Giving back, october 10, 2017

Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Giving Back

to your community

Giving back to the planet Adopt eco-friendly habits page 3

Being charitable

Explore non-monetary to make an impact page 6

Donating wisely

How to avoid charity scams page 12

Providing Hope and Healing for Families and Couples in Our Community The Salvation Army has been serving the Spokane community since 1891. We serve more than 40,000 people every year.

The Salvation Army of Spokane provides support and programs that change and transform lives.

Children and Youth Sally’s House is an emergency receiving facility for children 2 to 12 years of age that are removed from their home due to abuse, neglect, abandonment or criminal activity. They are provided 5,492 safe nights at our shelter annually.

Camp Gifford is the oldest summer youth camp in Eastern Washington. Camp Gifford serves low-income children, 80 percent of whom would not be able to attend without scholarships. Over 800 children attend and have memorable life changing experiences each year.

The Nurturing Center provides court ordered visitation services to children and their families. Visits are conducted in a safe and secure environment by experienced and well trained staff.

Homeless / Housing Stepping Stones is a 30-unit homeless family transitional housing program that serves families with children that are at or below 30 percent of the area median income for Spokane County. Families may reside in this program on a month-to-month basis.

The Emergency Shelter has 18 fully furnished, studio units for homeless families with children or couples without children.

Participants may reside in this program for up to 90 days.

Food Bank We provide one of the largest food bank outlets in our community, providing 2.4 million pounds of food annually. We serve an average of 17,000 families in Spokane County each year. Visit our website for hours and location.

Get Involved If you would like to support The Salvation Army of Spokane, monetary donations can be dropped off at 222 E. Indiana Ave. in Spokane or go to www.makingspokanebetter.org to give and learn more about our mission and history of serving Spokane. Also, please connect with us on Facebook.

WWW.MAKINGSPOKANEBETTER.ORG FOOD PANTRY NURTURING CENTER EMERGENCY SHELTER TRANSITIONAL HOUSING SALLY’S HOUSE EMERGENCY FOSTER SHELTER 222 EAST INDIANA AVE * SPOKANE, WA 99207

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Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Giving Back

GIVING BACK TO THE PLANET

PAGE 3

HOW SHOPPING LOCAL HELPS EVERYONE PAGE 5

DO CHARITIES WANT YOUR CAR? PAGE 8

FAMILY-FRIENDLY VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES PAGE 9

DOS & DON’T OF DONATING PAGE 14

Help, I Need Somebody!

509-458-2509 • www.altcew.org There is Help For You! Our Caregiver Support Programs are available to unpaid caregivers helping loved ones age 55 and older.

• Individual counseling/support groups • Respite, if you need a break • Medical equipment, supplies & services

Pick up the Phone and Call!!

FBH-Elder Services (509) 458-7450 Option #2 Aging & Long Term Care - ADVOCACY. ACTION. ANSWERS.

MEDICARE OPEN ENROLLMENT Open Enrollment October 15 to Dec. 7, 2017 We have trained advisors to help you.

Come to our free workshop to have your Medicare questions answered!

Reviewing your plan options can save your money For FREE, NON-BIASED advice bring your list of medications, with dosages, and your Medicare card to: Aging & Long Term Care Or Call of Eastern Washington • 1222 N Post St 458-2509 Any Tuesday Oct.15th - Dec. 7th 9:00am – 4:00pm You will be helped on a first come first serve basis

Perhaps a recent fall, hospital stay or illness made someone you know more dependent on you. Your part may start out simply, such as taking grandma to the doctor or helping dad pay his bills. Then without even realizing it, you are losing sleep, not taking time for yourself and cannot recall the last time you did anything just for fun.

In Washington, family members and other unpaid caregivers provide approximately 80 percent of care to people who need support.

Providing care for a family member can be among the most rewarding things a person can do, but also has challenges.

If you’re just getting started down the path of caregiving, take time to talk about what is important to your loved one, complete a Health Care Directive and find out how long-term care services are paid.

Consider holding a family meeting to build understanding and find solutions. It is surprising how willing others are to help when given specific tasks to do.

When you need help, not just anybody will do. Aging & Long Term Care, (509) 458-2509, answers questions about Medicare and Medicaid, and Community Living Connections, (509) 960-7281, facilitates family meetings. Both agencies have a cadre of experts on staff to provide tools and information, and to direct you to helpful resources that will enhance your caregiving role. Online at www.altcew.org The Family Caregiver Support Program at Elder Services, (509) 458-7450, is available to unpaid caregivers helping loved ones age 18 and older. You get access to free or low cost support.

Services provided by this program include: • Individual counseling or support groups • Training • Respite if you need a break • Services including purchasing supplies, medical equipment, and other services necessary to assist the unpaid caregiving role.

Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Valleyfest Valleyfest was founded in 1990 as a way to expose area children to the benefits of visual and performing arts, science, nature and recreation. Now in its 28th year, Valleyfest has evolved into a summer-long celebration showcasing the people, talent, businesses and nature that is the heart of Spokane Valley Beginning in spring with the Miss Spokane Valley pageant, continuing with July Cycle Celebration and wrapping up in September with the parade and community festival, Valleyfest is now the premier event in the Spokane Valley.

While Valleyfest has grown into an award-winning multifaceted event for all ages, the effort is still committed to helping children succeed through its foundation, which raises funds through events and sponsors.

One thing that truly sets Valleyfest apart is the dedicated groups of volunteers that make it happen through hard work, commitment and a shared vision of enriching the community. Without their fortitude, Valleyfest would not be the success it is today.

For more info visit valleyfest.org.

GIVING BACK to the planet

Metrocreative

While charitable donations and volunteering are the first things many people think of with regard to giving back to their communities, there are additional ways that conscientious men and women can give back if they don’t have the time or money to donate.

One such way is to protect the planet. Everyone benefits from a healthy planet, and adopting a more eco-friendly lifestyle is a great way to give back to your community and benefit the people who live there now and those who will live there in the generations to come.

• Recycle glass Many people already recycle plastic, but recycling glass, whether it’s bottles, jars or other glass items and materials, helps to dramatically reduce both air and water pollution. Many communities now mandate that people recycle their glass waste, but those who live in communities with no such regulations can still recycle their glass by taking it to the community recycling facility. Go the extra mile and encourage your neighbors to recycle their glass as well, or offer to take their recycled items to the recycling center.

• Buy local Buying local is another way to give back to the planet.

Locally produced items don’t have to be transported across the globe, drastically reducing the fuel needed to get those items into your house. In addition, because they don’t have to be transported long distances, many locally produced items are not as heavily packaged, cutting back on the use of potentially harmful or wasteful plastics.

• Use a clothesline Using a clothesline instead of a clothes dryer to dry your clothes can dramatically reduce your energy consumption. Also, clothes that hang dry won’t be subject to the same amount of wear and tear as those dried in a dryer, meaning they will last longer, saving you money and cutting down on the demand for new clothes that must be produced and transported, oftentimes from overseas, at a heavy cost to the planet.

