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Publisher’s Note: Some of the content appearing in this section is advertorial in nature and was provided by our advertising partners.
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ADAMHS Board of Cuyahoga County Akron Children’s American Red Cross of Northern Ohio Beck Center for the Arts Bellefaire JCB Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio Canopy Child Advocacy Center Care Alliance Health Center Cleveland Foundation Cleveland Jewish News Foundation Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank Cleveland Metroparks Cleveland Museum of Natural History Cleveland Rape Crisis Center Cleveland State University Foundation Cleveland Zoological Society Community Service Alliance Creative Living for Life – Medina Creative Housing Family Promise of Greater Cleveland Friendship Circle of Cleveland Front Steps Housing and Services Goodwill Industries of Greater Cleveland and East Central Ohio, Inc Great Lakes Science Center Greater Cleveland Fisher House Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity Holden Forests & Gardens Hope Meadows Foundation Hospice of the Western Reserve Hunger Network LifeAct Lifebanc Malachi House Maltz Museum McCarthy Lebit Crystal Liffman MedWish Medworks MetroHealth Foundation National Council of Jewish Women/Cleveland Playhouse Square Rise Up: Northeast Ohio Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens Talespinner Children’s Theatre The Centers The Cleveland Orchestra Towards Employment United Way of Greater Cleveland University Hospitals VGS WomenSafe, Inc. YWCA Greater Cleveland
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Nonprofits rely on volunteers to fulfill mission ELLEN BRAUNSTEIN
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hen a person walks into The Gathering Place after receiving a cancer diagnosis, the first face they see isn’t a clinician. It’s a volunteer at the front desk – someone donating time rather than money, but providing a level of warmth and reassurance that staff say shapes a visitor’s entire experience. “That first moment matters,” Adam Ross, chief development officer of The Gathering Place, said. “It sets the tone for someone who’s just heard life-changing news.” For many Clevelanders who want to support causes, but feel unable to make financial donations, that idea – that small, non-monetary acts can carry real weight – is an important reminder. As nonprofits navigate rising demand and constrained budgets, organizations across the region say non-financial giving is not supplemental, it’s central. The Gathering Place offers free programs to individuals and families living with cancer, including nutrition support, fitness classes, support groups and help with the emotional and practical challenges that accompany a diagnosis. Volunteers keep much of the operation running: greeting visitors, assisting with wig fittings, helping in support programs and staffing the
Pilati
Ross
organization’s pre-loved furniture warehouse, where donated items are sold to support services. “If we didn’t have those volunteers, we’d have to hire for those roles,” Ross said. “That would increase costs, and we’re committed to keeping services free.” Ross encourages people to begin by contacting a nonprofit whose mission resonates with them. Many skills – including those people consider ordinary – are often in demand. At The Gathering Place, lawyers and financial planners volunteer to help families draft wills or navigate financial questions that arise during treatment. In a previous job, Ross watched accountants volunteer to help inner-city families file taxes. “Across the nonprofit sector, there’s always
a need,” he said. “People are often surprised by how their everyday skills translate.” Organizations benefit from being flexible, according to Ross. Some volunteers can commit weekly, while others can only give a few hours. Nonprofits can design projects around that. Even one-day volunteer groups can be divided into smaller tasks, allowing people with limited time to contribute meaningfully. Exposure itself matters: volunteers often become ambassadors who share information about an organization with people who may need services later. At Goodwill Industries of Greater Cleveland and East Central Ohio, vice president of marketing Diane Pilati said one of the easiest ways to give doesn’t involve money at all – just household items people no longer use. “Donating gently used items is a very meaningful form of generosity,” Pilati said. “It supports our 30 mission-based programs and allows us to expand our impact.” Goodwill sells donated clothing, kitchenware, books, toys and home decor in its retail stores. Revenue funds programs ranging from employment services and digital-skills training to a parenting program, rape-crisis intervention and a hot-meal site the organization operates in West Virginia. Last year, Goodwill received more than 800,000 material donations and served
ACE Cleveland is a free after-school program that excites, engages, and enlightens more than 200 high school students per year about careers in architecture, engineering, and construction through expert mentoring and ongoing support for their future in the industry. ACE provides opportunities for students from historically disadvantaged backgrounds. Guided by the Jewish value of T’Kun O’lam (heal the world), I’ve been honored to serve on the ACE Board for several years. During that time, I’ve witnessed ACE students compete, present, excel, graduate, and step into critical roles within the architecture, construction, and engineering industry. If you believe in expanding opportunities for all communities, ACE is an organization that truly makes a difference.
Engage
Excite
Aaron Evenchik, Partner at Hahn Loeser & Parks LLP, ACE Board Member and Annual Supporter
Excite, engage, and enlighten. Join ACE and make a difference!
www.acecleveland.org
Enlighten
more than 22,000 individuals – numbers already surpassed this year. Pilati said households often underestimate the value of items sitting unused. Donating them “lets people declutter with purpose,” she said, while directly supporting jobseekers, families in crisis and individuals needing medical or social services. Goodwill also works with companies, congregations and neighborhood groups that want to organize donation drives, and the organization draws on skilled volunteers to help with financial literacy classes, resume preparation and interview coaching. Awareness is another kind of contribution. Pilati said that when people share Goodwill’s message, highlight services or encourage others to donate, it strengthens community engagement in ways that are difficult to quantify. Both Ross and Pilati said people shouldn’t assume that financial giving is the only meaningful way to contribute to a cause. Time, skills and goods are often just as critical to keeping programs running. “People sometimes underestimate what they already have to offer,” Ross said. “Most organizations can put that to use in a very real way.” Ellen Braunstein is a freelance journalist.
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Charitable organizations seek ways to recruit, retain talent SHANNON MORTLAND
N
onprofits have always had challenges in recruiting and retention simply because they often pay a little less than similar private entities, but those challenges have become even more prevalent with recent federal funding cuts to charitable organizations. From early on in his second term, President Donald Trump began cutting funding to many safety net programs across the country. Nonprofits cite political impact and recruitment and retention as the most common challenges they are facing, Brown according to The State of Nonprofits 2025, What Funders Need to Know report by The Center for Effective Philanthropy. The center is a nonprofit in Cambridge, Mass., that seeks to help foundations and major donors be more effective. Combine dwindling resources and inflation causing prices to rise, and nonprofits are tasked with finding creative ways to recruit and retain employees. The United Way of Greater Cleveland is no exception, said Michael Brown, senior director of human resources. “Our challenges mirror that of many other nonprofits in regard to retaining and attracting talent, and while technology changes rapidly and funding remains constrained, we have an opportunity to build more responsive, efficient and people-centered ways to serve our
employees and residents who depend on us.” United Way of Greater Cleveland sees these pressures as a call to double down on its core strengths of connecting people to real-time solutions and advancing economic mobility across the region. Community need is high, with about 250,000 families lacking sufficient income to meet rising expenses. Many of them turn to United Way 211 for support with essentials such as housing, utilities and food, Brown said. Indeed, that could even include providing services to those formerly employed by nonprofits. One source contacted for this story noted that he had been “let go” from a local nonprofit. Three other organizations were unable to comment by the deadline. United Way grounds its talent strategy in mission and engagement, meaning the organization tends to attract people who are motivated by purpose in their work. “Employees stay when they understand the value of their role, feel supported in their work, and experience an organization that is committed to both community impact and employee well-being,” Brown said. The issues surrounding nonprofits are not likely to subside anytime soon. According to the State of Nonprofits report, 77% of survey respondents said the out-comes of the 2024 U.S. federal elections will impact them going forward. Most survey respondents (73%) said changes in federal government funding, changes in local or state funding (61%), and the political divide in the U.S. (52%) will continue to challenge nonprofits.
United Way of Greater Cleveland, founded in 1957, is working toward broadening its funding base and sharing impact data. This is designed to help donors, partners and employees understand how investments translate into meaningful outcomes for families. “Ultimately, sustaining this work requires aligning mission with strong infrastructure and a supported workforce,” Brown said. “By combining data, collaboration and a focus on employee capacity, we can help more Greater Clevelanders achieve stability and move toward lasting financial security.” Shannon Mortland is a freelance journalist.
Food Strong is a nonprofit organization dedicated to cultivating food justice by building enduring local food systems from the ground up. We offer school gardening/nutrition/culinary programs in local K-12 schools, community culinary and gardening workshops, and wellness events. We are in the process of restoring a 3-acre farm on Superior into a community agriculture, workforce development, and events hub. We offer numerous ways to volunteer and contribute. Join our movement toward food justice today! Visit FoodStrong.org to sign up for our newsletter and get involved today!
216.417.0111 | info@foodstrong.org | www.FoodStrong.org 1901 Train Ave. | Cleveland, Ohio 44113
A Tradition of Unmatched Client Care When it comes to reaching clients’ financial goals, our advisors aren’t just talk; they demonstrate a relentless work ethic, personal, focused attention, and the same level of dedication to their clients’ priorities as they have for their own. In this industry, that isn’t the status quo—it’s uncommon commitment, and it’s why clients have chosen us as a fiduciary for over 100 years.
Let’s Talk. Investment, Insurance, and Non-deposit Trust products are: NOT A DEPOSIT • NOT FDIC INSURED • NOT GUARANTEED BY THE BANK • NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY • MAY LOSE VALUE The Huntington National Bank is Member FDIC. ®, Huntington®, Huntington®, and Huntington Private Bank® are federally registered service marks of Huntington Bancshares Incorporated. ©2024 Huntington Private Bank
(216) 515-0779 huntington.com/Uncommon
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Nonprofits keep community at forefront while planning large-scale events ADRIANA GASIEWSKI
T
YOUR GIFT WILL ADVANCE A HEALTHIER TOMORROW Make your tax-deductible gift today so we can continue to protect and provide care — no matter what. SCAN HERE ppgoh.org/give
hree days before ABC “Nightline” co-anchor Juju Chang was scheduled to speak at the National Council of Jewish Women/ Cleveland Opening Meeting on Sept. 12, 2022, Chang received an assignment to report on the death of Queen Elizabeth II. For Mindi Axner, executive director of NCJW/CLE, this was Axner the first time a situation like this arose in her 17 years, leaving her and the event’s co-chairs with two options: find another speaker or postpone the meeting. After weighing the options, they decided it was best to reschedule to ensure Linden attendees would still hear from Chang and they were fortunate that Landerhaven , the venue hosting the event, was accommodating of this decision, she said. Because NCJW/CLE provides educational opportunities through such events, Shulman rescheduling allowed attendees to learn about Chang’s career and identity struggles, Axner said. Other nonprofits like Bikur Cholim of Cleveland and BBYO Ohio Northern Region aim to spread their missions through the community by way of events, which entails thinking of attendees while planning. Lisa Linden, director of communications for Bikur Cholim, views the organization’s events like its gala, Women’s Health and Wellness Expo and Safety Fair as furthering its mission. “Our role really is just to be there wherever there’s need,” she said. “I mean that’s really what drives our mission, and the gala really is just a thank you to the community for supporting us.”
Because over 900 individuals part took in the 2025 gala, Linden and others have already entered “planning mode” for the next gala, focusing on the event’s larger tasks and will eventually turn their attention to smaller details. These “bigger ticket” events include securing entertainment, working on a save the date, gathering corporate sponsors, creating a website for online donations and identifying honorees, she said. “Really kind of doing high level, … some of the high-level details right now, and, as I said, as we get close, we’ll get more into the specifics of who’s coming and what their food preferences, the flow of the program and so on and so forth,” Linden said. Axner and NCJW/CLE take a similar approach to planning, determining a speaker for its opening event nine months in advance and beginning to organize the event six to eight months ahead, she said. “In 17 years, we’ve always done these four major meetings,” she said. “So, I think we’ve known for a very long time that the sooner we can start working on something, the better.” BBYO ONR provides Jewish teens with the opportunity to gain leadership skills from hosting events two to three times a month throughout the year. Because these are the teens’ first times spearheading events, Jake Shulman, engagement manager of BBYO ONR, said there’s plenty of trial and error from tasks like announcing the events in a timely manner. “Framing to the teens, ‘OK, you only got 10 people to your program this time, so let’s think a little bit about that.’ What went well, what didn’t go so well and looking forward, how can we do better,” Shulman said. BBYO ONR, NCJW/CLE and Bikur Cholim are always looking for new volunteers to help throughout the year, with different initiatives listed on their websites. Adriana Gasiewski is a freelance journalist.
If TikTok is part of your daily routine, why not follow us there too? Check out @newsforjewsOHIO for more updates!
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Si tú o alguien que conoces necesita apoyo, llama al 988 Cuyahoga County 24/7 Suicide Prevention, Mental Health/ Addiction Crisis, Info & Referral Hotline: 216-623-6888 or 988
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Help more kids go from a 10% chance of survival to 100% toddler.
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American Red Cross of Northern Ohio How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community? The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. Your gift helps the American Red Cross shelter, feed and provide comfort to victims of disasters like home fires; supply about 40% of the nation’s blood; teach skills that save lives; distribute international humanitarian aid; and support veterans, military members and their families. What factors contribute to your organization success? The generosity of our donors and the power of our volunteers contribute to the success of delivering our humanitarian mission. The Red Cross is proud that 90% of our workforce is comprised of dedicated volunteers, and 90 cents of every dollar spent is invested in providing care and comfort for people in need. Thank you for your support! What sets your organization apart? As the world’s largest humanitarian organization, the Red Cross is there when disaster strikes. We provide food, shelter, relief supplies, emotional comfort, health services, financial assistance and other support to help people in their time of greatest need. The Red Cross helps members of the military, veterans and their families cope with the challenges of service. In times of emergency, the Red Cross assists military members by facilitating communication with loved ones and arranging their return home through our Hero Care Network. Each year, we assist more than 220,000 military and veteran families across the country and around the world.. The winter months can be one of the most challenging times for the Red Cross to collect enough blood to meet patient needs across Northern Ohio. Busy holiday schedules, seasonal illness and winter weather often force donors to cancel or reschedule donation appointments. But the need for blood doesn’t stop during this busy time. In fact, every 2 seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. Here in Northern Ohio, more than 70 local hospitals depend on the community to give and keep the blood supply strong. Give something that means something and make an appointment to give blood.
Interested in helping? Visit redcross.org/noh to learn more about becoming a Red Cross volunteer, to make a financial donation or to make an appointment to donate blood.
216-431-3010 redcross.org/noh Year Established: 1881 Number of Regional Employees: 300 Top Leadership
Mike Parks Regional CEO
Bonnie Flenner Regional Donor Services Executive
Helping to Keep Families Safe
FROM HOME FIRES
Home fires are the nation’s most frequent disaster. Red Cross home fire responses spike nearly 20% during the holidays, when families face increased fire risks such as cooking and heating. In Northern Ohio, more than 700 people rely on the Red Cross after home fires in a typical November and December. Home fires claim 7 lives a day in the U.S. but working smoke alarms can cut the risk of dying in a home fire by half. Through our Home Fire Campaign, the Red Cross works to make homes and families safer by providing home fire safety education and free smoke alarms for those who need them. This important work is made possible by volunteers who install alarms and educate families as well as generous donors who support the Home Fire Campaign.
To learn more, visit soundthealarm.org/noh
251201-08 2/22
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Who We Are
Neighborhood Pets is a community-based non-profit 501(c)3 organization that cares about people and the animals they love.
What We Do
We support families with limited resources by providing essential pet care resources and compassionate services. We recognize the vital role pets play in family life and use our trusted relationships to connect people to other vital social services that promote health, wellness, and community stability.
Your gift makes a difference for pets and the people who love them.
Donate Now
3711 E 65th Street, Cleveland, OH 44105 neighborhoodpetscle.org • 216-505-5853
Together We Can
ce i t s u j d n exte
By supporting Legal Aid, you help individuals and families access the power of law so they can live safer, healthier, and more financially stable lives.
