Help Needed for Grandchild's Funeral

We at the Fayette Front Page and Georgia Front Page have become aware of a situation through our involvement with Fayette FACTOR that we'd like to share with our readers... We hope some of you will be inclined to help this grandmother in need.

A grandmother has just lost a grandson to Muscular Dystrophy, a horrible debilitating illness. Her son died of this years ago. She took care of both boys through their illnesses and death. She continues to care for a 10 year old (healthy) granddaughter.

A school Parapro stepped in to raise money for the funeral that was a few weeks back. The fund is about $1500 short right now. Any amount you were able to contribute would be greatly appreciated. If there is any monies left in the fund Susan Rodgers, the Parapro, will apply it directly to other expenses this grandmother has.

If you would like to contribute:
Please make checks payable to:
Susan RodgersWrite "Wesley Hall" in the FOR line please!
Susan RodgersP. O. Box 422Sharpsburg, GA 30277

There is a good chance this grandmother and 10 year old granddaughter may have to move from their 3 bedroom apt to a 2 bedroom and this may require money they obviously do not have. Grandma is emotionally and physically spent as you can imagine.

6th Annual Bill Grace Teddy Bear Motorcycle Ride

On Saturday July 28th the local chapter of the Red Knights Firefighters Motorcycle club in conjunction with the Dixie Star Riders in Conyers will be sponsoring the 6th annual Bill Grace Teddy Bear Motorcycle ride. The purpose of the ride is to raise money to buy Teddy Bears. These small stuffed animals are distributed to area Police, Fire and EMS agencies to give to children that been involved in a stressful situation such as an injury or illness. Many times this is just enough of a distraction to calm a child and allow public safety officials to properly care for the child. Last years event raised enough funds to purchase close to 6000 Teddy bears. The Griffin ride will begin at GTO’s parking lot on the north expressway and will be Lead by Members of chapter 11 of the Red Knights Motorcycle Club. Registration is at 8:30 Am and leaves for Monticello at 9:45. This ride will meet with two other rides in Monticello and then the entire group will ride to Conyers where lunch and door prizes will be provided. Cost of the ride is a rider determined donation to the effort. For more information you ca contact Bobby Norton at 770-833-3900 (Conyers) or Joe White at 678-859-3718 (Griffin).

Attention High Schoolers

Are you thinking about college Often good grades aren't enough.... community involvement is a big plus when you are applying to colleges. Volunteering at the Real Life Store is a fun, easy way to jump in and get involved with helping the local community. If you are 16 or older, take some time this summer to check out the store at 992 Senoia Rd. in Tyrone. You can give as little as three hours of your time to earn community involvement and be a part of ministry at the same time! For more information, contact the Real Life Store at 770.632.3590.

DFCS School Children need sponsors!

FYI: We have 59 children on our list now. 7 have been sponsored so far. We will continue to take requests through out the summer. We are serving Pre-K through 12th grade. You may make a generic donation or choose a specific child to sponsor. Your call. School lists should be out in the stores soon. All school items need to be in DFCS by August 6 to allow us to get the items to the children before school starts on August 13.

We have a young man helping to coordinate this project this year. He will help to coordinate volunteers needed to help get the school supplies out to the children as well. This will be a HUGE help to DFCS, as this is the largest project we currently administer/coordinate.

Sharon Herbert,
Community Resource Specialist
Fayette County DFCS
905 Highway 85 South
Fayetteville, Georgia 30215
ssherbert@dhr.state.ga.us
Office: 770-460-2477Fax: 770-460-2464

Cell Phone Drive Helps Abandoned And Neglected Kids at Christian City

The community is invited to help local businesses collect cell phones to support the abandoned and neglected children who live at the Home For Children at Christian City. Collected phones will be sent to a recycle center who will refurbish and recycle the phones, giving Christian City between $3-$10 for each phone. The money raised will help pay for food, clothing and medical attention among other needs for the children who live in the cottages on Christian City's campus.

All types of cell phones are desirable, working and non-working. The following sponsors are serving as drop off locations:

Fayetteville
Wal Mart at The Pavillion
Crumpton's Furniture, 640 Glynn Street (HWY 85)
World Gym 931 Glynn Street
World Gym 1964 HWY 54
Melear's BBQ HWY 85 So.