• Do less laundry It’s not just how you dry your clothes that affects the environment, but also how frequently you wash those clothes that can influence the size of your carbon footprint. Washing machines need a substantial amount of water and energy to operate effectively, and using them to wash anything less than a full load is wasting both water and energy, not to mention raising your utility bills. Only launder clothes when you have a full load.

• Stick to showers Much like there are ways to save water when washing your clothes, there also are ways to save water when washing yourself. Forgo baths for showers, which consume roughly 50 percent less water than baths.

When showering, keep it quick, as each minute you’re in the shower, you are using as much as five gallons of water.

• Opt out of paper statements Paper statements, whether it’s your monthly bank statements or utility bills, can increase your risk of identity theft, especially if you live an apartment complex where mail is not delivered directly to your door.

But opting for e-statements not only makes you less susceptible to identity theft, it also drastically cuts back on paper consumption, saving trees and improving air quality along the way.

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Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review

Goodwill is changing lives!

Goodwill is more than just a place to get good deals. It’s more than just a place to take the stuff you don’t want anymore.

Goodwill is a place where thousands of lives are changed every year through employment, training, housing and other programs.

In 1939, Goodwill opened its doors in Spokane to help people who had physical and developmental barriers.

Over the last 78 years, Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest has expanded to serve more than 6,000 people each year throughout eastern Washington and north Idaho. We’ve grown from one small store with three employees to 14 stores, eight mission program offices, and more than 550 employees.

The sale of donated goods in our retail stores fund our programs, with 85 cents of every dollar earned from in-store and online sales supporting Goodwill programs in our region.

Every day, Goodwill provides people a hand up through job training and education, employment support (such as bus passes, gas cards and vouchers for work clothing), housing support, case management, mentoring, job search support and many other services.

When you support Goodwill, you aren’t lining the pockets of a CEO and shareholders. You are helping a local nonprofit who is helping people like Jason. When Jason came to Goodwill, he was couch surfing, and at the end of his rope. After decades working construction, he found himself with no job, no employment options and no high school diploma or GED. At 40 plus years of age, he was struggling to meet his basic needs, including housing. It was hard to ask for help. Jason worked with several Goodwill programs to secure his housing and get some basic living essentials, and then started working on employment. With Goodwill’s support and assistance, Jason completed his GED, found a good full time job, got his truck fixed so he could get to work and school and enrolled at Spokane Community College to pursue a degree in Graphic Design.

Jason is just one of thousands of lives changed by Goodwill, through your generous simple and generous support. When you donate and shop at Goodwill, you are part of the cycle of good.

While you are recycling your stuff and getting a good deal on gently used goods, lives are changed right here in your neighborhood.

From our employees, our Board of Directors, our community partners, and most importantly our participants, we thank you for your support. Contact us at DiscoverGoodwill.org.

When you support Goodwill, you help change lives like Jason’s, and thousands of others in our community every year.

Donate.

Shop.

Change a life.

Join the cycle for good. Of every $1 earned in our stores, 85 cents supports our programs.

DiscoverGoodwill.org

Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Giving Back

How shopping locally can help you and your community Metrocreative

Today’s consumers have more shopping options at their disposal than they did in years past. Though the Internet may put the world at one’s fingertips, more and more shoppers are discovering that buying locally makes for a superior shopping experience.

The benefits associated with shopping locally are many, and the following are just a few reasons why shoppers may want to look no further than their own communities when planning their next shopping excursions.

a person in California may be decorating his or her home with the same furnishings as a person in North Carolina. But local shops tend to produce more unique items that are not available nationwide.

Keeps money in the local economy

Promote entrepreneurship

Locally-owned businesses often put a larger share of their revenue back into their communities. Small business owners may be more inclined to employ local residents, giving more people in the community solid employment. Business owners may reach out and support other neighborhood efforts, such as fundraising initiatives for charities and schools.

By shopping at local stores, you have a hand in supporting these efforts as well.

Save money When factoring in travel time and the cost of fuel, shopping locally makes more sense than driving to a faraway mall. In addition, repeat customers who establish a rapport with a local business owner may find that such owners are more inclined to price match or work with loyal customers to find lower prices through suppliers.

Diversify your home and lifestyle Shoppers who prefer more unique styles may find local businesses cater to their needs better than large chain stores. Larger retailers offer the same products to customers regardless of where those customers live, so

Small businesses are an essential element to the country’s economic growth. By shopping locally, consumers are showing their support for this important segment of the national economy.

Help establish local pride Independent shops contribute to the fabric of a community and what makes it special and unique. Tourists and other visitors will be much more inclined to remember a local shop rather than a big chain in a particular neighborhood. When travelers want to get a feel for a community, they seek out small, local stores that are much more likely to stock a high percentage of locally-sourced goods.

Attract other businesses Private and public sector businesses tend to gravitate around anchor stores. Should a local store be successful, banks, restaurants, salons and other businesses may move in as well.

Shopping locally benefits consumers in various ways, many of which contribute to a healthy local economy.

The Power of

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It’s 3 p.m. and school is out for over 80,000 kids in Spokane County, most of whom will go home to a cold, empty house. But thanks to the Boys & Girls Clubs, every afternoon is a chance to change the life of a child!

Please consider a holiday gift today!

Since 2001, Boys & Girls Clubs of Spokane County has provided thousands of school-age kids with a safe and positive place to go year-round. During these long, dark winter months, two neighborhood Clubhouses provide a shining light for nearly 500 kids who walk through our doors daily to get help with their homework, find something healthy to eat and spend time with their friends.

As kids look forward to the holiday break, the Clubs purposely stay open and provide a stable, safe place for families to rely on. A place where quality programs encourage academic achievement, develop good citizenship and establish healthy lifestyles. For Boys & Girls Club members, they know “Great Futures Start Here.” All it takes is $20 for an annual membership!

As you prepare for the holiday season, please consider a gift or recurring gift of a Boys & Girls Club membership. Together, let’s open the Clubhouse doors to more Spokane families; especially those who need us most!

Visit our Clubhouses or find us online at bgcspokanecounty.org.

You can also keep up with us on social media @bgcspokane.

Northtown Club 544 E. Providence Ave. Spokane, WA 99207

Lisa Stiles-Gyllenhammer Club 12509 N. Market St. Mead, WA 99021

For only $20 you can provide an annual Club membership to a child in Spokane who needs us most.

Donate.

Volunteer.

Get Involved. bgcspokanecounty.org

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Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Giving Back

Being charitable when money is tight not the only ways to donate to organizations and people in need. Go through your closet and donate clothes you no longer wear. Instead of selling furniture you plan to replace, contact local charitable organizations to see if they would like your furniture, or donate pieces that they can then sell to ďŹ nance their operations. Some donated items, such as vehicles, may earn donors tax deductions.

Medical donations

Metrocreative

Canadians ages 15 and older volunteered to some degree in 2013.

The term ‘charitable giving’ is often associated with ďŹ nancial donations.

But charity is not exclusive to donating dollars, and those who want to give back but can’t ďŹ t donations into their budgets can explore various ways to make an impact without writing a check.

