Helping Others on Long Island

Helping Others

on Long Island

A SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE PUBLISHED BY LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP � AUGUST 17, 2021 � WWW.LONGISLANDMEDIAGROUP.COM

Sponsored By:

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Contents Page 3

What is National Nonprofit Day?

Page 8

How Families Can Start Volunteering Together

Page 14

HELPING OTHERS ON LONG NEWSPAPERS ISLAND • SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE • AUGUST 17,- 2021 • WWW.LONGISLANDMEDIAGROUP.COM SUFFOLK ZONE 1 - NEIGHBOR - WEDNESDAY AUGUST 4, 2021 AUGUST 17, 2021 • WWW.LONGISLANDMEDIAGROUP.COM

5 Fun Fundraising Ideas

Page 15

How Helping Others Helps You

Page 20

Estate Planning And Charitable Giving

Page 21

How To Approach Donating Noncash Items

Page 26

Simple Ways To Be More Charitable

Page 30

What Is Virtual Volunteering?

Page 31

How Volunteering Benefits Students

Page 32

Support A Small Business Through Volunteerism

Plus, don’t miss informative “Did You Know?” editorial throughout this issue!

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There is good all around us, you don’t want to miss it.

What Is National Nonprofit Day? August 17th is National N o n p rof i t Day, a day to recognize the goals and positive impacts nonprofits have.

The Tariff Act of 1894 was signed into law on August 17th, which imposed the first federal income tax on corporations, including exemptions for nonprofit corp orations and charitable institutions. With a few modifications, nonprofit exemptions remain a solid part of the law and have served significant

are below: 1) Make a donation to or volunteer with your favorite nonprofit!

2) Research d i f f e r e n t n o n p rof i t organizations and how they benefits for not only communities, but for started! the economy as well!

3) Start a fundraiser There are many for a nonprofit! things you can do to embrace 4) Tell others about the importance National Nonprofit of nonprofits and celebrate on National Day and spread the Nonprofit Day, word about your however some ideas favorite nonprofit!

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Sometimes it’s hard to find the good in every situation, but there are always people, places and more specifically, nonprofits around that are there to help. Whether you are in need of help, willing to be of help or just want to learn about the good around us, please enjoy learning about all the nonprofits featured in this issue!

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JOIN A TEAM COMMITTED TO HELPING LONG ISLANDERS

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SUCCEED

Why Work For Options?

A culture of diversity and inclusion where all individuals feel respected, are treated fairly, and are provided opportunities to excel in their careers.

Core Benefits Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance 403(b) retirement plan with employer match Cell Phone Service Discount Tuition Assistance $500 Sign-on Bonus* Generous PTO

optionscl.org/employment

Excellent fulltime and part-time opportunities available for outreach workers, case managers, HCBS service provider, care coordinators, licensed practical nurses, and direct support professionals.

Committed to promoting the health and well-being of both clients and staff. People are our no. 1 asset.

Become part of a workforce that impacts the lives of more than 2,300 vulnerable Long Islanders.

About the Organization Options for Community Living, Inc. prides itself on maintaining a professional staff, committed to enriching the lives of our program participants.

The majority of our employees work directly with individuals and families, in partnership with other professionals, to improve health, stability, and independence.

Visit Our Website

We have both full and part-time employment opportunities. We offer competitive salaries and excellent benefits. Options is an equal opportunity employer.

Open interviews on Tuesdays 9 AM - 3 PM For more information call 631-361-9020 ext. 1222 or send your resume to jobs@optionscl.org

631-361-9020

25 Howard Place | Ronkonkoma, NY 11779

*Some Rules Apply.

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Options for Community Living Greatly Impacts Long Island Through safe affordable supportive housing and personalized care management services, Options for Community Living, Inc. impacts the health and wellbeing of more than 2,400 Long Islanders annually. Our programs help vulnerable individuals and families – adults and children -- to develop their fullest potential for independent living. Our program participants have chronic illnesses and disabilities. They come to us from difficult circumstances. Some are homeless and others face eviction. Many are in crisis and with limited resources, every day is a struggle. With access to housing, healthcare services, and community resources, Options’ promotes stability, safety, health, and welfare.

Options for Community Living, Inc. (Options) was established in 1982 in response to the need for supportive housing in the community for people with serious mental illnesses. Over the course of the last 39 years, Options’ programs have grown and diversified to meet the changing needs of Long Islanders. In addition to serving people with psychiatric disabilities, Options’ provides care management and housing for those living with HIV/AIDS and other chronic health conditions.

With homes scattered across Long Island, last year, Options’ provided over 700 Long Islanders with permanent supportive housing.

Additionally, emergency financial assistance and rent subsidy programs help countless homeless and at-risk individuals and families to access or maintain housing. Our staff links family members in need of support services to healthcare, benefits, childcare, social networks, advocacy groups, and other local resources. Our staff link family members in need of support services to healthcare, benefits, childcare, social networks, advocacy groups, and other local resources. Our impact is best demonstrated through the lives of those we house and serve.

Jose was referred to Options’ care coordination program by his mother when he was 18 years old. Jose started experiencing anxiety and depression as a young teenager and ultimately dropped out of school in the 9th grade. Jose’s mother ultimately could not handle Jose’s mental health symptoms and sent him to live with a family member. The care coordinator working with Jose became his only support system. She began to develop a care plan for Jose, helping him create personalized goals and focus on independent living skills. Jose’s care coordinator was able to link him with a mental health therapist for his depression, as well as help him apply for SNAP benefits and housing assistance which he was eligible for. After several months of regular contact, Jose’s care coordinator learned that he ultimately wanted to go back to school and get his GED so that he could obtain a job and become financially secure. She helped Jose find free GED classes and assisted him in gathering and submitting the documents needed to enroll in the program. In July 2020, Jose began taking GED classes online. Since starting his classes, Jose has regained some self-esteem, hope, and excitement for the future. He continues to maintain regular contact with his care coordinator and keeps her involved in his progress. They work closely together to help Jose develop small, achievable goals with the end goal of gainful employment and becoming financially secure. “Sometimes we are all these children have to help them, sometimes you have to just meet them where they are, one step at a time,” said Jose’s care coordinator.

Tom had been living with his grandmother for four years before she passed away. After her death, he became sick and moved into an assisted living facility where he lived for eleven months. Following his discharge from the facility, Tom became homeless in May of 2019. The Department of Social Services placed him in a motel in Jericho, where his living conditions were poor (mice, roaches, and mold). In September 2019, Tom started receiving case management services with Options’. He has many health challenges – HIV+, dialysis four days a week, low blood pressure, breathing complications, mobility issues, and frequent emergency room visits – which he attributed to poor living conditions at the motel. In December 2020, Tom was accepted into Options’ supportive housing subsidy program. His mobility issues made finding a 1st-floor apartment important. Thankfully, a suitable apartment was found in February 2021 and Tom moved into his own place for the very first time. In the program, he has ongoing assistance to access benefits, entitlements, social supports, and community resources. His case manager acts as a liaison with the landlord as needed and helps him remain stably housed. Tom is much happier and is thankful for his placement with Options’.

With stability and improved health, many clients and their family members can set goals for the future. They can be connected to educational, vocational, and employment resources.

All these efforts positively influence income, can improve economic status, and contribute to ending the cycle of poverty. In the words of one resident, “when you treat a human being with value and respect, you empower that person to recognize and appreciate their own inherent goodness.”