Peachtree City
Boxes N Go, 420 Huddleston Road
J93.3 radio station in the Publix shopping center on HWY 54
Neighborhood Community Bank, across from Publix shopping center HWY 54
Bruster's Ice Cream, across from Publix shopping center HWY 54

Tyrone
Tri Star Automotive, 100 Powers Way

Union City
Christian City at the Welcome Center, 7345
Red Oak Road Firestation #1 on High Point Road
Firestaion #2 at 6393 Shannon Parkway
Police Station by City Hall, 5060 Union Street
So Fulton Chamber of Commerce, 6400 Shannon Parkway
Comfort Inn at 6800 Shannon Way

NewnanBank of Coweta, 110 Jefferson Drive

Located in Union City, Christian City has been serving the community since 1965 when they opened the first cottage for eight little boys who needed a safe, loving, place to live. Now, over 40 years later, this nonprofit, nondenominational organization is home to over 1000 residents including seniors. Community support is always needed and the cell phone drive is an easy way to get involved and help meet the needs of those less fortunate. If you would like to participate in the cell phone drive to help raise money for Christian City kids or for general information about Christian City, call Debs MacNellis at 770-703-2636 or access www.christiancity.com

Cell Phone Drive Helps Abandoned And Neglected Kids at Christian City

The community is invited to help local businesses collect cell phones to support the abandoned and neglected children who live at the Home For Children at Christian City. Collected phones will be sent to a recycle center who will refurbish and recycle the phones, giving Christian City between $3-$10 for each phone. The money raised will help pay for food, clothing and medical attention among other needs for the children who live in the cottages on Christian City's campus. All types of cell phones are desirable, working and non-working. The following sponsors are serving as drop off locations:

Fayetteville
Wal Mart at The Pavillion
Crumpton's Furniture, 640 Glynn Street (HWY 85)

Peachtree City
Boxes N Go, 420 Huddleston Road
J93.3 radio station in the Publix shopping center on HWY 54
Neighborhood Community Bank, across from Publix shopping center HWY 54
Bruster's Ice Cream, across from Publix shopping center HWY 54

Tyrone
Tri Star Automotive, 100 Powers Way

Union City
Christian City at the Welcome Center, 7345 Red Oak Road
Firestation #1 on High Point Road
Firestaion #2 at 6393 Shannon Parkway
Police Station by City Hall, 5060 Union Street So Fulton Chamber of Commerce, 6400 Shannon Parkway Comfort Inn at 6800 Shannon Way

Newnan
Bank of Coweta, 110 Jefferson Drive


Located in Union City, Christian City has been serving the community since 1965 when they opened the first cottage for eight little boys who needed a safe, loving, place to live. Now, over 40 years later, this nonprofit, nondenominational organization is home to over 1000 residents including seniors. Community support is always needed and the cell phone drive is an easy way to get involved and help meet the needs of those less fortunate. If you would like to participate in the cell phone drive to help raise money for Christian City kids or for general information about Christian City, call Debs MacNellis at 770-703-2636 or access www.christiancity.com

Fundraising Dinner at Whitewater County Club

Whitewater Country Club is hosting a fundraising dinner, dance and silent auction on Saturday, May 19th for local resident Tracy Russo. Tracy is a twenty-two year old college student at the University of Georgia majoring in Education. Tracy, who has been suffering from seizures, headaches, and other symptoms was recently diagnosed with a brain tumor.

Tracy is currently under the care of a neurologist in Fayetteville. Due to the severity and location of the tumor, Tracy’s neurologist has recommended that her surgery be done out of state by a team of specialist. Tracy is without health insurance and the cost of the surgery will be approximately $130,000. Tracy’s family is hoping to raise the necessary funds so that Tracy can have this lifesaving surgery very soon.

Tracy was only 9 years old when her parents divorced. Sadly, Tracy’s Dad, an alcoholic, was tragically murdered when she was just 16 years old. Tracy is a Fayette County High School graduate. She is enrolled at the University of Georgia and has been majoring in Education. Tracy hopes to be a teacher one day. She dreams of helping young people who have had tough times, like she has.