Volunteering According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, roughly 63 million people volunteered through or for an organization at least once between September 2014 and September 2015. Up north, the General Social Survey on Giving, Volunteering and Participating from Statistics Canada found that more than four in 10

Volunteering is a popular and rewarding way to give back to one’s community. NonproďŹ ts and charitable organizations may fall short of meeting their missions if not for the valuable services provided by volunteers, so pitching in can be just as valuable as writing a check. Discuss your personal and professional experience with an organization to ďŹ nd a volunteering opportunity that suits you and your skill set. In addition to charitable organizations, schools, hospitals, libraries and religious institutions may have volunteering opportunities for those who want to give back.

Item donations

Donating money or dropping off canned goods at food banks may be the ďŹ rst things many people think of when mulling charitable donations, but medical donations also present a great way to give back. The American Red Cross notes that blood donations help millions of people and a single blood donation can end up helping more than one person. The Red Cross also notes that roughly 36,000 units of red blood cells are needed in the United States alone each day, while nearly 7,000 units of platelets and 10,000 units of plasma are needed daily. Donating blood, plasma or platelets can help save lives, and making such donations does not require substantial commitments of time.

Organ donations also present a great way to give back. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services notes that an average of 22 people die each day waiting for transplants that cannot take place because of the shortage of organ donors. Many of those deaths may not happen if more people signed up to be organ donors, an act that may be as simple as checking a box on the back of your driver’s license.

Charitable men and women without much room in their budgets to make donations can still make a difference by giving back in other ways.

Donating time and money may be among the most popular ways to give back, but those are

SNAP continues to serve

Habitat for Humanity

lends helping hands

For 51 years, SNAP has been a dependable resource for stability in Spokane County.

Thanks to our generous supporters, more than 280 families will celebrate their holidays in a safe, decent and affordable home. But our work is far from ďŹ nished ‌

Our agency offers over 30 programs designed to help people establish stability and self-reliance. Emphasizing core values of community, respect and justice, we strive to be a resource for hope.

There are still countless families in Spokane County who are living in desperate conditions that no one deserves to endure. They, too, will try to bring holiday cheer into their homes. But it will be hard to lift their spirits amongst the cold, rotting oors, and leaking roofs.

Our mission is “Increasing the human potential of our community by providing opportunities for people in need.�

With your gift, you can give another family in need the best gift of all ... a place to call home.

In 2016, SNAP served 47,421 low-income residents of Spokane County, or nearly one in ten of our neighbors. Some of our key programs include energy assistance, essential home repair, credit building, homeless services, money management, homebuyer education and small business training and lending.

Families like Janessa’s: Janessa and her kids ed from domestic violence.

A full-time student and working mother, Janessa knows what’s at stake. “I’ve been working so hard to achieve my goals and give my kids a better life. This home will do just that.�

Along with the resources we offer, SNAP emphasizes dignity in listening and responding to our clients while helping them ďŹ nd a path to stability.

We genuinely care about the people we serve. As a SNAP client named Henry said, “SNAP made me feel like I belonged.�

Help Habitat empower families through building homes and changing lives. Donate Today.

SNAP

www.habitat-spokane.org

Through shelter, we empower.

3102 W. Fort George Wright Drive, Spokane (509) 456-7111 For more info or to donate, visit snapwa.org/give.

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Your gift can change a family’s life forever.

Donate Today. www.habitat-spokane.org/donate-now

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Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Catholic Charities For 105 years, Catholic Charities has served the most vulnerable populations of Spokane and Eastern Washington. Our mission afďŹ rms the dignity of every person, serving all those in need regardless of circumstances.

Many people are surprised to learn that over 70,000 individuals receive assistance from Catholic Charities each year through a diverse network of programs and housing communities that span across 13 counties in eastern Washington. From birth to end of life, we reach out and provide real solutions to those who are fragile, lonely or feel forgotten.

The House of Charity, St. Margaret’s Shelter, and Rising Strong meet individuals in crisis with shelter, food, resources and supportive services.

Catholic Housing Communities, Senior Services, and Food for All provide stability with affordable housing, household chore assistance, and food access. We offer pathways that provide hope for a better future through our Childbirth and Parent Assisting Program (CAPA/PREPARES), Counseling, the Furniture Bank, Immigration and Refugee Legal Services, Emergency Assistance, and St. Anne’s Children & Family Center. Catholic Charities Walla Walla, and regional ofďŹ ces in Brewster, Colville, and Pasco, extend our compassionate reach outside of Spokane.

Providing services of this scope and magnitude is only possible with the help of the greater community. We work with municipalities, other charitable organizations and churches, and businesses of all kinds to ďŹ nd ways to meet the needs of the thousands who come to us seeking help and hope. Three hundred staff members, driven by Catholic Charities’ core values of respect, compassion, collaboration and justice,

Responding to crisis.

Stabilizing lives.

Advocating in hope. work with approximately 6,000 volunteers annually who assist in serving patrons and clients in their programs. Generous in-kind donations of food, diapers, clothing, furniture, toiletries and other items, are gratefully accepted, and monetary donations are absolutely critical for program operations and the supportive services that they require.

Responding to crisis. Stabilizing lives.

Advocating in hope. This is the work of Catholic Charities. Our organization, founded on Catholic social teachings, is a beacon of hope, and we are tremendously grateful for the community that supports us while we offer support to our brothers and sisters in need. www.catholiccharitiesspokane.org/

GetInvolved with Catholic Charities

S TA B • S I S I R OC RESPONDING T

S • A DVO C AT I N G I N H O P E E V I L ILIZING

How you can help

Catholic Housing Communities • Host Game Nights • Socialization • Yard Maintenance

Childbirth and Parenting Assistance (CAPA)/PREPARES • Parent Mentors • Play Supervision • Organizing Donations

Food For All • Garden Work • Sort Produce • Community Kitchen Cooking Classes

Furniture Bank • Sort, clean, repair and distribute furniture to low-income families

House of Charity • Errand Drivers • Resource Room Assistant • Maintenance/Cleaning • Emergency Sleeping Program Assistant • Food Prep/Kitchen Work

Immigration and Refugee Legal Services

To get started volunteering

• Written and verbal uency in Spanish, Russian and Arabic

Rising Strong

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• Housekeeping • Tutoring • Cooking and Serving Meals • Collecting and Organizing Donations • Play Supervision

St. Anne’s Children and Family Center

or contact our

• Teacher Helpers • Kid’s Kitchen

St. Margaret’s Shelter

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• Clerical Help • Play Supervision • Tutoring • Organizing Donations

Senior Services/Volunteer Chore Services • Clerical Duties • Light Housekeeping • Drivers • Yard Work

We have volunteer opportunities for your group or business!

VOLUNTEER

DONATION DRIVE NEEDS

Planned gifts such as DESIGNATIONS IN YOUR WILL, from CHARITABLE TRUSTS, or of STOCKS, IRAs or REAL ESTATE help to secure the future of our work.

Socks/Hats/Mittens Towels/Blankets/Linens Diapers/Toddler Clothing Sugar/Coffee/Butter Toiletries/Toilet Paper Non-Perishable Food

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DONATE

WORKPLACE GIVING Ask your employer for a CHARITABLE MATCHING form!