Join us: lasclev.org
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JNF-USA’s Northern Ohio chapter raises record $1.27M
J
ewish National Fund-USA’s Northern Ohio chapter recently broken its all-time fundraising record – an 80-year milestone – by raising $1.27 million in the region this year. The campaign result reflects increasing philanthropic support for the land and people of Israel throughout the U.S., with Jewish National Fund-USA also achieving an unprecedented campaign year at the national level, raising $175 million, according to a news release. The funds enable the organization to advance its bold vision of attracting 800,000 new residents to Israel’s north Milgrom and south, changing lives and driving population growth in regions vital to the Jewish homeland’s security and resilience. “It’s a testament to the philanthropic spirit and Zionist commitment of our community that we achieved this impressive milestone,” JNF-USA Northern Ohio board president Chuck Whitehill said in the release. “Kol Ha’Kavod to everyone who helped make Whitehill this possible!” Ari Milgrom, JNF-USA Northern Ohio director, also lauded the campaign’s result. “No other organization is doing more to secure the future of Israel’s underserved North and South than Jewish National Fund-USA,” Milgrom said in the release. “For 125 years, we have built the land of Israel for its people, and today we are seeing the return on our investments as we move closer to our vision of attracting 800,000 new residents to Israel’s North and South. We’re changing lives – community by community, family by family.” JNF-USA has raised almost $400 million since Oct. 7, 2023, and is leading efforts to rebuild the frontier communities that were the most impacted by the terrorist attacks. The organization builds schools, medical facilities, resilience centers, bomb shelters, fortified playgrounds and emergency response centers while empowering communities with support systems in place to help them thrive, even in the face of challenges. These strategically chosen projects and initiatives drive circles of impact that lead to job creation, economic development and population growth. “Our supporters in Cleveland are also helping advance Jewish National Fund-USA’s broader Zionist engagement efforts – from transformative trips to Israel that show how one trip, one story can create a lifetime of connection, to visionary projects like our future $350 million 16-acre World Zionist Village in Be’er Sheva, which will serve as the beating heart of Zionist engagement – a gathering place where Jews and supporters of Israel connect with the land and people of Israel, learn together and lead with purpose,” Milgrom said. Publisher’s note: Chuck Whitehill is an Emeritus Director of the Cleveland Jewish News Foundation.
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Beck Center for the Arts Our Mission:
Inspire, enrich, and transform lives through dynamic arts experiences.
Our Vision:
Connecting and empowering people, communities, and cultures to flourish through excellent arts experiences. What’s New: Beck Center for the Arts proudly serves all of Northeast Ohio, from Lakewood to 55 ZIP codes and beyond. Together, we’re building a future rooted in compassion and the arts. Save the date for Spotlight Gala 2025, our annual fundraiser! We’re thrilled to honor Tom and Cindy Einhouse for their remarkable vision and impact. Join us for an unforgettable evening of celebration at the Music Box Supper Club on Friday, November 14, 2025. Tickets go on sale July 1, 2025 at beckcenter.org/give
Top Leadership
Interested in Helping? Julie Gilliland VP of Institutional Advancement JGIlliland@BeckCenter.org 216-424-7622
Edward Gallagher LPMT, MT-BC President & CEO
Julie Gilliland Vice President of Institutional Advancement
17801 Detroit Avenue Lakewood, OH 44107 216-521-2540 beckcenter.org Beck Center for the Arts in Lakewood collaborates with the Northeast Ohio community to create meaningful arts experiences for individuals of all ages, skill levels, and abilities. As a leading arts education organization, Beck Center offers professional theater, youth theater, and vibrant programming in music, dance, visual arts, and theater. Free visual arts exhibitions are open to all, inviting the community to engage with creativity in every form. Our Creative Arts Therapies program provides life-changing individual sessions and dynamic group settings, all designed to inspire growth, connection, and healing through the arts.
Leave a Legacy ONE CHARITABLE GIFT, A LIFETIME OF BENEFITS! Whether remembering Beck Center for the Arts in your will, establishing an income-producing gift, or giving appreciated stock, you can help ensure that Beck Center remains an arts leader in our community, and continues to transform lives and provide arts experiences for the benefit of all people regardless of age or ability, forever! JOIN OUR HELEN BROWN LEGACY SOCIETY Those who let us know they have included Beck Center for the Arts in their estate plans become members of our Helen Brown Legacy Society. Legacy Society members are recognized in our playbills, invited to select events and performances exclusively for Legacy members, and are given the satisfaction of knowing that future generations will be grateful for their foresighted generosity! Together, we can ensure the future of dynamic arts education and performance for our community. ANYONE CAN MAKE A PLANNED GIFT AND OPTIONS CAN INCLUDE: • Bequest • Retirement Plan • Life Insurance • Charitable Lead Trust • IRA Charitable Rollover Beck Center recommends that you consult with your personal legal and/or financial advisors before making a planned gift. We are proud to partner with the Community West Foundation which can serve as an additional resource and help you facilitate your planned giving decision.
Beck
Center
arts FOR THE
FOR MORE DETAILS, CONTACT OUR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT TEAM AT 216-424-7622 | BECKCENTER.ORG
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Helping children and families
unlock limitless
potential For more than 150 years, Bellefaire JCB has stood as a cornerstone of support, hope, and transformation for children and families across Northeast Ohio and beyond.
For more than 150 years, Bellefaire JCB has stood as a cornerstone of support, hope, At a time when youth mental health needs are growing, your support and transformation for children and families acrossensures Northeast Ohio and beyond.
Bellefaire can continue making a meaningful difference for children and families One Pollock Circle facing trauma, anxiety, and instability. Through prevention, early intervention, and 22001 Fairmount Blvd. At a time when youth mentalishealth needs growing, your support ensures comprehensive clinical care, Bellefaire addressing urgentare challenges head-on Shaker Heights, OH 44118 and helping young build making resilience and skills to thrive. difference for children and Bellefaire can people continue a meaningful families
216.932.2800 / 800.879.2522
facing trauma, anxiety, and instability. Through prevention, early intervention, and Donate Today at BellefaireJCB.org/Donate info@bellefairejcb.org comprehensive clinical care, Bellefaire is addressing urgent challenges head-on www.bellefairejcb.org Contact: Leora Lanzola, Director of Development • 216.320.8585 • lanzolal@wingspancg.org and helping young people build resilience and skills to thrive.
Sh
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Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community? It is clear: The 3-7 p.m. weekday hours are when kids are most likely to get into trouble or become victims of crime. That’s when our Clubs open their doors, providing youth ages 6-18 safe, fun places to go after school with a focus on academic success, healthy lifestyles, character development and life and workforce readiness. Clubs provide kids with a positive environment and parents with a cost-free afterschool option for their children. The uncertainty of government funding makes donor support even more vital. Youth who go to our Clubs do better in school, make friends and thrive.
How can I/my company get involved with your organization? We love to work with people and companies that share a love of our mission. Start exploring your options by visiting www.bgcneo.org. We have volunteer opportunities for individuals, companies and other nonprofits, with projects ranging from providing academic help to outdoor beautification. Contact us at volunteer@bgcneo.org to learn more. Interested in a corporate partnership? We’d love your help in developing the next generation of leaders. Contact Erin Turner at eturner@bgcneo.org to get started. Want to make an individual gift? Your investment in BGCNEO can change lives. Contact Kim Cole at kcole@bgcneo.org to learn more about our giving options.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio 216-883-2106 bgcneo.org
Top Leadership
What sets your organization apart? BGCNEO is the only youth-serving nonprofit in the region providing a full range of academic, athletic and cultural programming to youth ages 6-18 at no cost to parents. Clubs provide top-notch afterschool programming in neighborhoods where we are most needed, where most of the children live below the poverty level. An independent study showed Clubs funded by the 21st Century Community Learning Center initiative are delivering academic results that schools alone have been unable to achieve. Students who regularly participated in BGCNEO programming gained over a full grade level of learning each year and up to 1.5 years in math.
Allen Smith
Lisa Aurilio
Chief Executive Officer
Board Chair
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What does Canopy do for our community?
canopycac.org
Canopy serves as a lifeline for children and families impacted by abuse, bringing together crisis care, investigation, assessment, prosecution, and treatment in one coordinated, compassionate response. Canopy ensures that no child faces their journey alone. In our child-friendly, safe environment, children share their stories to enable us to assess their needs and provide them with the coordinated care they need, from expert medical exams to mental health treatment and victim advocacy.
Jennifer Johnson
William Lipscomb
Executive Director
Board President
Our compassionate expert staff and partners walk beside children every step of the way, guiding them through the complexities of social services and the criminal justice and medical systems.
How does Canopy make a difference in the life of an abused child?
Our mission is to serve We bring hope to children in their darkest moments. When they arrive hurt, frightened, and unsure, we surround them with safety and care. From the start, we children and families stand beside them offering needed services and reassurance that what happened affected by child is not their fault. abuse through a mutidisciplinary partnership In our child-centered environment, each child is empowered to share their story in focused on safety safety,, their own way, knowing they will be listened to, believed, and supported. healing, healing, and wellWhat organizations does Canopy collaborate with? being.
PLEASE SCAN TO SUPPORT
canopycac canopycac canopy-child-advocacy-center
Canopy is the central hub for many child abuse cases in Cuyahoga County, harnessing the full strength of our community to protect and support children. We partner with law enforcement, juvenile justice, advocates, prosecution, medical and mental health professionals, and Cuyahoga County Child Protective Services to ensure every child’s case receives a coordinated, compassionate response. Canopy brings together organizations and also provides services children need. Through weekly team meetings, we align expertise, share critical information, and guarantee that care is seamless and effective. Please join us in changing the life of a child experiencing child abuse. You can make a donation at https://www.canopycac.org/get-involved or by mailing a check to P.O. Box 5386, Cleveland, OH 44101. Government cuts have made your gifts more important than ever before!
Interested in helping? Contact us today at (216) 574-4325 or info@canopycac.org
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Care Alliance Health Center How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community?
Many of the individuals and families served by Care Alliance face ongoing health challenges while also struggling to meet basic needs like having enough food, safe housing, and health insurance. Care Alliance helps by removing barriers to care and connecting patients to vital resources that support their daily lives and long-term well-being. Your generous support makes this possible, helping transform lives and ensuring every person we serve has the chance for a healthier, more stable future.
What’s your origin story?
Care Alliance Health Center began more than 40 years ago, in 1985, as Cleveland Health Care for the Homeless. At its core was a simple belief: everyone deserves access to care, no matter their circumstances. As Cleveland evolved, Care Alliance grew—expanding beyond its original focus to offer medical, dental, and behavioral health services. Through decades of partnership and community trust, Care Alliance has remained committed to closing gaps in care and providing high-quality care.
Care Alliance Health Center 216-535-9100 carealliance.org
Top Leadership
What sets your organization apart?
Care Alliance is the only Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in our region designated to care for people without housing and those in public housing. This dual designation allows us to reach those who are often underserved by the healthcare system. We meet them where they are and provide comprehensive medical, dental, and behavioral health care regardless of their ability to pay.
Dr. Ken J.A. Griffin President & CEO
Your Ally in Care
Quality Care You Can Trust. You won't be turned away due to your ability to pay.
Call or Text 216.535.9100 to schedule an appointment Primary Care • Dental • Behavioral Health • Podiatry • Pharmacy Scan the QR Code:
www.carealliance.org
Central Neighborhood Clinic 2916 Central Ave Cleveland, OH 44115
St. Clair Clinic
Stokes Clinic
1530 St. Clair Ave NE Cleveland OH 44114
6001 Woodland Ave Cleveland, OH 44104
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Durham appointed Talespinner Children’s Theatre executive director
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alespinner Children’s Theatre, Cleveland’s only dedicated theater for children and an inclusive theater for young audiences, recently announced the appointment of Sarah Durham as its new executive director, effective immediately. With over 20 years of experience in nonprofit arts leadership, theater production and arts education, Durham brings a unique blend of creative and strategic expertise to the role, according to a news release. “I’m honored to lead Talespinner Children’s Theatre into its next chapter,” Durham said in the release. “Where we can continue expanding creative opportunities that welcome and inspire young people and families across Cleveland.”
Durham’s background spans arts administration and performance, with roles at the National Center for Choreography in Akron, ICA–Art Conservation, DANCECleveland, Playhouse Square and Salem Community Theatre. She holds an M.A. in arts administration from the University of Kentucky in Lexington and a B.A. in theater from Wright State University in Fairborn, Ohio. “Sarah brings the right combination of passion and skills to elevate Talespinner’s accessibility focus and reach throughout the community,” Jennifer Bosco, chair of the board of directors, said in the release. “Her leadership and expertise aligns beautifully with our mission to make the performing
arts accessible and transformative for all children.” Founded with the mission to create inclusive, imaginative and professionally produced theater for children, Talespinner Children’s Theatre serves hundreds of children and families each year, according to the release. The company produces six mainstage shows per season, including two specifically designed for children ages birth to 5 and four for children ages 5 and up and the grownups who come with them. All performances are sensory-friendly and include accessible tools for audiences who are d/Deaf, hard of hearing, blind, low vision, neurodivergent, or who experience sensory processing challenges.
Beyond the stage, TCT offers a portfolio of education programs that include inschool residencies, touring performances, inclusive camps, and workshops designed for children of all abilities, ages 0-15. The organization also partners with local schools to use creative drama as a tool to teach academic content and provide professional development for educators. In 2023, Talespinner moved from Reinberger Auditorium to its new home at 78th Street Studios. This move enabled the creation of two new performance spaces: a black box theater for early childhood productions and a flexible immersive performance venue.
University Heights composting program continues to grow
S
ince the city of University Heights made composting free for residents in May, participation has been steadily growing, according to a news release. Rust Belt Riders has seen participation at the Walt collection site soar from 131 to over 370 households – a nearly three-fold increase.
Food scrap collection has tripled from a monthly average of 2,100 pounds to over 7,100 pounds. In just seven months since the program was made free with city funding, residents have diverted 49,212 pounds of organic material from landfills, preventing approximately 7.4 metric tons of methane and CO₂e emissions, which is equivalent to
avoiding emissions from driving a car about 18,500 miles, the release said. Rust Belt Riders plans to expand to a second University Heights site in 2026. To sign up, visit shorturl.at/VhBDV.
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Cleveland Foundation How does a gift to the Cleveland Foundation create lasting change in Greater Cleveland? For more than a century, we have focused on working with partners to tackle the most pressing issues in our community. Gifts to the Cleveland Foundation enhance the quality of life for Greater Clevelanders today and for generations to come. When combined with the generosity of neighbors, families and partners, each gift becomes part of something bigger — meeting today’s needs while being invested to strengthen Cleveland’s future.
What makes the Cleveland Foundation unique for charitable giving?
6601 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44103 877-554-5054 clevelandfoundation.org
Founded in 1914 by Cleveland lawyer and banker Fred Goff, the Cleveland Foundation was the world’s first community foundation. Goff’s vision — pooling gifts from people of all walks of life to create collective impact — remains our guiding principle. We offer a variety of products and services, along with philanthropic expertise, to create personalized giving strategies based on the needs and passions of our donors.
Top Leadership
What are some examples of the foundation’s impact? Generosity from individuals, families and organizations has fueled transformative investments in education, arts and culture, economic development, health and more, across Greater Cleveland. The foundation has also made bold and transformative investments throughout our history. In 1919, we commissioned the study that led to the creation of the Cleveland Metroparks. In the 1980s, we helped save Playhouse Square from demolition with our first program-related investment. More recently, we invested in the Hough and MidTown community by relocating our headquarters and opening the MidTown Collaboration Center — driving community-led development and vibrancy in a historic neighborhood.
Lillian Kuri
Randell McShepard
President & Chief Executive Officer
Chairperson
Interested in giving? Call 877-554-5054 clevelandfoundation.org to learn more.
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Cleveland Jewish News Foundation Our Mission: The CJN Foundation is an independent organization that supports the mission of the Cleveland Jewish News. At the heart of the foundation is the need to preserve, protect and keep our words alive for the Jewish community, now and in the future, through three specific goals: • Preserve Jewish community history with free, worldwide access to the Samuel H. Miller Keeping Our Words Alive Digital Archive of the Cleveland Jewish News • Educate the community through community programs, events and subscription initiatives • Build for the future by supporting the CJN internship program
Access Your Geneology; Jewish News of Interest: The Samuel H. Miller Keeping Our Words Alive Digital Archive of the Cleveland Jewish News contains the entire history of the Cleveland Jewish News, an independent community newspaper continuously published weekly since October 30, 1964. More than 120,000 newspaper pages are presented here just as they appeared in print. More recent issues, converted from PDF, are full-color. Every edition is fully indexed in a searchable format.
23880 Commerce Park, Suite 1 Beachwood, OH 44122
cjnfoundation@cjn.org Top Leadership
135+ Years of Cleveland Jewish History The archive includes more than 135 years of Cleveland’s Jewish history from the Cleveland Jewish News and each of its predecessor newspapers. • The Hebrew Observer • The Jewish Review and Observer • The Jewish World (Idishe Velt) • The Jewish Independent • The Jewish Review
Mark Bogomolny
Kenneth B. Liffman
Chairman Cleveland Jewish News Foundation
Vice Chair Cleveland Jewish News Foundation
CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS FOUNDATION Board Chair: Mark Bogomolny; Vice Chairs: Barry Feldman, Bruce Friedman, Kenneth B. Liffman; Secretary: Marcy Young; Treasurer: Larry Friedman; Assistant Treasurer: Clifford Wolf; Directors: Aaron Evenchik, Mindy Feigenbaum, Anna Gecht, Shari Loveman Goldberg, David Gottlieb, Susan D. Krantz (ex officio), Debra Rothschild, Lane Schlessel Emeritus Directors: Barry R. Chesler*, David Kaufman, Susan C. Levine, Martin H. Marcus, Paul J. Singerman, Ronald J. Teplitzky, Norman Wain*, Chuck Whitehill
*of blessed memory
Make a donation today at cjnfoundation.org
In search of a “charity of your choice”? Consider donating to the CJN Foundation’s fight against antisemitism on Ohio’s college campuses by giving to the Educate the Educators initiative.
