Gambit's Guide to Giving 2015 (2)

gambit’s

New Orleans JCC 5342 St. Charles Avenue New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 897-0143 | www.nojcc.org

WITH YOUR HELP, A NEW J IS ON THE WAY! For over 150 years, the New Orleans JCC has been the heart of our community right in the center of your neighborhood. Welcoming everyone, the JCC offers fitness for all ages, life-long learning beginning with nursery school, fun and friendship at our summer day camps, senior programs and family events, as well as cultural programming open to the entire community.

The JCC’s last major renovation was in 1997. Eighteen years later, New Orleans is benefiting from our fitness and aquatics areas more than ever. Our waiting list for our acclaimed nursery school is long, and the need for our Alzheimer’s program remains critical. It is time to renew, rebuild, and reinvest. We stand ready to ensure that the New Orleans JCC continues to play a central role in building a welcoming, diverse, and thriving community that enriches the lives of all New Orleans’families — now, and for generations to come. The time is here, the J is moving forward, and it can’t happen without your support!

To find out more about the JCC, or to join, please contact our membership directors Carolyn Schaefer (Uptown) – carolyn@nojcc.org, 897-0143 Stephanie Krell (Metairie) – stephanie@nojcc.org, 887-5158

02

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

Girls on the Run New Orleans (504) 272-7786 | info@gotrnola.org | www.gotrnola.org

MISSION:

Girls on the Run New Orleans (GOTR NOLA) inspires girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experienced-based curriculum which creatively integrates running.

WAYS TO GIVE:

Donate your old shoes! We’re collecting 7,500 pairs of shoes to support one new scholarship site. We’re looking for women’s shoes, men’s shoes, kids shoes, tennis shoes, boots, flip flops, sandals and heels. Please bring your shoes to the GOTR NOLA 5k on December 5, or to the office at 7100 St. Charles Ave., 2nd Floor.

DONATE:

As a non-profit, donations are essential. By supporting GOTR, you can make it possible for more girls to experience our program! Donate at www.gotrnola.org.

WAYS TO VOLUNTEER:

Volunteers are always needed as coaches, committee members and for 5k events. Visit www.gotrnola.org to see how you can get involved today.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Our Fall 5k Celebration is THIS Saturday, December 5!

The run/walk is open to the public and takes place at Audubon Park. This celebratory 5k is the culminating experience of the GOTR curriculum and crossing the finish line is a defining moment for the girls.

Register the whole family today at gotrnola.org GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

03

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

JOY GIVING OF

THE

he holidays are a wonderful time T of year, but often they are a trying time for families in need. For them, it is

difficult to find joy in this festive season.

It doesn’t have to be that way.

Remember how good you felt the last time you gave an unexpected gift to a friend, family member or complete stranger? That’s the feeling we hope you’ll get by responding to the featured charities in Gambit’s second annual Guide to Giving. We think the best way to celebrate this season is to share our joy — and our good fortune — with others in need.

Last year as a gift to my close friends, I rolled up the Guide with a big bow and a note to pick a charity to which I

promised a donation in their names.

They all said it was their favorite gift — and I knew it was the best gift that I could give.

Please spend some time with this year’s Guide. See the great work that local charities are doing to make New Orleans a better place. You’ll also see that great needs remain in our community.

I hope this year’s Guide to Giving will inspire you to give your time and/ or a donation to one of these worthy causes. It’s a great way to put more joy into the world.

INDEX OF CHARITIES AND NON-PROFITS Agenda for Children.............15 Alzheimer’s Association .......32 Angels’ Place ....38 Autism Society of Greater New Orleans ..............39 Benjamin Franklin High School .......33 Boys Town Louisiana ...........13 Bridge House/ Grace House .....10 The Bow Wow Buddies Foundation ........36 Communities In Schools of Greater

New Orleans .....30 Community Visions Unlimited...........28 Crimestoppers GNO....................34 Emeril Lagasse Foundation ........29

Girls on the Run New Orleans .......3 Goodwill of Southeastern Louisiana ...........35 Innocence Project New Orleans .....31

ENCORE Academy............11

International High School of New Orleans ..............34

Foundation for Entertainment Development and Education............27

Jefferson Performing Arts Society ...............24

Foundation for Science and Mathematics Education ..........32 George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts .........26

Jewish Community Day School..................9 Jewish Endowment Foundation of Louisiana .............9

New Orleans Ballet Association .......16

PFLAG New Orleans ..............37

The Junior League of New Orleans....36

New Orleans City Park............17

Providence Community Housing .............30

The McFarland InstituteCongregational Wellness............36

Raintree Children and Family Services.............39

The Nature Conservancy of Louisiana ..................22

Save Our Cemeteries .......37

The Roots of Music .............12

Second Harvest Food Bank .........35

Tipitina’s Foundation ........39

NO/AIDS Task Force.........31

St. Louis King of France School...19

University of New Orleans .....23

Monumental Task Committee, Inc....37

Odyssey House Louisiana, Inc....33

Start the Adventure in Reading .........39

New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity ...........29

Ozanam Inn .......28

The Greater New Orleans Foundation ..........4

Jewish Family Service of Greater New Orleans .......9 KID smART........39 Louisiana Children’s Museum ............38 Louisiana SPCA... 18 Make Music NOLA .................39 Metropolitan Center for Women and Children .....39

New Orleans Jewish Community Center ..................2 New Orleans Museum of Art ..37 New Orleans Recreational Development Foundation ........14

Peace Corps......25

Urban Conservancy .....21 WWNO 89.9 FM ...20 YMCA of Greater New Orleans .......8

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

05

MAKE IT

COUNT

Tips for getting the most for your charitable donations

A

mericans — New Orleanians in particular — have big hearts and often respond to calls for help by opening their wallets and volunteering their time.

