CityPulse Columbus: Citywide Charity Guide 2022

here are thousands of nonprofits across central Ohio looking for someone like you to get involved in donating your time, talent, or treasure to their cause. That is one of the many reasons we produce this semi-annual Citywide Charity Guide, and why we are so proud to recognize the community work of our Next Up Columbus honorees for the sixth year.

These 30 nonprofit organizations and 22 young professional leaders truly embody the pulse of our city!

CYP CLUB / CITYPULSE TEAM

CityPulse Columbus is produced through a partnership of the Columbus Young Professionals (CYP) Club, Columbus City Council, and the Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC), with support from a number of amazing organizations, including BBB of Central Ohio, Besa, Denison Edge, Experience Columbus, Discover Financial, Fisher College at OSU, Huntington National Bank, Matt Reese Productions, Ohio Dominican University, Quantum Health, and many more.

Cover photo by Matt Reese. Other photos courtesy of their respective organization, unless otherwise noted

@cypclub • @citypulsecols

CELEBRATING 100 CYEARS ELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF COMMUNITY OSERVICE F COMMUNITY SERVICE

BY NICOLE BERGMAN

The Junior League of Columbus is a women’s empowerment organization with deep roots in Central Ohio. The organization’s mission over the past 100 years has been to promote volunteerism, develop the potential of members for voluntary participation in community affairs, and demonstrate the effectiveness of those trained volunteers. For decades, members have leveraged monetary contributions and volunteer hours to effect lasting change across the Columbus community.

The Junior League began in 1901 in New York City, when two women named Mary Harriman and Nathelie Henderson recruited 80 debutantes to volunteer at settlement houses.

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houses. As these women served the community with their time, knowledge, and skills, they were also learning about the diverse city and the needs of its residents especially recent immigrants who were facing poverty, disease, and unsafe housing. By 1921, women had organized similar Leagues in 30 cities across the United States, and they came together to found the Association of the Junior Leagues of America, Inc.

The following year, 11 women gathered to discuss the formation of a Junior League in Columbus. In 1923, the Junior League of Columbus, composed of 100 women, officially joined the Association of Junior Leagues of America. Each member was expected to work two hours each week in one of nine existing social services agencies, while also contributing to fundraising activities. Interestingly, one of these founding members was Dorothy Walker Bush, the mother of former President George W. Bush.

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JuniorLeagueofColumbus throughtheyears

1920s

In the early years of the League, members focused on occupational therapy and soon also became involved in the production of children’s plays. The purpose of the plays was to raise money for the occupational therapy project while providing wholesome entertainment for children. The League’s first fundraiser was called “Flapperella.” Interestingly, Columbus based cartoonist and writer James Thurber was a composer for the plays. The League

soon leased clubrooms to be used as meeting places for its growing membership and raised $10,000 (more than $170,000 in today’s dollars) with the publication of “Soundings,” a record of Columbus society both past and present.

1930s

During this tumultuous decade, the League responded to pressing needs across Central Ohio. Amid the Great Depression, members helped the State

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Unemployment Bureau identify jobs by going door to door soliciting work for the unemployed. Members took on these projects while continuing to produce three children's plays per year as part of the Children’s Theater Movement. Capitalizing on the popularity of the plays, the League began “trooping” (touring) productions to schools across Columbus. Members were also active in organizing Philharmonic Concerts, developing the Columbus children.

Thelargestaccomplishmentinthe1930’s wastheformationoftheCentralVolunteer ServiceBureau.TheLeaguegaveover $4,000toformanorganizationthatwould train,place,andsuperviseanyonein CentralOhiowhowantedtovolunteer. Thisorganizationbecamethebasisfor FIRSTLINK,whichremainsactivetoday.

1940s

Supportforthewareffortcontinuedinto thisdecade.In1942,theLeaguelaunched

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the Columbus Victory Corner, a committee that sold War Savings Stamps and Bonds. The following year, members donated $2,350 ($40,231 in today's dollars) to the American Red Cross to purchase a Mobile Blood Donor Unit, and also established a War Emergency Committee to coordinate blood drives, rationing promotions, clothing drives, and a victory parade.