More information at cjnfoundation.org cjnfoundation@cjn.org
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Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank What sets your organization apart? The Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank is the go-to organization for free children’s books in Northeast Ohio. Thanks to generous community support from individuals, foundations, and corporations, our books are 100% free to partners. We also are able to offer free delivery of books, and partners can order as often and as many as they need throughout the year.
Do you have any events planned in the coming year? 2026 will mark our 10th birthday! We plan to have a special focus each month to celebrate this milestone - and more than five million books distributed - throughout the year. Events will include a brunch event celebrating 10 years of impact in May; Apollo’s Birthday Celebration in July, celebrating the life and passion for reading of Apollo Bohanon; our Bet on Books fundraiser in October; and much, much more.
www.kidsbookbank.org 216-417-1803 Top Leadership
How can I/my company get involved with your organization? We are a small staff and rely heavily on volunteer help. Sorting, stickering, and packing books in our warehouse is a fun, collegial, and rewarding experience for individuals and groups alike! Individuals and groups can learn more and sign up at our website. Book donations are also a critical part of our operation with more than 70% of our inventory coming from the community through book drives and individual donations at our 23 outdoor collection bins. We also appreciate monetary donations to keep the lights on and the books flowing to children.
When you support the Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank, you help children in Greater Cleveland build their own home libraries with amazing books that expand their imaginations and spark a love for reading.
VOLUNTEER RUN A BOOK DRIVE MAKE A GIFT
kidsbookbank.org 216.417.1803
Natalie Friedl Executive Director
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Cleveland Metroparks Our Mission: Protecting nature, connecting communities and inspiring conservation of
our world. What’s New: Did you know you can support Cleveland Metroparks through your Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)? Whether you make a one-time grant or set up recurring gifts, recommending a grant from your DAF is a simple, tax-efficient way to protect the parks you love. Your support helps conserve forests, protect wildlife, expand and maintain trails and connect people of all ages to nature through outdoor education and recreation. From quiet walks in the woods to the laughter of kids at summer camp, your gift makes a lasting difference. Help ensure these cherished spaces thrive for generations. Learn more at clevelandmetroparks.com/DAF
4101 Fulton Parkway, Cleveland, OH 44144 216-635-3200 clevelandmetroparks.com Year Established: 1917 Number of Employees: 785
Top Leadership
Interested in Helping? Bisi Mikleus Director of Development
Brian M. Zimmerman
Yvette Ittu President, Board of Park Commissioners
Explore over 325 Miles of Trails Discover the Nationally Acclaimed Zoo Choose from 5,000 Free Programs
Plan your visit at clevelandmetroparks.com
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Cleveland Rape Crisis Center
How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community?
For fifty years, Cleveland Rape Crisis Center has stood beside survivors of rape and sexual abuse as they reclaim their lives. Every gift helps provide trauma-informed care that treats survivors and their families with respect, dignity, and compassion. Donors and community partners make this work possible, reminding survivors they are not alone. Your support also extends beyond our walls, funding prevention education in schools, places of faith, businesses, and more, to help stop sexual violence before it happens.
What sets your organization apart?
Cleveland Rape Crisis Center has spent the last fifty years turning compassion into action. From our beginning as a small volunteer-run hotline, CRCC has grown into a leading nonprofit agency providing comprehensive care, support, and justice for thousands of survivors across Northeast Ohio each year. Through it all, we remain steadfast in our mission to support survivors and build a future free from sexual violence.
How can I/my company get involved with your organization?
There are many ways to get involved with Cleveland Rape Crisis Center. Anyone interested can participate in our Ambassador Training Workshops—an educational series designed to equip community members with the knowledge to support survivors and promote social change. We also provide prevention education and awareness programs to schools, businesses, and organizations in Northeast Ohio. Visit clevelandrapecrisis.org to learn more and get involved.
Do you have any events planned in the coming year?
Cleveland Rape Crisis Center is pleased to announce our inaugural State of CRCC event, happening in March 2026. Nicole McKineyJohnson, CRCC’s President and CEO, will share meaningful updates and a look ahead at what’s next for our agency. Stay tuned for details on how you can attend and be part of this important moment.
Interested in helping? Call 216.619.6194 or visit clevelandrapecrisis.org to learn about volunteer opportunities.
WE BELIEVE YOU Cleveland Rape Crisis Center’s mission is to support survivors of rape and sexual abuse, promote healing and prevention, and advocate for social change. Our vision is the elimination of sexual violence. Each year, the Center serves over 46,500 people in Cuyahoga, Ashtabula, Geauga and Lake Counties. Make an appointment today to meet with a counselor at any of our locations
Ashtabula • Chardon • Clark-Fulton • Mentor • Shaker Square
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Cleveland State University Foundation What’s your organization’s proudest achievement?
Every time a student crosses the stage at commencement. That’s our proudest achievement. CSU is here to lift up our community, to help our students create a better life for themselves and their families. Graduating is a significant step in that direction, and we’re proud to play a role in their journey.
How can I/my company get involved with your organization? CSU is built on partnerships. Nothing we accomplish happens in isolation—it’s made possible by the talent, commitment, and generosity of our community. There are many ways to get involved. You might support a scholarship to help students afford their education or offer an internship or co-op, so graduates enter the workforce job-ready. If research inspires you, consider sponsoring work in biomedicine, engineering, or business that advances real-world solutions. If justice matters to you, support the Wrongful Conviction Clinic. However you choose to engage, your partnership helps CSU students and the communities they serve.
2121 Euclid Avenue, UN 501 Cleveland, OH 44115 216.523.7275 www.supportcsu.org
Top Leadership
What sets us apart?
We are Cleveland’s university. Nearly 90% of our students come from here and about 80% stay and work, raise families, create companies and jobs. CSU graduates significantly impact regional economic development. We provide the talent that powers much of the industry in Northeast Ohio.
Laura Bloomberg President
Mike Klein CSU Foundation Board Chair
Interested in helping? Call us at 216.523.7275, email foundation@csuohio.edu, or visit supportcsu.org.
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Junior League of Cleveland to hold Spring Together, Women of Impact Awards March 14
T New mission, same heart. Compassionately serving pregnant and parenting women with children under 5 by providing transitional housing with programs and services to move them from poverty to prosperity.
www.thehavenhome.org
Proud to be America’s #1 SBA microlender Ohio’s premiere nonprofit providing affordable funding, training, and mentorship for startups and growing small businesses. Make a real impact for Northeast Ohio entrepreneurs: $50 – Provides a 1:1 digital marketing session $75 – Funds a business plan review to strengthen their path to funding $100 – Covers a 1-year Women’s Business Center membership with full benefits $250 – Sponsors an entrepreneur’s intensive business course Help us reach our year-end $25,000 goal:
ecdi.org/contribute
Tetiana Saeed Tati Studio, Broadview Heights, OH
he Junior League of Cleveland will hold its fifth annual Spring Together gala and the inaugural Women of Impact Awards, a new communitywide recognition program celebrating six women whose leadership, service, and advocacy are transforming Greater Cleveland, according to a news release. The celebration will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. March 14, 2026, at the St. Clair Ballroom at Key Tower at 127 Public Square in downtown Cleveland. The black-tie optional gala is the organization’s premier fundraising event of the year and will feature a seated dinner, open bar, live entertainment, and opportunities to participate in a silent auction, wine pull, 50/50 raffle and other activities. Proceeds will directly support the organization’s missiondriven programs that promote public health, foster civic engagement and empower women to lead lasting community change, the release said. “This year’s event marks an exciting milestone for the Junior League of Cleveland,” Lisa Mayhugh, president of the Junior League of Cleveland, said in the release. “The Women of Impact Awards allow us to elevate and celebrate women whose leadership is strengthening our region and inspiring others to take action.” The inaugural Women of Impact Awards will honor six women whose work uplifts others, champions equity and creates meaningful progress within the communities they serve. Honorees will be recognized across the following categories: civic leadership, community catalyst, service through action, equity in health, NextGen Leader and Torchbearer Award Nominations are open through Jan. 15, 2026. Eligible nominees must be women who live, work, or volunteer in Greater Cleveland, demonstrate meaningful impact and are not current members of the Junior League of Cleveland. To submit a nomination or purchase a ticket to the event, visit cleveland.jl.org/spring-together. The evening will also include the presentation of the 2026 Junior League of Cleveland scholarships. The scholarships, awarding up to $5,000 per recipient, support nontraditional women students and women formerly in foster care who are pursuing accredited higher education or technical training within Ohio. Established in 2004, the fund has supported more than 50 women in achieving their academic and career goals, the release said.
Never miss a story – sign up for the CJN’s free daily e-newsletters to stay up-to-date on your local, state, national and world news as it happens at cjn.org/esignup
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Every contribution to the nonprofit Cleveland Zoological Society helps create a better Zoo for our community. Donate to the ZooFund today and be part of the Zoo’s thriving future.
ClevelandZooSociety.org/ZooFund ible t c du ! e d ax - u t i o n t s i t ri b ift n g o ur ec o l y b of ita r % a 100 s a ch a Year End ZooFund 2024.indd 1
10/8/2025 3:42:39 PM
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Community Service Alliance
Relationships that make a difference Since 2005, CSA has helped foster independent living for over 3,700 men. Reconnecting dads, brothers, and sons back to families. Reengaging men to the power of community. Rebuilding lives through the love of Christ. Housing
• Short-term, supportive housing • Four locations – Procop House (23 rooms); Fulton House (17 rooms); Bill’s House (8 rooms, exclusively for Veterans); Sandy’s House (6 rooms) • Sober environment • Focus on “taking care of ourselves, taking care of each other, and taking care of this place” • Preparation for permanent, independent housing • Homeward Program assists men with resettling into their new homes by providing furniture, kitchen supplies, cleaning supplies and other support
Work Experience/Job Assistance
• Job Preparedness Skills and Work-Readiness Preparation • Work Experience Program • On-the-job employer partnerships • Full-time/Part-time placement
Personal, Behavioral and Spiritual Support and Development
• Life Skills support and training • Budgeting and financial management skills • Links to other existing community-based health, mental health and social services • Values and faith development • “Service above self” – commitment to community service and volunteerism
Here at Community Service Alliance (CSA), we maintain the core belief that lasting recovery depends not just on shelter or job training, but on restorative relationships. We believe healing begins with human connection. At CSA, transformation is not the exception, it’s the expectation. Our success proves that when men are trusted with responsibility, supported by community and anchored in purpose, they don’t just recover, they thrive.
Procop House
Bill’s House
4001 Trent Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44109
3610 Trowbridge Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44109
Fulton House
Sandy’s House
3387 Fulton Road, Cleveland, OH 44109
3640 Trowbridge Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44109
Phone: (216) 351-0655
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Creative Living for Life
How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community?
Gifts to Medina Creative Housing (“MCH”) directly support individuals with disabilities to achieve independence and true community integration with appropriate levels of support for health and safety. Our innovative safety-net model of housing called “Creative Living for Life” provides individuals with disabilities with a forever home customized to meet their individual needs. We provide an array of vocational, educational, therapeutic, recreational and social opportunities for growth and development. Your gift will help to foster independence and strengthen our ability to enrich lives, build confidence and foster life changing connections across Northeast Ohio.
What sets your organization apart?
MCH through its unique Creative Living for Life model offers not just a roof over one’s head, it offers a truly comprehensive lifestyle…from customized housing to wrap around supportive services and programs, we provide full lives. We put all the pieces together so individuals with disabilities can become all they can be and their families can have long-term peace of mind for their loved ones. We establish community partnerships, most recently with the Ursuline Sisters, in our Creative Living for Life at Ursuline Sisters development. We help build skills, personal and community relationships, and a sense of belonging… fostering stronger and more inclusive communities.
medinacreativehousing.com 330.591.4434
Top Leadership
How can I/my company get involved with your organization?
There are a multitude of ways to engage with our organization to empower individuals with disabilities. You can support our mission through corporate sponsorships/giving, individual giving, planned giving, donations of materials and/or labor, volunteering and participating in special events. Supporting one of our community businesses which provide vocational training at the Grande Café & Roastery, Creative Living Hydroponic Greenhouse, Creatively Re-Imagined and Z’s Cream & Bean. Here skills are developed, incomes are earned and we give back to the community. Every form of involvement helps expand opportunities and touches lives in meaningful ways. We invite you join us in our mission.
Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty Chief Executive Officer
Kim Headrick
Chief Operations Officer
Interested in helping? Call 330.591.4434 or visit medinacreativehousing.com to learn about volunteer opportunities.
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Family Promise of Greater Cleveland How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community? Gifts to Family Promise of Greater Cleveland, a family homeless shelter, will enable low-income families who are experiencing a crisis to be safely housed, have all of their basic needs, and have the support they need to find a permanent home and the means to sustain it. The long-term impact is an increase in stable families − often considered the background of any strong community. A stable home also helps children to feel safe and secure.
What’s your organization’s proudest achievement?
We are especially proud of our consistently positive outcomes for the vulnerable families we serve, year after year, both in our shelter and throughout the community. We have served hundreds of families since our founding in 2011 and, each year, 85-100% of these families moved from shelter into their own home in the community and remained in the home for at least one year.
Family Promise of Greater Cleveland 3470 E. 152nd Street Cleveland, OH 44120 216-767-4060 www.FamilyPromiseCle.org/aa2025
Top Leadership
What sets your organization apart?
Family Promise of Greater Cleveland is unique for its focus on helping families headed by young parents, ages 18-25 years old, with small children and intensive barriers to overcome, such as a lack of education, work experience and support. We also offer a trauma-informed culture, trainings in life skills, a robust employment program and community-based supportive services.
Our mission is to provide families facing the crisis of homelessness with a safe place designed to engage, inspire, and guide them toward a future where they feel empowered to control the course of their lives. Scan the QR code to learn more.
Jacqueline Salter EMBA, MFT, PCCS Executive Director
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Every child deserves Every
friendship friendship support support
B” H
ily deserves
Friendship Circle of Cleveland creates happiness
—
children of all abilities
&
inclusion for
.
and purpose for Jewish teens
.
Thank you to our donors and volunteers who make this possible
This yearend, join the circle to create Happy Memories that last a lifetime.
HA P P Y
Friendship Circle wishes everyone a Happy Chanukah!
M ME O R
I ES
L E OF C R I
Please give before December 31 at FriendsCleveland.com/HappyMemories
AC
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Great Lakes Science Center to hold STEM programming; announced new board chair
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he Great Lakes Science Center will host science, technology, engineering and mathematics programming in December and January. A cocoa catapult family workshop will be held on Dec. 20, Dec. 27 and Jan. 3, 2026. Families can plan, construct, decorate and test miniature catapults made of everyday materials and try to launch “marshmallows” into cups of “cocoa.” Staff will also demonstrate a larger catapult to show what the device can do. The miniature catapults can be taken home after the workshop. Catapult workshops will be held at 1 and 3 p.m. Cost is $5 per person.
Winter Wonder Days will be held from Dec. 26 through Jan. 2, 2026, where daily programs will be planned to celebrate the science of the season. Programs are: • Polysnow Hands-on Activity Cart – create your own “snow” as you discover the chemistry behind this substance that looks just like the real thing once it soaks up a little water • Hockey Friction Hands-on Activity Cart – discover the role friction plays in a game of hockey, testing a miniature puck on different surfaces • Gingerbread Scavenger Hunt – gingerbread
Humble Design Cleveland helps homeless
T
his Chanukah will be especially memorable for a recent client of Humble Design Cleveland. For two years, this single mother focused her energy on creating a safety plan that allowed her to live out of harm’s way. After navigating the throes of homelessness, walking into her newly furnished home relieved this mother of the financial burden and she could now focus her energy on building memories – and feeling safe, according to a news release. This is what Humble Design does on a
weekly basis – transforms empty spaces for those transitioning out of homelessness. During a November visit to speak to Temple Emanu El’s advocacy committee, Humble Development manager, Jen Arenschield, said “for many of the families we serve, moving into housing is both a hopeful, yet vulnerable moment. While securing a roof overhead marks a significant achievement, most arrive with few or no belongings and it’s overwhelming for them to think about having to furnish their home.” Humble Design in Solon is stopping the
people have taken refuge from the winter weather in the science center • Snowflake Symmetry Community Build – learn more about the mathematics behind symmetry and snowflakes, and then add yours to the science center’s large, community-built snow globe • Fire and Ice Big Science Show – watch as extremes of hot and cold are tested during a live science show At noon Dec. 31, the Big Science Show plunges to the super cold temperatures for an experiment with liquid nitrogen, building to the finale to welcome in the new year. Also, Katinka Domotorffy was appointed to
serve as the 10th chairperson in the museum board’s history. She succeeds outgoing board chair Steven A. Karklin. The board officially approved Domotorffy as the new chair on Dec. 10, and she will assume the role after the next board meeting on March 13, 2026. Domotorffy is a trustee at Putnam Investments and former chief investment officer at Goldman Sachs Asset Management. Karklin, who was elected board chair in 2019, will transition to the immediate past chair when Domotorffy takes over according to a news release.
revolving door of homelessness by expanding their impact to serve three homes each week, up from the two they have been previously serving since their inception in February 2020. Back in 2020, Humble Design helped 15 families turn empty spaces into real homes. “We were small, scrappy, full of hope, and powered by people who believed that no family should have to sleep on a floor.” Humble Executive Director Debbie Eastburn said in the release. Since that initial year, Humble has furnished an increasing number of homes each year: 2020: 15 homes, 2021: 64 homes; 2022: 98 homes; 2023: 83 homes plua a warehouse move; 2024: 98 homes; and 2025: 100-plus families with a home
of their own “Thanks to the continual support from our community, we’ve been able to serve more of our neighbors in Northeast Ohio,” Eastburn said. “And best of all, 98% of these families still reside in these homes.” Humble Design Cleveland uses community donations of gently-used home furnishings, which are housed at its 18,000-square-foot warehouse at 29050 Aurora Road in Solon. Donations can be dropped off, by appointment, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. weekdays or a pickup can be scheduled. Call the office at 440-318-1039 to schedule an appointment.