If offered, your gift to us grows.

Designate Catholic Charities Spokane through your WORKPLACE GIVING payroll deduction program.

• WA State Combined Fund Drive #0316163 • United Way - Complete Donor Option Form • Combined Federal Campaign #22732

TOGETHER WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

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Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Giving Back

Arc of Spokane:

Uplifting Lives It’s our passion. It’s our purpose.

It’s the power of orange.

The Arc of Spokane is the leading non-profit agency in the Inland Northwest providing life-changing support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families at every stage of life.

Together with the people we serve, we advocate for change. We celebrate diversity. And we work to create opportunities for everyone to enjoy a rich, independent life as a valued contributor to our community. Today, as one of 730 independently governed Arc chapters nationwide, our local chapter is stronger than ever, serving more than 3,000 people of all ages who have autism, cerebral palsy, down syndrome and many other intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Through compassionate support and trusted services, we empower people with I/DD and their families to achieve their full potential and the quality of life they deserve – from birth to forever. www.arc-spokane.org

How to help kids in your community Metrocreative

People give back to their communities in various ways. Some support local charities by volunteering or making financial donations, while others may deliver meals to convalescents who cannot leave their homes.

Helping kids is a popular way to give back to your community. And helping kids is not just for parents, as young adults and older adults with no children of their own or those whose children are fully grown can give back to kids in their communities in various ways.

Coaching Youth sports leagues rely on volunteers to run smoothly. Youth sports league coaches are not paid, so each coach is a volunteer. Inquire with a local parks and recreation department such as Spokane’s at my.spokanecity.org/parksrec/about becoming a youth sports coach in your community. In many instances, no coaching experience is necessary to coach youth sports. However, prospective coaches will likely have to undergo training before they can patrol the sidelines. Such training may include everything from coaching pointers to emergency medical training and more.

Locally, The Arc of Spokane is one

of the largest social service agencies serving people with developmental disabilities in our community. Our 12 major programs serve 3,500 people each year, and we are the only agency in Spokane with the mission of advocating for this uniquely vulnerable population.

The Arc of Spokane would like to thank the entire Inland Northwest Community for your support.

You help us make a difference!

We promote independence and choice and enhance the quality of life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

Visit www.arc-spokane.org (509) 328-6326 Join Us On Facebook!

Metrocreative

Donate a vehicle or other large goods to charity

Charitable organizations accept all types of donations, from cash to appliances to clothes.

Donating such items can put them into the hands of people who need them, and many charities sell non-cash donations in an effort to fund their programs and other services.

In order to facilitate the process of donating larger items, many charities will pick up any items donors cannot bring in on their own.

Many organizations even advertise when a van or truck will be in given neighborhoods to collect items, making the donation process that much easier for donors.

According to the organization DonationTown, which helps donors connect with charities that will accept their donations, charities such as the Salvation Army, Rescue Mission, Good Samaritan Ministries, Habitat for Humanity and Hope Services accept household appliances. Other organizations, including Big Brothers Big Sisters and The Lupus Foundation, also solicit for non-monetary donations and will arrange for pickup.

When donating a car, truck, motorcycle, or boat, donors may need to go to greater lengths than they would if they were donating clothes or other less significant items. Titles will need to be transferred over to the charity, and ideally the vehicle should be formally retitled in the charity’s name. Organizations like the American Cancer Society require that the title be sent to a processing center. Only upon receiving the title will the organization pick up the vehicle.

Nonprofit organizations typically produce donation receipts as confirmation of the pickup, and these receipts may include an approximation of the donated vehicle’s value. Keep these receipts so you can claim tax deductions when filing returns in April. It’s also a good idea to keep a detailed inventory of any items you donated.

Include photos of the items and their respective values so you can back up your income tax return claims in the event of an audit. It is best to consult with your tax preparer and/or the charity you’re working with to determine the value of donated items.

Comply with the rules the charity sets forth regarding item pickup ... let the organization know if you’re donating any especially heavy items so they can arrange for enough staff members to pick the items up.

Comply with the rules the charity sets forth regarding item pickup. Label boxes or bags accordingly, and let the organization know if you’re donating any especially heavy items so they can arrange for enough staff members to pick the items up. These organizations often rely on volunteers to do pickups, so you want to make the process as easy as possible. Be sure to leave items outside your door by the specified pickup time.

Many charitable groups accept donations of vehicles and large household items. Making such donations can be more complicated, but these items may go to needy individuals or be sold to fund other projects, making the process well worth any extra effort donors might have to put forth.

Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Excelsior Youth Center Excelsior is not just a school, but a host of educational opportunities to meet youth where they are at; counseling, medical, substance use, and intensive support services are available for those who may need support to meet their goals.

Our comprehensive services are provided across a continuum of care, from inpatient to outreach and prevention.

Our representatives are experts at advocating across many systems that youth and families may have to navigate.

Our goal is to help youth and families end multi-system involvement and promote self-directed, independent, community-based, and community-connected living.

Coaching youth sports teams is one way for adults to give back to the kids in their communities.

Teaching Teaching school is a full-time job, but not all teaching gigs are paid.

Adults with knowledge to pass along to the next generation may want to explore volunteer teaching opportunities. Successful professionals can share their expertise with high school or college students through community-sponsored programs. Amateur or professional musicians can offer lessons to youngsters interested in learning an instrument, while writers can teach kids about writing. Volunteer teaching opportunities may be easiest to ďŹ nd by speaking to local boys and girls clubs or schools that offer weekend or after school programs.

Your voice and choice guides our services to create relevant partnerships with you. Anyone can access our services by calling Excelsior at (509) 328-7041, or visiting our website at www.excelsioryouthcenter.com.

We accept most major medical insurances, Medicaid, and no youth is turned away for an inability to pay.

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Fitness Kids who are not involved in organized athletics may still enjoy exercise, which provides even more opportunities for adults to give back to the youth in their communities. For example, cycling enthusiasts can work with local youth organizations to sponsor cycling groups for kids. If hiking or kayaking is your passion, look into organizing trips to nearby state parks where kids can learn to love the great outdoors.

Mentoring Many young people beneďŹ t from the guidance of mentors. Mentoring can be done through an organization such as Big Brothers Big Sisters (www.bbbs.org) or through local school systems that connect professionals from certain ďŹ elds with students interested in pursuing careers in those ďŹ elds. Mentoring.org is a great resource for adults interested in mentoring who may not know how to get involved with helping kids in their communities.

Adults who want to give back to the youth in their communities can do so in various ways.

Spokane County United Way ďŹ ghts for the health, education and ďŹ nancial stability of every person in our community.

We go looking for the problems that haven’t been solved and bring our community together to stare them down.

We ďŹ ght to support healthy family relationships.

Locally over 5,000 children are victims of child abuse and neglect.

Childhood trauma, including abuse and neglect, are known as Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Multiple ACEs can contribute to challenges in school and long-term health complications. Our work prevents and mitigates the impact of ACEs through early intervention and support services for vulnerable families to ensure our children are nurtured and safe.

We ďŹ ght to increase high school graduation rates.