Options’ is committed to excellence and has been certified by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, CARF, since 2000. CARF is a private, not-for-profit organization that promotes rehabilitative services by establishing standards of quality. Accreditation demonstrates a provider’s commitment to continuously improve service quality and to focus on the satisfaction of the persons served. Options’ has, furthermore, achieved Platinum status with GuideStar indicating the organization’s commitment to transparency.

The GuideStar database contains a profile for every tax-exempt nonprofit registered with the IRS. Options’ operates efficiently and effectively with 88 cents out of every dollar directly supporting programs. Options’ has been recognized by Newsday as one of the 2020 Top Workplaces among midsize employers on Long Island, by Long Island Business News as a 2020 Best Places to Work honoree, and by CIGNA for honoring a “culture of wellbeing.”

To learn more about Options for Community Living, Inc., call 631.361.9020 or visit Options’ website at http://optionscl.org/ To make a donation, visit http://optionscl.org/how-to-help/donate/.

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Jenna and her two young children had been homeless for three years. Jenna and her boys, ages 7 and 4, desperately needed a stable home of their own. In June 2020, the family was connected to Natasha, an Options’ housing worker. Shortly thereafter, Jenna was approved for Options’ rapid re-housing subsidy program. This program is specifically designed to help homeless individuals and families get back on their feet. Fortunately, one of Options’ landlords was completing a multi-family apartment building and the family was able to move in right away. On July 9, 2020, Jenna and her two boys moved into a two-bedroom apartment in Nassau County. “I can’t believe this is real,” exclaimed Jenna. “Someone has to pinch me.”

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Pal-O-Mine Equestrian Invites You To Our

OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, September 12th 11am - 3pm FREE ADMISSION INCLUDES: u Scheduled Tours & Demonstrations SUFFOLK ZONE 1 - NEIGHBOR - WEDNESDAY AUGUST 4, 2021 AUGUST 17, 2021 • WWW.LONGISLANDMEDIAGROUP.COM HELPING OTHERS ON LONG NEWSPAPERS ISLAND • SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE • AUGUST 17,- 2021 • WWW.LONGISLANDMEDIAGROUP.COM

u

A Scavenger Hunt u Activities for the Kids uPlayground u Music & Games uRaffles **Not included in free admission: Pumpkin Painting Snacks

For more information about this event, contact JoAnn at (631) 348-1389 On site parking ONLY - no on street parking.

Pal-O-Mine will be following all the current CDC guidelines.

PAL-O-MINE EQUESTRIAN, INC. 829 Old Nichols Road - Islandia, NY 11749 Phone: 631 348-1389 Website: www.pal-o-mine.org Mission

Pal-O-Mine Equestrian began in 1995 as a therapeutic horseback riding program for individuals with disabilities and other vulnerable populations. Our mission has been, and continues to be, to provide a comprehensive therapeutic equine program using horses to facilitate growth, learning and healing. Our populations include children and adul ts with disabilities, those who have been abused or neglected, the military and the impoverished. ts with disabilities, those who have

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What is Pal-O-Mine Equestrian?

If someone were to ask, “What is Pal-O-Mine Equestrian?” there is not one simple answer as it depends on who you are asking this question of. A simple answer would be Pal-O-Mine Equestrian is a not for profit that brings together horses and people however, Pal-O-Mine is a whole lot more. For me, the answer to “What is Pal-O-Mine Equestrian?” begins as you turn off the busyness of Old Nichols Road and slowly head up the driveway. My eyes naturally focus forward, and the mere sight of the barn releases an overwhelming sense of peace and without a single thought, every part of my body relaxes.

Then suddenly my mind quiets and I exhale. For me, Pal-O-Mine is home, a place where peace lives and healings take place … a beautiful classroom where learning takes place organically.

Having worked with Pal-O-Mine Equestrian for more than 20 years, I have found that I am not alone. I have heard over and over what people have felt as they head up the driveway. For me, others’ words paint the same picture, a place of peace, a haven where every person can be who they are and be accepted for who they are. Change happens at Pal-O-Mine at its own pace, without expectations or judgments. At Pal-O-Mine, opportunities for growth are always present. Pal-O-Mine’s best teachers have four legs and are second only to our students and clients who can teach us so much just by showing up for each lesson/session.

Pal-O-Mine Equestrian began in 1995 as a therapeutic horseback riding program for individuals with disabilities and other vulnerable populations. Our mission has been, and continues to be, to provide a comprehensive therapeutic equine program using horses to facilitate growth, learning and healing. Our populations include children and adults with disabilities, those who have been abused or neglected, the military and the impoverished. Pal-O-Mine has grown to be one of the leading equine therapy centers in the Northeast.

We operate a full-time program and support 20 program horses and other livestock on a 13-acre facility located in Islandia, in Suffolk County, New York., serving over 400 individuals weekly. Pal-O-Mine’s staff are chosen specifically to meet the needs of the individual. They are highly educated and trained, and collectively are made up of licensed educators and therapists, vocational job coaches, certified equine specialists, and riding instructors. In addition, we have speech pathologists, occupational therapists, registered nurses, and behaviorists who enhance the multifaceted nature of Pal-O-Mine. 80 volunteers are an integral part of our program who give thousands of hours of their time and talent yearly. They believe in their community and share in the humanitarian spirit that lives at Pal-O-Mine. Pal-O-Mine, in turn, improves not only the lives of our students but strives to improve the quality of life among volunteers as well.

Pal-O-Mine Equestrian offers the following programs to a myriad of populations:

2. Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) - Pal-O-Mine’s EAL programs incorporate horses experientially for educational, emotional, growth and learning. EAL uses unique approaches to create positive and constructive learning experiences for children and adolescents who are at risk of failing in the traditional academic setting. EAL sessions incorporate guided and safe horse interactions, positive interaction between students, animals, and adults, as well as the incorporation of grade-level appropriate reading, writing, art and math skills. These approaches, combined with a varied and very specialized teaching staff helps to reengage the typically disengaged or defiant student and recreate a positive learning experience that carries over into the students’ traditional classroom experiences.

3. Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) - Our Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) program follows the prescribed model designed by EAGALA, Inc., the leading international EAP training and certifying organization. Currently, Pal-O-Mine has 7 Licensed Mental Health Professionals and 11 Equine Specialists who are certified in the EAGALA model. Pal-O-Mine also is the host to the New York Metropolitan Networking Group. Pal-O-Mine offers individual, family and group therapy. Groups focus on issues including but not limited to grief, trauma, abuse, eating disorders, substance abuse, addiction and codependency. Participating populations include at-risk youth, women, and the military. EAP affords clients the opportunity to gain knowledge about their behaviors while providing them with an emotionally safe environment for them to develop positive alternatives. The benefits to the client include increased self-esteem, improved communication skills, assertiveness, creative thinking, problem solving, development of coping skills and taking responsibilities for themselves.

4. Hippotherapy - Hippotherapy is a treatment strategy provided by licensed and specially trained occupational therapists, physical therapists, or speech-language pathologists as part of a patient’s overall treatment plan. The therapist uses the movement of the horse to help address and improve a variety of deficits, including but not limited to: Deficits in sensory processing, gross motor, fine motor, balance, speech production, language, swallowing, and social skills. The horse’s walk provides multidimensional movement, which is variable, rhythmic and repetitive. This movement is modified by trained horse handlers under the direction of the therapist. The horse provides a dynamic base of support, making it an excellent tool for increasing trunk strength and control, balance, building overall postural strength and endurance, addressing weight bearing, motor planning and gait training.