In the latter half of the decade, the League turned its focus to children’s issues. Building on earlier work, members started the Community Junior Theater,

sponsored the children’s series “Books Bring Adventure” on WOSU radio, and supported the Ohio State University Gifted Child Center. The League also raised substantial funds for the Children’s Mental Health Center, founded in 1950. This center is known today as Nationwide Children's Hospital. The fundraiser for this effort, known as Bargain Box, aimed to provide inexpensive clothing and other goods to Columbus citizens and remained an important annual fundraiser for the League for 70 years.

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF COLUMBUS: CELEBRATING 100 JYEARS UNIOR LEAGUE OF COLUMBUS: CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF COMMUNITY OSERVICE F COMMUNITY SERVICE

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1950s

The Junior League of Columbus kicked off the new decade with major support for the founding of the Children’s Mental Health Center, financing a large portion of the center with a $72,600 grant while also committing volunteers over a 10year period. Five years later, the League donated $12,200 to equip a surgical room for tonsillectomies. Members continued to focus on children by sponsoring book fairs. In 1958, the

league introduced a new fundraiser, the Sheram Puppet Project, to expand the imagination of the school children, hospitalized youngsters, and children with physical disabilities.

1960s

The League took an interest in promoting the cultural life of Columbus, first through donations toward the establishment of the Arts Council, which grew to be the Greater Columbus Arts Council, and then through

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the donation of the Transparent Talking Woman, an educational display at COSI. The League’s fundraising efforts also provided critical support for the Family Centered Program of the United Community Council, the Homemaker Service of Metropolitan Columbus, and the Blackburn DayCare and Training Program for needy families.

In 1965, the League made a three-year fundraising commitment to establish the Columbus Area Information Center, known today as CRIS.

1970s

The most significant League project of the 1970s was the opening of the Kelton House Museum and Garden in 1979. With the threat of demolition, the League acquired the Kelton House in 1976,

committing to restore this historic location on the Underground Railroad with the help of The Columbus Foundation. The Kelton House remains an important community project of the Junior League of Columbus to this day. In 1977, members helped

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF COLUMBUS: CELEBRATING 100 JYEARS UNIOR LEAGUE OF COLUMBUS: CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF COMMUNITY OSERVICE F COMMUNITY SERVICE

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JUNIOR LEAGUE OF COLUMBUS: CELEBRATING 100 JYEARS UNIOR LEAGUE OF COLUMBUS: CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF COMMUNITY OSERVICE F COMMUNITY SERVICE

develop and launch the Columbus Landmarks Foundation, a nonprofit city wide membership organization dedicated to historic preservation, and also donated funds to develop architectural guidelines for the Town-Franklin area, a downtown neighborhood. In 1978, the JLC also established the Franklin Park Conservatory gift shop which helped further improvements to this institution.

Meanwhile, the League significantly expanded its work on children’s issues. Members supported the Dahlberg Learning Center, which provided a Special Olympics and cultural enrichment program for developmentally disabled preschool children. Other key partnerships included City Kids, which developed programs for children to explore the built environment in Columbus; Kids on the Block, which produced puppet shows to increase awareness of child abuse;

Project LEAD, aimed at developing a leadership program to young people to channel their energies and interests into socially constructive actions with the support of family, school, and community; Community Coordinated Child Care, or “4 C," a childcare advocacy, resource and referral agency that is now known as Action for Children; and the Hilltop Youth Advocacy Program. The League also funded the hiring of an educational curator at the Columbus Zoo. League members continued to support COSI, this time through a donation toward the Life Science Drug Education Exhibition, as well as the Columbus Junior Theater of the Arts.

Additionally, the League began to focus on criminal justice system reform.

Members started a program aimed at providing professional staff for community volunteers concerned with the criminal justice system. The League provided multi year funding to the Court Watching Project, Inc.

