenting Partner of the 2010 Walk to Cure Diabetes. "JDRF is immensely appreciative of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia's continued participation," said Clanci Jordan, Executive Director. "With the support of our partners, the 2010 Walk to Cure Diabetes is expected to once again exceed $2 million dollars to bring us one step closer to the ultimate finish line-a cure for type 1 diabetes."
"It was important for us to sponsor the Walk to Cure Diabetes again this year," said Monye Connolly, President, BCBSGA. "It is our mission to have a direct impact on the well-being of the customers we serve and the overall health of our communities, and JDRF helps us in achieving this mission."
There is still time for additional companies to become a part of the Walk to Cure Diabetes and help find a cure for the more than 400,000 Georgians living with this disease. JDRF will host a Corporate Recruitment Breakfast at the Buckhead Club on Thursday, July 15, 2010, at 7:15 a.m. For more information on this opportunity or to attend, call 770-395-5957.
Additional Partners of the JDRF Georgia Chapter Walk to Cure Diabetes include, Aflac, AGL Resources, Belk, Coca-Cola Enterprises, Crunchmaster, Delta Air Lines, Geico, Medtronic, Mohawk, Novo Nordisk, Siemens Energy and Andretti Indoor Karting and Games.
JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes National Sponsors are: Advance Auto Parts, Delta, Ford Motor Company, LifeScan, Marshalls, Turner and Walgreens.
For further information on JDRF or the Walk to Cure Diabetes visit www.jdrfgeorgia.org or call Angie Hammond at 770-395-5957.
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For the second year in a row Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGA) will team up with JDRF as the Presenting Partner of the 2010 Walk to Cure Diabetes. "JDRF is immensely appreciative of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia's continued participation," said Clanci Jordan, Executive Director. "With the support of our partners, the 2010 Walk to Cure Diabetes is expected to once again exceed $2 million dollars to bring us one step closer to the ultimate finish line-a cure for type 1 diabetes."
"It was important for us to sponsor the Walk to Cure Diabetes again this year," said Monye Connolly, President, BCBSGA. "It is our mission to have a direct impact on the well-being of the customers we serve and the overall health of our communities, and JDRF helps us in achieving this mission."
There is still time for additional companies to become a part of the Walk to Cure Diabetes and help find a cure for the more than 400,000 Georgians living with this disease. JDRF will host a Corporate Recruitment Breakfast at the Buckhead Club on Thursday, July 15, 2010, at 7:15 a.m. For more information on this opportunity or to attend, call 770-395-5957.
Additional Partners of the JDRF Georgia Chapter Walk to Cure Diabetes include, Aflac, AGL Resources, Belk, Coca-Cola Enterprises, Crunchmaster, Delta Air Lines, Geico, Medtronic, Mohawk, Novo Nordisk, Siemens Energy and Andretti Indoor Karting and Games.
JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes National Sponsors are: Advance Auto Parts, Delta, Ford Motor Company, LifeScan, Marshalls, Turner and Walgreens.
For further information on JDRF or the Walk to Cure Diabetes visit www.jdrfgeorgia.org or call Angie Hammond at 770-395-5957.
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Friday, July 09, 2010
Thousands of Metro Atlanta Children to Get a Head Start on School This Saturday
Turner Field, 755 Hank Aaron Drive, Orange Parking Lot
Saturday, July 10, 2010, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
/PRNewswire/ -- Did you know that more than 3,000 of Atlanta's children will start school this year without the basics - school supplies, health screenings and clothing? Every year Hosea Feed the Hungry & the Homeless (HFTH) identifies children in desperate need and provides them with the means to have a healthy and successful school year at the Back to School Jamboree.
As a family-oriented, community event, the Jamboree will host self-empowerment/mentor workshops, dental and health screenings, diabetes screenings, the National ID program, fun activities, games, special guests and family entertainment, including Ronald McDonald, the Black McDonald's Owners Association Wheels of Dreams Youth Foundation, the Braves Mascot, and actor, Afemo Omilami.
This year's Presenting Sponsor is Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia and this year's co-sponsors, include The Braves Foundation, Cox Enterprise, Aaron Rents and Amerigroup - which will lend on-site support.
WHO can receive supplies, health screenings and clothing? Any child with a need can receive a backpack, health screening and clothing. The event is FREE and families are welcome to participate in the activities.
Witness hope on children's faces as they receive backpacks, school supplies, health screenings and clothing. Families engaging in wholesome entertainment.
HOW can you help? This year, due to the tough economy, HFTH needs the community's assistance more than ever. To make a donation, please visit www.hoseafeedthehungry.com and click on the Jamboree Donation icon - a stocked backpack costs a mere $20 and will ensure a child starts school fully prepared.
You can bring school supplies (pencils, paper, rulers, scissors, crayons, T-180 calculators, backpacks, etc.) directly to our facility at 1035 Donnelly Avenue SW, Atlanta, GA 30310. For additional sponsorship info, please contact the HFTH offices at 404-755-3353.
As the school year nears, HFTH will also dispense backpacks filled with schools supplies to selected schools within the greater Metro Atlanta area. This weekend merely kicks off their back to school supplies campaign.
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Saturday, July 10, 2010, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
/PRNewswire/ -- Did you know that more than 3,000 of Atlanta's children will start school this year without the basics - school supplies, health screenings and clothing? Every year Hosea Feed the Hungry & the Homeless (HFTH) identifies children in desperate need and provides them with the means to have a healthy and successful school year at the Back to School Jamboree.
As a family-oriented, community event, the Jamboree will host self-empowerment/mentor workshops, dental and health screenings, diabetes screenings, the National ID program, fun activities, games, special guests and family entertainment, including Ronald McDonald, the Black McDonald's Owners Association Wheels of Dreams Youth Foundation, the Braves Mascot, and actor, Afemo Omilami.
This year's Presenting Sponsor is Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia and this year's co-sponsors, include The Braves Foundation, Cox Enterprise, Aaron Rents and Amerigroup - which will lend on-site support.
WHO can receive supplies, health screenings and clothing? Any child with a need can receive a backpack, health screening and clothing. The event is FREE and families are welcome to participate in the activities.
Witness hope on children's faces as they receive backpacks, school supplies, health screenings and clothing. Families engaging in wholesome entertainment.
HOW can you help? This year, due to the tough economy, HFTH needs the community's assistance more than ever. To make a donation, please visit www.hoseafeedthehungry.com and click on the Jamboree Donation icon - a stocked backpack costs a mere $20 and will ensure a child starts school fully prepared.
You can bring school supplies (pencils, paper, rulers, scissors, crayons, T-180 calculators, backpacks, etc.) directly to our facility at 1035 Donnelly Avenue SW, Atlanta, GA 30310. For additional sponsorship info, please contact the HFTH offices at 404-755-3353.
As the school year nears, HFTH will also dispense backpacks filled with schools supplies to selected schools within the greater Metro Atlanta area. This weekend merely kicks off their back to school supplies campaign.
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Wednesday, July 07, 2010
HUD Secretary Donovan Announces $190 Million in Homeless Grants
Funding supports unprecedented federal strategy to prevent and end homelessness
U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan today announced nearly $190 million in new grants to assist hundreds of local homeless assistance programs across the country. The funding will provide support to 550 local projects that will offer critically needed housing and support services to nearly 20,000 homeless individuals and families over the extended lifetime of these grants. For a complete listing of those local programs awarded funding, visit HUD's website.
Last December, HUD awarded nearly $1.4 billion through its Continuum of Care programs to quickly renew funding to 6,445 existing local programs. The grants announced today build on that investment by funding new projects, awarded by competition and funded through the 2009 Continuum of Care funds. In addition, the funding supports the Obama Administration's far-reaching and ambitious plan to end homelessness. Last month, Donovan and 18 other federal agencies unveiled Opening Doors, an unprecedented federal strategy to end veteran and chronic homelessness by 2015, and to end homelessness among children, families, and youth by 2020.
"This funding is an important part of the Obama Administration's new strategy to end homelessness in all its forms," said Donovan. "We know that these programs are critical in moving people beyond a life on the streets and placing them on a path toward dignity and self sufficiency."
HUD's Continuum of Care grants are awarded competitively to local programs to meet the needs of their homeless clients Continuum of Care grants provide permanent and transitional housing to homeless persons. In addition, Continuum of Care grants fund a wide range of programs including important services such as job training, health care, mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment and child care.. These grants also fund street outreach and assessment programs to transitional and permanent housing for homeless persons and families (see attached summary of the funding awarded today).
HUD's homelessness grants are reducing long-term or chronic homelessness in America. Based on the Department's latest Annual Homeless Assessment Report (AHAR), chronic homelessness has declined by 30 percent since 2006. This decline is directly attributed to HUD's homeless grants helping to create significantly more permanent housing for those who might otherwise be living on the streets. It was also reported in the AHAR that the number of homeless families increased for the second consecutive year, almost certainly due to the ongoing effects of the recession.
In addition to the funding provided through HUD's Continuum of Care Programs, the Department allocated $1.5 billion through its new Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-housing (HPRP) Program. Made possible through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, HPRP is intended to prevent persons from falling into homelessness or to rapidly re-house them if they do.
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Highlights of HUD's Homeless Assistance
HUD is awarding nearly $190 million to support 550 local programs throughout the U.S., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam.
$170 million is being awarded to 474 projects that provide permanent housing solutions for homeless families and individuals, including persons who are chronically homeless.
189 programs will primarily assist homeless veterans.
182 local programs will assist persons living with severe mental illness.