The city’s charitable nature is apparent in the amount of money donated to nonprofits each year. A study released earlier this year by the Urban Institute’s National Center for Charitable Statistics reports that contributions to New Orleans nonprofits grew 74 percent from 2000 to 2012 (the last year for which IRS data is available), compared to 53 percent nationwide.

You don’t have to contribute thousands to make a difference.

The Greater New Orleans Foundation, which helps link donors with groups that need funding, reports that during its May 3 GiveNOLA Day fundraiser, local nonprofits raised $4 million — and one-third of that was $10 donations. (In 2014, $2.2 million was pledged on GiveNOLA day.)

Cash isn’t the only way to contribute. Nonprofit organizations always can use volunteers for a variety of tasks. Donating clothes, housewares, furniture, cars and other items to organizations that redistribute them also is valuable.

Here are tips for making sure your contributions do the most good for the cause you are supporting.

06

Know where your money is going.

Research both the mission of the organization and where it spends its money. Aim for charitable organizations in which 70 percent of every dollar goes to the people it is designed to help. Websites such as Charity Navigator (www.charitynavigator.org) rate organizations based on how efficiently they use their resources.

Go local.

Donating to local charities allows you to monitor how well their programs work and how they are changing your community, state and region.

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

Get involved.

Volunteering is a good way to help organizations fulfill their goals and to play a part in directing positive change, whether you choose to help at events and workdays or serve on a committee or board.

Small can be big.

Whether you donate food to Second Harvest Food Bank, a duffel bag to Suitcases for Foster Kids or business attire to Dress for Success, your contributions make a huge difference in at least one life, likely more.

Consider a monthly donation.

However you choose to donate is the right way, but a consistent commitment of funds is important for organizational planning, and it can be easier for a donor to afford. Some organizations offer a payroll deduction option.

Optimize your tax benefits.

Keep all your receipts, whether it’s an end-of-year pay stub showing your annual payroll deduction contribution to a charity or receipts for clothes, furniture, cars or other goods donated to Volunteers of America, Salvation Army, Bloomin’ Deals or other groups.

To determine the value of items you donate, the IRS offers Publication 561 at www.irs.gov/publications/p561.

STRENGTH IN — Source: “Giving USA 2014,” published by the National Philanthropic Trust

NUMBERS There were more than

1.5 MILLION charitable organizations in the U.S. as of May.

7.9

In 2014, Americans donated

Adults volunteered

358.38

$

BILLION

(7.1 percent higher than 2013).

BILLION HOURS

of service in 2013, worth an estimated $175 billion (at $22.55/hour).

Donations from individuals accounted for 72 percent of total charitable giving, with

258.51

$

BILLION

.

32%

Online giving grew by

13.5%

nationally in 2013, compared with an overall giving growth of 4.9 percent, and accounted for 6.4 percent of all cash contributions.

Charitable giving made up

In 2014, the highest percentage of donations went to religious groups.

2.1%

of the U.S. gross domestic product in 2014.

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

07

YMCA of Greater New Orleans 504-568-9622 | To find a branch near you, visit www.ymcaneworleans.org

T

he YMCA has been a part of Greater New Orleans since 1852. We live our not-for-profit, charitable mission daily by providing life-changing programs and services that enrich people from all walks of life.

OUR MISSION

To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

WHAT WE DO

The Y nurtures the potential of every child and teen, offers quality family resources, improves the nation’s health and provides opportunities to give back to our neighbors.

Annually, the YMCA of Greater New Orleans serves over 44,000 community members including 11,000 children. Last year, we provided over $1 million in financial assistance to individuals and their families to ensure that our programs and resources are accessible to all that need them.

JOIN US

Whether you’re making a New Year’s Resolution or just aiming to make healthier choices, you don’t have to do it alone. Become a part of the Y community and experience the support of knowledgeable staff and caring members.

And we’re so much more than just a place to get healthy! We’re a place for your kids to play, for your family to grow together and a charitable organization actively working to improve the community we’re all a part of.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE • • • •

$25 provides workbooks for two adult literacy students $50 sponsors lifesaving water safety lessons for a child $150 gives a child the opportunity to experience camp Volunteer as a youth sports coach, lead an activity for seniors, or participate in one of the Y’s many opportunities to give back.

To donate or volunteer visit www.ymcaneworleans.org

UPCOMING EVENT

November 12, 2016: 36th Annual YMCA Corporate Cup: Second Line For Literacy 5k

08

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

Jewish Endowment Foundation of Louisiana 615 Baronne Street, Suite 150 | New Orleans, LA 70113 | (504) 524-4559 | www.jefno.org

Creating a Jewish Legacy for the Future

T

he Jewish Endowment Foundation of Louisiana preserves the past, supports the present, and invests in the future of our Jewish community.

Since 1967, the Jewish Endowment Foundation of Louisiana has served as the nonprofit organization in the greater New Orleans region dedicated to raising and prudently managing long-term charitable resources to sustain the quality of Jewish life, culture, and religion by linking our donors’ philanthropic intent with the needs of the community.

JEF and its fundholders donated over $4 million in 2014 to nonprofit organizations to provide current and future support for a vibrant and secure Jewish and general community in New Orleans, Israel and around the world.