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1980s

The 1980s produced many community projects that served the Columbus community including: Prepared Childbirth for Mentally Disabled Women, The Afro-American Museum Education Outreach Project, a curriculum for elementary and secondary schools based upon the opening exhibit for the National Afro-American Museum & Cultural Center, and multi-year support for a project entitled Women and Widowhood at the Center for New Directions. In 1981, the Junior League also began a long term project in association with Ohio Wesleyan University. The Project was called OwjL, and provided summer enrichment programs for gifted and talented junior high school students. At the end of the 1980s the JLC initiated P.A.R.T.Y. (Participate Actively in Reading Throughout the Year), a reading mentor program with Capital University.

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1990s

During the 1990s, the Junior League still focused on advocating for Women and Children in Central Ohio. In 1991, the League helped establish CASA (Court-Appointed Special Advocates) of Franklin County through financial and volunteer support. Other projects throughout the 90s included construction of a childcare room at Make Room Columbus family shelter, the start of ongoing events, and the completion of the Silent Witness Exhibit (a traveling memorial to women and children murdered through acts of domestic violence). The League also began offering math tutoring and activities to middle school students enrolled in Ohio Dominican College’s Village to Child program. The last project developed in 1998, was the launch of the JUMP! Into Leadership program, a leadership development program for middle school girls.

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2000s

In the early 2000s the League Collaborated with the Valerie Still Foundation to offer HOOPS! This basketball clinic and tournament promotes girls’ self-esteem as well as leadership and teamwork skills through sports and supportive adult interaction.

The League expanded the JUMP! Into Leadership into a secondary program called JUMP! Into Service focusing on community service with middle school girls. In the 19992000 League year, the JLC launched the Adopt-a-Backpack for Children (ABC) Projectwhich supplies Central Ohio Children with supply filled backpacks. Since 1999, this project has passed out more than 67,000 backpacks to local children. In 2002, the Underground Railroad Learning Station opened at the Kelton House Museum. Since its inception, over 100,000 school age children and adults have visited the Learning Station.

The League donated $50,000 to the Center for Child and Family Advocacy. Junior League volunteers also provided childcare and over 2,000 busy bags for children visiting the Center, and assisted with the Kids in Court program. Partnered with the Educational Council’s LEADER Institute to create “Junior Leaders”, a leadership development program for 6th and 7th-grade girls. In 2006, launched Kids in the Kitchen, a series of programs that focus on healthy eating and reducing childhood obesity.

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2010s

In the 2010s the Junior League of Columbus kept our projects going throughout the decade including the operations of the Kelton House Museum and Garden, Underground Railroad Learning Station, Girl Scout HERstory badge program, and other community projects like Kids in the Kitchen and Adopt a Backpack for Children. In 2018, after a multiple year evaluation, the League adopted Foster Care, specifically

thepopulationagingoutofFosterCare,as thenewissue-basedareaoffocusforthe League.

2020sandToday

InMarchof2020,theJLClaunchedtheir newsignatureproject,BridgingtheG.A.P. (Guide.Advocate.Provide.),thatsupports youthagingoutofthefostercaresystem. Overthelast2yearstheJLChashelped; GUIDEthrougheducationandlifeskills courses,ADVOCATEthroughourFostering

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JUNIOR LEAGUE OF COLUMBUS: CELEBRATING 100

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS

Change by Bridging the G.A.P. Campaign, and speaking in support of House Bill 110, and PROVIDE by creating home essential care packages for Central Ohio youth. Working with Community partners like Huckleberry House, Franklin County Children's Services, Star House, Children’s Defense Fund, ADRIEL, and Action Ohio, the JLC is working to make an impact on these youth in a vulnerable time in their lives.

se andmissionisthesame.WeareaLeagueof womenwhopromotevolunteerism, developingthepotentialofwomen,and improvingcommunitiesthroughthe effectiveactionandleadershipoftrained volunteers.WearetheJuniorLeagueof Columbus!

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CHARITY MILESTONES 2022

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BESA

For 10 years, Besa has connected people with community through experiences that transform lives. We’ve seen good throughout the community multiply as tens, hundreds and thousands of people engage with nonprofit organizations through Besa. And they’re just getting started. To celebrate their 10th birthday, Besa invites you to experience the Power of 10 — your power to help ignite a wave of civic engagement and be the good, together.