28 projects primarily serve victims of domestic violence.
123 projects provide services to chronic substance abusers.
12 local programs will offer housing and support services to persons living with HIV/AIDS
HUD's housing and service programs funded through the Continuum of Care competition establish the foundation for communities to serve many of the nation's most vulnerable individuals and families. Based on the 2009 Annual Homeless Assessment Report (AHAR) released by HUD last month:
1.56 million persons spent at least one night in an emergency shelter or transitional housing programs between October 1, 2008 and September 30, 2009; and
On a given night in January, 2009 approximately 643,000 people are homeless.
While the total number of homeless persons declined slightly between 2008 and 2009, the number of homeless families and the total number of persons in families increased for a second consecutive year.
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HUD's mission is to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all. HUD is working to strengthen the housing market to bolster the economy and protect consumers; meet the need for quality affordable rental homes: utilize housing as a platform for improving quality of life; build inclusive and sustainable communities free from discrimination; and transform the way HUD does business. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet at www.hud.gov and espanol.hud.gov.
U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan today announced nearly $190 million in new grants to assist hundreds of local homeless assistance programs across the country. The funding will provide support to 550 local projects that will offer critically needed housing and support services to nearly 20,000 homeless individuals and families over the extended lifetime of these grants. For a complete listing of those local programs awarded funding, visit HUD's website.
Last December, HUD awarded nearly $1.4 billion through its Continuum of Care programs to quickly renew funding to 6,445 existing local programs. The grants announced today build on that investment by funding new projects, awarded by competition and funded through the 2009 Continuum of Care funds. In addition, the funding supports the Obama Administration's far-reaching and ambitious plan to end homelessness. Last month, Donovan and 18 other federal agencies unveiled Opening Doors, an unprecedented federal strategy to end veteran and chronic homelessness by 2015, and to end homelessness among children, families, and youth by 2020.
"This funding is an important part of the Obama Administration's new strategy to end homelessness in all its forms," said Donovan. "We know that these programs are critical in moving people beyond a life on the streets and placing them on a path toward dignity and self sufficiency."
HUD's Continuum of Care grants are awarded competitively to local programs to meet the needs of their homeless clients Continuum of Care grants provide permanent and transitional housing to homeless persons. In addition, Continuum of Care grants fund a wide range of programs including important services such as job training, health care, mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment and child care.. These grants also fund street outreach and assessment programs to transitional and permanent housing for homeless persons and families (see attached summary of the funding awarded today).
HUD's homelessness grants are reducing long-term or chronic homelessness in America. Based on the Department's latest Annual Homeless Assessment Report (AHAR), chronic homelessness has declined by 30 percent since 2006. This decline is directly attributed to HUD's homeless grants helping to create significantly more permanent housing for those who might otherwise be living on the streets. It was also reported in the AHAR that the number of homeless families increased for the second consecutive year, almost certainly due to the ongoing effects of the recession.
In addition to the funding provided through HUD's Continuum of Care Programs, the Department allocated $1.5 billion through its new Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-housing (HPRP) Program. Made possible through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, HPRP is intended to prevent persons from falling into homelessness or to rapidly re-house them if they do.
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Highlights of HUD's Homeless Assistance
HUD is awarding nearly $190 million to support 550 local programs throughout the U.S., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam.
$170 million is being awarded to 474 projects that provide permanent housing solutions for homeless families and individuals, including persons who are chronically homeless.
189 programs will primarily assist homeless veterans.
182 local programs will assist persons living with severe mental illness.
28 projects primarily serve victims of domestic violence.
123 projects provide services to chronic substance abusers.
12 local programs will offer housing and support services to persons living with HIV/AIDS
HUD's housing and service programs funded through the Continuum of Care competition establish the foundation for communities to serve many of the nation's most vulnerable individuals and families. Based on the 2009 Annual Homeless Assessment Report (AHAR) released by HUD last month:
1.56 million persons spent at least one night in an emergency shelter or transitional housing programs between October 1, 2008 and September 30, 2009; and
On a given night in January, 2009 approximately 643,000 people are homeless.
While the total number of homeless persons declined slightly between 2008 and 2009, the number of homeless families and the total number of persons in families increased for a second consecutive year.
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HUD's mission is to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all. HUD is working to strengthen the housing market to bolster the economy and protect consumers; meet the need for quality affordable rental homes: utilize housing as a platform for improving quality of life; build inclusive and sustainable communities free from discrimination; and transform the way HUD does business. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet at www.hud.gov and espanol.hud.gov.
Tuesday, July 06, 2010
Camp Hollywood Serves Special Needs Children and Siblings in Newnan
“Everyone is a Star” next week at new location at Cornerstone United Methodist Church
FOCUS, www.focus-ga.org, a 27-year old non-profit that serves children with disabilities or medical conditions, announces an additional location for its “Camp Hollywood” series at the Cornerstone United Methodist Church in Newnan, Georgia Monday, July 12 through Friday, July 16 from 10 am to 3 pm. Each day at Camp Hollywood centers around the theme of a favorite children’s movie, and activities include art, cooking, science, music and recreation.
FOCUS offers ten Camp Hollywood locations throughout metro Atlanta. This is the first year that Camp Hollywood has been offered in Newnan, and FOCUS Executive Director Lucy Cusick explains, “We are delighted to offer a camp here in the Newnan/Peachtree City area where special needs children receive all the care they need and have all the fun all children should have!” Camp Hollywood accepts children from ages 4 - 21, as well as their siblings. Cost of the camp is $135 and includes all activities, snacks, and camp T-shirt. Special needs professionals serve as counselors at the camp, which is also staffed by volunteers from the local community. A trained nurse is also on hand at Camp Hollywood.
For more information and to register for Camp Hollywood, contact Lucy Cusick at 770-234-9111 or 404-273-0259 or lucy@focus-ga.org.
ABOUT FOCUS
FOCUS was founded to offer emotional, informational and physical support to families of children with disabilities or ongoing medical needs. FOCUS has grown to reach almost 3,000 families in metro Atlanta through a variety of programs including summer camp, family camp, support groups, community respite, hospital support and family activities. FOCUS is committed to serving ordinary families facing extraordinary circumstances and providing a sense of community.
FOCUS, www.focus-ga.org, a 27-year old non-profit that serves children with disabilities or medical conditions, announces an additional location for its “Camp Hollywood” series at the Cornerstone United Methodist Church in Newnan, Georgia Monday, July 12 through Friday, July 16 from 10 am to 3 pm. Each day at Camp Hollywood centers around the theme of a favorite children’s movie, and activities include art, cooking, science, music and recreation.
FOCUS offers ten Camp Hollywood locations throughout metro Atlanta. This is the first year that Camp Hollywood has been offered in Newnan, and FOCUS Executive Director Lucy Cusick explains, “We are delighted to offer a camp here in the Newnan/Peachtree City area where special needs children receive all the care they need and have all the fun all children should have!” Camp Hollywood accepts children from ages 4 - 21, as well as their siblings. Cost of the camp is $135 and includes all activities, snacks, and camp T-shirt. Special needs professionals serve as counselors at the camp, which is also staffed by volunteers from the local community. A trained nurse is also on hand at Camp Hollywood.
For more information and to register for Camp Hollywood, contact Lucy Cusick at 770-234-9111 or 404-273-0259 or lucy@focus-ga.org.
ABOUT FOCUS
FOCUS was founded to offer emotional, informational and physical support to families of children with disabilities or ongoing medical needs. FOCUS has grown to reach almost 3,000 families in metro Atlanta through a variety of programs including summer camp, family camp, support groups, community respite, hospital support and family activities. FOCUS is committed to serving ordinary families facing extraordinary circumstances and providing a sense of community.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Wendy’s® Partners with Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption for a Sweet Fundraiser
Buy a Frosty™ Key Tag for $1 and Enjoy Free Jr. Frostys through December 31st
For $1, customers at participating Wendy’s restaurants can purchase an all-access pass to 6 months of Jr. Frostys while supporting the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption and its signature program, Wendy’s Wonderful Kids.
From June 21 through August 1 or until supplies last, customers can purchase a $1 Frosty key tag at participating Wendy’s in the greater Atlanta metropolitan area. By showing the key tag on subsequent visits to Wendy’s, customers will receive a free Jr. Frosty, with any purchase, as often as they wish through December 31, 2010. Wendy’s will donate the net proceeds of key tag sales to the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption in support of its Wendy’s Wonderful Kids program.
“Every child deserves a family,” said Rita Soronen, executive director of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. “Wendy’s Wonderful Kids, a signature program of the Foundation, is getting children adopted in Atlanta and across the nation. Our partnership with Wendy’s and the sale of Frosty key tags makes it easy for people to support our work.”
Craig Madanick, field marketing manager for Wendy’s International, Inc. said, “We strive to keep Dave Thomas’ legacy at the heart of the Wendy’s culture. Dave believed that everyone has a responsibility to give something back, to help those who can’t help themselves. This key tag fund-raiser is one way of giving back to the community where we live and work.”
About the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption: The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption is a national nonprofit public charity dedicated to dramatically increasing the adoptions of the more than 150,000 children waiting in North America’s foster care systems. Created by Wendy’s founder, Dave Thomas, who was adopted, the Foundation implements results-driven national signature programs, foster care adoption awareness initiatives and research-based advocacy efforts. To learn more, visit www.DaveThomasFoundation.org or call 1-800-ASK-DTFA.
For $1, customers at participating Wendy’s restaurants can purchase an all-access pass to 6 months of Jr. Frostys while supporting the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption and its signature program, Wendy’s Wonderful Kids.