Our Journey Has Only Just Begun Davis Aerospace & Maritime High School, powered by Argonaut continues to serve our students, staff, families, and community through aerospace and maritime efforts. “This is an exciting step forward for all of us – students, parents, staff, community partners, supporters, and the region at-large – as we launch into this next phase.” – Drew Ferguson, Founder & CEO
2332 Prospect Ave. | Cleveland, Ohio 44115 | Argonaut.org
Scan here to get involved or support our mission
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As we celebrate nearly four decades of service, Front Steps remains committed to empowering Clevelanders through mental health care, housing support, and substance use services. Our mission is to provide stability, dignity, and the resources needed to thrive, helping our neighbors overcome challenges and build brighter futures.
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Goodwill Industries of Greater Cleveland and East Central Ohio Our Mission: Goodwill Industries of Greater Cleveland and East Central Ohio, Inc. has been serving the local community for more than 100 years. While most people recognize Goodwill as a retail thrift chain, that is only a portion of the Goodwill mission. Goodwill works to empower people on their journey to independence through the sale of goods, which supports employment programs and family services. Goodwill has 30 outreach programs serving a 10-county area in Ohio and West Virginia. Last year alone, more than 22,000 people were served through Goodwill’s mission programs. Engage with Goodwill in a variety of ways: Support Goodwill through a financial donation. Monetary gifts make a direct and immediate impact on Goodwill’s mission programs and can be made online at GoodwillGoodSkills.org/donate. Engage with Goodwill by volunteering or participating in special events. The agency hosts two community breakfasts, one in May and another in October - and a purse auction in April to support our rape crisis services. Host a Lunch and Learn event. Goodwill will partner with area groups or businesses to offer presentations to learn more about the programs and services offered locally. Consider a donation drive. Goodwill can provide turnkey tools to have your business or community group operate a donation drive that supports our mission programs.
Interested in Helping? Contact the Marketing Department, info@goodwillgoodkskills.org
Cleaning out? Donate to Goodwill and change a life for GOOD.
Donating and shopping at your local Goodwill helps thousands in our community. Last year alone, more than 22,000 people were helped through job training, parenting programs, rape crisis services and much more. North Olmsted | Snow Road | Middleburg Heights | Strongsville | Westlake Garfield Heights | University Heights | Mayfield Heights | Willowick | Painesville Chardon | Pepper Pike | Lyndhurst | North Royalton | Bainbridge Township Gordon Square | Chesterland
GOODWILLGOODSKILLS.ORG
1-800-942-3577 GoodwillGoodSkills.org Year Established: 1918 Number of Employees: 750
TOP LEADERSHIP
Anne Richards President and CEO
Katie Spahnie Board of Directors Chairperson
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Great Lakes Science Center
What’s your organization’s proudest achievement?
On September 30, Great Lakes Science Center proudly opened Handle With Care, a new exhibition presented by The Ron and Lydia Harrington Family Foundation. As the second of three permanent galleries made possible by our comprehensive Force for Tomorrow Campaign, this exhibition brings hands-on STEM learning and basic engineering principles to life while inspiring empathy and creativity through imaginative play. Created for kids ages 8 and younger, they can make care packages for loved ones, explore a warehouse and sorting center, hop into a kid-sized forklift, and visit a model village— discovering the joy of helping others along the way.
How can I/my company get involved with your organization?
We’re excited to celebrate our generous donors and those who plan for the Science Center’s future! This year we launched two new giving programs – Curiosity Society, which celebrates large gifts to our annual fund, and the 1996 Legacy Society for planned giving. Companies can engage with us through our one-of-akind galas or with our guests through events like the nationally recognized Manufacturing Day. Curious to learn more? Visit GreatScience.com/support or reach out to Liz Conway, Vice President of Development, at 216.696.4260.
Do you have any events planned in the coming year?
Great Lakes Science Center is turning 30 in 2026, and we couldn’t have reached this wonderful milestone without our amazing community of supporters and friends! Over the past three decades, more than 10 million guests have discovered awe-inspiring exhibitions like Titanic and Body Worlds 2, explored the beloved Steamship William G. Mather, and cheered on our talented FIRST Robotics students at exciting competitions. We’d love for you to join us on July 18, 2026, as we celebrate 30 years of inspiring curiosity together. Keep an eye on GreatScience.com for all the details!
Interested in helping?
There are many ways you can be a part of Great Lakes Science Center! You can support us with a donation to help us continue to provide STEM for all. Visit our giving page at GreatScience.com/support/make-donation or contact our Development Team at development@glsc.org. If you wish to become a member, visit GreatScience.com/membership, stop by our Box Office in person, or contact Membership at membership@glsc.org or 216-696-4576. If you like having fun and meeting new people, become a volunteer! You can learn more at GreatScience.com/volunteer or send an email to volunteer@glsc.org.
Great Lakes Science Center 601 Erieside Ave. Cleveland, OH 44114 GreatScience.com/donate 216-221-2400
Top Leadership
Kirsten M. Ellenbogen
Steve Karklin
President & CEO
Board Chair
Join Great Lakes Science Center as we ignite curiosity, foster amazement, and bring STEM to life for all,
TODAY, TOMORROW and FOREVER.
Learn more and donate at GreatScience.com/forcefortomorrow
Giving guide 10x4.75 print ad_04.indd 1
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Greater Cleveland Fisher House Our Mission: Greater Cleveland Fisher House supports veteran families temporarily staying at the Cleveland VA Fisher House, free of charge, while their loved one is receiving care at the Louis Stokes VA Medical Center. Our nonprofit provides vital programs to make their stay in Cleveland more comfortable.
What’s New: In 2025, thanks to generous donors, our organization provided more than 1,800 lunches and 1,700 dinners--meals that guests didn’t have to buy or make themselves after a long day at the hospital. We also delivered extra weekly groceries to keep both Fisher House kitchens stocked. And, we replaced all the mattresses in both Houses, giving these special guests an even more comfortable place to rest and recover while also taking care of their ailing loved one.
To contact our nonprofit: PO Box 1852 • Cleveland, OH 44106 (440) 377-0067 www.greaterclevelandfisherhouse.org Leadership
Help us do even more in 2026. Visit www.GreaterClevelandFisherHouse.org to see how you can volunteer, donate, or attend one of our fundraisers. It all makes a difference.
To Support Veterans and their Families: Contact Tara Camera, Executive Director (440) 377-0067 / info@GreaterClevelandFisherHouse.org
Danielle Krakora Board of Directors President
Tara Camera Executive Director
A home away from home. Compassionate care is at the heart of what the Greater Cleveland Fisher House provides for military and Veteran families. Guests stay free of charge at the Cleveland VA Fisher House while their loved ones receive medical care at the Louis Stokes VA Medical Center. Traveling from 50 miles or more, these families face stressful and uncertain times. Our mission is to ensure they have everything they need – comfort, support, and a home away from home—right when it matters most, especially during the holidays.
Visit www.GreaterClevelandFisherHouse.org to learn more about how you can help our nation’s heroes and their families.
Founders Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher Cleveland VA Fisher House
Donate today by scanning the QR code!
PO Box 1852 • Cleveland, OH 44106 • (440) 377-0067 • www.greaterclevelandfisherhouse.org
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Donate in honor of someone today.
Support our work at www.clevelandhabitat.org
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It’s a creative escape, inspiring artists and writers right in the heart of the city.
Let’s celebrate something AMAZING-empty lots at Hough & East 66th transformed into a bustling urban vineyard bursting with life, learning, and opportunity!
It’s a destination, drawing visitors from across the city and around the world. It’s a DIY hub, where families learn to make candles, soap, and crouching and share money saving ideas.
Support the Vineyards of Chateau Hough, a project where community, sustainability, education, and creativity grow together –literally.
It’s an economics lesson, showing how grape byproducts become juice, jam or jelly, vines become wreaths and local revenue.
Let’s keep this vineyard thriving. Your support makes the magic happen!
DECEMBER 19, 2025
Awesome Foundation Cleveland chapter seeks trustees It’s a job creator, giving local residents hands-on work, new skills, and even second chances. It’s a living classroom, where kids, teens, and adults experience the magic of growing, harvesting, and crushing grapes the old-school way.
Give today.
artfulcleveland.org/cjn 2555 Euclid Heights Blvd. Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
T
he Cleveland chapter of the Awesome Foundation is looking for trustees to join in its mission to help advance projects and programs in Cuyahoga County through no-strings-attached microgrants, according to a news release. The Awesome Foundation awards multiple $1,000 grants quarterly, out of the personal pockets of their trustees, to creators or projects that “bring maximal awesomeness” to Cleveland, the foundation
said. Buy-in to become a trustee is $400 a year, paid in quarterly $100 installments, 100% of which goes directly into funding the foundation’s microgrants. Trustees meet once a quarter for an hourand-a-half, and each $100 installment is due before that quarter’s meeting. For more information, visit awesomefoundation.org or contact lead trustee and founder Allison Lukacsy-Love at alukacsy@gmail.com.
CSA enhances housing program to serve more men in need It’s a working lab, teaching real-world sustainable agriculture-from soil testing to insect and animal control.
DONATING A TAX-DEDUCTIBLE CONTRIBUTION IS SIMPLE AND SECURE THROUGH OUR ONLINE PORTAL AT WWW.NEIGHBORHOODSOLUTIONSINC.ORG/ DONATIONS.HTML, ALTERNATIVELY, YOU CAN MAIL A CHECK TO P.O. BOX 6031053, CLEVELAND, OH 44103
HELP ARTFUL BEGIN
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As we settle into our new permanent home in Cleveland Heights, your support is more important than ever. With 20 artist studios and our ceramics studio already complete, we’re building a vibrant center for art, collaboration, and community. Help us continue this transformative work.
T
hree of Community Service Alliance’s houses have increased their capacity to expand their services after an observed growth in the amount of men in need within the community, according to a news release. Capacity is up from 22 to 23 residents at Procop House, from seven to eight residents at Bill’s House, which exclusively serves homeless veterans, and from 13 to 17 at Fulton House after additions to each house. The CSA said in the news release a donor-advised fund managed by the Community West Foundation made possible the expansion at Fulton House. The additions to each house, made by converting existing space, are part of a larger CSA initiative. The organization has purchased a commercial building located in the ClarkFulton neighborhood in Cleveland with plans
to transform it into the Connection Center, which will be the centerpiece of a $500,000 campaign called Connecting Our Community. The relocation of offices and common areas to the Connection Center will free up space in the CSA’s houses so they are able to increase total residential capacity from 48 to 54 men. The CSA provides short-term housing and local employment opportunities to homeless men transitioning from living in poverty to self-sufficiency. The Connection Center project will help them advance their mission and belief that “connection is the foundation of transformation,” according to the release. For more information, call CSA at 216-351-0655 or send a message to info@ comservealliance.org.
Film commission to present producer Lester for two days of programming
A T BOLD NEW CHAPTER
he Greater Cleveland Film Commission will hold a two-day program featuring David Lester, producer and production manager of “Star Wars: A New Hope,” “The Shawshank Redemption” and other iconic films, beginning at 6 p.m. Jan. 9 at the film commission’s Behind the Camera Gala at the Western Reserve Historical Society at 10825 East Blvd. in Cleveland. Lester, a native of North Olmsted, will discuss his behind-the-scenes experience in filmmaking. Guests will also have access to the Western Reserve Historical Society’s newest
exhibition, “Hollywood on the Cuyahoga: Northeast Ohio and the Movies.” Tickets to the gala are $50 per person. Lester will also co-lead a Production Assistant Workshop from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 10 in the John P. Murphy Foundation Theatre at Cuyahoga Community College Metropolitan Campus at 2900 Community College Ave. in Cleveland. The workshop, which will provide attendees with film production skills, is free and open to participants 18 and older. To purchase tickets to the gala or register for the workshop, visit clevelandfilm.com.
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At the Cleveland Botanical Garden and the Holden Arboretum, awe is everywhere. In the quiet beauty of a forest trail, the burst of color in a garden bloom, and the spark of curiosity 9550 SPERRY RD. KIRTLAND, OH
in a child’s eyes. As this year draws to a close, we invite you to consider a gift to Holden Forests & Gardens. Your support extends this spirit
Ed Moydell
11030 EAST BLVD. CLEVELAND, OH
President & CEO
of discovery from our gardens and trails to classrooms and communities across Cleveland. Thank you.
HOLDENFG.ORG/DONATE | 216-707-2834
at Cleveland Botanical Garden
An Ice-Capped Garden Experience
VISIT NOW THROUGH JANUARY 4 Advance tickets required. Purchase at holdenfg.org
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Where healing begins and hope grows. DECEMBER 19, 2025 END-OF-YEAR GIVING Helping people overcome trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and addiction recovery.
Hope Meadows Foundation
Serving Northeast Ohio Children • Teens • Adults • Families • Veterans • First Responders Equine-assisted counseling and wellness on our peaceful 20-acre farm.
Why it Works • Horses reflect emotions, helping people understand themselves • Their presence reduces stress and builds confidence • Hands-on experiences create meaningful breakthroughs Hope Meadows is one of the few equine-assisted mental health organizations in Northeast Ohio that integrates licensed mental
What sets your organization apart?
health therapy with trained Equine Specialists while actively collaborating with community across Northeast Ohio. Our Wayspartners to Get Involved • Schedule a session or join a group holistic, trauma-informed approach is grounded in neuroscience, attachment theory, and experiential learning—using the intuitive • Volunteer and make a difference connection between humans and horses to foster emotional regulation, trust, and self-awareness. • Visit a monthly open house
• Donate — your gift brings saves lives Our peaceful 20-acre farm serves as a true sanctuary for healing. Combined with strong clinical outcomes andhope deepand community partnerships, Hope Meadows offers a therapeutic experience unlike anything else in the region. www.hopemeadowsoh.org • (216) 232-3656
4820 Ridge Road Wadsworth, Ohio 44281 (216) 232-3656 www.hopemeadowsoh.org
Centrally located between Cuyahoga, Summit & Medina Counties
What is your organization’s proudest achievement, and how do you measure success? Our proudest achievement is the profound transformation we see in the individuals and families we serve. We measure success through standardized clinical assessments, which in 2025 showed nearly a 50% reduction in depression and anxiety, a 31% decrease in PTSD symptoms, a 23% increase in self-esteem, and exceptional youth outcomes—including a 69% drop in depression and a 43% drop in anxiety.
Top Leadership
Beyond the data, our greatest achievement is witnessing real healing: families reconnecting, teens regaining confidence, adults in recovery rebuilding their lives, and veterans and first responders finding peace again.
How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community?
Gifts to Hope Meadows directly fund equine-assisted mental health services for children, teens, adults, veterans, first responders, and families across Northeast Ohio. Your support provides access to specialized care—often at little or no cost—for people facing trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, addiction recovery, and other overwhelming challenges. Many come to us when everything else has failed or barriers to help feel too high. Your generosity removes financial obstacles, sustains our therapy horses, expands programming, and nurtures a healing environment where individuals can rebuild hope and resilience.
Michelle Togliatti
Anne Kichurchak
Executive Director, Co-Founder
Community Outreach, Co-Founder
Interested in helping? Call 216.232.3656 or visit www.hopemeadowsoh.org to learn about volunteer opportunities. MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING AND WELLNESS PROGRAMS Equine Assisted Therapy programs facilitated by a mental health professional, occuring in a safe, peaceful environment through the interaction with horses and nature.