COLUMBUS FASHION COUNCIL

Fashion Week Columbus is the flagship program of the Columbus Fashion Council, a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide scholarships to fashion design students and a platform for local & emerging fashion designers. Fashion Week Columbus returns on Oct. 9-15, celebrating 13 years of making an impact in our fashion community and continuing to put fashion at the forefront of our city's culture.

FEMERGY®

GHRO Your Future Senior Celebration is a new initiative created by Femergy to connect high school senior girls with resources on applying to college, financial aid, financial literacy, mentorship, servicelearning, and other local enrichment opportunities. This is a free community event that includes keynote speakers, resource tables, networking opportunities, and dinner for all attendees. The event will be hosted at The Ohio State University on Friday, October 28th from 6:00 8:00 PM.

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MILESTONES

MY VERY OWN BLANKET

My Very Own Blanket is on schedule to achieve their goal of providing blankets to 30,000 children living in foster care in 2022. The organization has also expanded into Australia and Canada. And this fall, CEO & Founder, Jessica Rudolph, was selected as one of the Points of Light Inspiration Honor Roll recipients.

COLUMBUS SPEECH & HEARING

In 2023 Columbus Speech & Hearing will be turning 100 years old! In advance of this tremendous milestone, they are looking for people to join their committees, which help support their mission.

SOCIALVENTURES

In 2022, SocialVentures grew their online Marketplace 33%, increasing engagement from 109 to more than 145 businesses showcased, while doubling the number of social enterprises featured on their Trail for Good from 16 to 31.

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NETCARE ACCESS

Netcare Access is celebrating 50 years of serving the central Ohio community. This significant anniversary reinforces Netcare’s commitment to providing critical services for the ever increasing needs in the community and those struggling with mental health or substance use.

ST.STEPHEN'SCOMMUNITYHOUSE

Through their Mid-Ohio Market, St.

Stephen's will be providing food delivery to neighborhoods in Linden. This program will make food more accessible to those in our community that do not have transportation.

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MILESTONES

THE SCATTER JOY PROJECT

The Scatter Joy Project was able to invest in a crisis text line for communities across the city and country to be able to connect with a certified crisis counselor. Anyone can text SCATTER to 741741 if they are in crisis or need to talk.

STUDENT SUCCESS STORES

Student Success Stores will host A Night To Give Back on Friday, November 4th. The event has fundraising goal of $10,000 which helps provide Columbus City students with hygiene products, clothing, school supplies, and meals.

AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

The American Cancer Society is currently funding over $8.7 million in research grants in Central Ohio between OSU and The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital. They have also relaunched Road to Recovery, which gives cancer patients a free ride to and from treatment.

THE SCATTER JOY TPROJECT HE SCATTER JOY PROJECT

THE SHOPS ON THIRD

The Columbus Fashion Council, in partnership with the Columbus Downtown Development and IL Moda Brands, has led the development of Columbus' first fashion & retail district located downtown on Third Street. The shops on Third include: Alex Vinash, Encinas Designs, Joan Madison Couture, Xantha, White Canvas Designs, Danny Russo Home, The Frank Project Brands, and the Columbus Fashion Council Fashion Gallery. A grand opening of all stores and a boutique crawl will take place the evening of October 28, 2022.

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NEW FACES!

Since January, Besa has added nine new team members, including:

William Allen, Coordinator, Community Volunteer Engagement

Hallie Bawel, Coordinator, Corporate

Volunteer Engagement

Jessica Brewer, Coordinator, Corporate Volunteer Engagement

Angela Caliver, Executive Assistant

Josh Haspel, Manager, Product Support & Training

Sara Knight, Director, Marketing & Communications

Kelsey Mitchell, Coordinator, Corporate Volunteer Engagement

Colin Monteith, Coordinator, Community Engagement & Partnerships

Nora Yepez-Ornelas, Manager, Community Volunteer Engagement

Femergy® is excited to welcome Executive Board Member, Angelina Vega. Ms.Vega will be serving as our board secretary for the next two years.