The effects of equine movement on postural control, sensory systems, and motor planning can be used to facilitate coordination and timing, grading of responses, respiratory control, sensory integration skills, attentional skills, speech production skills, swallowing and receptive, expressive, and pragmatic language development.

5. JSTEP (Job Security Through Equine Partnership) – The major focus of the J-STEP Program is to provide meaningful employment opportunities to adults with disabilities and to establish a green living program at Pal-O-Mine. Pal-O-Mine runs a state-of-the-art vocational training center where young adults intern to gain valuable life skills including clerical and business management skills, daily living skills, nutritional skills and proper etiquette, financial literacy and management skills, organic farming and recycling.

6. Summer Employment Training – The Summer Employment Training Program (ETP) is an inclusive, innovative work study transitional program that provides workforce skills and leadership training to youth with a myriad of disabilities. The ETP provides engaging and effective out-of-school vocational training and character education and works to achieve the following goals: Provide economic and financial literacy skills through stipends; foster engagement in the learning process; decrease negative behaviors; improve character and awareness of the importance of good character; address emotional issues and trauma; and increase self-esteem and confidence.

7. Corporate Training - Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) is an experiential approach that fosters real lasting change. It is a unique opportunity that goes beyond traditional leadership programs to restore balance in people’s lives while teaching critical thinking, clear communication, and social skills. A typical training involves activities on the ground with the horses (there is no riding), which provides opportunities for team discovery through experiential learning. Prior horse experience is not necessary to benefit from this program. Equine Assisted Team Leadership programs are effective in situations as diverse as: Building cohesion; Navigating cultural differences; Mitigating crisis; Screening candidates for new hire; Collaborating with staff to enhance communication and adapt to new management style and initiatives.

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1. Adaptive Riding and Unmounted Programs - Pal-O-Mine provides quality adaptive horseback riding to individuals with cognitive, physical, emotional, and multiple disabilities. Adaptive horseback riding provides unique benefits to our students. The goals for each lesson are tailored to make improvements in the most needed areas of the rider’s life. Adaptive riding sessions are exceptional for improving fine and gross motor skills, balance, coordination, sensorimotor skills, language, and social skills. In addition, each one of our riding instructors excels in their field and continues with training and certification throughout their careers.

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Did You Know?

Vo l u n t e e r i n g is a great way for individuals to strengthen their communities, but it also can be a unique way for individuals to improve their own overall happiness. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Happiness Studies examined 70,000 participants, each of whom received surveys that asked questions regarding their volunteering habits and mental health.The study found that, when compared to those who did not volunteer, people who had volunteered in the previous 12 months were more satisfied with their lives and

gave their overall health higher ratings.

The frequency of giving back to one’s community also may affect just how much volunteering affects mental health. Study

participants

who

volunteered at least once per month rated their mental health even higher than those who volunteered but did so infrequently.

How Families Can Start Volunteering Together among people who volunteered every two to four weeks compared to people who did not volunteer.

With such benefits, it’s no wonder many families look to volunteer together.

Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community.

Volunteers play an integral and invaluable role in helping charities achieve their goals.

Without volunteers, many charities wouldn’t be able to meet their missions, and some might even cease to exist.

Volunteers

often

Those who want to do so but may be note that helping uncertain about where others is its own to start can consider reward, and research the following tips. backs that up.

• Find a fun activity.

Researchers at the Kids like to mimic their London School of Economics found parents, so parents that the more people who already volunteer volunteered, the may find their children happier they were. are excited about Published in the journal following Mom and lead.

That Social Science and Dad’s Medicine, the study excitement level will found that the odds only increase if parents of being “very happy” find an activity their rose by 12 percent kids are interested in.

For example, many kids love animals so volunteering with a local animal shelter can be a great opportunity for families to give back together.

• Speak with your child’s school.

Teachers and school administrators can be great resources, sharing information about local volunteering opportunities or making agea p p r o p r i a t e s u g g e s t i o n s .

Parents shouldn’t hesitate to ask for re commendations from teachers, who may be in the best position to suggest opportunities that

children can handle opportunities have and enjoy. minimum age requirements. If such • Start slow. requirements are When starting out, making it difficult to families may be best volunteer together served by choosing as a family, parents activities that do and children can not require lengthy work together to time commitments. come up with their Children may not be own opportunities. ready to volunteer for Kids can organize a hours on end, so start book drive to supply with something simple. books to schools As kids acclimate to with depleted volunteering and their libraries or organize attention spans grow, a fundraiser for a parents can commit to local animal shelter. volunteering more of The opportunities to their family time. volunteer are endless, and families should • Think outside not be discouraged by the box. Parents of age restrictions. toddlers or grade school-aged children Vo l u n te e r i n g may be surprised together can benefit to learn that some families in myriad v o l u n t e e r i n g ways.

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“

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Mental health is just as important as physical health.

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Many people are aware of post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, a mental health problem that some individuals develop after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event.

However, for some, it can be hard to understand just how serious this disorder can be. While it has been noted that a diagnosis of PTSD requires exposure to an upsetting traumatic event, that exposure can be indirect rather than firsthand. PTSD is not exclusive to those who have served in the military, however, it has long been linked to combat veterans.

At Paws of War, we provide essential and supportive services to our heroes in need by incorporating the love of pets. For example, service dogs can help combat the daily symptoms of PTSD. They can be trained to pick up stress signals and intervene with their owner to shift focus back to a positive environment.

Please visit us on Facebook to see what we are doing throughout our community. To help support our mission, visit www.pawsofwar.org and donate today.

PAWS OF WAR 127 Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset

631.406.6595

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How do we “help both ends of the leash”?

Paws of War is a non-profit organization located in Nesconset, NY. They provide essential and supportive services to our heroes in need by incorporating the love and benefits of pets. For example, service dogs can help combat the daily symptoms of PTSD. They can be trained to pick up stress signals and intervene with their owner to shift focus back to a positive environment.

Paws of War runs various programs to support rescues, Veterans, Military and First Responders, some of these programs include their War-Torn Cats and Dogs Program, Mobile Veterinarian Program, Training Program and Animal Rescue Program.

Their War-Torn Dogs and Cats Program is where this organization meets the requests of soldiers serving overseas to bring a rescue pet of theirs home from the war-scarred areas they serve in. If you are interested in sponsoring a dog or cat to bring them home from overseas, please inquire with Paws of War today.

Their Mobile Veterinarian Clinic Program allows them to serve disabled Veterans and First Responders by providing free veterinarian services to their furry family members. Paws of War is currently seeking volunteer Veterinarians and Veterinarian Techs to donate their time at this mobile clinic. There is an urgent need for volunteers in this capacity and the organization is extremely flexible when they can come volunteer.

Lastly, their Training Program, includes free training for both service and/or companion animals of any Veteran or First Responder. Paws of War accommodates these individuals with the free training whether they received a pet from them or not; no one is turned away. If you would like to sponsor a dog in training for a Veteran or First Responder, please inquire with the organization.

Every service this organization offers is at no cost! Paws of War is funded entirely by public contributions; they depend on the generosity of their donors to continue their work. Any funds they raise will be applied to their programs (a donation can be given to a specific initiative of theirs if requested). Another way you can donate to Paws of War is by purchasing an item off of their wish list at Chewy.com (https://www.chewy.com/g/paws-of-war-inc_b80976245), from the #Chewysgiveback Program!