Tracy has worked hard to finance her education. She has earned the Hope Scholarship and has qualified for some financial aid. She made the Dean’s list this fall while working her way through school, doing the best that she can.

Tracy has a strong religious faith and has overcome many difficult obstacles in her young life. By pursuing her passion for teaching and her love of children, she hopes to give back to her community one day. She wants to make a difference in the lives of children, but needs financial help to pay for this tumor surgery.

If you would like to help support Tracy, and enjoy a pleasant dinner out, some dancing and a silent auction, please join Tracy’s family and friends at Whitewater Country Club in Fayetteville on Saturday, May 19th from 6:00 – 10:00 PM. The cost of the dinner is $50.00 for adults and $25.00 for children. Reservations are requested and can be made by contacting Lorraine Russo at 678-770-6891.

All proceeds from the dinner and silent auction will go towards Tracy’s surgery and medical care. Donations may also be made to any Bank of America, deposited to the Tracy Russo Medical Fund account number 334001258276. For more information about Tracy Russo please see her web site at: www.supporttracy.com.

Give a FREE Mammogram

The Breast Cancer site is having trouble getting enough people to click on their site daily to meet their quota of donating at least one free mammogram a day to an underprivileged woman. It takes less than a minute to go to their site and click on "donating a mammogram" for free (pink window in the middle). This doesn't cost you a thing. Their corporate sponsors/advertisers use the number of daily visits to donate mammogram in exchange for advertising.

Here's the web site! Pass it along to people you know.

http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/

Fundraiser This Thursday for Future Teacher Who Needs Community Support

Mike & C’s Family Sports Grill in Peachtree City is holding a fundraiser this Thursday, May 3rd for local resident Tracy Russo.

Tracy is a twenty-two year old college student at the University of Georgia majoring in Education. Tracy, who has been suffering from seizures, headaches, and other symptoms and was recently diagnosed with a brain tumor. She is currently under the care of a neurologist in Fayetteville.

Due to the severity and location of the tumor, Tracy’s neurologist has recommended that her surgery be done out of state by a team of specialist. Tracy is without health insurance and the cost of the surgery will be approximately $130,000. Tracy’s family is hoping to raise the necessary funds so that Tracy can have this surgery very soon.

Tracy was only 9 years old when her parents got divorced. That brought lots of changes to young Tracy’s life. Sadly, even more changes were in store for young Tracy; at the young age of 16, her Dad, an alcoholic, was tragically murdered. Tracy completed her high school education at Fayette County High School and looked forward to that simple life she always dreamed of.

Tracy enrolled at the University of Georgia and has been majoring in Education. Tracy hopes to be a teacher one day. She dreams of helping young people who have had tough times, like she has. Tracy has worked hard to finance her education. She has earned the Hope Scholarship and has qualified for some financial aid. She made the Dean’s list this fall while working her way through school, doing the best that she can.

Tracy has a strong religious faith and has overcome many difficult obstacles in her young life. By pursuing her passion for teaching and her love of children, she hopes to give back to her community one day. She wants to make a difference in the lives of children, but needs financial help to pay for this tumor surgery.

If you would like to help support Tracy, and enjoy a pleasant dinner out, please join Tracy’s family and friends at Mike & C’s Family Sports Grill this Thursday night. Mike & C’s will donate 10% of all sales made this Thursday, from 5:00 PM until closing. Donations may also be made to any Bank of America, deposited to the Tracy Russo Medical Fund account number 334001258276. For more information about Tracy Russo please see her web site at: http://www.supporttracy.com/.

Americans Divided When It Comes to Giving Back

Look for Simple Ways to Include Volunteering in Your Life

(ARA) - Whether it's cooking a meal for the homeless or sprucing up a garden area, there are many ways to give back to those who are in need. But sometimes the hardest part about volunteering is finding the time and the right opportunity to get involved.

A recent national survey commissioned by McDonald's, as part of its support of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), reveals that less than half of Americans (45 percent) currently volunteer their time to charity. While most people recognize the importance of volunteering, they do not prioritize it in their daily lives. An overwhelming majority of respondents (93 percent) believe that it is important to promote volunteerism among today’s youth; yet more than half of Americans admit that they’d prefer to spend their free time reading, watching television or even visiting their in-laws than volunteering for charity (51 percent versus 8 percent).