Jewish Community Day School 3747 W. Esplanade Ave. | Metairie, LA 70002 | (504) 887-4091 | www.jcdsnola.org

J

CDS warmly welcomes children in grades Pre-K -5 with a unique interdisciplinary curriculum that includes second language learning. Excellence in core subject areas is achieved through richly textured instruction by highly qualified teachers. Students acquire inquiry, collaboration, communication and critical thinking skills needed to thrive in the 21st century. Grounded in Jewish values, JCDS students care about others and actively work to make the world a better place.

• 10:1 student/teacher ratio • Art, Music, Technology, PE & Library • After school clubs and early morning care • Fresh, nutritious & delicious daily hot lunch program • An Amazing Facility - Berenson Library and Metairie JCC gym, outdoor pool and Bart Field

Jewish Family Service of Greater New Orleans 3300 W. Esplanade Ave., Suite 603 | Metairie, LA 70002 | (504) 831-8475 | www.jfsneworleans.org

J

FS has provided area residents with excellent and confidential support and care since 1948. Key programs include Counseling, Teen Life Counts (school-based suicide prevention), Homemaker (light housekeeping for older adults), and Lifeline (personal emergency response system).

Ways to give:

Donations to the agency may be designated to specific programs or for general support. All contributions underwrite programs and services which are offered on a sliding fee scale and available to everyone.

Ways to volunteer:

Many programs rely on volunteer support and involvement. Please call us to discuss opportunities that align with your interests.

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

09

10

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

11

The Roots of Music 828 Royal St. #521 New Orleans, LA 70116 | info@therootsofmusic.org (504) 460-2611 | www.therootsofmusic.org

T

he Roots of Music empowers the youth of New Orleans through music education, academic support, and mentoring, while preserving and promoting the unique musical and cultural heritage of the city. Co-founded in 2007 by Derrick Tabb, snare drummer for the Grammy Award-winning Rebirth Brass Band and 2009 CNN Hero, Roots serves kids ages 9-14 from low-income households and uses music to teach students the skills they need to lead positive, productive lives. Our year-round after-school program provides music classes and performance opportunities, academic support and homework assistance, instruments and maintenance, round-trip transportation, and daily hot meals to students five days a week, twelve months a year, all free of charge. The Roots of Music serves more than 150 children from over 40 different schools throughout Orleans Parish each year.

Learn more at www.therootsofmusic.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS: DECEMBER 1:

#GivingTuesday Happy Hour! Join us at the NOLA Brewing Tap Room (3001 Tchoupitoulas) to celebrate the spirit of giving. $1 off pints of Rebirth Pale Ale from 5:30 - 7:30pm, with performances by a small Roots of Music ensemble at 6:00pm and Rebirth Brass Band at 6:30pm.

THROUGH 12/31:

Your year-end gift to the Roots of Music will go twice as far, thanks to a generous $50,000 match from the Bill & Dinah Ruch Charitable Fund. Donate by December 31 and your gift will be matched dollar for dollar! Our music education program instills discipline, a sense of community, and integrity, empowering kids to achieve positive outcomes musically, academically, and personally. If you believe in the power of music to transform lives, please donate online today at www.therootsofmusic.org/donate or by mail at 828 Royal St. #521, New Orleans, LA 70116.

Happy Holidays from The Roots of Music!

12

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

Boys Town Louisiana 300 North Broad Street Suite 106 | www.boystown.org/location/louisiana | 504-293-7900

B

oys Town Louisiana (BTLA) is a 501(c) (3), private, nonprofit and nonsectarian agency that has taken the lead in providing a continuum of supportive services to help fill in gaps to our area’s most at-risk youth and families.

Our mission is to change the way America cares for children, families and communities by providing and promoting an integrated continuum of care that instills Boys Town values to strengthen body, mind, and spirit.

Father Flanagan founded Boys Town in 1917, giving abandoned boys a home and hope for the future and today Boys Town continues to serve countless children across our nation.

Since our founding in 1989, BTLA has been providing a secure family environment where troubled children are able to overcome past trauma, learn new skills, and make plans for stable futures. Through our Continuum of Care, they gain self-confidence and become responsible citizens who can contribute to this great country of ours.

From intense intervention for kids with severe behavior problems, to preventative programs that steer children and families toward a positive path, BTLA has been the go-to agency for more than 25 years.

In New Orleans, Boys Town has 3 Residential Family Homes for adolescents. We also provide Early Head Start programs and Care Coordination Services – which are designed to assist youth aging out of foster care. In addition, we offer In-Home Family Services and Common Sense Parenting® classes throughout the Louisiana area.

At BTLA, we are committed to Saving Children & Healing Families and we know that we could not accomplish such an ambitious undertaking without the help of community members like you.

Upcoming Event:

In recognition of National Foster Care Awareness Month, in May 2016, please consider supporting Boys Town Louisiana’s Bowl-APalooza event.

Ways to Donate:

For more information on gift giving and volunteer opportunities with Boys Town Louisiana , please contact us at infola@boystown.org.

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

13

New Orleans Recreation Development Foundation 935 Gravier Street, Suite 820 | New Orleans LA 70112 | www.nordc.org NORDC Teen Camp

NORDC Football during October 2015 Breast Cancer Awareness Month

T

he New Orleans Recreation Development Commission, a public-private partnership created by voters in 2010, is building a quality recreation system for all New Orleanians.

The City of New Orleans • Has currently invested $160 million (largely from FEMA reimbursements) to renovate playgrounds, restore public pools and reopen recreation centers that create safer environments and spark neighborhood revitalization • Supports the management and maintenance of this infrastructure through public funding for NORDC, with a budget determined by the Mayor and City Council.