This organization strives to assist in giving their current and future program members and their furry family members a better quality of life. If you would like to receive help from Paws of War or would like to find out any additional information about their organization, please call (631) 406-6595 or visit www.pawsofwar.org.

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Their Animal Rescue Program rescues dogs and cats of any breed, background or age. It also addresses situations when a dog or cat needs fostering/surrendering while a Veteran or a First Responder has to undergo short term or long-term treatment in a medical facility or if they enter circumstances where they cannot take care of their pet for a period of time.

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It is not always possible to determine if an animal is being abused based on their behavior alone. Some dogs may be aggressive, timid or fearful, but that doesn’t always mean it is a victim of cruelty. It is best to examine the animal and the surrounding environment to determine whether or not the animal needs help.

Physical Signs of Cruelty

TY EL U AY CR OK L A ER IM EV N A SN I

Recognizing Animal Cruelty

• Extremely skinny or emaciated; bones may be visible • Weak or limping or unable to stand or walk normally • Wounds, multiple healed wounds or ongoing injury or illness that isn’t being treated • Heavy discharge from eyes or nose • Untreated skin conditions, hair loss, scaly skin, bumps or rashes • Infested with fleas, ticks or other parasites • Extreme matting of fur, overgrown nails and dirty coat • Tight collar that has caused a neck wound / embedded in the pet’s neck - Visible signs of confusion or extreme drowsiness • An owner striking or otherwise physically abusing an animal

TO LET US KNOW ABOUT ANIMAL ABUSE, NEGLECT, PUPPY MILL, POSSIBLE DOG FIGHTING OR OTHER FORMS OF CRUELTY, PLEASE CONTACT US AT

INFO@GUARDIANSOFRESCUE.ORG OR 888-287-3864

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People Helping Animals and Animals Helping People Based in New York, Guardians of Rescue is an organization whose mission is to protect the well-being of all animals. It provides aid to animals in distress, including rehabilitation, assisting other rescue groups, and providing support to families, both military and not, who need assistance due to economic factors.

This organization is comprised of men and women from a multitude of backgrounds, who share in a love for animals and an appreciation of the special role they play in our lives. Our members bring with them a wide array of skills and experiences with which to contribute to our common goal of helping animals and people. The programs this organization runs are designed to provide assistance in a broad range of scenarios, to educate and motivate, and to advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves. They are truly all about People Helping Animals and Animals Helping People.

Looking to volunteer? Guardians of Rescue is looking for Outreach & Education and Program volunteers who share the same compassion and commitment to make the world a better place for animals. Every thing you do to help them means more animals are saved and living better lives!

Volunteer Opportunities for Outreach and EducationVolunteers: • Creating your own event to educate on our mission and animal welfare issues • Giving presentations at schools, businesses and community forums • Distribution of printed materials and other information • Hosting a fundraiser

Volunteer Opportunties for Program Volunteers: • Building animal shelters • Work with crews to install dog houses and kennels • Deliver food to pets in need • Transporting of animals To learn more, get involved or to make a donation to support the Guardians of Rescue, please visit www.guardiansofrescue.org.

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• Tabling at local events, expos or festivals

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5 Fun Fundraising Ideas

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for knickknacks. If possible, arrange for a barbecue the day of the garage sale so community members are encouraged to come out and stick around to have a good time and a bite to eat.

Charity comes in many forms, including fundraising.

Organizations and individuals alike raise money for important causes every day. The money raised during successful fundraising campaigns can be used to help charities meet their missions, assist the sick in paying their medical bills and help vulnerable communities become safe places for people to live.

O r g a n i z i n g fundraisers is hard work, but it also can be fun. The following are five fun ways to raise funds for a good cause.

1. Fun Run Fun runs can be great ways to raise money because they provide something enjoyable for people to do as they promote a worthy cause. A fun run typically asks participants, who may run, walk or cycle a predetermined distance in support of a charity, to seek donations from friends, family, neighbors, or acquaintances.

Participants often set goals to raise “X” amount of dollars,

and many people do the run in groups, giving them a great chance to get together with family and like-minded dogooders.

4. Casino Night A community casino night can entice card players and people who enjoy games of chance to come out and support a good cause. Host games like roulette and poker, providing participants with chips in exchange for donations to your cause. At the end of the night, allow players to cash in their chips for prizes donated by local vendors.

2. Bowling Night A bowling night is another fun way to raise funds.

Participants will ask donors to pledge a certain amount per pin they knock down.

Organizers can contact a local bowling alley to see if they can get a discounted rate on lanes and shoe rentals.

5. Bar Crawl Many bowling alleys This one is obviously welcome such events, exclusive to adults and participants tend who are of legal to enjoy bowling for a drinking age, but it worthy cause. can be a great way to support a good 3. Garage Sale A garage sale can cause and promote be a great way to raise local businesses at the funds.

Organizers same time. In this type can encourage of fundraiser, local members of their bars and restaurants community to bring that sponsor the some unused items bar crawl may offer from their homes to discounted beverages a central location, to participants who such as a church or receive bracelets school parking lot, in exchange for where the items will charitable donations. be arranged on tables and sold. Donors Some establishments might welcome may even split the participant the chance to clear night’s their homes of some proceeds with the clutter, and buyers charity the event is may enjoy bartering designed to support.

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How Helping Others Helps You

According to Psychology Today, doing good for others, no matter how big or small the deed, feels good but also provides reciprocal benefits. The link between volunteering and lower rates of depression has been well-documente d, and there is neural evidence from MRI studies suggesting a link between being generous and signs of happiness in the brain.

The following are several ways to improve oneself by being more mindful of others.

• Be aware of social issues. Read your local newspaper to stay upto-date on the pulse of your community

as well as the world.

Educate yourself about current issues that are affecting people from all walks of life. Understanding the needs or plights of others may boost your willingness to get involved with nonprofit organizations.

It also may make you more empathetic and compassionate toward other people.

not speak English as a first language.

• Help someone you know.

It’s commendable to want to assist a charity or a global cause, but what about people close to you who may need a boost? Whether you’re lugging boxes to help a friend move or babysitting a niece or nephew so their parents can enjoy a much-needed night out, when you help someone, those good deeds will return to you in time.

• Volunteer at a charity. Find a charitable group with which you can volunteer your time.

This is a great way to support a cause you believe in and makes it possible for you to collaborate with others who are likeWhen making minded, potentially people helping you make new resolutions, friends. should consider goals that involve helping • Learn a new others. While this language.

North America is a melting assistance can benefit pot that’s home to the people who are people from many on the receiving different parts of the end of the care and world. Learning a attention, those new language may facilitate interactions who are giving of with fellow community themselves also reap members who might considerable rewards.

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Personal growth is at the heart of many New Year’s resolutions. Few paths to positive personal growth are more noble than resolving to help others through increased acts of generosity and kindness.

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Empowering and inspiring people of all communities to identify, pursue, and sustain healthy, meaningful lives.

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The Association for Mental Health and Wellness is a not-for-profit organization that provides programs, services, and advocacy for people in Suffolk County who face mental health challenges, with an enhanced focus on service to military veterans. With roots dating back to 1955, MHAW was formed through the 2014 merger of three human service providers: the Mental Health Association in Suffolk County, Clubhouse of Suffolk, and Suffolk County United Veterans.