Where healing begins and hope grows. Helping people overcome trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and addiction recovery. Serving Northeast Ohio Children • Teens • Adults • Families • Veterans • First Responders Equine-assisted counseling and wellness on our peaceful 20-acre farm. Why it Works • Horses reflect emotions, helping people understand themselves • Their presence reduces stress and builds confidence • Hands-on experiences create meaningful breakthroughs Ways to Get Involved • Schedule a session or join a group • Volunteer and make a difference • Visit a monthly open house • Donate — your gift brings hope and saves lives
www.hopemeadowsoh.org • (216) 232-3656 Centrally located between Cuyahoga, Summit & Medina Counties
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Family Connections expands, hires community engagement coordinator
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amily Connections announced expansion to the Greater Cleveland Food Bank community resource center and the hiring of a community engagement coordinator, according to a news release. Through their partnership, Family Connections has established a permanent playroom at the Greater Cleveland Food Bank community resource center for use by families seeking food assistance and other services, which has served 1,773 children in its first 14 months of operation and helped grow Family Connections SPARK literacy program for 3- and 4-year-olds, according to the release. Family Connections was also able to hire community engagement coordinator Gabriela Lopez, a bicultural and
bilingual professional fluent in English and Spanish, to help navigate cultural and linguistic barriers to increase the organization’s outreach and impact. “Outreach is about meeting people where they are and reminding them they’re not alone,” Lopez said in the release. “At the Greater Cleveland Food Bank Community Resource Center, my work is rooted in building trust, connecting families to support and creating spaces where dignity, care and community come first. Being able to engage with bilingual neighbors is essential to this work. This ensures language is never a barrier to accessing resources or feeling welcomed. When people feel seen, heard and included, outreach becomes more than a service – it becomes a
pathway to stability.” This year, Family Connections has also built relationships with The Community Builders and Cleveland Housing Network’s Scholar House. “We are so grateful for all our partnerships, with the Cleveland Food Bank and all the nonprofits housed and offering services at the Community Resource Center, and our funding partners,” Beth Darmstadter, executive director of Family Connections, said in the release. “By expanding the footprint of our Family Playrooms, we can serve even more families and neighbors, all of whom deserve safe and supportive options for learning about early literacy, parenting support and developmental play.”
The City Mission provides shelter from freezing cold for men, women, children
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he City Mission is prepared to offer safe shelter from the cold this winter. Through Dec. 20, The City Mission is offering cold weather overflow, meaning that all are welcome and no one will be turned away for men, women and children seeking safe shelter, according to a news release. “During temperatures like this, it really is a matter of life and death,” CEO Linda Uveges said in the release. “We have received an increasing number of calls from women living in cars with their children. We are here to provide safe, warm
shelter for those with nowhere to go.” Ranked No. 1 in childhood poverty, the need for safe shelter for the most vulnerable children from the Cleveland winter is vital. At capacity for a decade, Laura’s Home Women’s Crisis Center is a safe haven for women and children in dire need of shelter from the harsh cold. “It is critical during these dangerous temperatures that we continue to offer safe shelter, dignified and compassionate care to all who come to our doors,” Michael Hahn, chief
Neighborhood Centers Association
operating officer, said in the release. With Rothstein Village Transitional Housing for Families, the first and only in Cleveland, The City Mission is poised to continue to provide care for mothers and children, while also being able to serve and welcome more families at Laura’s Home, according to a news release. Jackie and the late Dr. Fred Rothstein provided a $1.5 million lead gift for Rothstein Village Transitional Housing for Families. “Laura’s Home has been completely filled for a decade with more than 300 women and
children on our waitlist for safe shelter,” Uveges said. “Rothstein Village Transitional Housing for Families allows us to provide continued care for even more mothers and children, at a pivotal time as family homelessness has increased 39% in just one year.” The City Mission is seeing an increased need for housing in Cleveland, and it is during the winter season that services are even more vital for those experiencing homelessness, according to the release.
Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank raises $2M for Next Chapter Capital Campaign
Connecting & Educating Northeast Ohio since 1948.
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NCA connects and educates Northeast Ohio through its five programs: • P4SS (Partners 4 Student Success) teaches life skills like cooking and sewing & soft skills like handshakes and networking for career development. • IConnect for Adults 55+ fosters community connections & technology experiences in-person and online to increase socialization and decrease feelings of isolation. • Aspire Adult Education improves literacy and numeracy skills in-person and online while promoting Workforce Development success. • AmeriCorps Members commit to a year of paid service to improve their community. Members help staff P4SS, IConnect, and other local nonprofits. • Non-Profit Advantage (NPA) NCA serves as a Fiscal Sponsor to developing entities to provide oversight, management, development support, and strategic guidance.
Donate securely at www.gcnca.org 216.777.8307 1814 East 40th Street, Ste. 4D, Cleveland, Ohio, 44103
he Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank raised $2 million, half of that coming from individuals, for its Next Chapter Capital Campaign, the first ever from the organization, which will go toward the purchase and renovation of a 24,000-squarefoot office and warehouse space in the Jefferson-Puritas area, according to a news release. “The support has been tremendous since publicly announcing the campaign at our October 23, 2024, Booktoberfest event,” Executive Director Natalie Friedl said in the release. “In four months, we secured enough support to purchase the building (at 13913 W. Parkway Road) on February 24, 2025. Since then, we have been working to ensure the space is welcoming and accommodating for all of our friends in the community. We opened our doors on October 6, 2025. We didn’t have the luxury of time, but people understood the urgency to address the need for a literacy hub. The community has invested in literacy and we are excited about the impact it will have.” The Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel
Foundation were among lead donors who gifted $100,000 or more along with Bonnie Hagerman; Higley Major Gifts Fund at the Cleveland Foundation; Bob and Susan Immerman; Debbie and Steve Joseph; Steve and Loree Potash Family Foundation; and the William M. Weiss Foundation. Over 250 guests attended the Mandel Literacy Hub on Oct. 25 for Bet on Books: A Night in Wonderland, an Alice in Wonderland-inspired casino night fundraiser. The campaign was $10,000 short of its goal at the time but those attendees stepped up and raised the remaining money to complete the campaign. “The Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank is now poised to expand distribution, welcome more volunteers and make book access a lasting part of Cleveland’s story,” the organization said in the release. Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank started in 2016 and the nonprofit is dedicated to ensuring every child in the Cleveland area has books in their home. The organization has distributed more than five million new and gently used books to children, schools and community organizations.
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LEADERSHIP LEADERSHIP
Feeding our communities’ future Feeding our communities’ future OUR APPROACH OUR Hunger APPROACH Network feeds our communities’ future by fighting food inequity and injustice through a
JULIE M. JOHNSON CEO, HUNGER NETWORK JULIE M. JOHNSON CEO, HUNGER NETWORK
Hunger Network feeds ourofcommunities’ future bydonors, fightingand food inequity and injustice We through serve oura collaborative consortium hunger centers, food non-profit partners. collaborative consortium of hunger centers, by food donors, and non-profit partners. We serve our neighbors in need with dignity and compassion operating two main programs that close the last-mile neighbors in ensure need with compassion byno operating twotomain programs that close the last-mile meal gap to thatdignity no oneand goes hungry, and food goes waste. meal gap to ensure that no one goes hungry, and no food goes to waste.
HUNGER RELIEF PROGRAM HUNGER RELIEF PROGRAM Our Hunger Relief Program consists of an alliance of 69 pantries and hot meal sites across Greater
Our HungerTogether, Relief Program consists of an alliance of healthy, 69 pantries and hot meal sites across Cleveland. these centers increase access to culturally relevant foods, alongGreater with Cleveland. Together, these centers increase access to Located healthy, culturally relevant facing foods, high alonglevels with of food personal and household hygiene items free of charge. in neighborhoods personal hygiene items free of with charge. Located in to neighborhoods facingInhigh levels of food insecurity,and ourhousehold hunger centers serve residents limited access nutritious options. 2024, Hunger insecurity, our hunger centers serve residents withmeals limitedtoaccess to nutritious options. In 2024, Hunger Network members provided more than 7.0 million our community. Network members provided more than 7.0 million meals to our community.
FOOD RESCUE PROGRAM FOOD RESCUE PROGRAM Our Food Rescue Program tackles hunger and protects the environment by rescuing fresh food and
JOE DOSE CHAIR, BOARD OF TRUSTEES JOE DOSE CHAIR, BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Year Established: 1995 Number of Employees: Year Established: 199513 Number of Employees: 13
Our Food Rescue Program tackles hunger and protects the environment by rescuing fresh food and distributing it through a network of non-profit partners, reducing waste and cutting harmful carbon distributing Hunger it through a network non-profit partners, reducing cutting harmful carbon Hero emissions. Network wasofthe first in Ohio and third in thewaste nationand to adopt the Food Rescue emissions. Network was the first Food in Ohio and third in thetonation to and adopt the Food app, makingHunger it possible for our volunteer Rescue Heroes recover deliver freshRescue food to Hero app, making it sites possible for our Food our Rescue Heroesrescued to recover and1.4 deliver fresh food of to food, the neighborhood in under anvolunteer hour. In 2024, volunteers nearly million pounds neighborhood sites in under anvalued hour. Inat2024, our volunteers rescued nearly 1.4 million pounds food, the equivalent of 1.6 million meals $3.4 million. This program is also fueling our new Foodof Rescue equivalent of 1.6 million meals valued at food $3.4 into million. This program is also fueling our new Food Kitchen, designed to transform rescued healthy, ready-to-eat or flash-frozen meals for Rescue future use. Kitchen, designed to transform rescued food into healthy, ready-to-eat or flash-frozen meals for future use.
hungernetwork.org hungernetwork.org
DIGNITY DIGNITY
DEDICATION DEDICATION
4415 Euclid Avenue, Suite 110 OH 44103 4415Cleveland, Euclid Avenue, Suite 110 (216) 619-8155 Cleveland, OH 44103 help@hungernetwork.org (216) 619-8155 help@hungernetwork.org
No one goes hungry. Nofood one goes goes to hungry. No waste. No food goes to waste.
COLLABORATION COLLABORATION
INNOVATION INNOVATION
Contact: Nicole Rodenfels Development Director 40 | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG 216.464.3471 • development@lifeact.org
Jack Binder DECEMBER 19, 2025 CEO
Nicole Schmunk Rodenfels END-OF-YEAR GIVING Development Director
7in10 teens
7 in 10 teens say they struggle with their mental health, but there is an easy way to help support teens in our community. LifeAct's depression awareness and suicide prevention education programming is taught to more than 25,000 middle and high school students across Northeast Ohio each school yea
say they struggle with their mental health,
We never charge schools to ensure there is never a barrier to an adolescent or teen becoming empowered about their mental health, so your donation will truly make an impact.
but there is an easy way to help support teens Together, we will save young lives!in our community. www.LifeAct.org LifeAct’s depression awareness and suicide prevention education 216-464-3471 programming is taught to more than 55,000 middle and high school Development@LifeAct.org students across Northeast Ohio each school year.
Through the support of our generous individual, corporate, foundation, and community donors there is never a barrier to an adolescent or teen becoming empowered about their mental health, so your donation will truly make an impact.
Together, we can help save young lives! LifeAct’s Mission is to prevent teen suicide by educating youth to recognize depression and the warning signs of suicide and access help for themselves and or their peers.
www.LifeAct.org • (216) 464-3471
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PIKUACH NEFESH CALLS US TO ACT WHEN LIFE IS AT STAKE. AT LIFEBANC, this value guides our
When you register as an organ, eye, and
The generosity of donors and donor
work every day as we pursue a future
tissue donor, you fulfill this sacred value
families – who make an extraordinary
where organ, eye, and tissue donation is
by giving others the chance to live, to
decision in moments of profound loss –
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heal, and to return home to the people
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registered donor can save up to eight
expert clinical teams available 24/7,
for others.
lives and enhance the lives of more than
and a deep commitment to education
100 others through tissue donation. Yet
and community outreach.
At the end of the year, many people look for ways to give that reflect their deepest values. Few acts are more meaningful than saving a life. The Talmud teaches,
more than 108,000 people nationwide – including over 1,200 in Northeast Ohio – are still waiting for a life-saving transplant.
“Whoever saves one life, it is as if they saved an entire world.”
THE GREATEST MITZVAH IS SAVING A LIFE. Because one person said YES,, J’ior is spending another holiday with his family. Let your generosity live on. Register as an organ donor today by scanning the QR code below or visiting LIFEBANC.ORG
Give hope. Give healing. Give the gift of life. J’IOR Liver Recipient
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2810 CLINTON AVENUE CLEVELAND, OH 44113 MALACHIHOUSE.ORG
SCAN TO DONATE
BLESSING OF PEACE
For over 38 years, Malachi House has been serving the homeless who are terminally ill. Planned or deferred gifts to Malachi House are one of the most important ways you can help us build our endowment to ensure our home will always be there in perpetuity for those who need us most. It is difficult to see our residents come to Malachi House in their terminal state, many times with fear and confusion in their eyes. As the days and weeks go by, it is truly a blessing to witness their transformation as they smile, enjoy home cooked meals, feel a sense of family and engage with volunteers, hospice teams, staff and board members. The peace they ultimately experience is a result of the loving care they receive. Won’t you consider being a part of that peace?
Matthew A. Becker Board Chair
Judy Ghazoul Hilow Executive Director
Vince Williams, Event and Marketing Coordinator vwilliams@malachihouse.org | 216-621-8831
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Junior League of Cleveland, Cleveland Foundation create partnership
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he Junior League of Cleveland announced a landmark partnership with the Cleveland Foundation on Nov. 17 with the creation of a $500,000 endowed fund to strengthen JLC’s long-term financial sustainability and ensure the organization’s ability to invest in the Greater Cleveland community for generations to come, according to a news release. The fund will be held and managed by the Cleveland Foundation, the world’s first community foundation with a proven track record of more than a century in nonprofit investment management. By leveraging the foundation’s large investment pools, JLC works to maximize the growth potential of its assets, preserving today’s dollars to meet tomorrow’s needs.
The Cleveland Foundation will steward the fund in partnership with JLC’s board of directors to support annual operations. “With this investment, the Junior League of Cleveland is making a bold commitment to the future of our community,” Barbara Kakiris, president of the Junior League of Cleveland, said in the release. “It is both a celebration of our history and a promise to the women and families of Cleveland that our impact will endure. Each year, we strive to focus our time, talent, and resources on a single priority issue for greater, long-term results. This year, that priority is Public Health.” The JLC, founded in 1912, is a nonprofit organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing
the potential of women and improving communities through education and charity. In 2024–25, JLC raised over $30,000 for its annual fund, which supports operations, committee budgets and community initiatives. JLC also awarded $13,500 in scholarships for local women and launched the Seasonal Essential Kits initiative. The initiative meets community needs year-round, addressing the specific environmental challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness while keeping kits practical, portable and lifesustaining.
Junior League of Cleveland seeks scholarship applicants
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unior League of Cleveland scholarship applications are being accepted for Women Reclaiming Their Education, a program dedicated to supporting Greater Cleveland women whose educational paths have been interrupted, according to a news release. Scholarships up to $5,000 will be awarded to women across Northeast Ohio, regardless of JLC membership. The application window is open through Feb. 1, 2026, and all materials can be submitted online. Funds may be used for tuition as well as essential support such as childcare, transportation, technology or textbooks.
“The Junior League of Cleveland believes every woman deserves the chance to finish what she started,” Pamela Tyll Radišek, scholarship chair, said in the release. “We know that life circumstances, family responsibilities, or unexpected challenges can delay a woman’s education. This scholarship exists to help remove those barriers and open doors for women ready to take their next step.” Since its establishment in 2004, JLC Scholarship Fund has supported more than 50 local women. Originally created to assist nontraditional students, the program expanded
in 2011 to also include women who have aged out of foster care. Each year, a committee of JLC members reviews applications using a structured evaluation rubric to ensure fairness throughout the process. Eligible applicants must identify as women, be nontraditional students or women who have aged out of foster care, be pursuing a fully accredited college, technical program or graduate degree in Ohio and reside in Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Erie, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Medina or Trumbull county.
According to the committee, nontraditional students are defined as individuals whose education was interrupted due to life responsibilities, work or family obligations or unexpected challenges that delayed their ability to start or continue their education. Applicants must submit a completed scholarship application, a personal essay of 900 words max and a letter of recommendation. Award recipients will be notified by March 1, 2026, and will be presented with their awards at the Junior League of Cleveland’s Spring Together event on March 14, 2026. Applications can be found at juniorleaguecleveland.org or cleveland.jl.org/ community/scholarship.
This year, 1 in 3 kids is dreaming of a bed. DONATE TODAY
& your gift will be DOUBLED. After years of moving between foster homes, Amaya finally has a bedroom to call her own. We make dreams come true for kids facing adversity like abuse, neglect, or homelessness. From bedrooms to sports camps to family trips, every dream shows a child they matter — made possible by donors like you.
Amaya*, age 13
*Name & details changed to protect privacy
Visit believeindreams.org/cjn & your donation will be DOUBLED by Mark Cuban Foundation through Dec. 31 up to $25,000!