The NORD Foundation • Raises funds for recreation programs, swim instruction, athletic equipment and uniforms, volunteer coaches training, youth and teen summer camps, cultural programs and outdoor education.

• Reports to its donors how their funds were used.

Your donation will help • Residents of all ages engage in physical activities and sports and learn new skills like swimming (which saves lives!), dancing, painting and playing a musical instrument • Youth and teens develop practical, constructive life skills through teamwork and self-discipline • Adults and seniors stay healthy and build community through fitness and recreation programs.

Please join business leaders and caring citizens by supporting the NORD Foundation at www.nordc.org or send a check to: NORD Foundation 925 Gravier Street, Suite 820 New Orleans, LA 70112

Learn more by contacting Executive Director Annie LaRock at anniel@nordfoundation.org or 504-919-6059.

14

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

Free exercise fun through Fit NOLA at NORDC

Agenda for Children 8300 Earhart Blvd, Suite 201 New Orleans, LA 70118 | (504) 586-8509 | www.agendaforchildren.org

Should being born in Louisiana mean you will not be kindergarten ready?

Of course not, but data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s KIDS COUNT Data Book reveals that the number of low-income children who aren’t attending an early childhood education program continues to rise.

Agenda for Children, Southeast Louisiana’s Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency, is determined to create better outcomes for the region’s littlest learners. This fall, Agenda for Children launched the “Be A Champion for Children” initiative to raise awareness around the state’s School Readiness Tax Credits, and highlight Louisiana businesses who are already investing in early childhood education through these tax credits.

How YOU can be a CHAMPION for Louisiana’s littlest learners: Businesses can receive a 100% refund on donations up to $5,000 through the use of Louisiana’s School Readiness Tax Credits. It takes just a few minutes to donate at www.agendaforchildren.org, and business owners who donate by Dec. 31 will receive the tax forms needed to file for 2015 within two business days to claim their credit.

Agenda for Children was founded to make Louisiana a state in which all children can thrive. Tax Credits are used to purchase materials for early care and education programs, such as developmentally appropriate toys and learning tool; provide families with slots in high quality programs; and offer child care providers additional support to increase the quality of care offered through on-site technical assistance.

“This credit empowers business owners to change outcomes for Louisiana’s young children,” said Dr. Anthony Recasner, Agenda for Children’s Chief Executive Officer. “There’s no greater way to build stability for our community than to make sure our children are ready to learn in kindergarten and beyond.”

Ways to Volunteer:

Volunteers can assist at outreach events working with children and families and/or offering child care providers professional expertise on subject areas such as accounting, marketing and long-term planning.

Upcoming Events: Photos provided by Dinah Rogers/Agenda for Children

Visit AgendaforChildren.org for full listing of upcoming events.

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

15

New Orleans Ballet Association | NOBA 935 Gravier St, Ste 800 | New Orleans, LA 70112 | 504-522-0996 | www.nobadance.com

B

ringing Dance to Life with over 5,000 tuition-free classes, activities, and world-class performances on the Main Stage Series “NOBA’s after-school programs are a beacon in underserved communities, and as a single parent, I’m so grateful to its donors for investing in our community and giving our kids a chance to dream big!”– Natasha, Parent

“Having worked all over the world for the past 30+ years, I don’t know of another program like this. NOBA sets a standard of excellence through diversity on all levels.” – Dwight Rhoden, Complexions Contemporary Ballet Artistic Director DANCE AND FITNESS FOR ALL Each week, hundreds of participants ages 3-90+ take tuition-free dance and movement classes at 12 neighborhood sites in three parishes. For the past 24 years, NOBA has joined forces with NORDC and other community organizations to level the playing field, making it possible through the generosity of donors to provide in excess of 46,000 classes to over 15,000 people – ensuring high quality dance and fitness instruction regardless of economic means.

Year-round, classes for youth in ballet, tap, hip hop, modern, jazz, and more are regularly filled to capacity. Preprofessional students receive intensive training and the rare chances to perform alongside world renowned dancers and choreographers on prestigious national stages. With specially designed programs for adults, seniors, adults with disabilities, and early childhood, NOBA is helping to ignite the mind and promote fitness and healthy living through the art of dance.

“This program has had a dynamic impact on my quality of life. The correlation of fun, fitness, friendship, and nutrition is immeasurable…by far, this is one of the best programs for seniors!” -Evelyn, Senior Dance Fitness Program participant

16

Parrsons Dance artist Abby Gavezzoli in the air with NORDC/NOBA Center for Dance students.

Teaching Artist Aline de Souza with students at Behrman NORDC Center.

Senior Dance Fitness class at the Lyons NORDC Center.

How to Donate: Donate Online: Donate by Mail: www.nobadance.com

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

NOBA 935 Gravier St, Ste 800 New Orleans, LA 70112

Donate by Phone: 504-522-0996, ext. 208

PHOTOS BY JEFF STROUT

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

17

18

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

19

WWNO 89.9 FM – New Orleans Public Radio University of New Orleans, 2000 Lakeshore Drive, New Orleans, LA 70148 504-280-7000 | www.wwno.org

We tell New Orleans’ stories to the world, and bring the world’s news, music, and culture to New Orleans.

W

WNO is New Orleans Public Radio. Our newest programs highlight local culture, such as The Reading Life, Music Inside Out, Louisiana Eats! and now TriPod: New Orleans @ 300, our tricentennial series. We continue to expand local news with in-depth, award-winning reporting, like the stories from our Education and Coastal Desks.