Advocacy • Care Coordination • Centers for Recovery & Wellness • Children’s Mental Health Conferences Community Based Services • Community Education • Continuing Education for Mental Health Professionals Family Support Groups • Food Pantries • Healing Garden • Housing Services • Mental Health Awareness Month Mental Health First Aid Training • Peer and Family Services • Project Hope • Psychological Rehabilitation • Veteran Services

For more information, contact:

Association for Mental Health and Wellness 939 Johnson Avenue Ronkonkoma, NY 11779 631-471-7242 ext. 1316 www.MHAW.org

@MHAWSuffolk

@MHAWSuffolk

@SuffolkCounty UnitedVeterans

@mhawsuffolk

@DwyerProject

company/mhaw user/MHAWSuffolk

To schedule a presentation or training, call Alexis Rodgers at 631-471-7242 ext. 1315.

Need help or resources?

Call our Helpline.

Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm 631-471-7242 ext. 2

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Helping Suffolk County Residents Improve Their Mental Health Many people benefit from support in dealing with their mental health challenges, including those living in Suffolk County.

COVID-19 and the measures put in place to protect society’s physical health have caused an enormous strain on the mental health. People are reporting unprecedented levels of emotional exhaustion, sadness, sleep difficulties, anger, feelings of loss, and feelings of being overwhelmed. Even before the pandemic, mental health concerns were common, with 1 in 5 American adults having a diagnosable mental health condition. Fortunately, people facing mental health challenges in our community gain valuable support from the Association for Mental Health and Wellness (MHAW), a not-for-profit organization based in Ronkonkoma.

Under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Colleen Merlo, LMSW, MHAW’s dedicated staff and volunteers work together to provide programs, services, and advocacy in support of Suffolk County residents facing mental health challenges, with an enhanced focus on serving military veterans.

“We believe that mental health is as important as physical health,” said Ms. Merlo. “MHAW works toward reducing stigma and normalizing help seeking. Through our direct services and community outreach, MHAW promotes a culture of self-care and opportunities to have tough conversations.

The good news is that there are many proven strategies for success.” Their services provide support and intervention on a continuum. Whether you or a loved one has a chronic mental health challenge, or is showing recent signs of withdrawal, sadness, confusion, or hopelessness, MHAW is there to help.

Mental Health Helpline One reason, people do not seek treatment or support for mental health concerns is they don’t know where to start. MHAW can help with this. They host a Mental Health Helpline at 631-4717242 ext. 2. Individuals can call and speak with a trained professional about their concerns as well as signs of emotional distress they are feeling or observing in a friend, co-worker, or loved one.

From there, both internal and external supports and resources and linkages may be offered.

If you prefer to do some of the initial research on your own, the organization also offers an online Resource Database that links county residents with valuable mental health resources. The Helpline – which has a Spanish language option – fielded 1,742 calls for support in 2020. The initial phone call can often be the hardest. Please know that if you call, you will be treated with dignity and respect and MHAW staff will not pressure you into any services – they are there to listen, support, and let you know about the options available. Some of the options available include support groups, counseling, care coordination (case management), psychiatric rehabilitation, and opportunities for social connection, among many others.

MHAW offers comprehensive services toward meeting the unique needs of individuals who served in the military through our Suffolk County United Veterans (SCUV) program. Through this program, MHAW helps to ensure that veterans and their families receive appropriate support in securing mental health assistance, comfortable, affordable housing, training and employment opportunities, nutritious food, social connections, and other necessary services. Our Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Project is a peer-to-peer program for veterans facing the challenges of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury.

Friends and Family Support Groups Family members and friends frequently reach out to MHAW seeking ways to support their loved ones. MHAW has found that mental health concerns may lead to increased tension and poor communication in relationships. Our support groups provide a place for well-meaning loved ones to feel more empowered with support and resources to help them get through times of need.

Family support helps relatives adapt to the impact of mental illness on the entire family, acquire new coping skills, and recapture the spirit of a positive family life. The families and friends can develop a sounder understanding of the core concepts and common experiences associated with recovery and rehabilitation. They learn from common experiences that relationships can be healed and that their loved one can feel better.

Community Education and Awareness Another common reason for not seeking support is fear of how the person will be viewed if they tell someone that they are feeling overwhelmed, depressed or anxious. MHAW is a leader in normalizing and even making help-seeking be seen as a positive behavior and reducing stigma. It takes tremendous strength to ask for help, especially when someone is feeling vulnerable. The more individuals learn about mental health and the need for everyone to care for their own emotional well-being, the better the emotional health of communities will be. Over the years, MHAW staff, volunteers, and paid speakers have made hundreds of public presentations to educate the community about mental illness, to help reduce stigma, and to promote recovery and wellness.

Speakers have presented at schools, businesses, libraries, community centers, and at other mental health agencies.

Mental Health First Aid Training If you are looking to support the emotional wellness of your workplace, faith-based community, school or community, a great place to start is by hosting Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Training.

MHFA is a proven training regimen that instructs individuals – including police and other law enforcement officers – in recognizing signs of mental and emotional distress among people acting in a manner where they could be a danger to themselves or others. Trainees learn risk factors and warning signs for mental health and addiction concerns, along with strategies for assistance amid both crisis and non-crisis situations.

Just as CPR helps people assist other individuals having a heart attack, even if they lack medical training, people with MHFA training can often properly assist someone experiencing a mental health-related crisis. MHAW is always looking for new audiences to provide its Mental Health First Aid training. For more information, go to www.MHStrong.org or call 631-471-7242 x1334.

“MHAW is proud of the work we perform to help Suffolk County meet the challenges posed by mental illness,” said Dr. Kristie Golden, Chair of the organization’s board of directors and Executive Administrator/Associate Director of Operations of Neurosciences at Stony Brook Medicine.

“Every day brings fresh opportunities for a more fulfilling life for people facing mental health issues. Our job is to maximize and build upon those opportunities.”

For more information about the Association for Mental Health and Wellness, go to www.MHAW.org or call 631-471-7242 ext. 1316.

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Veteran Services

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Life’s WORC Celebrates 50 Years Of Changing Lives In 1971, a compassionate, driven woman organized a picket line to protest the deplorable living conditions for over 5,000 residents in the Willowbrook State School in Staten Island, NY. At the time, Willowbrook was the nation’s largest institution serving children with development disabilities, and it had fallen into massive disrepair due to budget cuts.

That woman was Victoria Schneps Yunis. Her daughter Lara had been diagnosed with severe brain damage at an early age, and as a result she was among Willowbrook’s residents. Victoria and others advocated vigorously for the rights of the Willowbrook residents. One year later, their advocacy would result in a scathing investigative news report by television reporter Geraldo Rivera.

His “Willowbrook: The Last Great Disgrace” report exposed the institution’s horrendous conditions, igniting widespread public outcry and ultimately forcing Willowbrook’s closure. For Victoria, this closure was just the beginning, and her efforts would result in the founding of an organization with a far-reaching impact and a far different mission for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism.

Throughout decades that followed, Life’s WORC expanded its reach and opened more group homes. There are now 45 beautiful residences located in Manhattan, Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk. Each home is maintained to the highest safety and health standards. Life’s WORC residents benefit from a person-centered approach, providing clinical services, emotional care and other supports needed for their personal fulfillment and well-being today and into the future. To complement its Residential Services, Life’s WORC offers Behavioral Analysis Services, Community Habilitation, Customized Employment Services, Day Habilitation, School-Based Services, and Respite and Family Support Services.