Currently 73 percent of low-income students graduate on time, while their more afuent peers’ rate is 92 percent. This educational gap is greater for minority students. We align and support work that prepares children for kindergarten, ensures youth are successful through quality after-school programming and create on-time high school graduates who are college and career ready.

73 percent of low-income students graduate on time, while their more afuent peers’ rate is 92 percent. This educational gap is greater for minority students.

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We ďŹ ght to improve the ďŹ nancial stability of families.

In Spokane County 36 percent of people are ALICE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. Each month ALICE families are forced to make difďŹ cult decisions between housing, food, childcare, transportation and health care expenses. Our efforts lead to familysustaining work and the ability to gain and sustain assets, providing families with stable, affordable housing and access to services that prevent crises from escalating.

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Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Supporting a charity can benefit small businesses

Leadership Spokane’s Servant Leaders Care for Our Community

Metrocreative

For 35 years, Leadership Spokane has been delivering leaders to help build our community through service. It is our passion, it is our calling and we are nearly 1,300 adult leaders strong joined by nearly 625 high school youth leaders.

The classes of 2017, both adult and youth, and our wonderful alumni, collectively completed 10 service projects with 2,000 hours of giving back to others.

From a festive holiday party to show American holiday traditions to recently arrived immigrant children to raising donations for local shelters, our 60 adult leaders let their creativity flourish in a variety of volunteer efforts.

Our adult class was joined by our 40 high school youth leaders who focused their good works on helping the Salvation Army, Second Harvest and Blessings Under the Bridge. The smiles on the faces of so many helped by the outstretched hands of our leaders were all that was needed to know a positive difference had been made.

Now, here comes the Class of 2018, ready to raise the bar, knowing Leadership Lights the Way as we set direction for our community! www.leadershipspokane.org

Small businesses are continually seeking ways to compete in evercompetitive markets. While they often fill a niche not easily met by larger corporations, small businesses sometimes find it difficult to gain traction in a community and fully showcase all they have to offer. Getting more involved in their communities, including working collaboratively with nonprofit organizations, can provide the boost small businesses need to connect with their communities.

Programs that promote social responsibility and community involvement can be a smart move for small businesses. There are plenty of ways small businesses can get involved with local charities.

• Find a good match.

Consider working with a charity that has a connection to your business so that there is a common purpose. For example, a pet groomer may want to work with an animal welfare organization.

Service-related businesses, such as law firms or accounting firms, can assist groups that offer services and business counseling to needy families. Landscapers may find a good fit with an environmental protection charity.

• Donate goods or services.

Charitable organizations are always in need of more money to fund their efforts, but small businesses can contribute in other ways as well.

Businesses can donate supplies and services, such as a printing firm offering to print business cards or brochures for the charity. Business owners and their employees can volunteer their time, which can be a great way for employees to connect outside of the office and boost morale in the process.

• Support a fundraising event.

A highly visible way to support a charity is to host or support a fundraising activity. Small businesses can offer to collect donations at their offices or stores. Warehouse spaces can be used to store supplies, while other venues may be ideal spots for dances, walks or charity dinners. Businesses can ask that the charity mention the sponsorship in event advertisements and marketing.

• Financial donations can make ‘cents.’

Giving to charity is a way to increase tax deductions and reduce annual tax bills. Small businesses can work with their financial officers or accountants to develop a budget for charitable giving.

• Obtain meaningful exposure to influential people.

Working with established nonprofits can help provide a connection to influential people in the community and beyond. The more exposure a business can get, the more access it has to networking opportunities. In addition, more contacts in the community can increase word-of-mouth marketing that increases your customer base and improves your standing in the community.

Supporting local charities can benefit small businesses in various ways. Small business owners can explore the various charitable opportunities at their disposal in an effort to connect with their communities and grow their businesses.

S ãã®Ä¦ D®Ù ã®ÊÄ ¥ÊÙ OçÙ CÊÃÃçÄ®ãù www.leadershipspokane.org (509) 321-3639 801 W. Riverside Ave., Suite 220, Spokane, WA 99201 W D ½®ò Ù D ® ã L ÙÝ

Family-friendly volunteering opportunities Many parents encourage their youngsters to volunteer in the hopes that their kids will grow up recognizing the importance of helping the less fortunate and giving something back to their communities.

Depending on a youngster’s age, he or she may be hesitant to volunteer. Young children may be shy, while older kids may already be burdened with schedules far busier than their parents ever had to contend with. But volunteering can help kids establish a strong connection to their communities and introduce them to new people, the likes of which they may otherwise never get a chance to meet or befriend.

Youngsters hesitant about volunteering may be more likely to embrace it if they are joined by their parents. The following are a handful of family-friendly volunteering opportunities perfect for parents looking to find ways to give back to their communities while instilling the value of volunteering in their kids.

• Nature cleanup: Whether it’s working to remove litter from a nearby beach or pitching in to clean up a local park, a volunteering opportunity in the great outdoors is hard for adults and kids to resist.

Kids likely will enjoy the idea of spending a weekend morning or afternoon at the park or beach, and parents can get some sun as they teach their kids the value of protecting the planet and pitching in to keep a community looking great.

• Soup kitchen: Many kids may find it hard to relate to people without a home to call their own. Volunteering at a soup kitchen, where youngsters can witness firsthand that not everyone is fortunate enough to enjoy three meals a day and have a roof over their heads, is a great way for parents to instill a sense of compassion for the less fortunate in their children. Youngsters can serve meals alongside their parents or help deliver meals to men and women who have been rendered immobile by medical conditions.

Nature cleanup projects make for great opportunities for families looking to volunteer together.

• Nursing home: Nursing homes accept volunteers of all ages, and families can go together to pitch in and brighten the days of elderly men and women. Kids can read to or play cards or other games with nursing home residents while their folks lend a helping hand in other areas around the facility.

• Special Olympics: Volunteering with the Special Olympics is another great way for families to give back together. The Special Olympics is the world’s largest sports organization for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, and millions of people volunteer with the Special Olympics across the globe. Families can volunteer to work directly with the athletes or work as event volunteers and fans. Kids who like sports will love the chance to give back in a sporting atmosphere, and parents will love the lessons kids learn about having compassion for those with disabilities.

• Animal shelter: Many kids love animals, so volunteering with a local animal shelter is a great way for families to bond as they give back to their communities.

Animal shelters may need help during special adoption events, or may simply need some extra hands to maintain their facilities.

Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Singing Nuns provide

Musical Inspiration Every year as Christmastime rolls around some residents of the greater Spokane area impatiently await the first news of the Christmas Evermore concert by the Singing Nuns.

After 20 years of performing annually at the Bing Crosby theater, the Sisters have – no, not stopped singing - but transferred their venue to their own stage at the historic Mount Saint Michael building on the north side of town, the place they call home.

The initial decision was made as the Sisters and the parish at St. Michael’s celebrated the castle-like structure’s 100th anniversary of construction in 2015, and it turned out so well that they decided to start a new holiday tradition.

Guests can park in a lot at the base of the sometimes slippery slope, and enjoy transportation to the top of the hill provided by a local bus service. We hope some of you will join us this year!