The American Cancer Society welcomed:

Isabelle Castillo-Anderson, Senior Development Manager

Kevin Dooley, Director of Corporate Relations

Austin Cull, Cancer Support Strategic Partnerships Manager

Asegedech Kumnegere has joined SocialVentures as Director of Engagement and Impact.

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NEW FACES!

Communities In Schools of Ohio is pleased to welcome the following new staff to their Leadership Team:

Alyson Nobles, Regional Director of Programs & Partnerships - Northern Ohio

Hannah Booth, Regional Director of Programs & Partnerships Southwest Ohio

Nichole Goodman, Senior Director of Finance

Shelly Lewis, Chief Advancement Officer

My Very Own Blanket proudly brought on three new staff members, including:

Ramonda Majikas, Packing and Shipping Coordinator

Amy Deverson Roberts, Director of Outreach and Engagement

Pam Brown, Technology Coordinator

Last month, the Board of Trustees at St. Stephen's Community House welcomed their newest board member, Michael Doss.

Netcare Access recently welcomed two new Corporate Board members:

Jacqueline Doodley, Director of Peer Support, Lighthouse Behavioral Health Solutions

Matthew Herchik, WCMH-TV, NBC4

✅ Send us your milestones for inclusion in The Community Pulse, a monthly e-newsletter that reaches 50,000 young professionals and community leaders, at cypclub.com/pulse-form.

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CHARITY LISTINGS 2022

THE ALPHA GROUP

ESTABLISHED 1970

MISSION We will support, empower, and champion you on your path to independence and success. With four locations in Ohio (Delaware, Westerville, Dublin and Mansfield), The Alpha Group is able to serve more than 700 individuals with disabilities.

COMMUNITY PULSE The Alpha Group provides gainful employment, quality rehabilitation, and adult day support services to individuals with disabilities in 13 Ohio counties. Alpha is committed to the belief that people with disabilities have the same rights and responsibilities as all people; notably, the right to participate in their community. Services and supports that enhance and provide additional life choices to individuals should be accessible.

FOCUS AREA(S) Human Services

1000 Alpha Drive, Delaware, OH 43015 (740) 368

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AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN OHIO

ESTABLISHED1913

MISSIONToimprovethelivesofpeoplewith cancerandtheirfamiliesthroughadvocacy, research,andpatientsupport,toensure everyonehasanopportunitytoprevent, detect,treat,andsurvivecancer.

COMMUNITYPULSEInColumbus,the AmericanCancerSocietyfundsnearly$8 milliondollarsincancerresearchand thousandsofdollarsintransportationand lodginggrantstohelppatientsatlocal hospitals.Fromboardpositions,toevent committeemembershipsandjoiningourlocal fundraisingeventsasparticipants,donors,or volunteers,therearecountlesswaysyoucan fuelthefightagainstcancerandhelpcurrent patients righthereinourcommunity.

FOCUSAREA(S)Health&Wellness

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PO Box 42217, Cincinnati, OH 45242

227 2345 cancer.org

ESTABLISHED 2010 (launched in 2012)

MISSION Besa connects people with community through experiences that transform lives.

COMMUNITY PULSE Besa is a Columbus-based nonprofit dedicated to powering a wave of civic engagement that lifts us all. We fulfill critical needs by connecting people to community service. Every day, we make giving back easy— and transformative. Founded in 2012, Besa has forged partnerships with businesses, individuals, nonprofits and government institutions to mobilize people around community needs and curate projects that provide powerful, positive impact. Through philanthropic engagement strategies for businesses, meaningful volunteer opportunities for individuals and innovative collaborations with nonprofits, Besa builds authentic, purposeful relationships.

FOCUS AREA(S) Community Development

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966 S. High Street Columbus, OH 43206 (614) 363-2315 besa.org

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF CENTRAL OHIO

ESTABLISHED 1933

MISSION Our mission is to create and support one to one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.

COMMUNITY PULSE One to one matches between Bigs and Littles truly empower youth and strengthen communities. Professional staff from Big Brothers Big Sisters carefully build and support each match, and ensure it meets the strictest standards. We strive for matches that are not only safe and well suited to each child’s needs, but also harmonious and built to last. Big Brothers Big Sisters is the country’s largest evidence-based mentoring organization.