In the early 2000s, Life’s WORC’s growth prompted a relocation of its headquarters to larger facilities in Garden City, NY, and its Day Habilitation program expanded to six locations. The organization’s next major milestone came in 2015 when it opened the Family Center for Autism. With its inclusive environment and robust programming, the Family Center for Autism is a social, recreational, and educational resource for individuals of all ages who can access programs ranging from art, camps, culinary, sports and fitness, to music and movement, science and technology, salon and spa, trade skills, and family respite.

Most recently, Life’s WORC added Trust Services to its comprehensive list of offerings. Working closely with attorneys, family members and benefactors, Life’s WORC’s experienced trust professionals establish and manage supplemental needs, self-settled, third-party, and surplus income trusts providing financial protection for people with intellectual disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, and autism. These trust services are now meeting the needs of over 300 people with trusts valued in excess of $7 million.

Today, in its 50th Anniversary year, Life’s WORC has an annual operating budget of over $60 million and supports over 2,000 people. This budget is meticulously managed by its well-respected Board of Directors, led by Chair Lynne Koufakis, and its Chief Executive Officer Janet Koch, who previously served as Life’s WORC’s Chief Financial Officer. Victoris Schneps Yunis remains a vital advocate for Life’s WORC and those it serves, holding the distinction as Honorary Board Member. Geraldo Rivera, whose impassioned report earned him a Peabody award, is honored by Life’s WORC each year at its Annual Geraldo Rivera Golf Classic. To learn more about Life’s WORC and support the organization in its golden anniversary, visit www.LifesWORC.org/Celebrate 50.

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That organization would come to be known as Life’s WORC, which purchased its first group home in Little Neck, Queens, a few years later. Its first residents were former Willowbrook residents.

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Estate Planning And Charitable Giving

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Charitable giving comes in many forms.

Some people donate annually to their favorite charities, while others may volunteer their time or professional services.

One way many people choose to give to charity is to donate at the time of their death.

Including charitable giving into an estate plan is wonderful way to support a favorite cause.

When researching this approach, it can be easy to become overwhelmed by references to tax codes, attorney fees and other items that can make including charitable gifts in one’s

estate plan seem more complex than it needs to be. Schwab Charitable, an independent n o n p r o f i t organization, notes that there are various ways to incorporate charitable giving into an estate plan, and that doing so is something almost anyone can do.

• Dictate giving in your will. When reading about charitable giving and estate planning, many people might begin to feel intimidated by estate taxes, feeling their heirs won’t get as much of their money as they

Charitable notes that charities are exempt from both income and estate taxes, so choosing this option guarantees the charity will receive 100 percent of the account’s value once it has been liquidated.

hoped. But Schwab Charitable notes that including a charitable contribution in your estate plan will reduce your estate tax liabilities, which will help to maximize the final value of your estate for your heirs. Speak with your estate attorney and ensure your donation

is spelled out in your will.

• Donate your retirement account.

Another way to utilize an estate plan to donate to charity is to designate the charity of your choice as the beneficiary on your retirement account.

Schwab

• Explore a charitable trust.

Charitable trusts provide another way to give back through estate planning. For example, a splitinterest trust allows men and women to donate their assets to a charity but retain some of the benefits of holding those assets. A split-interest trust funds a trust in

the charity’s name, and people who open one receive a tax deduction any time money is transferred into the trust. But the donors still control the assets in the trust, which is passed onto the charity at the time of their deaths. You have various options at your disposal in regard to charitable trusts, so speak to a financial advisor to help you pick the best one for you.

Charitable giving is a part of many people’s estate plan.

Explore your options and choose the one that’s most beneficial to you, your heirs and the charities you want to support.

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How To Approach Donating Noncash Items

Noncash donations can include everything from clothing to electronics to art and collectibles and much more. In fact, such donations are very common. According to the Internal Revenue Service, more than 15 million clothing donations were reported on tax returns in 2016.

Many people have items they want to donate to a good cause. But donors might want to do a little legwork before making noncash donations to ensure their generosity does as much good as possible.

• D e te r m i n e the usefulness of noncash items. The organization Charity

Navigator, which is one of the world’s largest and mostutilized evaluator of charities, notes that most charities can only make use of new, unused or nearly new items. If necessary, work with the charity you hope to donate to so you only drop off items the charity can ultimately utilize.

Charity Navigator notes that some organizations offer to pick up large noncash donations, such as furniture. By choosing to donate such items to local charities, donors can save the organizations the potentially costly expense of extensive travel. That means donations go that • Don’t give up on much further. items deemed not • Accept your tax useful. Just because a charity cannot accept deduction. There’s no a certain item does shame in accepting not mean the charity some goodwill cannot ultimately in return for your benefit from that charitable efforts. item. Items that have When donating too much wear and noncash items, ask tear for charities for a receipt and any can still be sold, and additional forms donors can turn the necessary to claim a proceeds from those tax deduction. sales into financial donations to their Noncash donations favorite charities. can be as valuable Items can be sold charitable at garage sales, at to organizations as cash flea markets, online donations, especially through websites like Ebay, or even via when donors take the the local newspaper time to ensure they donate only those classifieds section. items organizations • Donate locally. can use.

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D o n a t i o n s come in many forms.

Charitable organizations can always benefit from financial donations.

But cold hard cash isn’t the only way to help a favorite charity.

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“Thanks for all your kindness, help, support, and true friendship you have shown our son James. We are so grateful for you and your foundation. “

Visit us on the web: HelpHopeandSmiles.com Contact us: HelpHopeandSmiles@gmail.com/ 516-679-8475

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The Power of Music Should Never Be Underestimated The Help Hope and Smiles Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization located in Seaford, New York and founded

by Kevin and Tana Arbitelli. Both Kevin and Tana have experiences that have raised their awareness of what underprivileged as well as autistic children go through. Help Hope and Smiles Foundation is dedicated to giving children with autism the chance to reach their potential and improve their quality of life.

They plan to help these children achieve these goals by providing an affordable way for them to receive the therapeutic benefits of music. Music can help improve communication, social skills, sensory issues and even lower anxiety. Playing an instrument, singing or even just listening to music can help people reach their potential, improve their quality of life and not to mention, it is fun also!

We are excited to collaborate with Diana Lambert, Music Teacher and founder of Seventh Street Music (www. seventhstreetmusic.com), to provide this opportunity. Your child can experience the fun and the rewards of learning an instrument and/or enjoying the sounds of their own voice. Help Hope and Smiles Foundation provides financial assistance for private music sessions with a skilled teacher from Seventh Street Music. They together also hold free Autism-friendly music workshops at a low to no cost to introduce different concepts in a group setting.

It is through the generous donations that Help Hope and Smiles Foundation is able to provide their services and for that they are very grateful. If you would like to make a donation, they welcome you to do so on their website at www.helphopeandsmiles.com or by mailing a check to Help Hope and Smiles, 2349 Spruce Street, Seaford, New York 11783.

If you are interested in getting involved with or learning more about Help Hope and Smiles Foundation, please email HelpHopeandSmiles@gmail.com.