The most commonly cited barrier to volunteering is a perceived lack of free time (49 percent). Others say that they haven’t found a charity they want to get involved with (16 percent) or that they simply don’t know how to get involved (8 percent). The survey also shed light on what inspires Americans to volunteer, with 42 percent stating that they look for a personal connection to a charity and an additional 40 percent citing involvement in their community as a driving force. Nearly one in ten Americans say they got involved in volunteering because their employer encourages it (9 percent).

“It is always important to remember those who need help and find a way to give back to your local community,” says Marty Coyne, RMHC president and CEO. “We realize, however, that between work and family it can be challenging to find the time. That is why, at RMHC, we believe in offering a variety of opportunities that fit into our volunteers’ active lives.”

There are a number of easy ways in which people can contribute their time and get involved through RMHC. A few simple ways that people can make a difference include:

* Pick up the phone -- Just make a call to the volunteer coordinator at your local RMHC chapter and ask how you can help with one of their programs, such as Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald Family Room and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile.

* Be a chef for a day -- Get a few people together and call your local Ronald McDonald House or Ronald McDonald Family Room. A nice home-cooked meal can go a long way to helping families who are caring for seriously ill children feel more at home.

* Bring the movie theater to a Ronald McDonald House/Ronald McDonald Family Room -- Bring a wide variety of movies, pop some popcorn, and invite families to join in the fun.

* Exercise your green thumb -- Help maintain the garden areas to brighten the space for the families at a local Ronald McDonald House.

* Get rid of loose change -- For those who are unable to volunteer their time, simply drop off some change in an RMHC collection canister at your local participating McDonald's restaurant.

Visit www.rmhc.org for more information on community programs and local volunteer initiatives.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Each year, up to $41 million go unclaimed by homeless Georgians with mental illness - DHR has solution

Annually, up to $41 million in social security entitlements go unclaimed by homeless Georgians with mental illness. With support from a new three–year federal grant entitled "SOAR," the Georgia Department of Human Resources (DHR) will help homeless people with mental illness significantly enhance their access to social security benefits by helping them complete complicated applications. Nationally, Georgia ranks 49TH with respect to social security approval rates; its denial rate is 74%. For the homeless with mental illness, rates are believed to be even worst. Reasons behind Georgia’s performance are largely due to individuals having difficulty completing applications or simply not knowing they are eligible. Approximately 45% of Georgia’s homeless population is believed to have mental illness.

"Almost half of the homeless population is missing out on benefits for which they are eligible," said Gwen Skinner, Director for the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Addictive Diseases. "With new statewide training and coordination among DHR, outreach workers and local social security offices, we will be able to dramatically improve the lives of thousands and alter Georgia’s homeless culture."

Under the new program, DHR has trained more than 500 homeless outreach workers statewide on techniques to expedite access to social security benefits. The new processing time will now take approximately 90 days as opposed to 12 months. SOAR trainees personally assist consumers in completing applications and help them retrieve medical records from health care facilities, which historically has been a significant barrier.

SOAR which stands for SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access and Recovery is considered a national best-practice model designed to enhance access to supplemental security income and social security disability insurance for people who are homeless. States that have successfully implemented SOAR have been able to save millions of dollars in recovered Medicaid and general assistance funds.

It is estimated that $4 billion is spent annually on homelessness by local and state governments.
For more information on SOAR, contact the DHR Office of Mental Health at 404.657.2134.

Do You Know a Woman Who Has Made a Difference? Help Her Get the Recognition She Deserves

(ARA) - Thanks to Paula “P.K.” Beville of Marietta, Ga., nursing home patients in her hometown are no longer feeling alone and forgotten -- they are living their dreams. Maria Palestini Bye of Voorhees, N.J., has found a way to make sure teenagers in her community who are dealing with life-threatening diseases can find the comfort they need. And Denise Resnik started up a desperately needed research and resource center in Phoenix to help families in need of answers about autism.

Paula, Maria and Denise come from very different backgrounds but they have a lot in common. In addition to their deep passion for helping others and a commitment to their communities, this past October, they, along with four other outstanding women, were named winners of the first annual Women of Worth contest sponsored by L’Oréal Paris.