From June 21 through August 1 or until supplies last, customers can purchase a $1 Frosty key tag at participating Wendy’s in the greater Atlanta metropolitan area. By showing the key tag on subsequent visits to Wendy’s, customers will receive a free Jr. Frosty, with any purchase, as often as they wish through December 31, 2010. Wendy’s will donate the net proceeds of key tag sales to the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption in support of its Wendy’s Wonderful Kids program.
“Every child deserves a family,” said Rita Soronen, executive director of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. “Wendy’s Wonderful Kids, a signature program of the Foundation, is getting children adopted in Atlanta and across the nation. Our partnership with Wendy’s and the sale of Frosty key tags makes it easy for people to support our work.”
Craig Madanick, field marketing manager for Wendy’s International, Inc. said, “We strive to keep Dave Thomas’ legacy at the heart of the Wendy’s culture. Dave believed that everyone has a responsibility to give something back, to help those who can’t help themselves. This key tag fund-raiser is one way of giving back to the community where we live and work.”
About the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption: The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption is a national nonprofit public charity dedicated to dramatically increasing the adoptions of the more than 150,000 children waiting in North America’s foster care systems. Created by Wendy’s founder, Dave Thomas, who was adopted, the Foundation implements results-driven national signature programs, foster care adoption awareness initiatives and research-based advocacy efforts. To learn more, visit www.DaveThomasFoundation.org or call 1-800-ASK-DTFA.
Saturday, June 05, 2010
Adopt a $5 Duck to Benefit Athletes of Special Olympics Georgia
/PRNewswire/ -- Special Olympics Georgia (SOGA) is holding its annual fundraiser where rubber ducks are adopted for $5 each and raced for prizes to help the nonprofit provide year-round sports training and competition to children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
The 2010 Duck Derby will feature thousands of yellow rubber ducks racing in the Little Hooch at Six Flags White Water Park in Marietta June 25. Last year, the event raised $55,169.
With a $5 donation, one racing duck will be adopted in someone's name and entered in the race. Chances to win are increased with a $25 donation, in which the donor receives five duck adoptions and an adorable souvenir duck.
The adoptee of the first duck to cross the finish line wins a three-night stay at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino and two airline tickets. Second place prize is one free year of Comcast's HD Preferred Plus XF Triple Play package donated by Allconnect and Comcast. Third place prize is a $250 Kauffman Tire gift card. Fourth place prize is a Nikon Cool Pix Digital Camera from Showtime Photo and Video and fifth place prize is a Verizon Wireless env3 phone by LG.
If the winning duck has one of the preselected numbers, the adoptee might win a Lake Arrowhead home valued at $225,000, two Honda Accords from Milton Martin Honda or a home theater system valued at $50,000, courtesy of EMC Security.
The park opens at 10 a.m. and the race starts at 2 p.m. Visit www.atlantaduckderby.com today to adopt your duck online.
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The 2010 Duck Derby will feature thousands of yellow rubber ducks racing in the Little Hooch at Six Flags White Water Park in Marietta June 25. Last year, the event raised $55,169.
With a $5 donation, one racing duck will be adopted in someone's name and entered in the race. Chances to win are increased with a $25 donation, in which the donor receives five duck adoptions and an adorable souvenir duck.
The adoptee of the first duck to cross the finish line wins a three-night stay at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino and two airline tickets. Second place prize is one free year of Comcast's HD Preferred Plus XF Triple Play package donated by Allconnect and Comcast. Third place prize is a $250 Kauffman Tire gift card. Fourth place prize is a Nikon Cool Pix Digital Camera from Showtime Photo and Video and fifth place prize is a Verizon Wireless env3 phone by LG.
If the winning duck has one of the preselected numbers, the adoptee might win a Lake Arrowhead home valued at $225,000, two Honda Accords from Milton Martin Honda or a home theater system valued at $50,000, courtesy of EMC Security.
The park opens at 10 a.m. and the race starts at 2 p.m. Visit www.atlantaduckderby.com today to adopt your duck online.
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Friday, June 04, 2010
Atlanta Musical Act Donates Proceeds From Song to Support Nashville Flood Relief
/PRNewswire/ -- The Atlanta-based teen band von Grey, featuring four sisters ages 10-15, has announced a charitable gift of music to the City of Nashville. In the aftermath of the disastrous flooding that recently affected central Tennessee, these girls were moved by the devastation and wrote an inspiring song called "Rise Up," dedicated to the city of Nashville and its people. The band's producers and engineers worked on an accelerated schedule to produce the song, which has been formally released today. The following URL links to a video of this song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0RvbdtWn9Y
The band is donating all proceeds from sales of "Rise Up" to the Nashville-area Red Cross, in support of relief efforts. The band makes an appeal to listeners via their Web site: http://www.vongrey.com/nashville. They have also offered their services at no charge to participate in any relief-related events or live performances.
This gift from von Grey builds upon the band's past history of charitable giving, including recent gifts to Braille Without Borders and the Songs for Kids Foundation. The band is eager to collaborate with media outlets to find creative ways of bringing this song into the public's consciousness and to bring practical help to those in need. Media inquiries can be directed to laurie@majormoxie.com / cell phone: (702) 336-1897.
The von Grey team is asking members of the public to please support this cause by considering a purchase/download of "Rise Up" and to share this mail with others in your network. The viral effect of giving can bring immense good.
The Atlanta music community is proud at the sense of civic duty being shown by this young group of musical professionals and hopes readers will spread the word and offer their support to magnify the impact of this worthy initiative.
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0RvbdtWn9Y
The band is donating all proceeds from sales of "Rise Up" to the Nashville-area Red Cross, in support of relief efforts. The band makes an appeal to listeners via their Web site: http://www.vongrey.com/nashville. They have also offered their services at no charge to participate in any relief-related events or live performances.
This gift from von Grey builds upon the band's past history of charitable giving, including recent gifts to Braille Without Borders and the Songs for Kids Foundation. The band is eager to collaborate with media outlets to find creative ways of bringing this song into the public's consciousness and to bring practical help to those in need. Media inquiries can be directed to laurie@majormoxie.com / cell phone: (702) 336-1897.
The von Grey team is asking members of the public to please support this cause by considering a purchase/download of "Rise Up" and to share this mail with others in your network. The viral effect of giving can bring immense good.
The Atlanta music community is proud at the sense of civic duty being shown by this young group of musical professionals and hopes readers will spread the word and offer their support to magnify the impact of this worthy initiative.
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Thursday, June 03, 2010
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia Foundation Awards $25,000 to March of Dimes Helping Georgia's Babies Get a Healthy Start in Life
/PRNewswire/ -- Pregnant women in Georgia will receive critical prenatal services and education from the March of Dimes, thanks to a $25,000 grant from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGA)'s Foundation a private, nonprofit organization wholly funded by BCBSGA's parent company's Foundation.
"This grant will help women have healthy babies by educating them about the importance of good health choices," said Joanne Patterson, March of Dimes Programs Committee Chair. "It's important for women who are pregnant or thinking about getting pregnant to use this time to educate themselves on how to have a healthy, full-term baby."
The March of Dimes Georgia Chapter will receive $25,000 from the BCBSGA Foundation to fund local sites for Centering Pregnancy- a model of prenatal care that includes three main components (assessment, education and support) in a group setting. One of the local March of Dimes Centering Pregnancy grants will partially fund the Southwest Public Health District's, Due What's Best project in Albany, GA. The Centering Pregnancy grant will expand access to early prenatal care for low income rural African American women.
Centering Pregnancy has proven to help reduce prematurity rates, increase breastfeeding rates and significantly improve patient satisfaction. Group prenatal care encourages pregnant women to adopt healthy behaviors during pregnancy with a focus on nutrition, weight gain, exercise, hygiene, common discomforts of pregnancy, relaxation breathing, breastfeeding, birth plans, contraception, emotional well-being and pediatric care.
"Our work with the March of Dimes is an integral part of our efforts to improve the lives of the people we serve and the health of our communities," said Monye Connolly, president, BCBSGA. "Through the Foundation, we are able to provide support to vital programs like Centering Pregnancy."
More than 540,000 babies are born too soon each year in the United States. Preterm birth costs the nation more than $26 billion annually, according to the Institute of Medicine. It is the leading cause of newborn death, and babies who survive an early birth face the risk of lifelong health problems such as breathing problems, mental retardation, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, vision and hearing loss.
Even babies born just a few weeks too soon (34-36 weeks gestation, also known as late preterm birth) have higher rates of death and disability than full-term babies.
"This program is an important component of BCBSGA's Foundation's goal of increasing the number of women who receive prenatal care in the first trimester, ultimately helping to reduce the number of babies with a low birth weight or that are born preterm," said Janice Hutchings, program director - social responsibility of BCBSGA's parent company's Foundation. "We are pleased to support the March of Dimes to address such critical health issues."
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"This grant will help women have healthy babies by educating them about the importance of good health choices," said Joanne Patterson, March of Dimes Programs Committee Chair. "It's important for women who are pregnant or thinking about getting pregnant to use this time to educate themselves on how to have a healthy, full-term baby."
The March of Dimes Georgia Chapter will receive $25,000 from the BCBSGA Foundation to fund local sites for Centering Pregnancy- a model of prenatal care that includes three main components (assessment, education and support) in a group setting. One of the local March of Dimes Centering Pregnancy grants will partially fund the Southwest Public Health District's, Due What's Best project in Albany, GA. The Centering Pregnancy grant will expand access to early prenatal care for low income rural African American women.