The inspiration of their joyful song is a gift the Sisters offer by visiting local retirement communities as well. But there are other services, less thought of perhaps. Requests for prayers come to the convent on a daily basis, via phone, e-mail and Facebook.

So intercessory prayer, as well as words of comfort and encouragement, form a daily part of the Sisters’ outreach. Most of the Sisters’ time, however is taken up with the work of education.

This is carried out in part at the small gift shop at Mount Saint Michael—an adjunct to our printing and mail order house – where reading materials of a religious nature are distributed, as well as all sorts of religious articles. Then we have St. Michael’s Academy, a private K-12 school operated by the Sisters. Besides local students, girls from other areas can be accommodated at a small boarding facility.

The concerts that the Sisters present are one means of bringing in a little extra funding needed for the school, boarding house, convent and facility at St. Michael’s, besides being a way to spread the peace and love of Christ in the local community.

Disaster relief: Guidelines Metrocreative

Disasters are defined as accidents or natural catastrophes that cause widespread damage or great loss of life. Disasters are often unpredictable and can occur anywhere around the world. When disasters happen, survivors are often in need of assistance.

Disaster relief support is charitable giving at its finest. But helping after a disaster requires both forethought and strategy so donors can rest easy knowing their donations are going to the right place.

Work with reputable organizations If your first inclination is to provide financial support, do so by working with a reputable charitable organization that has a proven track record with disaster relief. Charities like Oxfam, the Red Cross and Direct Relief International organize relief efforts and are first on the scene when disaster strikes. These groups may be more trustworthy than groups without a track record of success regarding disaster relief.

According to the Center for International Disaster Information, financial contributions allow professional relief organizations to purchase what is most needed by disaster survivors, when it is needed. Also, cash donations allow relief supplies to be purchased near the disaster site, avoiding delays and steep transportation and logistical costs that can quickly eat up relief fund budgets.

Confirm the need before sending materials Many people feel a desire to send material donations in addition to cash. Sometimes there are opportunities to do so, but do your homework before sending supplies, as some organizations ask that supplies not be sent.

If there is no need, unsolicited materials can cause supply delays, take up storage space and/or require additional funds to remove unnecessary items. Furthermore, the cost to ship material supplies (that may not be useful) can be expensive. Disaster relief organizations typically can secure the necessary supplies, which is why many organizations request only financial donations.

Get clearance before visiting disaster zones Images of disaster zones can incite strong feelings that compel people to travel and help out in person. While that’s a noble gesture, receive clearance before purchasing a plane ticket. The website HelpInDisaster. org can help people with specialized skills learn if there is a need for skilled workers or experts in a particular disaster zone. This ensures efforts can be sustained for as long as is necessary, and there will be no duplication of efforts. Working individually also may not be costeffective, and you may compound the problem by causing more drain on an already jeopardized infrastructure.

for giving

Wait until media coverage has subsided Many people rush to give in the first days following a disaster, only to have efforts trickle away as time passes and the limelight has stopped. Instead, wait out volunteering opportunities. You may find you are more effective afterward as rebuilding efforts begin anew.

Helping out after a disaster can be a fulfilling venture if timed correctly and done in the correct manner.

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Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Giving Back

1193 people have been killed due to domestic violence in Washington State from 1997 - 2016.*

YWCA: Awareness + Action = Change Did you know ... In Spokane, • 1 in 3 women and 1 in 7 men experience domestic violence.

• 1 in 5 murders in Washington are domestic violence related homicides.

This included domestic violence victims, their children, friends, family members, new partners, and intervening law enforcement officers. Nearly 1 in 3 abusers who killed someone else also killed themselves.

• 40 percent of female murder victims are killed by a current or former intimate partner.

Partner with YWCA Spokane this October during National Domestic Violence Action Month and help END THE SILENCE with domestic violence.

We can change these statistics.

Learn more ywcaspokane.org 24hr helpline: 326-2255

• In the U.S., every 9 seconds a woman is beaten by her intimate partner.

October is Domestic Violence Action month learn more at http://ywcas.convio.net. Help YWCA Spokane END THE SILENCE with domestic violence.

END THE SILENCE ywcaspokane.org

* Washington State Domestic Violence Fatality Review.

Remember: 1. RECOGNIZE: Don’t ignore the situation.

2. RESPOND: Let her know she’s not alone, she doesn’t have to do this by herself, we are here as support.

3. REFER: YWCA’s 24-hr domestic violence helpline is available for you and her to call: 509.326.CALL (2255).

Together we can end the silence with domestic violence!

Learn more at ywcaspokane.org.

Donate smart and avoid charity scams Metrocreative

Nonprofit organizations and charities do extensive work to help people and fulfill their missions.

When commercials, emails or direct mail pamphlets tug at the heartstrings, it’s understandable to want to help as quickly as possible. But just as there are scores of legitimate organizations banking on the generosity of willing donors, so, too, are there scam artists hoping to exploit that generosity.

These crooks not only prey on innocent donors, they indirectly steal from people affected by disasters poaching donations meant for relief organizations.

The American Grandparents Organization says Americans donate upwards of $300 billion to charities each year. These include well-known and well-established charitable groups and crowdfunding sites like GoFundMe. Statistics Canada says Canadians make roughly $11 billion in charitable donations each year.

While the majority of donations end up in the right hands, charity scammers still manage to victimize unsuspecting individuals. Follow these tips to make sure hard-earned money is going to reputable groups and not to criminals preying on your generosity.

• Start by doing research.

Charity Watch and Charity Navigator, each of which is recommended by the Federal Trade Commission, have carefully researched many different charities. This can be the first stop in verifying the legitimacy of a particular charity.

Check for a charity’s registration number and see if it’s registered on the Better Business Bureau website at www.bbb.org/us/charity.

• Don’t give to cold calls or emails.

It’s best to take your time with charitable requests and confirm their authenticity. This may require visiting the website of a particular group or contacting them directly to see how you can help. You never know who is on the end of a phone call or who sent an email soliciting donations. What’s more, according to Charity Navigator, cold calls are usually conducted by for-profit telemarketers that have contracted with charities. These contracts are not favorable to the charities, with up to 95 cents of every donated dollar going to the telemarketers.

• Don’t give cash donations.

Cash is difficult to trace, making it a preferred method of donation collection among scam

artists. If a charity is insisting on cash or wants you to make a decision immediately, this should raise red flags.

• Protect your privacy.

Only work with charities that respect your privacy and will not sell your name or information to other groups.

• Request information.

Reputable charities will tell you how they will spend your money and if your gift is tax-deductible.

• Be aware of sound-alike groups.

Some scam artists create sound-alike organizations to trick donors. In such instances, donors believe they are donating to legitimate charities but are really giving to another organization. In 2016, the Federal Trade Commission brought charges against four sound-alike cancer groups, highlighting just how prevalent such faulty organizations are.

Charity scams are prevalent. But by being diligent about researching and gaining information, donors can avoid parting with their money unnecessarily.