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On Friday, September 10, 2021, Help Hope and Smiles Foundation will hold a Bingo Night! This will take place at St. Frances Columbus Club, which is located at 1869 Wantagh Ave, Wantagh, New York 11793. Bingo Night will begin at 7:30 PM and it is only $25 to attend. The $25 will get you 1 Bingo card (there will be 7 games of Bingo played - additional cards can be purchased at the door), a raffle ticket, and refreshments.

There will be cash prizes for Bingo, 50/50 specialty games and a raffle. Seats are limited and anyone who wants to attend must RSVP by September 1st!

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R Tw eq ili ue g s To ht t A da Wi y! sh

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Since our founding in 2003, our goal has been to make the world a nicer place to age, one Twilight Wish at a time. A Twilight Wish granted recognizes seniors for all that they have done throughout their lives and shows them they are appreciated and of value to society. Every wish we grant is helping to build a culture that values and respects our senior population.

For more information, visit www.twilightwish.org, contact James Ciervo at 631-793-1065 or the Twilight Wish HQ at 215-830-8777.

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Making The World A Nicer Place To Age The Twilight Wish Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to honor and enrich the lives of seniors through intergenerational Twilight Wish celebrations.

Since the organization’s founding in 2003, their goal has been to make the world a nicer place to age, one Twilight Wish at a time. When a Twilight Wish is granted, a senior is recognized for all that they have done throughout their lives and is shown that they are appreciated and valued. Sometimes a wish fulfills an immediate need, and sometimes it is a last wish or lifetime dream. Large or small, all wishes provide a meaningful “thank you” to the senior for a lifetime of service to others. Every wish they grant helps build a culture that values and respects our senior population.

The Twilight Wish Foundation has expanded throughout America and they currently have 17 chapters. The majority of their chapter directors and chapter volunteers have full-time jobs, but volunteer their time because they believe so much in the impact Twilight Wish has on our senior population.

Many seniors experience social isolation, which can lead to undesirable conditions. Granting a Twilight Wish can help change that! You can qualify for a Twilight Wish if you are at least 65 years old, are a legal U.S. citizen, demonstrate financial need, provide a history of giving back to others and possess the cognitive, emotional and physical ability to experience the wish.

To date, the Twilight Wish Foundation has granted over 4,092 wishes throughout our country and multiple wishes have being granted on Long Island recently! These wishes have ranged from simple needs wishes, such as shaving razors for nursing home veterans, to living life to the fullest wishes, such as going cross country in a tractor trailer truck.

This organization has continued to do their good work throughout this pandemic. Today they are still helping others and when going to grant a wish, they are taking all the necessary safety precautions. Safety is a top prioity at The Twilight Wish Foundation.

There are many ways that you can get involved with this great organization, please visit www.twilightwish.org or contact James Ciervo at 631-793-1065 or the Twilight Wish HQ at 215-830-8777 for more information.

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Twilight Wish recipients report that having their wish granted impacted their life for the better. Their mental and physical health often improved, positively changing their outlook on life! The wishes that this organization grants truly changes the way that our society views aging, as it witnesses seniors living life to the fullest. By sharing their recipients’ stories, they inspire both older and younger generations and help bring about a cultural shift in how aging is perceived in our society.

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Did You Know?

Crowdfunding can be a great way to raise money for a good cause.

The effectiveness of crowdfunding can be seen in just how much money is raised through this relatively recent platform each year.

According to the small business financial resource Fundera, crowdfunding campaigns raise $17.2 billion each year in North America. But raising money and having a successful campaign are not necessarily the same thing. Crowdfunding platforms differ, but some return donations if the campaign’s financial goal isn’t met. People

who want to start a crowdfunding campaign to support a good cause should know that, according to Fundera, campaigns that raise at least 30 percent of their goal within their first week are more likely to reach their goal. One way to improve the chances of being successful is to include videos in your solicitation efforts.

Fundera notes that crowdfunding campaigns with videos earn 105 percent more money than those without videos.

In addition, c a m p a i g n organizers should

not downplay the effects of providing routine updates to followers. Data from Fundera indicates that campaigns that regularly updated followers earned 126 percent more money than campaigns that did not provide updates.

Make a DIFF ERE NCE

Simple Ways To Be More Charitable

Being charitable is rewarding, not only to those on the receiving end of others’ good deeds but also for those doing the giving.

Research conducted by the National Institutes of Health found participants who chose to donate a portion of money they were provided activated pleasure centers in the brain.

Doing something positive can be uplifting, and being charitable helps others in need.

Quite often people who engage in charitable works find inspiration through their efforts. That’s because working with a nonprofit group can create opportunities to meet new people, socialize and be surrounded with likeminded individuals. It also may help adults serve as role models to youngsters. Children who see their parents or other adults being charitable may be more likely to be

philanthropic they grow up.

when making an immediate difference in the lives of young people.

Every little bit counts when •Charitable being charitable. consumption: Buy Philanthropy doesn’t from companies mean donating that are involved thousands of dollars cause-related or lots of hours with products.

Many volunteering.

The following are some products are tied to efforts, relatively easy ways charitable to incorporate charity with a portion of into one’s life. money going directly to nonprofits.

• Collect change: Place a coin jar near • Throw a party: where you put your Host a party with a keys or wallet when philanthropic theme. entering the house.

Guests can arrive and Empty loose change make a donation or into the jar and watch it fill up. Use bring a gift that will go the collected funds to to a charitable cause. donate to a charitable • Use your hobby: group.

Participate in charity • Round up: When fundraisers that the grocery store incorporate some of checkout clerk asks your favorite hobbies. if you want to round For those who knit or up your purchase to craft, donate or sell the nearest dollar for your creations for the charity, opt in. good of those in need.

• Become a leader: Volunteer your time as a scout troop leader, coach a sports team or offer free tutoring for students. You’ll be

Being charitable is easier than one might think, and even the smallest efforts can produce big results.

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GET INVOLVED!

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• Build a Birthday in a Box • Have a Birthday, Give a Birthday • Donate Birthday Gifts • Donate a Monetary Gift

For more information, visit www.birthdaywishes.org LONG ISLAND OFFICE 15 Cantiague Rock Road Hicksville, NY 11801

516-390-3505

Drop off hours Monday and Wednesday 10:00-2:00

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Helping Homeless Youth Feel Special In the past year our lives have been upended, interrupted, and changed irrevocably in many ways. One thing that has not changed however, is the plight of homeless families. The disappointment of not being able to celebrate a birthday is one of the things many people experienced for the first time during the pandemic. For the homeless families they serve, this is a normal occurrence. Many children living in homeless shelters have never seen their name on a birthday cake and presents and a day to feel special is often considered a luxury. Many of these children have never seen their name on a birthday cake and without this service their special day would go by unrecognized.

Birthday Wishes of Long Island began 12 years ago, when volunteer Director, Jamie Rapfogel learned about the Massachusetts based organization. With their support she was able to launch a Long Island chapter that has currently grown to service over 80 family shelters and foster care shelters as well as residences for domestic violence situations and unaccompanied youth. Rapfogel says, “We find that more than the party, gifts and games, the children we serve are so happy to be the center of attention, to know they are cared about and deserving of joy. Their lives are often colored by disappointment, fear and loneliness. We hope that our consistent monthly parties will help alleviate some of this and make them feel like a “regular” kid even for just a moment.”