Centering Pregnancy has proven to help reduce prematurity rates, increase breastfeeding rates and significantly improve patient satisfaction. Group prenatal care encourages pregnant women to adopt healthy behaviors during pregnancy with a focus on nutrition, weight gain, exercise, hygiene, common discomforts of pregnancy, relaxation breathing, breastfeeding, birth plans, contraception, emotional well-being and pediatric care.
"Our work with the March of Dimes is an integral part of our efforts to improve the lives of the people we serve and the health of our communities," said Monye Connolly, president, BCBSGA. "Through the Foundation, we are able to provide support to vital programs like Centering Pregnancy."
More than 540,000 babies are born too soon each year in the United States. Preterm birth costs the nation more than $26 billion annually, according to the Institute of Medicine. It is the leading cause of newborn death, and babies who survive an early birth face the risk of lifelong health problems such as breathing problems, mental retardation, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, vision and hearing loss.
Even babies born just a few weeks too soon (34-36 weeks gestation, also known as late preterm birth) have higher rates of death and disability than full-term babies.
"This program is an important component of BCBSGA's Foundation's goal of increasing the number of women who receive prenatal care in the first trimester, ultimately helping to reduce the number of babies with a low birth weight or that are born preterm," said Janice Hutchings, program director - social responsibility of BCBSGA's parent company's Foundation. "We are pleased to support the March of Dimes to address such critical health issues."
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Thursday, May 20, 2010
Baseball Legend Hank Aaron Walks in Arthritis Walk- Atlanta to Raise Awareness of Osteoarthritis
/PRNewswire/ -- The Arthritis Foundation, Southeast Region, Georgia Office announced today that baseball legend Hank Aaron will be participating in the Arthritis Walk-Atlanta on Saturday, May 22nd. Hank will be walking with local members of "Team Hank" to encourage the millions of people suffering with osteoarthritis (OA) knee pain to take action now and to talk to their doctor about treatment options.
Hank Aaron, who won legions of fans by breaking countless records while never being on the disabled list in his 23 year career, found himself dealing with knee pain once he retired. He was diagnosed with knee OA, and over the years his knee pain increased to the point that he even had trouble walking short distances. As someone who had been physically fit his whole life, Hank was determined to find a way to relieve the pain. Hank talked to his doctor and found a treatment that works for him.
"The reason I will be walking in the Arthritis Walk is because I don't want people with arthritis to give up. I want them to understand that there is still hope out there for them, and to go to their doctor for advice," said Hank Aaron.
Hank is encouraging Georgians to join him and thousands of others who are affected by arthritis at the Arthritis Walk-Atlanta on Saturday, May 22nd and to support the fight against arthritis by joining www.teamhank.com.
For more information about Arthritis Walk-Atlanta, visit www.arthritiswalkatlanta.org.
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Hank Aaron, who won legions of fans by breaking countless records while never being on the disabled list in his 23 year career, found himself dealing with knee pain once he retired. He was diagnosed with knee OA, and over the years his knee pain increased to the point that he even had trouble walking short distances. As someone who had been physically fit his whole life, Hank was determined to find a way to relieve the pain. Hank talked to his doctor and found a treatment that works for him.
"The reason I will be walking in the Arthritis Walk is because I don't want people with arthritis to give up. I want them to understand that there is still hope out there for them, and to go to their doctor for advice," said Hank Aaron.
Hank is encouraging Georgians to join him and thousands of others who are affected by arthritis at the Arthritis Walk-Atlanta on Saturday, May 22nd and to support the fight against arthritis by joining www.teamhank.com.
For more information about Arthritis Walk-Atlanta, visit www.arthritiswalkatlanta.org.
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Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Chimney Cove Boat Show to Raise Funds for the Randolph County (Alabama) Animal Shelter
For those who haven’t had the time to build a cardboard boat in time for the races this weekend, a cardboard boat is being auctioned off an hour before the races begin. (The Buy A Boat Auction)
May 22nd and 23rd, 2010
88 Fireside Drive, Wedowee, AL 36278—clubhouse area of Chimney Cove at Lake Wedowee
Free to attend and free parking
For more information, contact Chimney Cove sales associate Amanda Parian at 877-873-5292 or Randolph County Animal Shelter fund-raiser Patt High at 256-794-0407. For directions or other information about Chimney Cove, visit www.chimney-cove.com.
Chimney Cove/Lake Wedowee is located midway between Birmingham and Atlanta, with each being approximately 90 minutes away. For more information about the event, including an hour-by-hour event list, visit www.highairs.com.
Radio station Eagle 102.3 will be on site for a live broadcast.
The Randolph County Animal Shelter will have a booth at the event and t-shirts for sale. While they will not have animals on-site to adopt (due to concerns of animals getting over-heated), a photo adoption book will be available for viewing at the booth. The shelter has been open for two and a half years and often operates at full capacity. The shelter is working to raise funds to open a spay and neuter clinic to help with pet overpopulation.
Lake Wedowee Air Junkies, Chimney Cove on Lake Wedowee, Wedowee Marine, Randolph County Animal Shelter
Friday, May 07, 2010
Letter Carriers to Help 'Stamp Out Hunger' With Food Drive Saturday in All 50 States
/PRNewswire/ -- Letter carriers across the country will collect non-perishable food donations Saturday (May 8) as they deliver mail along their postal routes in the nation's largest one-day effort to Stamp Out Hunger.
Donations will be collected along postal routes in more than 10,000 cities and towns in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Guam and the District of Columbia.
The 18th annual Letter Carriers' National Food Drive is being conducted by the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) with the assistance of rural letter carriers and other postal employees and volunteers. The postal union is seeking to exceed last year's record 73.4 million pounds of food delivered to community food banks and pantries. It also anticipates breaking the one billion-pound mark in total donations since the humanitarian effort began in 1993.
NALC President Fredric V. Rolando said the donations from postal customers will help millions of American families who have been hurt by the nation's lingering economic difficulties. The drive is especially important at this time for families with children who rely on school lunch programs for nutrition, since most of them are suspended during the summer months.
"Food banks and pantries are in dire need this year as more and more families seek assistance to provide sufficient food for their dinner table," Rolando said. "Many are working families who find that their income simply will not stretch enough to meet all their housing, clothing, medical and nutritional needs."
The public should leave non-perishable food donations - such as canned meat and fish, soup, cereals, pasta and rice - in a bag near their mailbox on Saturday before their letter carrier arrives. Glass containers and items with expired dates should be avoided. (In New York City, residents are asked to take their donations to their local post office).
Over 126 million postcards, sponsored by the Campbell Soup Company and the U.S. Postal Service's Priority Mail, have been mailed to postal customers to remind them of the drive. Other national partners are the National Rural Letter Carriers' Association, Valpak, United Way Worldwide, the AFL-CIO and the Feeding America food bank network.
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Donations will be collected along postal routes in more than 10,000 cities and towns in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Guam and the District of Columbia.
The 18th annual Letter Carriers' National Food Drive is being conducted by the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) with the assistance of rural letter carriers and other postal employees and volunteers. The postal union is seeking to exceed last year's record 73.4 million pounds of food delivered to community food banks and pantries. It also anticipates breaking the one billion-pound mark in total donations since the humanitarian effort began in 1993.
NALC President Fredric V. Rolando said the donations from postal customers will help millions of American families who have been hurt by the nation's lingering economic difficulties. The drive is especially important at this time for families with children who rely on school lunch programs for nutrition, since most of them are suspended during the summer months.
"Food banks and pantries are in dire need this year as more and more families seek assistance to provide sufficient food for their dinner table," Rolando said. "Many are working families who find that their income simply will not stretch enough to meet all their housing, clothing, medical and nutritional needs."
The public should leave non-perishable food donations - such as canned meat and fish, soup, cereals, pasta and rice - in a bag near their mailbox on Saturday before their letter carrier arrives. Glass containers and items with expired dates should be avoided. (In New York City, residents are asked to take their donations to their local post office).
Over 126 million postcards, sponsored by the Campbell Soup Company and the U.S. Postal Service's Priority Mail, have been mailed to postal customers to remind them of the drive. Other national partners are the National Rural Letter Carriers' Association, Valpak, United Way Worldwide, the AFL-CIO and the Feeding America food bank network.
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Monday, May 03, 2010
Jeffrey Fashion Cares Atlanta Announces Sara Blakely as the 2010 Honorary Chair
Jeffrey Fashion Cares Atlanta is thrilled to announce that Sara Blakely, the inspirational founder and owner of Spanx, Inc., has been selected as the Honorary Chair for the 18th annual fashion show and charity event. Once again benefiting Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Atlanta Affiliate and the Atlanta AIDS Partnership Fund (AAPF), Jeffrey Fashion Cares Atlanta will be hosted by acclaimed retailer Jeffrey Kalinsky and held on Monday, August 30 beginning at 7 p.m. at a venue to be announced.
“Sara Blakely has created the underpinnings for every chic woman to look fabulous in her clothing! We are thrilled that she is allowing us to honor her in this way,” says Event Co-chair Lila Hertz.