We bring trusted and balanced reporting from NPR News—like Morning Edition and All Things Considered—and respectful dialogue on shows like Fresh Air and On Point. We entertain with Car Talk and Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me! And we lift spirits with music from classical to jazz, opera to R&B. Radio unlike any other in our region: news, music and culture on 89.9 FM and KTLN 90.5 FM ; 24-hour classical music on Classical WWNO; and jazz anytime on Jazz WWNO. All streaming online at wwno.org.

New Orleans Public Radio is powered by our listeners. We are a self-supporting public service, receiving no direct financial support from UNO, the State, or NPR. Listener contributions are our leading source of operating revenue.

Give Voice to Public Radio!

Coastal Desk reporting on Lake Pontchartrain

Donate online:

wwno.org/donate.

Monthly or single gifts, all levels welcome.

Donate by mail:

WWNO, University of New Orleans, 2000 Lakeshore Drive, New Orleans LA 70148

Donate by phone: 800-286-7002

Donate your car:

The Car Talk Vehicle Donation Program turns any car into radio!

Call (866) 789 – 8627, or go to wwno.org, or to cartalkvdp.com.

Donate in other ways: Morning Edition hosts Steve Inskeep (NPR) & Diane Mack (WWNO)

20

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

All Things Considered local host Jack Hopke

Contact us 504-280-7001, rbiava@wwno.org.

Urban Conservancy 1307 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., Ste. 309, New Orleans, LA 70113 | 504-617-6618 | urbanconservancy.org

Fostering New Orleans’ Sense of Place Since 2001, the Urban Conservancy (UC) has catalyzed equitable practices and policies related to the built environment and local economies through education, research and advocacy. We promote sustainable solutions to New Orleans’ distinct land use needs through community and K-12 education and neighborhood-level engagement.

The UC founded Greater New Orleans’ independent business alliance, StayLocal, in 2003 in response to encroaching largescale development at the expense of our traditional commercial corridors. StayLocal continues to advocate for policies that give our local businesses space to thrive, grow and compete effectively in a challenging marketplace.

Since Hurricane Katrina and the subsequent levee failures in 2005, growing concerns about subsidence, flooding, aging infrastructure, and coastal erosion compel the UC to take a leadership role in raising public awareness about the need to redefine our relationship with water through integrated water management strategies and systems.

The UC has been involved in numerous projects that encompass both our built and natural environments including financial and staff support for the revitalization of the Lafitte Greenway; environmental education for children; and community education about the importance of paving less to improve water management.

Our understanding of land use and what we mean by “wise stewardship” has become broader and deeper over the years. New Orleans’ landscape is changing, and the water surrounding us continues to mold not only our city’s topography, but also our economy, our society, and our identity.

Today, the need for ongoing dialogue about the responsibilities of preserving and fostering a strong sense of place is more important than ever if we want a city that is stronger and safer for all its residents for generations to come.

Ways to Give: Make your tax-deductible donation securely at urbanconservancy. org/donate, by phone, or by mail.

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

21

The Nature Conservancy of Louisiana 721 Government Street, Suite 200 | Baton Rouge, LA 70802 | 225-338-1040 | www.nature.org/louisiana

T

he Nature Conservancy, whose mission is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends, is one of the most effective and efficient environmental organizations in the world. We work in all 50 states and 34 countries worldwide. The Louisiana Chapter was founded 28 years ago and works to protect land and water along the Gulf of Mexico and throughout the state. By working collaboratively with partners, we have protected over 300,000 acres of land in Louisiana through purchasing fee title, private land conservation easements and mitigation banking. We have constructed 4.5 miles of artificial oyster reefs along the coast to slow coastal erosion, provide habitat for oysters and fish, and act as a storm buffer. Our primary goal is to leave a sustainable world for future generations.

The Nature Conservancy of Louisiana’s programs are focused on freshwater, forests and coastal protection.

We seek to increase the support of conservation in Louisiana through landowner outreach, education and community-based conservation programs. While our projects are targeted in specific locations, our ultimate goal is to address conservation with a whole system approach that considers the interconnection between forests, freshwater and our coast.

WAYS TO VOLUNTEER

Our volunteers have provided countless hours of work AND DONATE on our preserves – doing everything from planting trees and cleaning up litter, to serving as Docents at our Visitor We welcome donations of money and time.

Center near Breaux Bridge. Many of our preserves are open to the public and have boardwalks and hiking trails for your enjoyment. We invite you to get involved, whether To donate online: through volunteering, preserve visits or financial support. Visit www.nature.org/donate Our work would not be possible without YOU!

22

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

Donate by mail:

PO Box 4125 Baton Rouge, LA 70821

To volunteer: Contact Richelle Richardson and ask to be added to our volunteer email (rrichardson@tnc.org)

University of New Orleans give.uno.edu | P. O. Box 60142 | New Orleans, LA 70160 | (504) 280-2586

T

he University of New Orleans is a comprehensive urban research university committed to providing educational excellence to a diverse undergraduate and graduate student body. The University is one of the region’s foremost public resources, offering a variety of worldclass, research-based programs, advancing shared knowledge and adding to the region’s industry, culture and economy.

UNO FACTS: • For five straight years, UNO has appeared on U.S. News & World Report’s least debt list (schools whose graduates have the least amount of debt) among national universities.

• UNO has educated students from all 64 Louisiana parishes, all 50 states in the United States and more than 100 countries.

• The University has been classified by the Carnegie Foundation as a Research University (high research activity), fewer than 100 public universities hold this prestigious designator.