Since the pandemic, the nonprofit had to shift their method of service but was able to do so without missing a birthday. With the isolation and difficulties faced by homeless families, this service has become even more important to homeless children, and Birthday Wishes began to exclusively offer “birthday boxes,” ensuring social distancing while making a child feel cared for on their birthday. They have added masks and sanitizer as well as family activity packages- games, crafts and other family fun items. Birthday Wishes of Long Island currently celebrates about 120 birthday a month, working toward meeting their goal of reaching all LI homeless youth. They are expanding to offer serves to New York’s five boroughs as well as in upstate New York.

Birthday Wishes, as the first nonprofit to offer this service is considering expanding into other states as well, that have homeless populations that would so benefit from this program.

There are lots of ways to help and get involved. Currently, as part of their growth plan, Birthday Wishes is looking to partner with local companies and businesses to help support their mission. For more information or to find out how to get involved with Birthday Wishes, visit their website www.birthdaywishes.org. Also, like them on Facebook and follow them on Instagram!

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Birthday Wishes’ mission is to improve and empower the lives of homeless children and their families by providing joy, play and hope through that magic of a birthday party. The way they have done that is through proving both on site parties- trained volunteers visit the homeless shelter and hosts a birthday party for the children that have a Birthday that month. While the Birthday Party provides normalcy and joy to the birthday children whose family wouldn’t be able to afford the celebration, it also provides a day for all of the children in the shelter to get together, play, and celebrate. They also deliver “birthday boxes”- a colorfully wrapped box filled with party good, juice boxes, goody bags, a craft project and the making for a birthday cake and of course presents! Everything a child needs to celebrate a birthday.

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What Is Virtual Volunteering?

Millions of people help perform across the globe b e h i n d - t h e scenes tasks volunteer every year. that are to Busy working essential survival professionals may the wonder how nearly of charitable one billion people organizations. across the globe find Nonprofit the time to volunteer.

One way charitable organizations benefit men and women can can pitch in even if they’re g r e a t l y virtual pressed for time is to from try their hand at virtual v o l u n t e e r s , can volunteering, which who makes it possible to p e r f o r m like lend a hand without tasks website design and leaving home. data entry from the C h a r i t a b l e comforts of home o r g a n i z a t i o n s on their own time. volunteers will always need Virtual volunteers to pitch also can help out fundraising in on project sites, during and but they also need campaigns support in other areas. strategizing sessions can help Virtual volunteers can that

help overseas organizations, helping to eliminate the hurdles created by geography and time zones.

organizations meet their goals. Anyone with a computer and internet access can become a virtual volunteer, regardless of how busy their schedule is. In fact, many working professionals may find it’s easy to fit

volunteering into their schedules if they do not have to travel to a project site or the office of a charitable organization.

Virtual volunteering also can make it possible for charitable men and women to

V i r t u a l volunteering can benefit volunteers as well as the organizations they help.

Jayne Cravens, author of “The Last Virtual Volunteering Guidebook,” spent years studying the benefits of virtual volunteering.

Cravens ultimately concluded that virtual volunteering can benefit volunteers

in various ways, including allowing them to volunteer with multiple causes and organizations and even affording them more time to volunteer.

Cravens also discovered that virtual volunteering makes volunteering possible for disabled men and women or people who live in especially remote areas.

Men and women interested in becoming virtual volunteers should contact a favorite charity to discuss how they can begin lending a hand today.

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Volunteering is often seen through the lens of how volunteers help to improve their communities. Though there’s no denying the valuable role volunteers play in strengthening their communities, it’s worth noting just how much volunteers can benefit from donating their time and effort to worthy causes.

Journal of Happiness asked 70,000 participants about their volunteering habits and mental health. The study found that, when compared to those who did not volunteer, people who had volunteered in the previous 12 months were more satisfied with their lives and gave their overall health higher ratings.

Volunteering can benefit anyone, and can be especially valuable to students, benefitting their overall health and helping in myriad other ways as well.

A 2020 study • Volunteering can get published in the a foot in the door. The

National Association of Colleges and Employers reports that employers expect to hire 7.2 percent more new college graduates from the class of 2021 than they did from the class of 2020. That’s encouraging news, but recent graduates will still face stiff competition as they look for their first job.

Volunteering with an organization in their field can be a great way for current students and recent graduates to get their foot in the door.

Even if a volunteering opportunity does not ultimately lead to a job offer, the experience students gain can help them stand out in a

crowded pool of job study at the onset of applicants down the their college careers.

Volunteering before road. and during college • Volunteering can can help students help students find explore their interests a career path. A and see where their 2017 report from the skills are applicable.

U.S. Department of They can then rely on Education found that that experience as about 30 percent they choose a major. of undergraduates in associate’s and •Volunteering expands bachelor’s degree students’ social programs who had horizons. Volunteers declared majors serve and work changed their majors alongside people at least once within from a variety of three years of their s o c i o - e c o n o m i c initial enrollment. The backgrounds. That’s a same report noted great way to see the that roughly one in 10 world through a new changed majors more perspective, and it also than once. Those can positively affect statistics suggest students’ eventual that many students careers. Professionals are uncertain about who have worked what they want to with people of various

backgrounds are in better position to effectively communicate with a wider array of people, which can help them build a more diverse set of business relationships.

Organizations recognize that value and often prioritize hiring candidates with the kind of strong interpersonal skills students develop through volunteering.

Volunteering can be a great way for students to develop an array of skills that can benefit their personal and professional lives for years to come.

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How Volunteering Benefits Students

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Support A Small Business Through Volunteerism financially with regulations that limit business capacity. In addition, 67 percent of small businesses feel their financial security has been negatively affected, but 72 percent are optimistic The pandemic has they will be able to establish and achieve forced many business stay open at least six their goals. Coaches owners to rethink their months or more. can work with small longstanding business business owners to One way small discuss the challenges practices.

Verizon Business released businesses may be they face and give findings from its Small able to survive and specialized guidance Business Recovery thrive is with the help to help grow their Survey in September of volunteers. The businesses. Coaches 2020 that revealed the following are ways typically work for a impact small business volunteers can help fee, but volunteers owners and decision small businesses in an can offer assistance makers feel the uncertain time. at no charge to help pandemic has had on businesses get back • Volunteer as a on solid footing. their businesses. FiftyBusiness five percent of small mentor. businesses surveyed coaches lend their • Use networking have concerns time and expertise connections.

It take much about staying afloat to help businesses won’t

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The novel c o r o n a v i r u s COVID-19 that began sweeping across the globe in late 2019 has had a major impact on all components of daily life.

effort to speak kindly about a small business to others and use networking connections to spread the word about a particular local firm.

Spend a few hours each month sharing positive feedback about a company and getting their name out to others.

• Support the vulnerable and those in need.

Even while small businesses have been

floundering, many are still engaging in community efforts.

Restaurants have donated meals to the elderly or less fortunate. Shuttered fitness centers have repurposed space to provide chaperoned virtual learning centers for students whose parents work and cannot stay home during the school day. Volunteers can work with small businesses to facilitate services such as these, including delivering food or products, checking on those who are self-isolating, monitoring students, or helping to set up connections between businesses and those in need.

Thank you to our sponsor

• Fill in as a temporary employee.

As coronavirus affects employees, they may need to stay home to care for relatives or children, or they may need to selfquarantine after exposure to the virus.

Being without one or two employees can tax a small business.

Having volunteers ready to fill in at a moment’s notice can help businesses overcome this obstacle.

Volunteers can provide the extra support that small businesses need during these challenging times.

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