Nationally acclaimed entrepreneur Sara Blakely is the founder and owner of Spanx, Inc., the celebrated shapewear brand launched in 2000. As a frustrated consumer, Sara invented footless pantyhose in 1998, spearheading the brand that ultimately led a shapewear revolution. Obsessed with creating comfortable, slimming garments that minimize figure flaws, Blakely has created more than 200 problem-solving products that are designed to promote comfort and confidence in women. Spanx, Inc. recently entered the bra business with the ground-breaking Bra-llelujah!® and in 2006, Sara brought her shapewear know-how to even more women with the national launch of ASSETS®, a collection of shapewear and legwear designed to help women achieve their look for less. Continuing to raise the bar with innovative products women want, in 2009 Sara launched Haute Contour by SPANX®, the dessert of shapewear™. Today, Spanx, Inc. continues to expand and after many years of demand, brings their industry expertise to the beach and pool with swimwear and to men with a redefined compression undershirt. Since launching the Sara Blakely Foundation in 2006, Sara has contributed well over $2 million to causes that support women. Blakely has been named Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year; Georgia’s “Woman of the Year”; and is an entertaining and sought-after speaker, sharing her story as a self-made businesswoman. Based in Atlanta, Spanx are sold in America’s finest retailers and boutiques here, as well as high-end retailers all over the world. Since launching the Sara Blakely Foundation in 2006, Sara and Spanx have contributed well over $2 million to causes that support women.
The 18th annual Jeffrey Fashion Cares Atlanta will be co-chaired by Lila Hertz, Louise Sams, and Jeffrey McQuithy. Over the past 17 years, Jeffrey Fashion Cares has grown into one of the largest combined AIDS and breast cancer benefits in the country, having raised over $8.5 million. Last year, 90 cents of every dollar raised went directly to the event’s beneficiaries, the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Atlanta Affiliate and the Atlanta AIDS Partnership Fund (AAPF).
The annual event includes a Pre-Show Reception, Fashion Show, After Party and Honorary Chair. Additional details about the 2010 event will be announced in the coming months, including venue, Host Committee, and more. For more information on Jeffrey Fashion Cares Atlanta, including Patron and Corporate Sponsorship opportunities, please visit http://www.jeffreyfashioncares.com/atlanta or call 404.420.2997.
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“Sara Blakely has created the underpinnings for every chic woman to look fabulous in her clothing! We are thrilled that she is allowing us to honor her in this way,” says Event Co-chair Lila Hertz.
Nationally acclaimed entrepreneur Sara Blakely is the founder and owner of Spanx, Inc., the celebrated shapewear brand launched in 2000. As a frustrated consumer, Sara invented footless pantyhose in 1998, spearheading the brand that ultimately led a shapewear revolution. Obsessed with creating comfortable, slimming garments that minimize figure flaws, Blakely has created more than 200 problem-solving products that are designed to promote comfort and confidence in women. Spanx, Inc. recently entered the bra business with the ground-breaking Bra-llelujah!® and in 2006, Sara brought her shapewear know-how to even more women with the national launch of ASSETS®, a collection of shapewear and legwear designed to help women achieve their look for less. Continuing to raise the bar with innovative products women want, in 2009 Sara launched Haute Contour by SPANX®, the dessert of shapewear™. Today, Spanx, Inc. continues to expand and after many years of demand, brings their industry expertise to the beach and pool with swimwear and to men with a redefined compression undershirt. Since launching the Sara Blakely Foundation in 2006, Sara has contributed well over $2 million to causes that support women. Blakely has been named Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year; Georgia’s “Woman of the Year”; and is an entertaining and sought-after speaker, sharing her story as a self-made businesswoman. Based in Atlanta, Spanx are sold in America’s finest retailers and boutiques here, as well as high-end retailers all over the world. Since launching the Sara Blakely Foundation in 2006, Sara and Spanx have contributed well over $2 million to causes that support women.
The 18th annual Jeffrey Fashion Cares Atlanta will be co-chaired by Lila Hertz, Louise Sams, and Jeffrey McQuithy. Over the past 17 years, Jeffrey Fashion Cares has grown into one of the largest combined AIDS and breast cancer benefits in the country, having raised over $8.5 million. Last year, 90 cents of every dollar raised went directly to the event’s beneficiaries, the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Atlanta Affiliate and the Atlanta AIDS Partnership Fund (AAPF).
The annual event includes a Pre-Show Reception, Fashion Show, After Party and Honorary Chair. Additional details about the 2010 event will be announced in the coming months, including venue, Host Committee, and more. For more information on Jeffrey Fashion Cares Atlanta, including Patron and Corporate Sponsorship opportunities, please visit http://www.jeffreyfashioncares.com/atlanta or call 404.420.2997.
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'Ovarian Cycle' Event at Midtown Raises $158,000
Each pedaling for someone special, more than 200 indoor cycle enthusiasts rode for a continuous six hours at Midtown Athletic Club at Windy Hill on April 24 to raise $158,000 for the Atlanta-based charity Ovarian Cycle.
“The energy on the gymnasium floor was over-the-top,” says Ellen Fruchtman, an Ovarian Cycle spokesperson who rode in memory of friend Debbie Flamm, who succumbed to the disease at age 43. An empty bicycle in the front row, adorned with teal balloons—the official color of ovarian cancer—served as both an inspiration and reminder of those who couldn’t ride.
“The participation and enthusiasm in this event was unbelievable,” says Andy Deyo, Midtown General Manager, who temporarily closed the club’s gymnasium and racquet ball court area to provide space for riders and silent auction items. “We continue to be proud to offer Midtown’s resources for this noble and charitable cause.”
Flamm’s passing in 2003 inspired another close friend, Bethany Diamond, to create the charity. Diamond, a Midtown fitness instructor and staunch believer in exercise as a way to reduce cancer risks, sought to honor Flamm by organizing an annual, indoor cycling fundraiser.
Diamond personally led the group for the final hour—the “Hero’s Hour,” she calls it—where the former Ironman competitor read from a list of the names of women who had died from ovarian cancer. With ovarian cancer survivors gathered in the front, everyone in the room clasped hands in a massive chain, and sang the Queen anthem “We Are the Champions.”
“It was a pretty powerful moment,” she says.
Last month, a similar Ovarian Cycle event in Birmingham attracted 76 riders, raising $58,000. More rides are planned this year in Tallahassee, Fla., and Boulder, Colo. In its seventh year, the charity has raised more than $800,000 for research and better detection methods. Donations go to the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation in New York City, Ovarian Cancer Institute at Georgia Tech, and the Norman Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation.
To learn more about ovarian cancer, visit www.ovariancycle.org
“The energy on the gymnasium floor was over-the-top,” says Ellen Fruchtman, an Ovarian Cycle spokesperson who rode in memory of friend Debbie Flamm, who succumbed to the disease at age 43. An empty bicycle in the front row, adorned with teal balloons—the official color of ovarian cancer—served as both an inspiration and reminder of those who couldn’t ride.
“The participation and enthusiasm in this event was unbelievable,” says Andy Deyo, Midtown General Manager, who temporarily closed the club’s gymnasium and racquet ball court area to provide space for riders and silent auction items. “We continue to be proud to offer Midtown’s resources for this noble and charitable cause.”
Flamm’s passing in 2003 inspired another close friend, Bethany Diamond, to create the charity. Diamond, a Midtown fitness instructor and staunch believer in exercise as a way to reduce cancer risks, sought to honor Flamm by organizing an annual, indoor cycling fundraiser.
Diamond personally led the group for the final hour—the “Hero’s Hour,” she calls it—where the former Ironman competitor read from a list of the names of women who had died from ovarian cancer. With ovarian cancer survivors gathered in the front, everyone in the room clasped hands in a massive chain, and sang the Queen anthem “We Are the Champions.”
“It was a pretty powerful moment,” she says.
Last month, a similar Ovarian Cycle event in Birmingham attracted 76 riders, raising $58,000. More rides are planned this year in Tallahassee, Fla., and Boulder, Colo. In its seventh year, the charity has raised more than $800,000 for research and better detection methods. Donations go to the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation in New York City, Ovarian Cancer Institute at Georgia Tech, and the Norman Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation.
To learn more about ovarian cancer, visit www.ovariancycle.org
Friday, April 30, 2010
A School Bell Rings Collaborates with Local Bands to Present The Battle of the Corporate Bands
Play Music. Be a Star. Change the World.
A School Bell Rings, a locally-based, internationally-focused non-profit organization, will host its first Battle of the Corporate Bands Live and Silent Auction, a charitable event designed to raise funds for impoverished children in San Juan Del Sur Nicaragua next month. Six bands with musicians who work for major Atlanta companies and non-profits are scheduled into the event line-up.
The event will be held at the Retreat of Dunwoody on Saturday, May 8 starting at 7 PM. Battle of the Corporate Bands is a collaboration between local bands as well as individuals who donate their time and energy to help children around the globe obtain a better education. Participating bands sell tickets to the event and compete with ticket sales, as well as their performances, to raise funds for needy kids as they attempt to “win” the Battle! Each band will perform for 30 minutes, playing five songs for the attendees.
Bands with members from some of Atlanta's finest organizations are participating and include Escape Vehicle, Midwife Crisis, The 501c3 Project, Steve Baskin Band, The Ivy Road Band, and The Verge, with members from Zaxby’s, The American Cancer Society, The 60 Second Marketer, Tribe, Oracle, Colliers International, McKinsey & Company, and CNN.
Tickets to the event are available online starting April 1 at http://aschoolbellrings.org/events.html. Each ticket entitles attendees to free food, a free drink ticket, free music and access to the live and silent auction which includes items like autographed sports memorabilia, spa retreats, vacation villas, crafts, autographed guitars, oil paintings and other fabulous items.
“This event is a win-win, both for our participating bands, as well as the kids we support,” said Jamie Turner, A School Bell Rings founder and event creator. “As someone who is in a band myself, I can safely say the point is to perform for an audience, and this is a great opportunity to assemble fans and perform for a great cause.”