GIVING BACK AND RECONNECTING: More than half of our 70,000 alumni live in the greater New Orleans metropolitan area- are you one of them? The University relies on donations of time and funds from alumni and community members to keep educating at our highest level.

Please visit: give.uno.edu to help our students. To connect with your Privateer Family and receive the latest news from UNO and the UNO Alumni Association (including opportunities to volunteer!), please visit: www.unoalumni.com.

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

23

24

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

Peace Corps 1100 Commerce Street Ste. 427 Dallas, TX 75242 | www.peacecorps.gov 214-253-5400

A

s the preeminent international service organization of the United States, the Peace Corps sends Americans abroad to tackle the most pressing needs of people around the world.

WAYS TO GIVE:

Although times have changed since the Peace Corps’ founding in 1961, the agency’s mission - to promote world peace and friendship - has not. Your gift will help support the work of our Volunteers overseas.

WAYS TO VOLUNTEER:

Peace Corps service changes lives - of the Volunteers and of the people in communities around the world. Be part of a new generation of leaders making a difference. Apply now!

UPCOMING EVENTS: •

December 2, 6p.m.: “Math and Science Teachers in High Demand!” Web Event Visit: http://www.peacecorps.gov/volunteer/learn/meet/events/22825/

•

December 9, 11a.m.: “Virtual Application Workshop | Submit your Application in an Hour” Web Event Visit: http://www.peacecorps.gov/volunteer/learn/meet/events/21820/

Happy Holidays from Peace Corps!

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

25

26

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

Foundation for Entertainment Development & Education 3923 Bienville St. | New Orleans, LA 70119 | (504) 483-3129 | bestofneworleans.com/fede

“FEDE backing gave us the confidence to expand our educational program, PlayWrite, from 10 weeks to a full year.”

-Shannon Flaherty, Goat in the Road Productions

L

ast year over 800 children & adults participated in educational programs supported by FEDE. • Education in the performing arts aids in problem solving & conflict resolution, helping students find value in their own voice & identity.

• Students with arts-rich experiences in school do better across the board academically & become more active & engaged citizens, voting, volunteering and participating at a higher rate than their peers.

• Over the past four decades, budget pressures and increased focus on reading and math have crowded the arts out of schools.

Please donate today to ensure these local arts programs can continue.

STUDENTS FROM THE COMMUNITY WORKS AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM.

Support our mission to fund projects and programs that acknowledge the profound importance of the performing arts to the culture and economy of Southern Louisiana.

Donate Online: bestofneworleans.com/fede or By Phone: 504-483-3129 You Can Also Support FEDE by Attending our Events!

TRIBUTE TO THE CLASSICAL ARTS JANUARY 26TH, 2016

BIG EASY THEATER & MUSIC AWARDS APRIL 18TH, 2016

THE REDS, WHITES & THE BLUES OCTOBER 2016

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

27

Ozanam Inn 843 Camp Street, New Orleans, LA 70130 | 504-523-1184 | www.ozanaminn.org

A

s a special work of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, our priority is to offer aid and comfort to the poor and needy men, women and children within our community by providing basic human needs such as; food, shelter and clothing. While the foundation of our mission, this is only part of the work we do at Ozanam Inn. We work with individuals to move them from homelessness and hopelessness to independent living and a renewed feeling of self-worth.

Through case management and counseling, job and life skills training, physical, dental and mental healthcare treatment, legal counsel, and more, we work to meet each client’s needs and create a path for success.

Although a faith based organization, no religious observances are required in order to receive services.

All services are free; without regard to race, gender, creed or ethnic or social background.

Donate:

Monetary donations and donations of clothing, food & household items are accepted.

Donate at www.ozanaminn.org

Volunteer:

Email volunteer@ozanaminn.org

28

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

Emeril Lagasse Foundation 829 St. Charles Ave. | New Orleans, LA 70130 | www.emeril.org

E

meril Lagasse Foundation is a 501c(3) public charity founded in 2002 by Emeril Lagasse and his wife Alden. The Foundation’s mission is to help create opportunities to inspire, mentor and enable youth to reach their full potential through culinary, nutrition and arts education, with a focus on life skills development.

Since its inception, the Foundation has granted $7 million to a number of New Orleans-area organizations including St. Michael Special School, Café Reconcile, New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, Edible Schoolyard New Orleans, Liberty’s Kitchen and Café Hope.

WAYS TO GIVE:

Donate online at Emeril.org and follow us @EmerilOrg on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest on ways to get involved.

UPCOMING EVENTS

The Foundation recently hosted its annual fundraising weekend on November 13-14, featuring its signature events, Boudin, Bourbon & Beer and Carnivale du Vin. This weekend raised $3 million to support children’s education and non-profit organizations. Stay tuned for 2016 dates.

N.O. Area Habitat for Humanity 2900 Elysian Fields Ave, New Orleans, LA 70122 | 504-861-2077 | www.habitat-nola.org

I

magine the feeling of renewal that comes with finally having access to your own home. Imagine the feeling of relief when a leaky roof is finally repaired. This is the gift you give when you support our Brush With Kindness program. You and your family can volunteer and sponsor a project that will change the life of someone in need by letting them remain in the home they’ve loved for decades.

OUR MISSION: Our mission is to build homes in partnership with sponsors, volunteers, communities, and families, empowering them to transform their own lives; and to eliminate substandard housing in the New Orleans area while serving as a catalyst to make decent shelter a matter of conscience and action.