“I applaud all our fabulous women who are inspiring volunteers and outstanding achievers who have an inspiring heart for making differences in their communities. The four simple words ‘Because I’m Worth It’ continue to serve as a galvanizing and unifying force for the L’Oréal Paris community,” said Carol J. Hamilton, President, L’Oréal Paris.

If you know someone who is deserving of recognition for their ucommitment to volunteer work, the call for entries for the 2nd annual Women of Worth award has just gotten underway. From now until May 24, 2007, nominations are being accepted at the Web site: www.womenofworth.com. An elite panel of judges will select the 13 finalists, and America will have the opportunity to vote for one national honoree after reviewing their online profiles this fall. Monetary donations will be awarded to the charity of choice of the finalists.

If you’ve always wanted to get involved, but don’t feel you’re yet among the caliber of people deserving of recognition, there’s no better time than the present to make the commitment. You can show your worth by being active in your community. Join a local nonprofit organization, set up a charitable fund, or even start your own community initiative. To learn more about the L’Oréal Women of Worth Program, how to become a local volunteer or to nominate someone outstanding you can visit www.womenofworth.com.

If you are looking for some advice on how to get involved as a volunteer in your local community, here are some tips from the Points of Light Foundation, L’Oréal Paris' nonprofit partner in executing the Women of Worth program, to get you started:

1. Research the causes and issues important to you.

Look for a group centered around issues you feel strongly about. You might already be giving money to one of these organizations, and that might be a good place to begin your volunteer experience.

2. Consider the skills you have to offer.

If you enjoy outdoor work, have a knack for teaching, or just enjoy interacting with people you may want to look for volunteer work that incorporates these aspects of your personality. Many positions require a volunteer who has previous familiarity with certain equipment like computers, or who possesses specific skills, such as an ability in athletics or communications.

3. Try something new.

Perhaps you would like to learn a new skill or gain exposure to a new situation. Consider a volunteer opportunity where you'll learn something new.

4. Combine your goals.

Look for volunteer opportunities that can also help you achieve your other goals. For example, if you want to lose a few extra pounds, pick an active volunteer opportunity such as cleaning a park or working with kids.

5. Don't over commit your schedule.

Understand how volunteering can fit comfortably within your busy schedule. Spend time selecting a cause that will allow you to continue to maintain a strong balance between work, family, and home.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Future Teacher Needs Community Support

When your childhood is difficult all you want to do is to grow up and live a simple, uncomplicated, ordinary life. That is exactly what Fayette County resident Tracy Russo has always wanted for herself.

Tracy was only 9 years old when her parents got divorced. That brought lots of changes to young Tracy’s life. Sadly, even more changes were in store for young Tracy; at the young age of 16, her Dad, an alcoholic, was tragically murdered. Tracy completed her high school education at Fayette County High School and looked forward to that simple life she always dreamed of.

Tracy enrolled at the University of Georgia and has been majoring in Education. Tracy hopes to be a teacher one day. She dreams of helping young people who have had tough times, like she has. Tracy has worked hard to finance her education. She has earned the Hope Scholarship and has qualified for some financial aid. She made the Dean’s list this fall while working her way through school, doing the best that she can.

Unfortunately, fate has dealt Tracy another difficult challenge. Tracy has recently been diagnosed with a brain tumor. She is currently under the care of a Fayetteville neurologist. She has been suffering from seizures, headaches, and other uncomfortable symptoms. Due to the severity and location of the tumor, her neurologist has recommended that Tracy have her surgery performed by a surgeon in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Like many optimistic young people who need money for school, Tracy does not have health insurance. The anticipated cost of Tracy’s surgery is $130,000.

Tracy has a strong religious faith and has overcome many difficult obstacles in her young life. By pursuing her passion for teaching and her love of children, she hopes to give back to her community one day. She wants to make a difference in the lives of children, but needs financial help to pay for this tumor surgery. Tracy’s family is asking the Fayette Community to support this wonderful young woman with prayers and donations to her medical fund.

Donations may also be made to any Bank of America, deposited to the Tracy Russo Medical Fund account number 334001258276.

