YOUR LOCAL

The Business of Being Thankful

The West Orange Foundaaon in conjuncaon with The West Orange Chamber of Commerce, members, and other organizaaons, are collecang funds to help local families in need so they too can enjoy Thanksgiving Dinner.Donaaons can be made via PayPal using the secure QR Code or at commiiee meeangs, networking groups, and other Chamber events. West Orange Foundaaon, Inc. is a public charity registered with the IRS as a “501(c)3” non-profit organizaaon with Employer ID Number 81-4529999. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE 1-800-HELP-FLA OR ONLINE AT hhp://www.FloridaConsumerHelp.com, REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. REGISTRATION #: CH50578

By Stina D’Uva, West Orange Chamber of Commerce

In the past couple of months, I have had the pleasure of attending several community events that were fundraisers for local charities. Their missions have ranged from those supporting children to those providing healthcare services to those supporting the arts. All these events were for nonprofit business members of the West Orange Chamber.

In my role as president CEO of the West Orange Chamber, I am often invited to attend fundraising events. I wish I could accept invitations to all, however there are constraints on the calendar, as well as the wallet. Yet, I still do my best to support organizations that better our community and I encourage all of you to do the same.

You don’t have to attend an event to support a charity. There are so many other ways to support the charities in our community. As the saying goes, there are some that can provide treasure, others that provide talent and many who can give their time. Many years ago, before I took the role at the chamber, I volunteered my time to the Greater Orlando Mothers of Twins Club, my neighborhood HOA - Fairway Cove and city of Orlando green up projects. I also volunteered with MetroWest PTA, Gotha Middle and Olympia high school PTSAs.

Working full-time, I don’t have as much time to give so I have switched gears and give a little bit more treasure and hopefully some talent, especially in my current role as a board member of the MetroWest Master Association. I know we all have it in us to support our community in whatever way works best for us as individuals.

In November and December, the months of giving and thanks, I hope we will all take the time to think of those that are not as fortunate as us. There are so many organizations out there that need your help. Think about what you are passionate about and I can guarantee you there is a nonprofit that will value your time, your treasure, and your talent. If you don’t have the time but have the treasure, consider giving a gift to a nonprofit in the name of someone you know and love. That gift is a perfect gift for the person that has everything or maybe who is difficult to shop for.

If you need help deciding what charity may need your help at this time of year or all year long, visit the West Orange Chamber of Commerce website, navigate to the business directory and type in organization – non-profit. I guarantee you will find an organization which is worthy of your support. You may also visit wochamber.com to find out more information about how to support our Chamber’s Foundation Thanksgiving Food Drive. Last year, we served over 80 families and your help will allow us to do even more this year!