Turner says event volunteers are excited to partner with several local organizations and companies in the Atlanta area in hopes of reaching shared goals. These relationships will help to facilitate the advancement of growth and progress in the educational programs that A School Bell Rings has funded in years past as well as new programs they aim to fund in the future. With the proceeds from the Battle of the Corporate Bands, A School Bell Rings hopes to fund a new teacher-training program in Nicaragua. Past events have funded building of school facilities, as well as education programs in Tanzania and India. Recent ventures have included building two classrooms at the Tloma Primary School in Karatu, Tanzania and funding the development of a new school in Gujarat, India.
“To keep these kinds of programs going, we plan a high energy evening with excellent music and the live and silent auctions. We will also have information about the programs and kids we support, spirited attendees, and most importantly, a great cause,” said Shanta Dube, A School Bell Rings board member.
A School Bell Rings welcomes individuals and companies to provide tax-deductible auction items by emailing Binita Vijay at binita@aol.com. In addition, the organization and event needs more volunteers to pull off all the requirements from band management and staging to decorating, auction coordination, set-up and tear-down. Email Shanta Dube at ShantaDube@HotMail.com if you are interested in volunteering. For more information about the event, visit http://www.aschoolbellrings.org/events.html.
About A School Bell Rings
A School Bell Rings is an official 501(c)3 certified non-profit organization, devoted to improving the lives of impoverished children around the globe by providing them enhanced access to educational facilities and institutions. They accomplish this by building additional school locations and/or providing existing facilities with needed supplies and services. In addition to building schools, they also help the communities they support by establishing ongoing relationships with local craftsmen and artists. Donors who contribute to this organization participate in feedback and guidance on the charity and how it evolves. They do this by pursuing feedback through donor research, online feedback and face-to-face interaction as well as directed donations.
---
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Click to read MORE news:
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www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---
A School Bell Rings, a locally-based, internationally-focused non-profit organization, will host its first Battle of the Corporate Bands Live and Silent Auction, a charitable event designed to raise funds for impoverished children in San Juan Del Sur Nicaragua next month. Six bands with musicians who work for major Atlanta companies and non-profits are scheduled into the event line-up.
The event will be held at the Retreat of Dunwoody on Saturday, May 8 starting at 7 PM. Battle of the Corporate Bands is a collaboration between local bands as well as individuals who donate their time and energy to help children around the globe obtain a better education. Participating bands sell tickets to the event and compete with ticket sales, as well as their performances, to raise funds for needy kids as they attempt to “win” the Battle! Each band will perform for 30 minutes, playing five songs for the attendees.
Bands with members from some of Atlanta's finest organizations are participating and include Escape Vehicle, Midwife Crisis, The 501c3 Project, Steve Baskin Band, The Ivy Road Band, and The Verge, with members from Zaxby’s, The American Cancer Society, The 60 Second Marketer, Tribe, Oracle, Colliers International, McKinsey & Company, and CNN.
Tickets to the event are available online starting April 1 at http://aschoolbellrings.org/events.html. Each ticket entitles attendees to free food, a free drink ticket, free music and access to the live and silent auction which includes items like autographed sports memorabilia, spa retreats, vacation villas, crafts, autographed guitars, oil paintings and other fabulous items.
“This event is a win-win, both for our participating bands, as well as the kids we support,” said Jamie Turner, A School Bell Rings founder and event creator. “As someone who is in a band myself, I can safely say the point is to perform for an audience, and this is a great opportunity to assemble fans and perform for a great cause.”
Turner says event volunteers are excited to partner with several local organizations and companies in the Atlanta area in hopes of reaching shared goals. These relationships will help to facilitate the advancement of growth and progress in the educational programs that A School Bell Rings has funded in years past as well as new programs they aim to fund in the future. With the proceeds from the Battle of the Corporate Bands, A School Bell Rings hopes to fund a new teacher-training program in Nicaragua. Past events have funded building of school facilities, as well as education programs in Tanzania and India. Recent ventures have included building two classrooms at the Tloma Primary School in Karatu, Tanzania and funding the development of a new school in Gujarat, India.
“To keep these kinds of programs going, we plan a high energy evening with excellent music and the live and silent auctions. We will also have information about the programs and kids we support, spirited attendees, and most importantly, a great cause,” said Shanta Dube, A School Bell Rings board member.
A School Bell Rings welcomes individuals and companies to provide tax-deductible auction items by emailing Binita Vijay at binita@aol.com. In addition, the organization and event needs more volunteers to pull off all the requirements from band management and staging to decorating, auction coordination, set-up and tear-down. Email Shanta Dube at ShantaDube@HotMail.com if you are interested in volunteering. For more information about the event, visit http://www.aschoolbellrings.org/events.html.
About A School Bell Rings
A School Bell Rings is an official 501(c)3 certified non-profit organization, devoted to improving the lives of impoverished children around the globe by providing them enhanced access to educational facilities and institutions. They accomplish this by building additional school locations and/or providing existing facilities with needed supplies and services. In addition to building schools, they also help the communities they support by establishing ongoing relationships with local craftsmen and artists. Donors who contribute to this organization participate in feedback and guidance on the charity and how it evolves. They do this by pursuing feedback through donor research, online feedback and face-to-face interaction as well as directed donations.
---
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.ReadMyLipstickNetwork.com
Twitter: @readmylipstick
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
www.Hummingbird-Hollow.com
Twitter: @hhpotterystudio
---
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Krispy Kreme and the Law Enforcement Torch Run(R) Are Teaming Up to Raise Funds and Awareness For Special Olympics
/PRNewswire/ -- Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Inc. (NYSE:KKD) is once again teaming up with Georgia police officers to "raise dough" for the Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics Georgia during the first weekend in May. Officers will take to the roofs for Georgia's eighth annual "Cops on Doughnut Shops" weekend from 6 a.m. on Friday, April 30 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, May 2, where they will collect donations from customers as they eat, sleep and play on the rooftops of the fourteen Georgia Krispy Kreme stores. Due to the success of the event in years past, Cops on Doughnut Shops is being held at Krispy Kreme stores across the country, raising money for each state's local Special Olympics program.
Georgia's 2009 Cops on Doughnut Shops event raised a record $112,000 for the Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics Georgia; this year, the participating officers hope to increase that number to $120,000. In addition to accepting donations from Krispy Kreme customers, the officers will also make calls to local individuals and business leaders asking for pledges, and local celebrities and community leaders are being asked to lend their support up on the roofs throughout the weekend.
Following are the participating Georgia Krispy Kreme stores for Cops on Doughnut Shops 2010:
Albany - 400 N. Slappey Blvd.
Athens - 3703 Atlanta Highway
Atlanta - 295 Ponce de Leon Avenue
Buford - 3387 Buford Drive
Columbus - 6167 Veterans Parkway
Commerce - 40103 Highway 441 South
Duluth - 1550 Pleasant Hill Road
Lilburn - 4129 Highway 78
Marietta - 299 Cobb Parkway, South
Riverdale - 6689 Highway #9
Roswell - 791 Atlanta Street
Savannah - 11506 Abercorn Street
Savannah - 2749 Skidaway Road
"Cops and doughnut shops just naturally go together in people's minds," says Allison Kaczenski, Special Olympics Georgia. "We decided to have some fun with it and help a worthy cause. What better way to create awareness and raise money for the Special Olympics than to put police officers on the roofs of Krispy Kreme stores?"
Customers who donate $5 or more to the Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics will receive not only the sincere thanks of participating officers, but will also receive treats from Krispy Kreme ranging from a free doughnut to a free dozen Original Glazed doughnuts every month for a year. Corporations, organizations or individuals donating $1,000 or more will receive a free Krispy Kreme doughnut party for their employees.
The mission of the Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics is to raise funds for and awareness of the Special Olympics movement worldwide. Law enforcement officers from the 50 United States, 10 Canadian provinces and territories, and 5 countries carry the Flame of Hope in honor of the Special Olympics athletes in their area and around the world. The Law Enforcement Torch Run is the largest grass-roots fund-raiser and public awareness vehicle for Special Olympics in the world. Last year, this international program raised over $30 million to support Special Olympics programs. More than 85,000 law enforcement officers from thousands of agencies have carried the Flame of Hope and have raised more than $200 million since the Torch Run's inception in 1981.
Founded in 1937 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Krispy Kreme is a leading branded specialty retailer of premium quality doughnuts, including the Company's signature Hot Original Glazed. Krispy Kreme currently operates approximately 365 stores and 40 satellites in 45 U.S. states, Australia, Canada, Mexico, the Republic of South Korea and the United Kingdom. Krispy Kreme can be found on the World Wide Web at www.krispykreme.com.
For a list of all participating Krispy Kreme store locations, visit www.krispykreme.com.
For more information about the Law Enforcement Torch Run®, visit www.specialolympicsga.org.
Information contained in this press release, other than historical information, should be considered forward-looking. In particular, the Company has made predictions about its forecasted growth in systemwide sales for the second half of the fiscal year and the fiscal year overall, its revised development plans and estimated new store openings for the fiscal year and the potential for its new product and cost saving initiatives. Forward-looking statements are subject to various risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated, estimated or expected. Among the key factors that may have a direct bearing on Krispy Kreme's operating results, performance or financial condition are its dependence on franchisees to execute its store expansion strategy, supply issues, changes in consumer preferences and perceptions, the failure of new products or cost saving initiatives to contribute to financial results in the timeframe or amount currently estimated, the outcome of the pending investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the pending shareholder class action, and the pending shareholder derivative action, and numerous other factors discussed in Krispy Kreme's periodic reports, proxy statement and other information statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
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Georgia's 2009 Cops on Doughnut Shops event raised a record $112,000 for the Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics Georgia; this year, the participating officers hope to increase that number to $120,000. In addition to accepting donations from Krispy Kreme customers, the officers will also make calls to local individuals and business leaders asking for pledges, and local celebrities and community leaders are being asked to lend their support up on the roofs throughout the weekend.