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

29

Communities In Schools of Greater New Orleans 3400 Bienville St., Suite B | www.CISNewOrleans.org | (504) 486-8002

T

he mission of Communities In Schools is to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.

Communities In Schools (CIS) places full-time professional Site Coordinators inside New Orleans public schools where they connect students to resources that keep them in school. We serve more than 6,000 students in 18 public schools. Whether it’s a mentor, tutor, eyeglasses, books, uniforms, counseling, or mental health support, we do whatever it takes to keep students on a path toward graduation. Last year, 98% of our students stayed in school, 87% promoted or graduated, and 85% met their academic goals.

We’re recruiting mentors to spend an hour a week with students at their schools, as well as volunteers to staff events such as book giveaways and eye exams. Your time or financial support will help change the picture of education in our city.

Call 504-486-8002 to volunteer.

30

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

Ways to give:

Online at www.CISNewOrleans.org, mail a check to: PO Box 792800, New Orleans, LA 70179, or call Storey Clayton at 504-418-9928.

Innocence Project New Orleans 4051 Ulloa Street, New Orleans, LA 70119 | www.ip-no.org | info@ip-no.org and Mississippi, the two states with the highest incarceration rates in the world, Innocence Project New Orleans (IPNO) frees In Louisiana innocent prisoners, exposes injustice and prevents wrongful convictions – at no cost to them or their loved ones.

Since its inception in 2001, IPNO has freed or exonerated 27 innocent men who, collectively, spent over 558 years behind bars.

Ways to Donate: • Visit www.ip-no.org/donate where you can set up a reoccurring donation or make a one-time donation, or mail a donation to the address above.

• Visit www.ip-no.org/make-a-difference and click on the Amazon.com link. Every time you shop through that link IPNO will receive up to 15% of your purchase amount.

• Visit smile.amazon.com and select “Innocence Project New Orleans” as your designated charity. Every time you shop through the site IPNO will receive .5%.

• Shop Amazon wish lists: “Innocence Project New Orleans” or for our clients “George Toca,” “Jerome Morgan,” “Kia Stewart” or “Robert Jones.”

IPNO’s client Michael Williams, exonerated November 18, 2011, hugging his mom Betty.

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

31

Foundation for Science and Mathematics Education 5625 Loyola Ave. | New Orleans, LA 70115 | 504-324-7045 | www.nolascienceandmath.org

A

n open-enrollment, STEM-focused public high school, Sci High offers students from across the city a special environment to explore and prepare for promising futures. FSME supports the school. Now accepting applications for 2014-15.

Call Chana Benenson @ 504-324-7061 for student and family tours. Contact Jennifer Naum @ jnaum@ noscihigh.org to become an industry partner.

WAYS TO VOLUNTEER

Host a career lunch at Sci High, tutor a student, create an opportunity for a career shadowing day at your office, help us

32

construct a maker’s space on site, teach an enrichment class after school

WAYS TO GIVE

Make an unrestricted gift online at www. nolascienceandmath.org or by mail, sponsor an internship, buy a book or a piece of lab equipment, share the Sci High story with your network of friends and family.

CONTACT

Martha Mcknight, mmcknight@ nolascienceandmath.org

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” - Benjamin Franklin

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

33

34

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Louisiana 3400 Tulane Avenue, Suite 1000, New Orleans, LA 70119 | www.goodwillno.org

G

oodwill provides training, education, employment opportunities, and support services to people with disabilities and other barriers to employment.

Last year alone, Goodwill served more than 3,000 individuals with vocational challenges and placed nearly 300 into jobs.

WAYS TO GIVE:

This holiday season, you can help change a life through a gift to Goodwill.

Shop or Donate in a Goodwill Store or Make a Financial Contribution at http://www.goodwillno.org/donate/donateonline.html A gift of only $35 helps develop a well-crafted resume-the critical currency for landing not only the next interview, but every interview thereafter. A gift of $60 provides hours of job search and career navigation training, empowering an individual to find work for decades to come, and $100 helps someone gain job readiness and literacy skills needed for sustainable employment.

Second Harvest Food Bank 700 Edwards Avenue, New Orleans< LA 70123 | 504.734.1322 | www.no-hunger.org

S

econd Harvest Food Bank is leading the fight against hunger in South Louisiana by providing food access, advocacy, education and disaster response. We are the largest charitable anti-hunger network in South Louisiana, providing 24 million meals and serving 210,000 individuals each year.

One in six households in Louisiana are at risk of hunger. Second Harvest provides vital services through our network of food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters, child and senior meal programs, nutrition education outreach, and direct client assistance. Every year, Second Harvest secures millions of pounds of food that otherwise would have gone to waste. Our work ensures that these meals make it to the dinner tables of thousands of families struggling with hunger in South Louisiana.

Every $1 donation provides 3 meals to a family in need.

WAYS TO GIVE: Online, by Mail, & by Phone

GAMBITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

35

The McFarland Institute – Congregational Wellness 400 Poydras Street – Suite 2525 | New Orleans, LA 70130 CHURCHES: READY TO START A WELLNESS MINISTRY? Congregational Wellness, a division of Baptist Community Ministries instructs registered nurses, lay persons, church members and community leaders to organize Wellness Ministries.

The 2016 Training Schedule: Orientation: Wed. April 6, 2016; 6pm-8pm Church Nurse Education Program: April 15, 16, 29, 30 and May 13, 14 (CNE’s awarded) Lay Health Advocate Program: April 13, 20, 27 and May 4, 11, 18 For additional information: Contact Sharon Burel, RN Nurse Manager, 504-593-2339, sburel@bcm.org or Lisa Collins, Lay Health Coordinator, 504-593-2330, lcollins@bcm.org.