Conduct research before giving to any charity to confirm that organization’s authenticity

Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review

Hospice of Spokane

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Our Community’s #1 Choice in Hospice Care

Hospice care is about life and living, maximizing the quality of time that someone has left. Hospice of Spokane has always focused on the patient first - what is best for the patient and the family and what they need to experience the best day possible.

Hospice of Spokane’s patient-centered care is provided by interdisciplinary teams comprised of physicians, nurses, social workers, nurse aides, volunteers, chaplains, bereavement counselors and other professionals.

“Every single patient, we’re identifying what their Hospice of Spokane is our community’s oldest and only non-profit hospice. Founded in 1977 by a group of dedicated volunteers, Hospice of Spokane is focused on serving patients and families dealing with terminal illness wherever they call home including their private residence, senior living facility or at one of two Hospice Houses. They care for individuals of any age with any terminal diagnosis throughout Spokane, Stevens, Ferry and Pend Oreille counties.

In addition to hospice services, Hospice of Spokane provides Spokane Palliative Care, supporting patients who may not be ready for hospice care but need additional support; northeast Washington’s only two inpatient Hospice Houses; an expansive bereavement support program including a no-cost grief camp for kids dealing with the death of someone they love; community grief support groups (for anyone in our community - not just those served by Hospice of Spokane) and more.

For questions about hospice services or for more information, contact Hospice of Spokane at (509) 456-0438 or visit www.hospiceofspokane.org.

Help for an older adult is just a phone call away.

needs are and how we’re going to meet those needs.

We do that from the context of being the oldest, largest and only community nonprofit.”

– Dr. Bob Bray, Hospice of Spokane Medical Director

Serving patients and families since 1977

509.456.0438 hospiceofspokane.org

Comfort. Dignity. Peace of Mind

Aging and Disabilities

Helpline

There are lots of resources out there for the elderly and people with disabilities. But how many of them are free and local? That’s the idea behind Spokane’s Aging and Disabilities Helpline. The helpline is staffed with Spokane-based representatives who provide free referrals to all kinds of services, from housing to meals, legal support to transportation. And a lot more. Sometimes a phone call isn’t enough so home visits are available.

To access the helpline, call (509) 960-7281 or try our mobile friendly website at www.SpokaneHelpline.org.

We’re here to help anyone. There’s no wrong question when you call. We help sons and daughters concerned about an aging parent.

We help neighbors who don’t know where to turn find answers. All referrals are confidential. Give us a call, we’re committed to helping people with disabilities and older adults live safely and independently in their homes as long as possible.

Spokane’s Aging and Disabilities Helpline is funded by Aging and Long Term Care of Eastern Washington. We’re located at 222 West Mission Avenue, Suite 120, Spokane, WA 99201, serving residents of Spokane County. The helpline is staffed 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Don’t hesitate to call, (509) 960-7281.

We’re Spokane’s Aging and Disabilities Helpline.

Providing FREE referrals to all kinds

of services from housing to meals, legal support to transportation.

(509) 960-7281

SpokaneHelpline.org 222 W Mission Ave, Suite 120 Spokane, WA 99201 Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm

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Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review

Factors for prospective volunteers to consider Metrocreative

Volunteering is a wonderful way for people of all ages to give back to their communities. While volunteers generally offer their time and skills in an attempt to help others, volunteering also helps the volunteers in various ways.

According to Child Trends, a nonprofit research organization focused on improving the lives and prospects of children and their families, studies have shown that adolescents who volunteer are less likely to become pregnant or use drugs than teens who do not volunteer.

In addition, Child Trends notes that kids who are involved in community service or volunteer in political activities are more likely than nonvolunteers to have a strong work ethic as adults.

And the benefits of volunteering are not exclusive to youngsters. A 2013 study from researchers at Carnegie Mellon University found that adults over 50 who volunteered on a regular basis were less likely than non-volunteers to develop high blood pressure. That’s a significant finding, as high blood pressure has been linked to both heart disease and stroke.

Finding the right volunteering opportunity can make the experience of volunteering even more enjoyable. When examining potential volunteering

Time opportunities, prospective volunteers can consider a host of factors to find the right fit for them.

Personal interests Would-be volunteers who can find a way to align their personal interests or hobbies with a volunteering opportunity may enjoy their efforts more than if no such connection exists.

For example, current or former athletes may enjoy coaching a local youth sports league, while amateur or professional cooks and chefs may enjoy the chance to prepare meals at local food banks or convalescent homes.

Professional experience Prospective volunteers may find volunteering more rewarding if they can combine their professional experience with their philanthropic efforts. Many charitable organizations are in need of operational help that helps them manage their day-to-day efforts smoothly. Experienced professionals may be able to fill these valuable roles. Accountants can offer to help organizations balance their books, while professional fundraisers may be able to help organize events for charities looking to raise money to meet their missions.

Time is another important factor for prospective volunteers to consider. Some volunteering opportunities require greater time commitments than others, and would-be volunteers must be honest with themselves when assessing how much time they have to offer. Volunteers without much time to offer should look for more flexible opportunities that require smaller time commitments, while those who have plenty of time on their hands can explore more extensive volunteering gigs.

Goals Prospective volunteers should consider their reasons for volunteering and what they hope to gain from their experience before choosing an opportunity. Men and women who recently overcame an illness may find it most rewarding to work with an organization that raises awareness about that condition or disease. Parents who want to get their kids involved in volunteering should seek opportunities that allow youngsters to gain hands-on experience.

Volunteering is a great way to give back to a community. The experience of volunteering can be that much more fulfilling when volunteers find an engaging activity.

Dos and don’ts of donating items to charity

Metrocreative

Donating gently used household items, toys, furniture and clothing to charity has many benefits. Such donations can help the less fortunate, while donors can take advantage of tax benefits while decluttering their homes.

There is also an environmental advantage to donating items rather than putting them in the trash. Goodwill Industries International, Inc. says that, over the last few years, generous people have helped to keep billions of pounds of clothing and household items out of landfills.

A portion of donated items may be sold in charity shops and other retail centers.

Some clothing donations are sold to recycling manufacturers who turn them into rags or industrial cleaning materials. Donated clothing and other items may even end up in the hands of private enterprises, who then sell it in developing nations at costs lower than regularly imported clothing, providing an affordable way for people living in poverty overseas to purchase items for themselves and their families. The organizations then put the money made toward their operational expenses and to develop programs to continue to help the less fortunate. Charities like Goodwill and The Salvation Army indicate on their websites that proceeds from charity and thrift shops go directly to support education, work and drug rehab programs.

Individuals who choose to donate goods to charity can follow a few tips.

DO walk around the house and gather items that are no longer being used. Pay attention to materials that you haven’t used in months or years.

DON’T donate just anything. Ensure that items are in working condition and are in good repair. Don’t give away things with rips or stains. Make sure electronics you plan to donate are operational.

DO call first to find out any rules or restrictions regarding donations. Some groups won’t accept items that have been recalled or do not meet current

safety standards (think some baby gear). Specialty items like computers, vehicles or mattresses may have specific requirements for donations.

DON’T overlook the idea of selling items privately at a garage or yard sale and then donating the funds to the charity. This way the organizations save time sorting and refurbishing donations, and they still benefit from the financial donations.