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MedWish Medworks
How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community?
Gifts support our mission of advancing health equity and environmental stability. At our core is access, ensuring all individuals can obtain high-quality healthcare and essential resources. We are committed to breaking down barriers by offering free, accessible care through our local health clinics and international brigades and trustworthy connection to vital health resources, including supplies, equipment, support, and community resource referrals. We function as a critical safety net to traditional safety nets, ensuring individuals can still obtain essential care and resources. Philanthropic gifts allow us to offer services at home free of charge and international aid at a low fee.
What’s your origin story?
As a surgical intern working in Nigeria in the 1990s, Dr. Lee Ponsky witnessed severe shortages of medical supplies and the devastating consequences. Knowing U.S. hospitals discard usable materials, he founded MedWish International to redirect surplus supplies to communities in need worldwide. In the 2000s, Zac Ponsky joined a Medical Brigade in Honduras to provide care to impoverished communities. Seeing firsthand how this model of care could address significant unmet needs in Cleveland, he founded Medworks. The two organizations joined forces in 2024, becoming MedWish Medworks, to provide a more holistic approach to health access here at home and worldwide.
1625 E. 31st St. Cleveland, OH 44114 www.medwish.org
Top Leadership
What sets your organization apart?
We improve the health of medically underserved populations locally and globally. We are one of the most reputable Medical Surplus Recovery Organizations in the country and a member of the Charitable Healthcare Network. With the help of 4,000+ volunteers last year, our services impacted more than 1 million people, we provided $1.4 million in free dental and medical services at our 2-day clinic, and we diverted the equivalent of 22 dump trucks of supplies from landfills. Our mission is driven by the power of community, volunteerism, and a movement of people helping people in Northeast Ohio and across the globe.
Britta Latz
Dr. Josh Miller
Chief Executive Officer
Board Chair
Interested in helping? Call 216.692.1685 or visit medwish.org to learn about volunteer opportunities. More people than ever don’t have access to vital health resources. With your help, we can meet this growing need.
The Giving Season is
With you, we can strengthen communities here at home and across the globe. Donate today. www.medwish.org/donate 216.692.1685 x11
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Every day, our care teams work tirelessly to give everyone the healthcare they need. As Cuyahoga County’s safety-net hospital, MetroHealth is there for you, particularly as the needs of the community grow.
A Passion For A Healthier Community
Thanks to generous donors, we’re able to care for people in new and meaningful ways: Outpatient Health Center
Our new 300,000-square-foot facility— opening in spring 2026—will enhance access to healthcare with a 24/7 drive-thru pharmacy and specialty services like cancer care, OB-GYN, heart and more all in one spot.
In Pursuit of Healthy
MetroHealth Rehabilitation Institute
School Health Program
We’re bringing healthcare right to students, improving access to care, offering essential screenings and alleviating parents’ work and transportation concerns.
Through clinical care, teaching and research, the MetroHealth Rehabilitation Institute is improving the quality of life for individuals with life-altering illnesses and injuries.
Your support of The MetroHealth Foundation directly benefits programs that help every person achieve health. metrohealth.org/donate
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NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN/CLEVELAND
Volunteer.
Donate financially.
Donate goods.
NCJW/CLE’s powerful voice resonates throughout the community. Through social justice, education and community engagement efforts, members work every day to identify and meet the needs in the community.
Align your philanthropic commitment with your beliefs by supporting NCJW/CLE’s work in changing the lives of women, children and families.
We graciously accept gently-used women's, men's and children's clothing, home goods, furniture, and more! Donations support retail operations and other programs.
Becky Meiser Brouman Director of Volunteers, Community & Program Development rbrouman@ncjwcleveland.org
Hannah Franzolino Director of Development, hfranzolino@ncjwcleveland.org
Donate
Donation Drop-offs: Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM 26055 Emery Road Suite L, Warrensville Hts., OH 44128 Free Furniture Pickup: To schedule, call 216.378.2264
We are grateful for the community's support. All donations support NCJW/CLE programs and initiatives.
ncjwcleveland.org | 216.378.2204 | 26055 Emery Road. Suite L, Warrensville Hts., OH 44128
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Playhouse Square How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community? Donations to Playhouse Square create a powerful ripple effect across our community. Your support keeps our theaters accessible and equipped for world-class productions. Contributions help launch Broadway tours, sustain strong artistic partnerships, and fund inclusive programming that removes barriers for students and families. From educational initiatives reaching tens of thousands to sensory-friendly performances and wellness programs for those with neurological challenges, every gift ensures that the magic of live theater is shared widely—enriching lives and strengthening our city’s cultural and economic vitality.
How can I/my company get involved with your organization? Getting involved at Playhouse Square is easy and rewarding. You can make a lasting impact by supporting our mission with a donation, joining one of our special donor groups, or volunteering your time to help create unforgettable experiences for guests. Each role—whether as a donor, patron, or volunteer—helps keep the arts thriving and accessible for all.
1501 Euclid Ave., Suite 200 Cleveland, OH 44115 216-771-4444 playhousesquare.org
Top Leadership
What’s your origin story? The historic theaters of Playhouse Square were saved by the community for the community. Built in the early 1920s, they had been abandoned by the late 1960s and were scheduled to be demolished. A group of determined volunteers led by Ray Shephardson stopped the wrecking ball and staged a show that would run for more than two years, proving audiences would come back downtown for entertainment. In 1973, the not-for-profit Playhouse Square was formed to continue the revitalization project. Today, Playhouse Square has 12 venues and welcomes 1.1 million guests to more than 1100 performances and events each year.
Craig Hassall President & CEO
Interested in helping? Call 216-771-4444 or visit playhousesquare.org to learn about volunteer opportunities.
playhousesquare.org/giving
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Friendship Circle creates applied behavior analysis therapy program
F
riendshipABA, a center-based applied behavior analysis therapy program that offers an advanced and community-oriented model of autism support for children age 2 and older, was recently launched by Friendship Circle of Cleveland. The program provides weekday applied behavior analysis therapy to children who have an autism spectrum disorder or other developmental disabilities. The program accepts Medicaid and most major insurance plans. FriendshipABA puts together early education, behavioral science and structured support all within a community setting, according to a news release. It expands on
Friendship Circle of Cleveland’s existing social, recreational and skill-based programs geared at children, teens and young adults. FriendshipABA is the only ABAB clinic in the Cleveland area that is implementing the CABAS/VBDT model, an instructional and behavioral science framework in development at Columbia University, according to the release. Rabbi Yosef Peysin leads the program, which provides instructional models rooted in learn-unit-based teaching. The method has been shown to help students learn up to seven times more than in a traditional ABA model and it is
designed to feel welcoming and child-centered to families, according to the release. Friendship ABA enables children to practice communication and social skills in natural settings. It is directly connected to Friendship Circle’s broader network, allowing participants and their families to access social skill groups, parent-support opportunities and community events. Families, providers or community organizations seeking more information can visit friendshipaba.com or call 216385-6026.
Tom and Jill Zidian Family Autism Center opens at Akron Children’s
T
he Tom and Jill Zidian Family Autism Center at Akron Children’s opened on Nov. 11 and will offer comprehensive, coordinated and family-centered services for children, teens and young adults with autism spectrum disorder, according to a news release. The center, made possible by a $2 million donation from Tom and Jill Zidian of Youngstown, consists of a 11,020 square foot space on the Akron Children’s main campus at 130 W Exchange St. and is composed of sensory-friendly and accessible spaces for patients. “We are very excited to be opening a visible center for autism here on the Akron campus that can serve as a hub
to help autistic patients and families along their journeys,” Dr. Jessica Foster, a developmental behavioral pediatrician and medical director of the center, said in the release. “In addition to the excellent care already available through Akron Children’s programs and offices located in communities across northeast Ohio, the Tom and Jill Zidian Family Autism Center will provide access to specialized services. Our goal is family-centered, coordinated, and inclusive care for our patients and families with autism and related developmental disabilities throughout Akron Children’s, and this new center is another step toward achieving that.” To maximize accessibility, the waiting
space features sensory spaces with two bubble walls and multiple touch surfaces, as well as sensory swings and equipment in the dedicated motor and early start developmental spaces. Built-in cubbies and reading nooks line the corridors for patients who may need to relax and decompress. The center, which includes six exam rooms for primary care and medical practice and 14 rooms used for autism assessments and developmental and behavioral therapies and interventions, also offers families close parking and easy building access. “We’ve created a soothing environment with designated quiet spaces, soft lighting and subtle colors,” Dr. Allison Burke, a pediatric psychologist and director of the
autism diagnostic clinic, said in the release. According to the Zidian family, the donation was gifted in hopes of improving access to care for patients with autism spectrum disorder, and also to provide support to families who are navigating a new diagnosis. “It’s tough when you don’t know which way to turn,” Tom Zidian said in the release. “We hope the new center will allow kids to get the care they need sooner. Part of the gift is also funding an autism navigator position in Boardman. The navigator will support families and connect them to the resources they need.”
Hiram College students earn first place in ‘Ideablitz!’
United Way, Yours Truly bring back Pancake Flip
A
U
quartet of Hiram College entrepreneurship students won first place at the 2025 “Ideablitz!,” Hiram’s annual competition where teams promote their business idea to a panel of local entrepreneurs. Macy Fry, Elizabeth Doup, Ilyana Sterrett and Ayrica Dehart placed first and won $1,000 after presenting their product, FlowCrate, a stacked six-bottle holder which fits over a six-pack of Gatorade squeeze bottles that will enable faster and less messy refills during sporting competitions. “The event was exceptional and is reflective of the great things happening at Hiram and in our entrepreneurship program,” Russell Ormiston, director of the Center for Integrated Entrepreneurship, said in a news release. “The students brought forth impressive business ideas and were exceptionally prepared and polished in front of the panel, a testament to their hard work and the guidance of David Kukurza, M.B.A, Director of Academic Programming for
Entrepreneurship. The best student team presentations resulted from their practice and making key changes based on feedback from the class and me. They were ready and motivated for the competition.” Teams will next have a chance to further develop their idea and potentially bring it to the public with its spring competition, Ideabuild! Both events are made possible by a grant from the Burton D. Morgan Foundation. Six teams ranging from two to four student groups competed in the event and had five minutes to present their idea before two additional minutes were used for a Q&A by the judges. Second place went to Tristan Martin-Marshall, McKayla Carpenter, Donald Davey and Kevin Ina, who came up with the AURA emotion oil diffuser, which creates custom blends of oil blends based on an AIgenerated survey that inputs the user’s answers. Third place went to Elijah Southern, Ben Hamilton and Jake Colwell, who presented Lens Buddy, a disposable, stickon-lens protector for professional camera lenses.
nited Way of Greater Cleveland and Yours Truly Restaurants partnered to hold “Rise and Shine for Greater CLE,” an event held on Nov. 19 at Yours Truly Playhouse Square Kitchen and Bar in the Halle Building in downtown Cleveland that acted as a revival of United Way’s Pancake Flip, which was held for years on Public Square. The private, two-hour breakfast event saw United Way’s donors, partners and other guests whose support has helped Clevelanders in need be able to have opportunities and achieve lasting financial security, according to a news release. United Way President and CEO Sharon Sobol Jordan spoke along with United Way board chair Vanessa Whiting and Yours Truly partner Larry Shibley. Chomps, the Cleveland Browns’ mascot, and Sir C.C., the Cleveland Cavaliers’ mascot, both were on hand. Pancakes were served to guests by members of the organizations. Publisher’s note: Sharon Sobol Jordan is a member of the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company Board of Directors.
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Rise Up: Northeast Ohio
How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community?
Gifts to Rise Up directly expand access to real-world, cutting-edge science education for students in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. Donations support the supplies and equipment essential for the 2025–26 school year, allowing us to provide stronger and more equitable STEM opportunities. Through our immersive Life as a Scientist program, students design their own experiments, write grant proposals, receive Notices of Award, conduct research in teams, troubleshoot challenges, and publish their work in a scientific journal, experiencing the full life cycle of authentic scientific inquiry. Your support empowers Cleveland students to build skills, confidence, and a future in science.
What’s your organization’s proudest achievement? As Executive Director, my favorite day of the year is the release party for the Journal of Young Scientists. Each year, we watch students receive their hard-copy publications and celebrate alongside volunteers, family members, community supporters, peers, and school leaders. Seeing students hold their published work for the first time, recognizing themselves as published scientists, is an unforgettable reminder of the power of access, opportunity, and authentic science education.
2919 Jay Ave Cleveland, Ohio 44113 330-815-0871 www.riseupnortheastohio.org
Top Leadership
What’s your origin story? Rise Up began with a simple but urgent question: How can we break the “glass floor” that keeps so many talented students from pursuing science careers? Research shows that unless a student comes from a higher-income household, entering the sciences is far more difficult. We believe this barrier is rooted in structural inequities and uneven access to authentic science education. In response, we built something entirely new. Rise Up reimagines science education by bringing immersive, real-world research experiences directly into Cleveland classrooms. With your support, we can transform science education in Cleveland and create a learning environment that breaks through the “glass floor”.
Andrew Scavuzzo
Dr. Paul Tesar
Executive Director
Board Chair
Interested in helping? Call 330.815.0871 or visit riseupnortheastohio.org to learn about volunteer opportunities.
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Stan is a a Stan Hywet Hywet is Northeast Ohio Treasure Treasure Northeast Ohio
DECEMBER 19, 2025
Akron’s Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens is an extraordinary place of history and community, right here in Akron’s Stan Hall &home Gardens is an extraordinary place ofofhistory and community, here in Northeast Ohio.Hywet The former of F.A. Seiberling (co-founder The Goodyear Tire and right Rubber Company) Northeast Ohio.the Thecenterpiece former home of F.A. Seiberling (co-founder The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company) and his family, of the estate is a 65-room Tudorofrevival manor house completed when andemergence his family, the centerpiece of themade estate is a the 65-room Tudor revival houseThe completed when the of modern America Akron “Rubber Capital of manor the World.” estate with fully the emergence of modern America made Akron the “Rubber Capital of the World.” The estate with fully restored historic gardens is an easy drive from Cleveland and is open for tours from April-December. restored historic gardens is an easy drive from Cleveland and is open for tours from April-December. Stan Hywet is a vibrant community resource, and a non-profit dedicated to the preservation of the Stan Hywet a vibrant community resource, and a non-profit the preservation the estate and itsishistory, while sharing this important place through dedicated informativetotours, educationalofprograms, estate and its history, while sharing this important place through informative tours, educational programs, special events, and engaging outreach. Guests from around the world and students from the region learn specialhistory, events,art, andarchitecture engaging outreach. around the world and students from the region learn about and moreGuests when from they visit. about history, art, architecture and more when they visit. Support Stan Hywet with a donation so that the work of the estate can continue in the important areas Hywet with a donation so thatcommunity the work ofengagement, the estate can in theexperiences. important areas ofSupport historicStan preservation, education/outreach, andcontinue exceptional An of historic preservation, education/outreach, community engagement, and exceptional experiences. An investment in Stan Hywet is an investment in the cultural well-being of Northeast Ohio. investment in Stan Hywet is an investment in the cultural well-being of Northeast Ohio.
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714 N. Portage Path 714 N. Portage Path Akron, OH 44303 Akron, OH 44303 Please donate at: Please donate at: stanhywet.org/donate stanhywet.org/donate Your gift helps us preserve Your helps preserve andgift share ourushistoric estate and share our historic estate and serve as a resource for and serve as a cultural, resourceand for educational, educational, cultural, and recreational enrichment. recreational enrichment. Questions: Questions: Please call 330.315.3239 Please call jmasters@stanhywet.org 330.315.3239 or email or email jmasters@stanhywet.org
The and The Manor Manor House House and Gardens for Gardens are are open open for tours, tours, April April -- December December Learn Learn
Play Play
Explore Explore stanhywet.org stanhywet.org
714 Portage Path 714 N.N. Portage Path Akron, 44303 Akron, OHOH 44303 330.836.5533 330.836.5533
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Stella Maris receives renewed gold standard accredication JIMMY OSWALD joswald@cjn.org
S
tella Maris, a Cleveland-based provider of addiction treatment and recovery services, earned a renewed gold standard accreditation from the Joint Commission. The Joint Commission, which is the nation’s oldest and most respected health care accrediting body, awards behavioral
health care and human services for continued compliance with all standards of care without a requirement for improvements based on a survey, according to a news release. “This accreditation is more than a certification – it’s a reflection of our mission and the dedication of every staff member who makes recovery possible each day,” Stella Maris CEO Christine Robinson said in the release. “We’re proud to have met every standard, but our work doesn’t stop here. We’re
always looking for new and better ways to serve our clients, strengthen our programs, and expand access to quality care in our community.” An extensive review process found that Stella Maris was in full compliance in trauma and abuse screening, treatment planning, medication management, suicide risk assessment, emergency preparedness and staff competency, according to the release.