Following are the participating Georgia Krispy Kreme stores for Cops on Doughnut Shops 2010:
Albany - 400 N. Slappey Blvd.
Athens - 3703 Atlanta Highway
Atlanta - 295 Ponce de Leon Avenue
Buford - 3387 Buford Drive
Columbus - 6167 Veterans Parkway
Commerce - 40103 Highway 441 South
Duluth - 1550 Pleasant Hill Road
Lilburn - 4129 Highway 78
Marietta - 299 Cobb Parkway, South
Riverdale - 6689 Highway #9
Roswell - 791 Atlanta Street
Savannah - 11506 Abercorn Street
Savannah - 2749 Skidaway Road
"Cops and doughnut shops just naturally go together in people's minds," says Allison Kaczenski, Special Olympics Georgia. "We decided to have some fun with it and help a worthy cause. What better way to create awareness and raise money for the Special Olympics than to put police officers on the roofs of Krispy Kreme stores?"
Customers who donate $5 or more to the Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics will receive not only the sincere thanks of participating officers, but will also receive treats from Krispy Kreme ranging from a free doughnut to a free dozen Original Glazed doughnuts every month for a year. Corporations, organizations or individuals donating $1,000 or more will receive a free Krispy Kreme doughnut party for their employees.
The mission of the Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics is to raise funds for and awareness of the Special Olympics movement worldwide. Law enforcement officers from the 50 United States, 10 Canadian provinces and territories, and 5 countries carry the Flame of Hope in honor of the Special Olympics athletes in their area and around the world. The Law Enforcement Torch Run is the largest grass-roots fund-raiser and public awareness vehicle for Special Olympics in the world. Last year, this international program raised over $30 million to support Special Olympics programs. More than 85,000 law enforcement officers from thousands of agencies have carried the Flame of Hope and have raised more than $200 million since the Torch Run's inception in 1981.
Founded in 1937 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Krispy Kreme is a leading branded specialty retailer of premium quality doughnuts, including the Company's signature Hot Original Glazed. Krispy Kreme currently operates approximately 365 stores and 40 satellites in 45 U.S. states, Australia, Canada, Mexico, the Republic of South Korea and the United Kingdom. Krispy Kreme can be found on the World Wide Web at www.krispykreme.com.
For a list of all participating Krispy Kreme store locations, visit www.krispykreme.com.
For more information about the Law Enforcement Torch Run®, visit www.specialolympicsga.org.
Information contained in this press release, other than historical information, should be considered forward-looking. In particular, the Company has made predictions about its forecasted growth in systemwide sales for the second half of the fiscal year and the fiscal year overall, its revised development plans and estimated new store openings for the fiscal year and the potential for its new product and cost saving initiatives. Forward-looking statements are subject to various risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated, estimated or expected. Among the key factors that may have a direct bearing on Krispy Kreme's operating results, performance or financial condition are its dependence on franchisees to execute its store expansion strategy, supply issues, changes in consumer preferences and perceptions, the failure of new products or cost saving initiatives to contribute to financial results in the timeframe or amount currently estimated, the outcome of the pending investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the pending shareholder class action, and the pending shareholder derivative action, and numerous other factors discussed in Krispy Kreme's periodic reports, proxy statement and other information statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
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Habitat For Humanity and Lowe's Challenge Women in all 50 States to Help Build Affordable Housing
/PRNewswire/ -- In the days leading up to Mother's Day, construction crews of women volunteers will join Habitat for Humanity to help build more than 200 houses in all 50 states. In Houston, Texas, they will be joined by Grammy award-winning gospel recording artist and radio morning show host Yolanda Adams and, in Paterson, N.J., New York Times best-selling author Julie Edelman. These pre-Mother's Day activities are part of Habitat's third annual National Women Build Week, May 1-9, sponsored by Lowe's.
National Women Build Week challenges women to devote at least one day to eliminate poverty housing. The event is an initiative of Habitat for Humanity's Women Build program, which recruits, educates and nurtures women to build and advocate for simple, decent and affordable houses in their communities.
"What we're doing this week is a living example of one of my favorite lyrics, 'The things we do, the things we say are gentle rays of hope that touch us all each day,'" Adams said. "I'm so happy we are able to come together as strong, capable women building more than rays of hope for our communities. We are building futures with families throughout the country."
Lowe's is committing $1 million to National Women Build Week by providing $5,000 grants to 200 participating affiliates. This build is a major initiative of Lowe's five-year, $20 million pledge to Habitat. That commitment includes underwriting of Habitat's Women Build program, as well as providing construction know-how at in-store clinics and build sites, and funding for a variety of Habitat projects across the country.
"Lowe's has been the proud sponsor of Habitat's Women Build program since 2004. This innovative program encourages women from all walks of life to pick up their hammers and build homes alongside Habitat partner families," said Larry D. Stone, Lowe's president and COO and chairman of the Lowe's Charitable and Educational Foundation. "This year marks the third anniversary of National Women Build Week. Lowe's salutes the more than 11,000 engaged women who have volunteered on Habitat jobsites across the U.S. during National Women Build Week to help bring an end to poverty housing."
Since Habitat's Women Build program's inception in 1998, nearly 1,700 Habitat for Humanity Women Build homes have been constructed with Habitat partner families.
"As a mother I realize the need to help empower women," Edelman said. "I hope together, we can build communities where we believe we're all doing our individual best, and whatever or however we do it, our personal best is more than OK! All of us working together - moms, women, families, Habitat and Lowe's, especially leading up to our day, Mothers Day - can truly make a difference by helping women build and maintain their homes, and their sense of self and dignity."
"As we at Habitat continue our work to provide simple, decent, affordable housing, we are both honored and humbled by the incredible support Habitat's women volunteers, sponsors and partner family heads-of-household lend to National Women Build Week," said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. "We are grateful that all across the country, women are addressing housing needs facing low-income families by joining Habitat for Humanity and Lowe's during this important nationwide initiative."
For more information on Habitat for Humanity's Women Build program, and to learn about Women Build projects in communities across the U.S. and around the world, visit www.habitat.org/wb.
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National Women Build Week challenges women to devote at least one day to eliminate poverty housing. The event is an initiative of Habitat for Humanity's Women Build program, which recruits, educates and nurtures women to build and advocate for simple, decent and affordable houses in their communities.
"What we're doing this week is a living example of one of my favorite lyrics, 'The things we do, the things we say are gentle rays of hope that touch us all each day,'" Adams said. "I'm so happy we are able to come together as strong, capable women building more than rays of hope for our communities. We are building futures with families throughout the country."
Lowe's is committing $1 million to National Women Build Week by providing $5,000 grants to 200 participating affiliates. This build is a major initiative of Lowe's five-year, $20 million pledge to Habitat. That commitment includes underwriting of Habitat's Women Build program, as well as providing construction know-how at in-store clinics and build sites, and funding for a variety of Habitat projects across the country.
"Lowe's has been the proud sponsor of Habitat's Women Build program since 2004. This innovative program encourages women from all walks of life to pick up their hammers and build homes alongside Habitat partner families," said Larry D. Stone, Lowe's president and COO and chairman of the Lowe's Charitable and Educational Foundation. "This year marks the third anniversary of National Women Build Week. Lowe's salutes the more than 11,000 engaged women who have volunteered on Habitat jobsites across the U.S. during National Women Build Week to help bring an end to poverty housing."
Since Habitat's Women Build program's inception in 1998, nearly 1,700 Habitat for Humanity Women Build homes have been constructed with Habitat partner families.
"As a mother I realize the need to help empower women," Edelman said. "I hope together, we can build communities where we believe we're all doing our individual best, and whatever or however we do it, our personal best is more than OK! All of us working together - moms, women, families, Habitat and Lowe's, especially leading up to our day, Mothers Day - can truly make a difference by helping women build and maintain their homes, and their sense of self and dignity."
"As we at Habitat continue our work to provide simple, decent, affordable housing, we are both honored and humbled by the incredible support Habitat's women volunteers, sponsors and partner family heads-of-household lend to National Women Build Week," said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. "We are grateful that all across the country, women are addressing housing needs facing low-income families by joining Habitat for Humanity and Lowe's during this important nationwide initiative."
For more information on Habitat for Humanity's Women Build program, and to learn about Women Build projects in communities across the U.S. and around the world, visit www.habitat.org/wb.
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Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia Associates Volunteer to Help Georgia Organizations During Third Annual Community Service Day
/PRNewswire/ -- More than 300 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGA) associates and their friends and families joined forces, despite thunderstorms and inclement weather conditions, to participate in the parent company's national Community Service Day. These efforts helped dozens of organizations across the state.
"At BCBSGA we work every day to improve the health of our communities," said Monye Connolly, president of BCBSGA. "Coming together on Community Service Day allows each of us to bring that commitment to life in an everyday way. For the past three years, we have worked with community organizations to collaborate on projects and services that impact each of our communities and we are proud to continue that effort this year."