DO see if the charity will pick up large items. Many organizations have their own fleet of vans and trucks and will have specific pickup windows during certain months. This helps make the donation process more efficient, and can reduce the hassle on donors.

DON’T forget to receive a market value of the used items donated to the charity and a receipt. This will help you when it comes time to claim charitable donations during tax season.

Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Giving Back

Kathi and Ryder’s Story Reaching out with care to express Christ’s love to our neighbors is the heart of all Mission Community Outreach Center does each year for low income families and individuals in our community. The MCOC family provides a free clothing and diaper bank providing gently-used quality clothing, household goods, hygiene products and diapers.

Children’s Christmas Joy

Kathi is a good example of the people we help. Here’s her story:

The Drive:

“You never know where someone comes from. I remember being so appreciative of the diapers and clothing from the Mission Community Outreach Center when my son Ryder was born. The most valuable thing I received was the kindness of the workers. I remember getting Ryder’s brown afghan from them one month before he was born.

Wed, Nov. 1st - Mon, Dec 4th

The Event: Fri, Dec 8th 11:00-4:00 Sat, Dec 9th 10:00-2:00

When I had Ryder, I had no clue what I was going to do with my life. The workers were so kind and encouraging. I started school when he was one month old and every time I went in volunteers called me by my name, didn’t judge me, and loved on me, which was so needed at that time. I appreciate everything the Center has done for me and Ryder as well as my sister’s family. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

We need your help to provide gifts of new clothing to 1,000 children, (infant through 6th grade), at our Outreach Center this Christmas season.

We need new jeans, tops, underwear, infant sets, outerwear and books.

Financial donations can be made conveniently at our website: www.4mission. org.

When Ryder was a month old I went in again and told them how much we loved the brown blanket and asked if there was any way we could get another one. I knew I would need it when the other needed washing. Volunteers said they normally didn’t do that, but would make an exception and gave Ryder his blue blankey. He has used both over the years and both of them have had to have repairs from my grandma. By use them I mean every single night. My grandma even made him a brown, blue and white afghan so I could retire the originals because they are so old but he won’t let me! Ryder has a form of Autism called PDD-NOS. He doesn’t handle change well and these blankeys are his security and can help calm him down in an instant. This summer he was at Camp Lutherhaven for the week with his blankey to help him conquer the challenge and enjoy the adventure of camp.

We also welcome the opportunity to present this event at your meeting, club or church services.

Thank you!

Please donate at our center M, W, Th, 1:30-4pm or by appointment.

Look for collection bins at local churches and participating businesses.

1906 E. Mission Ave. | Spokane 509.536.1084 | www .4mission.org For more info on Mission Community Outreach Center and its services, visit www.4mission.org or call (509) 536-1084.

I am doing well now supporting my family. Thank you for providing my son with his most prized possessions.

Please consider donating used items, volunteering, contributing financially or participating in our Children’s Christmas Joy 2017 event.

Healthy food, every person, every day In this age of excess, it’s hard to comprehend that hunger exists, or that people in our communities don’t have enough nutritious food to sustain themselves or their families.

But it’s a reality; 55,000 people a week line up at a food bank, pantry, or a Mobile Market served by Second Harvest to receive food at no cost. Many of them have jobs or own homes, but often a low-paying job, a medical emergency, a layoff, divorce or other challenge forces them to seek food assistance. Often they are people like Donna.

“I am a professional and never thought I’d be in the position of needing a food bank … until something unexpected brought our family to a place where we have almost no income until I’m able to return to work following surgery. It was with great humility that I entered the nearby church to accept “charity” for the first time. I was treated with kindness and respect.”

Thanks to generous donors, sponsors and volunteers Second Harvest provides food to people in need through 250 partner food banks in Eastern Washington and North Idaho and through more than 500 Mobile Markets a year at community centers, churches, and schools.

Almost half that food is fresh produce donated by farmers, growers and local grocery stores. Two-thirds of all food resourced and distributed by Second Harvest is fresh or perishable - milk, lean meats - meaning Second Harvest is not only feeding people, but feeding them well, hopefully allowing them to get on with living well. www.2-harvest.org

Healthy Food. Every Person. Every Day.

“I just cannot stress enough that what you’re doing works and it genuinely helps our family. We haven’t been in a serious position where I don’t know what I’m going to feed everybody today and I think I haven’t been in that position because of using programs through Second Harvest.” – Kristina, Mobile Market client

1234 E. Front Ave. Spokane, WA 99202 (509) 534-6678

Giving the gift of charity Metrocreative

The charity watchdog organization Charity Navigator says that total giving to charitable organizations equalled $390.05 billion in 2016. This was an increase of 2.7 percent in current dollars from 2015. In fact, giving has increased every year since 1976 with the exception of 1987, 2008 and 2009.

2-harvest.org

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Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review

CAUSE CONNECTION COMMUNITY Our cause is simple: To strengthen the foundations of our community.

We live our cause by focusing on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

On any given day we will serve a six-week old, a child in youth sports or school-age child care, an at-risk teen, a family, and an older adult.

Our longevity, tradition and impact are unparalleled, but we don’t do it alone. We understand that collaboration and meaningful partnerships with other community entities makes us all stronger as a community. Our willingness and ability to do so has a positive impact on overall quality of life.

Through our focus on Youth Development, we’re committed to nurturing the potential of all youth. Our Outside the Box program enables ninth graders to make the sometimes difficult transition to high school. In partnership with District 81 and North Central High School, these kids get the help they need to achieve academic success and maintain attendance rates.

Kindergarten readiness is critical to future academic success for all children. We are committed to creating affordable access to high quality early learning childcare programs for all children in our community, regardless of family background.

For the first six months of this year alone, $77,596 in financial assistance was underwritten for the children of low-income families to attend the Central Y Childcare Center.

Our focus on Healthy Living commits us to improving the health and well-being of our community.

Whether it’s aquatics or basketball or group exercise classes - we meet our over 41,000 member where they are. Everyone has a place at the YMCA. Our Membership For All program makes having a Y experience possible, providing a sliding fee scale so membership is affordable for every household.

Social Responsibility is about giving back to and supporting our neighbors. Welcoming Week gives us an opportunity to connect to newcomer and refugee communities.

Our Membership For All program makes having a Y experience possible, providing a sliding fee scale so membership is affordable for every household.

Scholarships for Camp Reed and Summer Day Camp campers make sure every child has a fun and safe summer.

Thanks to the Walmart Foundation and Summer Food Services Program, this summer 739 hungry children a day received breakfast or lunch at one of our many food sites this summer.

Cause, Connection, Community… the threads of the safety net woven by our mission-focused work force and our many partners gives everyone a safe place to learn, grow and thrive at the YMCA.

(509) 777-YMCA (9622) ymcaspokane.org

CAUSE CONNECTION COMMUNITY

By nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living, and fostering social responsibility we transform lives.

With Your Support, We Put the Y in COMMUNITY

Our Cause Strengthens the Foundations of Our Community

509 777 YMCA (9622) ymcaspokane.org