Greater Cleveland Aquarium welcomes 3 millionth guest
G
reater Cleveland Aquarium welcomed its 3 millionth daily guest on Nov. 21, marking a milestone achievement that came just weeks before its 14th birthday and underscored the attraction’s enduring popularity in Northeast Ohio, according to a news release. The facility, which opened in January 2012, houses about 3,600 fresh and saltwater animals in its 65,000-square-foot location, ranging in species from a matamata turtle to a cownose stingray. The 3 millionth guest, Stacey R. and her family, were gifted a three-year membership to the aquarium and a $300 aquatic-themed goodie basket from the gift shop in honor of the milestone.
“We love coming to the Aquarium because it’s local, easy to get to and a terrific activity on an overcast day like today,” Stacey said in the release. According to Ray Popik, curator and member of the aquarium’s team since its opening, 75 animals have been recently welcomed to the aquarium and an additional 125 fish are expected to be introduced in the coming months. “We’re certainly not the largest aquarium out there, but the animals you’ll see here represent a truly diverse array of species and we’re continually enhancing our habitats,” Popik said in the release. “In fact, over the last two weeks, we have welcomed an additional 75 animals representing 11 different species to the shark seatube.” Located just off the Cuyahoga River at
2000 Sycamore St. in downtown Cleveland, the Greater Cleveland Aquarium features a 175-foot underwater tunnel that traverses its 230,000 gallon shark habitat, giving visitors the chance to get an underwater view of the drum, goliath grouper, porcupinefish, jacks, angelfish, doctorfish, squirrelfish, grunt, tang, eels, stingray and shark residents. The fact that the attraction reached this major guest milestone just weeks shy of its 14th birthday is not lost on General Manager Stephanie White, who joined the organization during its construction. “We reach about 15,000 young learners each year through field trips, career days and virtual programs and we’re just now beginning to see people who came here as students applying
for internships,” White said in the release. “It’s rewarding to see the part we play in helping others form a connection with the natural world, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has spent a little time with us getting to know more about native turtle conservation, marveling over the seadragons that were born onsite or developing a newfound appreciation for sharks. “We are incredibly grateful for the continued support from every person who walks through our doors; their dedication allows us to thrive and continue investing in our conservation mission.” According to Popik, a holiday-themed dive show, titled “Scuba Claus,” will take place this holiday season. To learn more, visit greaterclevelandaquarium.com.
Make the most out of your giving now, before legislative changes to charitable deductions take effect next year!
YEAR-END
GIVING
UPDATE
DONATE APPRECIATED SECURITIES or other assets owned longer than one year. Your gift may qualify for a charitable deduction if you itemize. Save capital gains tax even if you do not itemize. Make IRA QUALIFIED CHARITABLE DISTRIBUTIONS. Persons at least 70½ may transfer up to $108,000 in 2025 from a traditional IRA to eligible charities tax free. Transfers may count toward your IRA-required minimum distribution. Contribute to a DONOR ADVISED FUND by year end and decide where to recommend charitable grants over time. Save capital gains tax for donations of long-term appreciated assets.
WE’RE HERE to discuss your options for making the most of your generosity. Please reach out to Matthew A. Kaliff, Managing Director, Foundations and Fund Operations, at mkaliff@jewishcleveland.org or 216-593-2831. The Jewish Federation of Cleveland does not provide legal, tax, or financial advice. Please consult with your professional advisor before taking any actions.
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, Talespinner Children s Theatre
What’s your origin story?
Founded in 2011, Talespinner Children’s Theatre (TCT) is Cleveland’s only professional theatre company dedicated exclusively to young audiences. Our mission is to provide inclusive, accessible, and original theatrical experiences that engage, empower, and inspire. From the beginning, TCT has centered storytelling as a developmental tool, elevating children’s perspectives and imagination. What began as a small company has since introduced more than 40 new plays and built impactful education and touring programs serving students of all abilities.
What sets your organization apart?
TCT integrates accessibility into every production, ensuring young audiences of all abilities can fully engage with live theatre. Productions are designed to align with how children learn and experience stories, supported by accessibility practices such as ASL interpretation, open captioning, audio description, tactile tours, and sensory support. Every performance is relaxed and sensory-friendly, helping children of all abilities feel welcome. Talespinner is working toward becoming the most accessible theatre in Cleveland.
216-264-0335 www.talespinnercle.org
Top Leadership
How does your organization positively impact the community?
Gifts to Talespinner Children’s Theatre expand access to high-quality arts experiences for children across Cleveland. Donor support fuels more than 45 annual performances, 20 touring shows, and education programs that reach 4,500 students and over 6,000 in-person attendees each year. These experiences help children build empathy, confidence, and problem-solving skills while supporting academic and social-emotional growth in schools and communities. TCT is committed to offering accessible and inclusive experiences throughout our community.
Sarah Durham Executive Director
Interested in helping? Call 216.264.0335 or visit talespinnercle.org to learn about volunteer opportunities.
Opening hearts, minds and imaginations since 2011 Be Part of the Next Chapter and donate today! Every great story has its turning point, and at Talespinner Children’s Theatre, ours begins now. Talespinner has long been a place where young people and families across Cleveland come together to experience the joy of live theatre, creativity, and connection. Whether you have attended a performance, enrolled your child in one of our classes or camps, or supported us in another way, you are already part of our story. Your involvement helps keep the arts alive and ensures that every child has access to the power of imagination and storytelling. This season we are strengthening our roots, deepening our community impact, and preparing for a vibrant new era of creativity. You will see it in our productions, in the partnerships we are renewing, and in the ways we continue to make theatre accessible to all.
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The Centers 216.432.7200 https://thecentersohio.org How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community?
The long-term impact of The Centers’ H.O.P.E. Campus™ is nothing short of transformative. It’s not just about healing individuals, it’s about empowering families, restoring hope, and breaking cycles of hardship for generations to come. Our mission is to keep families together, fostering reunification and brighter futures. By uniting The Centers, community partners, and organizations like Cuyahoga County Division of Children & Family Services and Juvenile Court, we create a compassionate haven for children in crisis. Your support ensures that we can build a safer, stronger community where every child is truly given the chance to thrive and reach their full potential.
Top Leadership
What sets your organization apart?
The Centers stands out as a top human services organization in Northeast Ohio, serving 21,000 people annually at 13 locations. We tackle poverty and health disparities with a broad range of support services. What distinguishes The Centers is our integrated care model, offering coordinated health, wellness, and family programs—all in one place. Clients benefit from seamless access to medical, dental, behavioral health, addiction treatment, early learning, and workforce training; ensuring holistic, culturally competent support. Innovative initiatives like The Centers’ H.O.P.E. Campus™ and the new Behavioral Health Crisis Center, opening in September 2026, further set us apart as a community leader.
What does your organization’s future look like?
In September 2026, The Centers, in collaboration with key public partners, will open Cuyahoga County’s first Behavioral Health Crisis Center (BHCC) in Cleveland’s Central neighborhood. This 24/7 walk-in center will offer urgent behavioral health care, symptom stabilization, and seamless connections to community resources, serving as an alternative to emergency rooms or jail. The Centers’ fully integrated Federally Qualified Health Center, including pharmacy services, will relocate to the same building, providing comprehensive care. The BHCC will address a critical gap in crisis care, create 175 new jobs, and embody “Care Without Conditions.” A ribbon-cutting is set for fall 2026.
Eric L. Morse, MSSA, LISW-S President & CEO
Stacey Rubenfeld, MPA Chief Development Officer
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The Cleveland Orchestra
How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community?
Community support makes music a vibrant part of life in Northeast Ohio, bringing extraordinary performances to the stage at Severance and Blossom; funding robust music education programs for students; creating opportunities for connection in our neighborhoods; and reaching more people through music online, on the radio, and on tour. Donations to The Cleveland Orchestra make up the most significant portion of the ensemble’s operating revenue. Every donation makes a difference. When you support The Cleveland Orchestra, you inspire thousands across our community through the power of music. To learn more, contact Donor Services at 216-456-8400 or donate@clevelandorchestra.com.
216-456-8400 clevelandorchestra.com
How can I/my company get involved with your organization? Enjoy the music by attending concerts at Severance and Blossom. Go deeper by becoming a donor and supporting the music you love. One way is to become a Stand Partner—a monthly giver who provides ongoing support for the music. Donors unlock special events throughout the year to enjoy (see below).
Top Leadership
Do you have any events planned in the coming year? The Orchestra offers a variety of events to thank supporters. These include Meet the Artist chamber performances with Orchestra musicians; open rehearsals, your chance to see music-making in action; post-concert receptions with musicians and guest artists; and more. In addition, The Cleveland Orchestra hosts major fundraising events each year: the Annual Gala, the Winter Spree, and the Blossom Summer Soirée. Each event features a beautiful cocktail hour, an elegant dinner, and a performance by the Orchestra.
André Gremillet
Richard J. Kramer
President & CEO
Chair, Board of Trustees
Interested in Helping? Contact our Donor Services team at 216-456-8400 or donate@clevelandorchestra.com.
LIMITED TIME! Double your impact Support from friends like you keeps the music playing in Northeast Ohio. Your year end donation provides vital funding for the music. Right now, all new and increased donations will be DOUBLED thanks to a matching challenge from The Callahan Foundation. Stand for music today, while your gift means double! clevelandorchestra.com/give
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Years
What sets your organization apart? Towards Employment knows what works. Our nationally recognized career pathway model, WorkAdvance, has been rigorously evaluated and proven to increase earnings for low-income Clevelanders, including individuals with justice system involvement and young adults disconnected from school or work. We focus not only on job placement, but on long-term retention and advancement into good-paying careers. By pairing employer-driven training with individualized coaching and wrap-around supports that address the “social determinants of work”—such as housing instability, transportation, and legal barriers—we help participants gain stability, stay employed, and build lasting economic mobility.
How do gifts positively impact the community? Your gift opens doors to opportunity for people who have faced some of life’s toughest barriers. Towards Employment champions Clevelanders facing barriers to employment – helping them gain the skills needed to achieve economic mobility. In 2025 we placed over 700 people in above minimum wage jobs, providing over 3,000 supportive services along the way including legal services, financial coaching, behavioral health supports, transportation and work attire, while serving the talent needs of over 300 businesses.
Towards Employment 3301 Saint Clair Avenue Cleveland, OH 44114 (216) 696-5750 www.towardsemployment.org Top Leadership
Do you have any events planned in the coming year? In 2026, Towards Employment will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a yearlong series of community and engagement events. Plans include financial empowerment workshops, alumni storytelling and performances, employer and policy breakfast conversations, Second Chance Month activations, volunteer and clean-up days, a citywide career fair, and signature events including a 50th Anniversary Gala and Alumni Holiday Bash—honoring our legacy while building the future of work.
Jill Rizika President and CEO
Adaora Schmiedl Chief Advancement & Community Engagement Officer
To help, visit towardsemployment.org or call (216) 696-5750 to learn about events, volunteering and committee service
CHAMPIONING THE POTENTIAL OF EVERY PERSON TO SUCCEED IN A REWARDING CAREER FOR 50 YEARS Learn more about being a Champion for Cleveland careers at Towardsemployment.org/50-years
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United Way of Greater Cleveland How Howdo dogifts giftsto toUnited UnitedWay Wayimpact impactthe thecommunity? community? When you give to United WayWay of Greater Cleveland, youyou helphave hardworking individuals and families throughout our community find 211 When you donate to United of Greater Cleveland, immense impact in our community. Your gift supports United Way steady ground. Your support strengthens our 211 Helpline, which serves as the front door to support and opportunity for anyone to ensure that everyone has access to help. It also makes safe, stable housing a reality for more families. You also help us invest in proven who needs that information and resources like food, housing, Together, and utilitywe assistance. United Way drives proven solutions, solutions remove barriers to economic opportunity. can create a stronger, more prosperous regioncreating for all of pathways us! to economic opportunity. Together, we can build a stronger, more hopeful and secure Greater Cleveland for everyone because United Is The Way!
How can individuals and companies get involved with United Way? There are severalindividuals ways to engage with United of Greater Cleveland. Many corporate partners sponsor events or host a Workplace How can andWay companies get involved with United Way?
1331 Euclid Avenue 1331 Euclid Cleveland, OH Avenue 44115 Cleveland, OH 44115 Phone: 216-436-2100 Phone: 216-436-2100 www.unitedwaycleveland.org www.unitedwaycleveland.org
Campaign, which support United Way through payroll deduction donations and engagement opportunities. For more information on There are many ways to be part of our United Way’s work. Companies often partner with us through workplace campaigns or by corporate philanthropy at United Way, contact sfletcher@unitedwaycleveland.org. Individuals can engage with United Way by sponsoring events, creating meaningful opportunities for employees to engage with us and support their neighbors. For more information participating in programs, signing up to volunteer at volunteer.unitedway.org, attending events, or joining an affinity group. Emerging on corporate engagement, contact sfletcher@unitedwaycleveland.org. Individuals can connect with us by volunteering, attending Leaders is our affinity group to engage young professionals in activities to further United Way’s mission. For more information, contact events, or joining one of our affinity groups like our Emerging Leaders, which offers young professionals meaningful opportunities to kmartinovic@unitedwaycleveland.org. support our mission and the people within our community. To learn more, reach out to kmartinovic@unitedwaycleveland.org.
Leadership Leadership
WhatisisUnited UnitedWay’s Way’sorigin originstory? story? What
United Way of Greater Cleveland is considered one of the first United Ways in the world. In 1913, Cleveland became the first city to Cleveland helped create the United Way model that continues to guide our work today. In 1913, our city became the first in the nation to organize a true financial federation for health and welfare agencies – raising and allocating campaign funds through a single federated organize a true financial federation, raising funds through a single campaign to support health and human services organizations across charity to address community needs. The first campaign raised $127,000 for 55 organizations. Though we have been known by many Greater Cleveland. More than a century later, our United Way carries forward that tradition of understanding community needs and names, United Way continues the tradition of the annual campaign. investing in the solutions that make the greatest difference. When you give to our United Way, whether through a Legacy Circle planned Understanding the needscontribution, of our community and vetting organizations select thesupport one(s) goes with the greatest be a daunting gift, Workplace Campaign or an individual gift, you can trusttothat your where it will impact have thecan greatest impact, task for individuals. By donating to United Way’ s annual campaign, you can rest assured that you’re contributing to a trusted agency that helping more of our neighbors find stability, opportunity, and a stronger path to economic mobility. deeply understands our community’s needs and invests your dollars where they will have the greatest impact.
Sharon Sobol Jordan Vanessa Whiting Sharon Sobol Jordan Vanessa Whiting President & CEO Board Chair President & CEO
UNITED WAY 211 UNITED WAY 211 Housing Utilities Education Addiction Healthcare Volunteering Job Training Home Repair Legal Services Food Assistance Mental Health Prescription Costs Problem Gambling Veterans Assistance
Board Chair
Last year, 9 out of 10 callers were connected to resources to meet their needs.
CONNECTING GREATERCONNECTING CLEVELANDERS THOSE WHO NEED HELP TO THE RIGHT HELP AT THE TIME. TORIGHT THOSE WHO CAN HELP SCAN TO DONATE UNITEDWAYCLEVELAND.ORG
Last year, 90% of callers were connected to new resources to meet their needs.
DONATE NOW. UNITEDWAYCLEVELAND.ORG
END-OF-YEAR GIVING DECEMBER 19, 2025
CJN.ORG | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | 59
University Hospitals was founded in 1866, a single hospital in a two-story house, born of a community’s commitment to health and healing. We’ve grown into a super-regional health system with an academic medical center, 21 hospitals, 50+ health centers and 200+ physician offices throughout the region. Throughout our history, UH has embraced change and faced health challenges with resilience. Guided by an unwavering focus on our patients and our community, we’ve defined the standard of excellence in patient-focused care, pioneered medical discoveries, and shaped future caregivers. The UH mission – To Heal. To Teach. To Discover. – endures today, because of you.
Making an impact
Get involved
An anchor in the community, University Hospitals has been a steadfast source of care and compassion for 159 years. Caring for you is a privilege and responsibility that we take seriously and, for UH, the greatest mark of success is the support of those we serve.
Ride the Rainbow, presented by Serpentini Auto Group, returns in 2026! This signature biennial event of the Rainbow Babies & Children’s Foundation has raised more than $11.7 million since its inception, supporting UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s efforts to attract the best pediatric medical talent, provide compassionate care for patients, and conduct cutting-edge research. Join us at Cleveland Public Auditorium:
Gifts to UH sustain our communityfocused mission, benefiting the patients, families and neighbors that count on us. Because of You: The Campaign for University Hospitals will advance the care of patients in every corner of our community, including: caring for our children, transforming cancer care, leading discovery and innovation, and investing in our community.
© 2025 University Hospitals
Saturday, April 25, 2026 Learn more at RidetheRainbow.org.