Grandmother needs help

DFCS caseworker writes: We have a grandmother who has 9 of her grandchildren living with her, because their parents are deceased or are not involved. The grandmother lives in a 3 bedroom home. The grandmother needs 4 bunk beds for the children. Any help for this family will be greatly appreciated.

Sharon Herbert,Community Resource Specialist
Fayette County DFCS905
Highway 85 South
Fayetteville, Georgia 30215
ssherbert@dhr.state.ga.us
Office: 770-460-2477
Fax: 770-460-2464

Lots of great oppportunities to give!

The Fayette Youth Protection Home is holding their annual fund-raising dinner and would love to have a donation from you for their silent auction. Christian City will hold their annual Gala the following week and is also asking for donations for their auction.

If you are inclined to share an item for either very worthy cause, please give Janet Dunn a call at 404-290-3638.

Nonprofit Career Fair, Feb. 7th

Nonprofit Career Fair (Atlanta, Feb. 7) This annual career fair at Spelman College showcases nonprofit, public service, and government agencies interested in talking with students about internships and volunteer opportunities. No registration fee; lunch is provided. Fair is on the Spelman campus from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. To register, contact Dennis Lindsay at 404-270-5271 or dlindsay@spelman.edu by Jan. 19, 2007. Space is limited.

Retired Army Major General Appeals to Atlanta Travelers to Donate International Phone Cards for Troops

American Airlines Donates Two Round-Trip Ticket Drawings as Public Incentive

12-22-06 Retired U.S. Army Major General Gordon "Duke" Duquemin is appealing to holiday travelers to support the USO's efforts to collect international phone cards for soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. The USO has expressed an urgent need for international phone cards to help deployed soldiers call home. In Atlanta, American Airlines employees are collecting the phone cards at American Airlines counters at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport through Jan. 10.

Duquemin is asking travelers passing through Hartsfield-Jackson Airport during the holidays to help by bringing international phone cards to any American Airlines counter.

"Americans are always generous, particularly when it comes to supporting our men and women in uniform," said Duquemin. "For those people who are looking for a way to support our troops, international phone cards are very much appreciated."

As an incentive to increase card donations, American Airlines is offering the public two opportunities to win round-trip coach airfare for two with every donation of an international phone card. No purchase is necessary. Phone cards also may be donated directly to the USO; however, only cards donated through American Airlines will include entry for airfare.

Donation boxes, informational flyers, and donation envelopes are located at each American Airlines counter at the Atlanta airport. To donate and to enter the drawing for free airfare, customers should place their international phone card donation in the designated envelope and provide contact information. Each donation with contact information received in the designated box no later than Jan. 10 will be entered in the drawing. There is no limit to the number of entries. Winners will be selected by Jan. 15.

The USO mission is to provide morale, welfare and recreation-type services to our men and women in uniform. The USO is not part of the U.S. Government but is supported by the President of the United States and the Department of Defense. Each President has been the Honorary Chairman of the USO since its inception. The original intent of Congress -- and enduring style of USO delivery -- is to represent the American people by extending a touch of home to the military.

Charlotte's Web tickets

Please go to this website and order your "Charlotte's Web" movie tickets. Opens 12/15. For every ticket purchased online, $1.00 goes to support 4-H.

http://www.georgia4h.org/

DFCS PLEA - PLEASE DONATE TO TOYS FOR TOTS!

Toys for Tots accepts donations at area Publix stores in Fayette County. They are VERY short on toys this year and fear they will not be able to fill the needs they have so far. Some last minute needs in our county could possibly be helped through this project, if they get enough toys. PLEASE HELP! Thanks!

Sharon Herbert,
Community Resource Specialist
Fayette County DFCS
905 Highway 85 South
Fayetteville, Georgia 30215
ssherbert@dhr.state.ga.us
Office: 770-460-2477
Fax: 770-460-2464

DFCS family needs help

One of our caseworkers has advised me that a relative care giver needs 2 twin mattresses. They have the bed frames. Please contact me ASAP if you can help with this need. Thanks!

Sharon Herbert,
Community Resource Specialist
Fayette County DFCS
905 Highway 85 South
Fayetteville, Georgia 30215
ssherbert@dhr.state.ga.us
Office: 770-460-2477
Fax: 770-460-2464