FOCUS AREA(S) Children, Human Services, Social Justice

BIRTHRIGHT OF COLUMBUS

1972

MISSION It is the right of every woman to give birth and the right of every child to be born.

COMMUNITY PULSE Birthright is a friend to any pregnant woman to help her throughout her pregnancy. The essence of Birthright is love. It is hard to be judgmental to anyone you love. Birthright is all volunteer. All services are free. Birthright is interdenominational.

FOCUS AREA(S) Human Services

CELEBRATING ONE

ESTABLISHED 2016

MISSION To encourage and empower families and individuals who are less fortunate and economically disadvantaged, who need guidance and financial aid to keep moving forward to good emotional, mental and financial health.

COMMUNITY PULSE Celebrating One provides emotional support and financial resources to enrich lives of those less fortunate, assisting families & individuals on their paths to keep moving forward. Providing resources, education and support will build a strong foundation to help them to achieve their goals and thrive. The organization provide encouragement and gifts to celebrate their milestones and achievements so that they don’t feel neglected nor forgotten.

FOCUS AREA(S) Human Services

8000 Walton Parkway, Suite 236 New Albany, OH 43054

2173

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CHARITY NEWSIES

ESTABLISHED 1907

MISSION The mission of Charity Newsies is that no child shall be kept out of school for lack of adequate clothing.

COMMUNITY PULSE Charity Newsies provides brand new clothing for kids from kindergarten through 12th grade who live in Franklin County to go to school. Each child receives six sets of underwear, six pairs of socks, a coat, three pairs of pants and three shirts (or school required uniforms) and a hat and gloves. All of the clothing is dress code compliant and, for schools requiring uniforms, we provide vouchers toward the purchase of uniforms.

FOCUS AREA(S) Human Services

4300 Indianola Avenue

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EARLY LEARNING CENTERS

1887

MISSION To help young learners develop, families succeed, and neighborhoods thrive.

COMMUNITY PULSE Columbus Early Learning Centers (CELC) provides affordable child care that makes it possible for parents to work or attend school, while children are cared for in education focused classrooms staffed by highly qualified early childhood teachers. CELC impacts the lives of more than 300 children enrolled annually in five highly rated center based programs. 1100-plus additional families are served through community-based programming such as home visits by early learning specialists and various wraparound services.

FOCUS AREA(S) Children, Education

COLUMBUS METROPOLITAN LIBRARY

ESTABLISHED 1989

MISSION Through innovative programs and positive relationships, CND empowers individuals to achieve their potential.

COMMUNITY PULSE In 1989, Community for New Direction (CND) began as a volunteer run program providing positive mentoring and prevention programming to high-risk youth. Too many kids were dropping out of high school and turning to drugs, alcohol, gang activities and crime. Today, CND also works with the City of Columbus as a partner in the APPS violence intervention and provides outpatient mental health and substance use disorder treatment services for adults, which includes an all male Recovery House.

FOCUS AREA(S) Children, Health & Wellness, Human Services

2323 W Fifth Ave, Suite 160 Columbus, OH 43204 (614) 272-1464

CML has 23 locations throughout central Ohio Find them at columbuslibrary.org/locations columbuslibrary.org

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COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS OF OHIO

ESTABLISHED 1993

MISSION At Communities In Schools® (CIS™), we surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.

COMMUNITY PULSE Communities In Schools (CIS) is the nation’s leading organization dedicated to empowering at-risk students to stay in school and on a path to a brighter future. Often, a student's personal circumstances disrupt their chances at success even before they enter the school building. Whether it's food, school supplies, health care, counseling, academic assistance or a positive role model, Communities In Schools is there to help.

FOCUS AREA(S) Children, Education, Human Services

Busch Blvd, Suite 105 Columbus, OH 43229

268 2472 ciskids.org

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DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OF CENTRAL OHIO (DSACO)

ESTABLISHED 1984

MISSION We exist to support families, promote community involvement, and encourage a lifetime of opportunities for people with Down syndrome.