36

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

Monumental Task Committee, Inc 1215 Prytania St., Suite 333 | New Orleans, LA 70130 1-888-534-3936 | www.monumentaltask.org

F

ounded in 1989, Monumental Task Committee’s mission is to restore, repair and maintain all of the monuments located in the Greater New Orleans area. Your preservation dollars are needed to ensure the future of the monuments of New Orleans. Volunteers are needed for everything from monument preservation to office administration to sponsoring our “Meet Me at the Monument” events.

Show pride in your neighborhood and our city by joining MTC’s efforts!

New Orleans Museum of Art 1 Collins Diboll Circle, City Park | New Orleans, LA 70124 (504) 658-4100 | www.noma.org

T

he New Orleans Museum of Art is New Orleans’ oldest fine arts institution and houses nearly 40,000 works of world art.

Its adjacent Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden features work by over 60 artists, including several of the 20th century’s master sculptors. The garden is open daily and is free to the public.

MISSION

NOMA is committed to preserving, interpreting, and enriching its collections and renowned sculpture garden; offering innovative experiences for learning and interpretation; and uniting, inspiring, and engaging diverse communities and cultures.

WAYS TO GIVE

www.noma.org/support

Save Our Cemeteries 501 Basin Street Suite 3C | New Orleans, LA 70112 504-525-3377 | www.saveourcemeteries.org

PFLAG New Orleans (504) 862-5912 or (985) 626-3193. info@pflagno.org pflagno.org

S

ave Our Cemeteries was founded in 1974 and is dedicated to preserving, promoting, and protecting the historic cemeteries of New Orleans through restoration, education, and advocacy.

Programs include: restoration of abandoned tombs and cemetery clean-ups, cemetery walking tours, a quarterly lecture series, an annual day long cemetery seminar, a 1 mile, 5K “A Run Through History” in historic Metairie Cemetery, and an annual Soiree.

SOC conducts daily walking tours in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 near the French Quarter and in Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 in the Garden District.

Tours are conducted in St. Louis Cemetery No. 2 twice per month.

P

FLAG New Orleans promotes the health and well-being of gays, lesbians, bisexual and transgender persons, their families and friends through support, education and advocacy to end discrimination and secure civil rights. PFLAG meets monthly at 7:30 p.m. on the second Thursday at St. Matthew’s UCC, 1333 S. Carrollton Ave., and the North Shore on the third Thursday at Grace Disciples of Christ Church, 975 Hwy. 190, Covington.

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

37

SOCIAL GIVING Use your Gambit Guide to Giving to give the perfect gifts this holiday season. Here’s how:

1

3

Share this book with your friends, family and colleagues.

Let each pick a favorite cause.

Make donations in their names and know that your gifts will touch many lives.

Angels’ Place 4323 Division Street Suite 206 | Metairie LA 70002 504-455-2620 | www.angelsplacenola.org

A

ngels’ Place is a charity for families with children diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses, including cancers. We provide children’s respite care and other aid to clients in the greater New Orleans area.

38

Ways to Give: • By mail • Online

Want to go the extra mile and give directly to a family in need?

Call us at (504) 455-2620 to get the scoop on what’s needed most at the moment, and what arrangements we can make.

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

SAVE THE DATE: IMPORTANT

2015-2016 GIVING DATES TUESDAY, DEC. 1, 2015

2

#GivingTuesday

TUESDAY, MAY 3, 2016

GiveNOLA Day

TUESDAY, NOV. 15, 2016

National Philanthropy Day® (NPD)

2015-2016 Giving Check List CHARITY

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

TAX DEDUCTIBLE

GIVING NOTES

CHARITY

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

TAX DEDUCTIBLE

GIVING NOTES

CHARITY

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

TAX DEDUCTIBLE

GIVING NOTES

CHARITY

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

TAX DEDUCTIBLE

GIVING NOTES

CHARITY

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

TAX DEDUCTIBLE

GIVING NOTES

CHARITY

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

TAX DEDUCTIBLE

GIVING NOTES

CHARITY

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

TAX DEDUCTIBLE

GIVING NOTES

CHARITY

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

TAX DEDUCTIBLE

GIVING NOTES

CHARITY

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

TAX DEDUCTIBLE

GIVING NOTES

CHARITY

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

TAX DEDUCTIBLE

GIVING NOTES

CHARITY

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

TAX DEDUCTIBLE

GIVING NOTES

CHARITY

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

TAX DEDUCTIBLE

GIVING NOTES

CHARITY

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

TAX DEDUCTIBLE

GIVING NOTES

CHARITY

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

TAX DEDUCTIBLE

GIVING NOTES

CHARITY

VOLUNTEER

DONATE

TAX DEDUCTIBLE

GIVING NOTES

Tipitina’s Foundation 504-309-7934 | www.tipitinasfoundation.org/donate

ipitina’s Foundation supports T New Orleans’ irreplaceable music community and preserves the state’s unique musical culture. To make a donation or donate an instrument, visit www.tipitinasfoundation. org/donate.

KID smART 1024 Elysian Fields Ave. New Orleans, LA 70117 (504) 940-1994 | www.kidsmart.org

ID smART engages children in K dynamic, creative & rigorous learning through the arts.

UPCOMING WORKSHOP: January - kNOw What It Means Carnival Curriculum Workshop & Kit Giveaway

GAMBIT’S > > > G U I D E T O G I V I N G 2 0 1 5

39