BCBSGA partnered with the Boys & Girls Club of Metropolitan Atlanta (BGCMA) to make the John Harland Boys & Girls Club cleaner, safer and more functional for its members. BGCMA works to provide young people with a safe place to learn and grow, and life-enhancing programs that develop character and offer hope and opportunity. The Club serves young people between the ages of six and 18 years, inspiring them to realize their full potential as healthy, productive and responsible citizens.
Volunteer tasks included:
- planting spring flowers in existing planter benches and butterfly garden
- refreshing large flower beds around the Club with shrubs and spring flowers
- installing landscape timbers around the Club to prevent mulch from washing away
- painting the teen clubhouse and installing new blinds
Coinciding with Points of Light & Hands On Network's National Volunteer Week, BCBSGA's associates participated in many activities, including:
-- Medshare
-- Camp Twin Lakes - Will-a-Way
-- March of Dimes Georgia Chapter - March for Babies (Columbus and
Savannah)
-- A.J. McClung YMCA
-- Twin Cedars Anne Elizabeth Shepherd Home
-- Food Bank of Northeast Georgia
-- Golden Harvest Food Bank
-- Rebuilding Macon
-- And many others.
In 2009, the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia Foundation also granted nearly $364,000 to community organizations in Georgia. In addition, BCBSGA gifted more than $270,000 to civic and charitable organizations through its community relations support.
And through BCBSGA's associate giving campaign, which was matched at 50 percent by the parent company's foundation, BCBSGA associates pledged more than $226,002 to help non profit organizations throughout the state in 2009.
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"At BCBSGA we work every day to improve the health of our communities," said Monye Connolly, president of BCBSGA. "Coming together on Community Service Day allows each of us to bring that commitment to life in an everyday way. For the past three years, we have worked with community organizations to collaborate on projects and services that impact each of our communities and we are proud to continue that effort this year."
BCBSGA partnered with the Boys & Girls Club of Metropolitan Atlanta (BGCMA) to make the John Harland Boys & Girls Club cleaner, safer and more functional for its members. BGCMA works to provide young people with a safe place to learn and grow, and life-enhancing programs that develop character and offer hope and opportunity. The Club serves young people between the ages of six and 18 years, inspiring them to realize their full potential as healthy, productive and responsible citizens.
Volunteer tasks included:
- planting spring flowers in existing planter benches and butterfly garden
- refreshing large flower beds around the Club with shrubs and spring flowers
- installing landscape timbers around the Club to prevent mulch from washing away
- painting the teen clubhouse and installing new blinds
Coinciding with Points of Light & Hands On Network's National Volunteer Week, BCBSGA's associates participated in many activities, including:
-- Medshare
-- Camp Twin Lakes - Will-a-Way
-- March of Dimes Georgia Chapter - March for Babies (Columbus and
Savannah)
-- A.J. McClung YMCA
-- Twin Cedars Anne Elizabeth Shepherd Home
-- Food Bank of Northeast Georgia
-- Golden Harvest Food Bank
-- Rebuilding Macon
-- And many others.
In 2009, the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia Foundation also granted nearly $364,000 to community organizations in Georgia. In addition, BCBSGA gifted more than $270,000 to civic and charitable organizations through its community relations support.
And through BCBSGA's associate giving campaign, which was matched at 50 percent by the parent company's foundation, BCBSGA associates pledged more than $226,002 to help non profit organizations throughout the state in 2009.
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Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Football Great Matt Stinchcomb Will Serve as MC of 10th Annual FODAC Run, Walk 'n Roll in Atlanta
/PRNewswire/ -- Former University of Georgia and NFL Offensive Tackle Matt Stinchcomb will MC the 10th annual Run, Walk 'n Roll, benefiting Atlanta's Friends of Disabled Adults and Children, Too (FODAC). Adults and children of all ability levels are invited to compete in a 5-mile run or a 2-mile walk and roll on Saturday, May 1 at Confederate Hall inside Stone Mountain Park. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. with the runs scheduled for 8:30 and 9 a.m.
"We're excited to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Run, Walk 'n Roll," said Chris Brand, executive director of FODAC. "Each participant either pays a $20 fee or commits to a minimum of $50 in pledges to raise money for our organization. Proceeds from the event are used to provide people who are mobility impaired with wheelchairs, medical supplies and other home medical equipment they might not be able to afford otherwise. We are especially thrilled that football star Matt Stinchcomb is going to be part of the event this year, and I want to invite everyone to come out to meet him and participate in the Run, Walk 'n Roll."
The event will include a continental breakfast and other refreshments, door prizes, silent auction and raffle, and will be held rain or shine. Prizes will be given to the fastest three runners, as well as the individual and group who raise the most money. Corporate sponsors include AM-750 WSB, Stone Mountain Park, Auction Management Corporation, AMS Vans, Tucker Concrete Co., Inc., Cotton Sates Insurance and Verity Compliance, Inc. To register, visit www.fodac.org. For directions, visit www.stonemountainpark.com.
To date, FODAC has provided clients with over $60 million in medical equipment including over 20,000 wheelchairs. The organization is supported through grants and corporate and private donations.
"This is an easy and fun way for individuals, families or groups to spend a morning raising money for a worthwhile organization," said Brand. "Most of us have friends or family members who need mobility assistance at one time or another due to illness, aging or even an accident. We want to help as many people as possible improve the quality of their lives regardless of whether their mobility issues are temporary or permanent," he said.
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"We're excited to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Run, Walk 'n Roll," said Chris Brand, executive director of FODAC. "Each participant either pays a $20 fee or commits to a minimum of $50 in pledges to raise money for our organization. Proceeds from the event are used to provide people who are mobility impaired with wheelchairs, medical supplies and other home medical equipment they might not be able to afford otherwise. We are especially thrilled that football star Matt Stinchcomb is going to be part of the event this year, and I want to invite everyone to come out to meet him and participate in the Run, Walk 'n Roll."
The event will include a continental breakfast and other refreshments, door prizes, silent auction and raffle, and will be held rain or shine. Prizes will be given to the fastest three runners, as well as the individual and group who raise the most money. Corporate sponsors include AM-750 WSB, Stone Mountain Park, Auction Management Corporation, AMS Vans, Tucker Concrete Co., Inc., Cotton Sates Insurance and Verity Compliance, Inc. To register, visit www.fodac.org. For directions, visit www.stonemountainpark.com.
To date, FODAC has provided clients with over $60 million in medical equipment including over 20,000 wheelchairs. The organization is supported through grants and corporate and private donations.
"This is an easy and fun way for individuals, families or groups to spend a morning raising money for a worthwhile organization," said Brand. "Most of us have friends or family members who need mobility assistance at one time or another due to illness, aging or even an accident. We want to help as many people as possible improve the quality of their lives regardless of whether their mobility issues are temporary or permanent," he said.
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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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Friday, April 09, 2010
Recycle the Can, Donate the Tab, Refresh Communities
(BUSINESS WIRE)--How far can 10 cents a day go? Farther than you think! Sprite is giving consumers an easy and inexpensive way to give back to communities through the “Sprite Tabs for Habitat” program. During the month of April, look for specially marked Sprite or Sprite Zero™ multipacks or 12-oz single cans with a unique green tab and Habitat for Humanity logo. For each green tab consumers collect and mail in by May 30, 2010, Sprite will donate 10 cents to Habitat for Humanity, up to $500,000. It’s that easy. Enjoy your Sprite, recycle your can and send in the green tab. Visit www.spritetabsforhabitat.com for more information.“In addition to providing funds, “Sprite Tabs for Habitat”
“Through the “Sprite Tabs for Habitat” program people can give back to their communities, help others, and recycle – all at the same time,” said Augusto Elias, brand director, Sprite, Coca-Cola North America. “We encourage people with busy lifestyles to see this program as an opportunity to make a difference in their community by simply mailing in the green tabs found on Sprite and Sprite Zero cans.”
Habitat for Humanity builds, repairs and rehabilitates safe, decent and affordable housing in partnership with low-income families in need. Sprite is making a minimum donation to Habitat for Humanity for $250,000 and a percentage of the total funds raised will be allocated to help retrofit homes with water conserving appliances. “In addition to providing funds, “Sprite Tabs for Habitat” will help Habitat for Humanity provide awareness of the incredible need for affordable housing that exists in the United States and around the world,” said Mark Crozet, senior vice president of Resource Development for Habitat for Humanity International. “We thank Sprite for the opportunity to participate in this program.”
Only green Sprite and Sprite Zero tabs will count toward the program and all tabs must be received by May 30, 2010, to be accepted for donation to Habitat for Humanity. To participate, place the green tabs in a regular or padded envelope. If using a non-padded envelope, please limit the number of tabs to 20 in each envelope and mail to: Sprite Tabs for Habitat, P.O. Box 51412, Knoxville, TN 37950. At the conclusion of the program, Sprite will donate all tabs to a charitable organization to be recycled.
In addition to mailing in green Sprite or Sprite Zero tabs, My Coke Rewards® members can also help Habitat for Humanity by donating their My Coke Rewards points between now and May 30, 2010. My Coke Rewards points donated will deliver additional monetary support for Habitat for Humanity. For more information about this opportunity or how to become a member of My Coke Rewards, please visit www.spritetabsforhabitat.com.
Sprite will encourage consumers to participate in the program by placing Habitat for Humanity messaging on packaging, point of sale, and online. Additionally, Sprite is sponsoring ABC Goes Green, a micro site on ABC.com that focuses on offering consumers tips, quizzes and videos on how to be more environmentally friendly. For more information, please visit http://abc.go.com/site/abc-goes-green.
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