Cliff A. Megerian, MD, FACS University Hospitals Chief Executive Officer, Jane and Henry Meyer Chief Executive Officer Distinguished Chair
UHgiving.org To make a gift, call: 216-983-2200
60 | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | CJN.ORG
DECEMBER 19, 2025
Congratulations! SCOTT GARSON
For Receiving the Gries Family Award
As the Founding Board Chair of Goods Bank NEO, your strategic guidance, passion for community collaboration, and belief in the power of shared resources have helped redirect millions of dollars worth of essential goods to organizations serving families in need. We are grateful for your leadership.
END-OF-YEAR GIVING
Sunbeam Holiday Boutique celebrates 114th year
T
he annual Sunbeam Holiday Boutique celebrated its 114th year with 12 new vendors and shopping opportunities from Nov. 12 to Nov. 14 at The Country Club in Pepper Pike, with a portion of all sales donated directly to Vocational Guidance Services, which has provided services to individuals with disabilities for over 100 years. Items like clothing, jewelry, handbags, home goods, antiques, skincare products and other accessories were on sale from 35 total vendors. An opening night party on Nov. 12 with an open bar and hors d’oeuvres offered shoppers an early chance to purchase merchandise. The boutique opened for general admission on Nov. 13 and in the
evening the event hosted Ladies Night, giving local women the chance to browse and munch on hors d’oeuvres while mingling with one another. The event ended on Nov. 14. “The Sunbeam Board are incredible supporters of VGS and it means so much to us, and the individuals with disabilities we serve, that they create such a beautiful and unique event each and every year,” Susie Barragate, vocational guidance services president and CEO, said in a news release prior to the event. The Sunbeam Holiday Boutique began in 1890 when a group of young women, known as the Sunbeam Circle, came together to support children at the former Lakeside Hospital in Cleveland.
CSU receives $6.4M in gifts during 2025-26 school year www.goodsbankneo.org
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leveland State University’s Division of Student Belonging and Success announced that since the start of the 2025-26 academic year, it has received over $6.4 million in philanthropic gifts to enhance student support services and provide more opportunities to all students to achieve their educational goals. “Our core philosophy is to meet students where they are and help each individual student progress toward their academic goals. These gifts provide comprehensive support to ensure students’ success and completion of their credential and degree programs by offering a high-quality student experience at CSU,” Tachelle Banks, vice president of Student Belonging and Success, which focuses on student well-being and academic success, said in the release. “Students often excel in the classroom yet sometimes need extra help managing challenges and responsibilities outside of it. These funded programs and initiatives are an investment in CSU to provide support and resources where students need them most.” Among the recent gifts was a long-range funding stream created by donors to help support CSU’s program that aids students who have been impacted by foster care. The Gund Foundation, which supports the Cleveland Metropolitan School District learning community, also received a sizable donation that will go toward funding new
academic coaching positions to create programming and support to CSU students who were participants in the Say Yes to Education program, a national initiative that aims to increase high school and college graduation rates by offering services to help at-risk, economically struggling students. The Leonard Kreiger Fund of the Cleveland Foundation received a gift to support the unified academic coaching program and students who use CSU’s Office of Disability and Testing Services. The George Garretson Wade Charitable Trust, which supports programs that help low-income students overcome obstacles in order to graduate, and the Reinberger Foundation, which supports the Lift Up Vikes resource center and food pantry on campus designed to help economically disadvantaged students, were also donation recipients. “Each of these generous gifts is an investment in our students and in the future of Cleveland,” CSU President Laura Bloomberg said in the release. “We are deeply grateful for the community partners and donors who are strengthening our ability to support students and create a university where every student has the resources, opportunities, and support they need to thrive. I am honored by their confidence in our mission, vision and dedication to student success.”
END-OF-YEAR GIVING DECEMBER 19, 2025
Whatʼs the origin story?
VGS
CJN.ORG | CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS | 61
In 1890 a group of young women formed The Sunbeam Circle, crafting goods they then sold and donated the proceeds to children receiving care at Lakeside Hospital in Cleveland. More than a century later, The Sunbeam Circle lives on as VGS and The Sunbeam Board, our exceptional women volunteers. VGS remains steadfast in our commitment to providing care, programming, services, and opportunities that enhance the lives of people with disabilities. Each year we serve hundreds of individuals with disabilities across the state of Ohio.
2235-2239 East 55th Street Cleveland, Ohio 44103 vgsjob.org Number of employees: 287 Founded: 1890
What sets your organization apart?
Our participants represent a wide array of disabilities, including cognitive, intellectual, physical, and developmental. The disability diversity of VGSʼ participants requires VGS to operate responsive, flexible programming that helps participants meet their specific goals. All of VGSʼ services and programs are provided at no cost to the individuals we serve and fully consider the individual goals and needs of each person. We thrive because of our incredible partnerships, with the people we serve, our peer organizations, supporters, funders, volunteers, and business partners. Disability inclusion is at the heart of and fuels our work.
Top Leadership
Whatʼs New?
Customized Community Engagement & Employment (CCEE) is VGSʼ latest program model. Informed by best practices, CCEE takes place fully in the community rather than in our facilities, providing a unique opportunity for individuals to be fully immersed in their own neighborhoods and public spaces. CCEE is an innovative approach to service delivery that transforms our communities into fully accessible spaces that are inclusive of individuals with disabilities.
Susie M. Barragate
Laura M. Lamb
President & Chief Executive Officer
Chief Operating Officer
Interested in helping? VGS has a wide network of for-and not-for-profit businesses with which we partner to provide staffing, labor, and engagement activities – we would love for your business to join us. We also have a wide range of volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups that span from conducting mock job interviews to leading a game of bingo. Monetary donations and event sponsorships are essential to our provision of services and breadth of our impact. For more information, contact Jessica Hardesty, Director of Communications & Engagement jessicahardesty@vgsjob.org | 216-881-6008
Engage in the community
Achieve greater independence
Attain employment
Our work is not possible without the generosity of our community. Sc an to Give
Since 1890, VGS has provided free programs and services to individuals with disabilities. Today, morethan thanever. ever. T oday,our ourwork workis is needed more
Your donation honors our legacy of service and allows us to create communities that are fully inclusive of individuals with disabilities.
vgsjob.org
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Cuyahoga Arts and Culture awards $12.9M in grants
T
he Cuyahoga Arts and Culture board of trustees announced a total of $12.9 million in grants for 2026, supporting more than 300 Cuyahoga County nonprofit organizations of all sizes in general operating or project support funds, according to a Nov. 12 news release. “We are excited to make these grants to a mix of nonprofit organizations that includes everything from new, volunteerled projects to cultural institutions that have been around for more than a century,” Jill M. Paulsen, Cuyahoga Arts and Culture executive director, said in the release. “It’s very important that CAC serves the entire nonprofit arts and culture community, so that organizations of all sizes can carry out their missions and connect with the residents they serve.” According to the release, the general operating support program provides unrestricted, multi-year funding to arts and cultural organizations based in and serving Cuyahoga County. Next year will mark the first year of a two-year grant commitment for these organizations, with 152 organizations receiving general operating support grants totaling $11.4 million. The grants range in size from $5,000 to $1 million and were determined by CAC’s objective funding formula.
For general operating support, the Maltz Museum was awarded a grant of $130,705, Playhouse Square was awarded $1 million, The Cleveland Orchestra was awarded $1 million, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum was awarded $773,736 and Ideastream Public Media was awarded $615,630. The project support grant program “promotes and encourages the breadth of arts and cultural programming” by funding projects of all sizes in Cuyahoga County, according to the release. For 2026, 156 projects were awarded a total of $901,977, ranging in size from $2,720 to $7,500. Award determinations were made by a panel of arts and cultural experts from outside the region. In the project support category, notable grants included $6,375 awarded to Jewish Family Service Association of Cleveland, $6,375 awarded to the Jewish Federation of Cleveland and $7,500 awarded to the Mandel Jewish Community Center of Cleveland. To date, Cuyahoga Arts and Culture has invested more than $270 million in more than 500 organizations. The 2026 grants are made possible by continued tax funding approved
by voters in November 2024. “These grants are possible thanks to Cuyahoga County residents who approved the increase in funding through 2035,” CAC board president Karolyn Isenhart said in the release. “We know that funding is especially critical in times of economic uncertainty. Although funding levels from the first year of tax collections allowed for an increase in grant awards for 2026 compared to 2025, CAC knows that tax revenues from cigarette sales will continue to decline over the next decade. Our Board has worked with the CAC team to create a fiscal management plan designed to maintain consistent grantmaking levels over the life of the new levy. The goal is to continue to fund arts and culture organizations of all sizes that serve residents from every zip code across Cuyahoga County.” CAC is Cuyahoga County’s largest source of consistent funding that is dedicated specifically to supporting the community’s nonprofit arts and culture organizations. Since 2006, CAC has invested more than $270 million in more than 500 organizations. To view the full list of grant recipients for 2026, visit shorturl.at/iCHPl.
Nord Family Fund donation supports The Cleveland Orchestra
T
he Eric and Jane Nord Family Fund’s latest donation has helped create the Jane B. and Eric T. Nord Education Leadership and Internship Endowed Fund, which will help support The Cleveland Orchestra take a big step forward in its education vision, according to a news release. The endowed fund will support the educational leadership team and renames and further aids an executive-level role, long held by Joan Katz Napoli, that oversees the orchestra’s learner-centered education practices, the Jane B. and Eric T. Nord Vice President of Education & Community Engagement position. “This gift is a powerful reminder that education is at the heart of everything we do at The Cleveland Orchestra,” André Gremillet,
president and CEO of The Cleveland Orchestra, said in the release. “Jane Nord’s extraordinary generosity has helped shape and provide greater accessibility to our education programs for years, and this new investment ensures we can keep inspiring and engaging future generations with excellence and purpose.” The gift will also help two other leadership positions that oversee a variety of educational initiatives, like programs at Severance Music Center, school and university partnerships, digital learning content, adult education and advocacy efforts aimed at expanding access to orchestral music and empowering the path to professional musicianship. It also creates a paid internship within the education department, allowing college and graduate students the chance to learn in arts education
Great Lakes Theatre’s ‘Backstage Bash’ March 7
T
he Great Lakes Theater will host a gala fundraiser, “Backstage Bash: The Witches Ball,” at 6 p.m. March 7, 2026, at the Hanna Theatre in Playhouse Square at 2067 E. 14th St. in downtown Cleveland. Performers and artists from the Great Lakes Theatre will perform, and attendees are invited to don their “most bewitching attire.” The event will feature live music and dancing backstage for a behind-the-scenes look at the theater, food stations, open bars and an auction. Proceeds will benefit live theater at Great Lakes Theatre. To puchase tickets, visit shorturl.at/nG4yA.
administration. “I am deeply grateful to Mrs. Nord for her remarkable and continuous support of The Cleveland Orchestra,” Napoli said in the release. “Her gift is not just a commitment to music education, it’s a source of inspiration, joy, and opportunity for every child in Northeast Ohio, who will continue to experience live, world-class orchestral music for years to come. Thank you, Mrs. Nord, for believing in the power of music and for believing in The Cleveland Orchestra.” Education has been a key component to the Cleveland Orchestra since its inception, the release said, and its Music in Motion Education Concerts held in October at Severance Music Center drove home that mission. Nearly 10,000 students from
around Northeast Ohio were able to hear immersive performances and dance with both the orchestra and special guests from the Cleveland Ballet and Inlet Dance Theatre. Jane B. Nord created the Jane B. Nord Education Concert Access Fund in 2019 to ensure every child in the region was able to attend a Cleveland Orchestra Education Concert. In 2022, the Eric and Jane Nord families created the fund to ensure ongoing support for the concerts, including providing transportation subsidies to help Title I schools have access. Jane B. Nord received The Cleveland Orchestra’s Distinguished Service Award in 2023. The honor was created in 1996 to recognize exceptional commitment and service to the orchestra.
Meijer to donate $4M to food banks, pantries in six states
M
eijer has committed to donating $4 million to food banks and pantries across the six states it has locations in through, including the Greater Cleveland Food Bank and the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, as part of its Simply Give hunger relief program to help fight hunger in local communities. The Grand Rapids, Mich.-based grocery outlet is also providing funds to Dare to Care Foodbank in Kentucky, Feeding America East Wisconsin, Feeding America West Michigan, Gleaners Community Foodbank of Southeast Michigan, Gleaners Community Foodbank of Indiana and Greater Chicago Food Depository. “We understand the communities we serve are facing unique challenges right now, and while we cannot solve
them alone, that will not stop us from expanding our Simply Give hunger relief efforts to help our neighbors in need,” Hank Meijer, executive chairman, said in a news release “We are humbled to be able to make these donations and know they will have a significant impact in the fight against hunger throughout the Midwest.” Meijer’s Simply Give hunger relief program started in 2008 and passed the $100 million mark in money donated to food pantries in 2025. Customers can help those in their community by adding a $10 Simply Give donation card to their order the next time they shop. The cards are converted into Meijer food-only gift cards and given to a local food pantry partner.
END-OF-YEAR GIVING DECEMBER 19, 2025
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H O W D O G I F T S T O YO U R O R G A N I Z AT I O N P O S I T I V E LY I M PA C T THE COMMUNITY?
Your support can make a profound difference. Every donation helps us provide exceptional wrap-around services to survivors fleeing violence in their homes, all at no cost. By contributing, you are not only helping us meet urgent needs but also showing your commitment to building a safer, stronger community. W H AT S E T S YO U R O R G A N I Z AT I O N A PA R T ?
In order to stay up-to-date with the latest and most effective trauma-informed practices, WomenSafe continues to partner with a number of organizations that serve survivors of domestic violence in the Northeast Ohio area. We are one of only seven domestic violence programs in Ohio to be fully certified by the Commission on Accreditation for Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (out of 66 programs). Additionally, our agency is SafeZone certified by BRAVO as an LGBTQI+ ally. These certifications demonstrate our commitment to best practice, excellence, and ethical leadership.
12041 Ravenna Road Chardon OH 44024 440-286-7154 www.womensafe.org
Since 1980, our mission has been to provide emergency shelter and support services to survivors of domestic violence throughout Northeast Ohio.
D O YO U H AV E A N Y E V E N T S P L A N N E D F O R T H E C O M I N G Y E A R ?
ANDREA GUTKA
We are so excited to be celebrating the 25th year of our Casino Night fundraiser at Lavera Party Center on February 28th. Another unmissable event to look forward to is our Golf Outing, which will take place on September 21st at Fowler’s Mill.
Chief Executive Officer
Interested in volunteering? Call 440-286-7154 ext. 235
Interested in making an in-kind donation? Call 440-286-7154 ext. 230
MAKE OUR HOUSE A HOME
For the Holidays
Together, we can make sure every survivor experiences the peace and safety they deserve by offering free, life-changing services.
EMERGENCY S H E LT E R
440-286-7154
A D U LT A N D CHILD COUNSELING
COURT A D VO C A C Y
24/7 COPELINE 888-285-5665
To find out just how far your donation could go, scan the QR Code here:
AFTERCARE
COMMUNITY E D U C AT I O N
https://womensafe.org/make-our-house-a-home
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END-OF-YEAR GIVING
WHAT IS OUR ORIGIN STORY?
For more than 150 years, YWCA Greater Cleveland has been a trusted advocate for people facing homelessness, trauma, and barriers to stability. We provide essential services, empowerment programming, and advocacy to ensure safety, support, and opportunities for women, children, and families.
YWCA IS ON A MISSION
WHAT SETS US APART?
YWCA Greater Cleveland is dedicated to building community, empowerment, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.
YWCA Greater Cleveland is a beacon of hope and progress. We operate Cleveland’s only low-barrier emergency shelter for women, the region’s only GOLD STAR–rated traumainformed, two-generational early childhood education program, and supportive housing for young adults aging out of foster care and older adults in need. In the last five years, more than 1,050 individuals have transitioned to stable housing, over 255 children entered kindergarten prepared to learn, and this past November alone we provided emergency food and shelter to an average of 260 women each night.
HOW DO YOUR DONATIONS CHANGE LIVES?
Your support fuels emergency and transitional housing, permanent supportive housing for seniors, early childhood education, mental and physical health services, workforce development, and critical daily supports that help individuals build brighter futures. You provide a lifeline with the reduction of federal funding. President & CEO Helen Forbes Fields
JOIN US
Celebrate 10 outstanding leaders at the Women of Achievement Awards on May 28, 2026 at Severance Music Center as we recognize them for their leadership, innovation, and impact in organizations and communities across Northeast Ohio. Contact us to learn how your organization can honor Women of Professional Excellence while supporting a powerful mission.
YOUR GIFT CHANGES LIVES YWCA GREATER CLEVELAND
4019 Prospect Ave. Cleveland, OH 40144 | 216.881.6878 Ready to get involved? Visit ywcaofcleveland.org or contact info@ywcaofcleveland.org