COMMUNITY PULSE Over the arc of a lifetime, starting from diagnosis and along every step of the way, DSACO is there to help. Our robust services provide a broad spectrum of opportunities for those in the Down syndrome community, no matter who you are.

FOCUS AREA(S) Children, Education, Health & Wellness, Human Services

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EXTRA MYLE INTERNATIONAL

ESTABLISHED 2020

MISSION Provide experiences to underprivileged youth and their families to connect them to the power of arts and culture.

COMMUNITY PULSE MYLE co-founders

Kevin and Sherry Lloyd credit their exposure to arts, culture, and travel as young adults, for showing them the power of these experiences which opened their eyes to a broader world, one of possibilities and opportunities. Extra MYLE aims to expose and educate at least 25,000 inner-city, socioeconomically disadvantaged youth (between K-12) and their families through arts, culture, travel, and entertainment by 2025.

FOCUS AREA(S) Arts & Culture, Children

FASHION WEEK COLUMBUS

ESTABLISHED 2010

MISSION Fashion Week Columbus is the flagship program of the Columbus Fashion Council, a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide scholarships to fashion design students and a platform for local & emerging fashion designers.

COMMUNITY PULSE Fashion Week Columbus is October 9-15, 2022 celebrating 13 years of making an impact in our fashion community and continuing to put fashion at the forefront of our city's culture. The organization has been developing Central Ohio's fashion eco system since 2010, making Columbus Ohio one of the top cities to grow a fashion-related small business.

FOCUS AREA(S) Arts & Culture, Fashion

FEMERGY

ESTABLISHED 2014

MISSION Femergy® is a non-profit organization that provides girls and women with the resources, tools, and skills they need to combat and overcome gender barriers in public and private spheres.

COMMUNITY PULSE Our holistic programs enhance girls and women in the areas of Education, Leadership, Health, and Wellness by encouraging them to explore and celebrate their strengths, their voices, who they are today, and who they will become in the future.

FOCUS AREA(S) Community Development, Education, Health & Wellness, Human Services

Worth Ave Space #l-115

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FURNITURE BANK OF CENTRAL OHIO

ESTABLISHED1998

MISSIONToreducetheimpactofpovertyby providingfurnituretocentralOhiofamiliesand individualsstrugglingwithseverelifechallenges. Communitycollaborationsandresourcesharing makethispossibleonanongoingbasis.

COMMUNITYPULSESince1998,wehavebeen dedicatedtoreducingtheimpactofpovertyby providingessentialfurnituretolocalfamiliesand individualsstrugglingwithseverelifechallenges.On average,weprovideessentialfurnitureto3,300 familiesayear,collectingfurnituredonationsfrom individualsandbusinessesaroundColumbus.We thenconnectwithafamilyinneedthroughoneof ourreferringagencies.Soonafter,afamilycomesto theFurnitureBanktohandpick5-20piecesof furniturefortheirhome.

FOCUSAREA(S)HumanServices

PO Box 164206, Columbus, OH 43216 (614) 272-9544 furniturebankcoh.org

I T Y P U L S E C O L U

GIRLS ON THE RUN CENTRAL OHIO

ESTABLISHED 2008

MISSION Girls on the Run inspires girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates movement.

COMMUNITYPULSEGirlsontheRunCentralOhio isatransformationalphysicalactivity-basedpositive youthdevelopmentprogramforgirlsin3rd-8thgrade. Westrengthengirlssocialemotionallearningthrough dynamicinteractivelessonsandmovementthrough our20-lessoncurriculum,whichcombinestrainingfor a5Keventwithlessonsthatinspiregirlstobecome independentthinkers,enhancetheirproblem solving skillsandmakehealthydecisions.Thisisaccomplished throughanactivecollaborationwithgirls,their families,schools,volunteersandcommunity.

FOCUSAREA(S)Children,Education,Health& Wellness,HumanServices

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GREATER COLUMBUS ARTS COUNCIL

ESTABLISHED1973

MISSIONTosupportandadvancetheartsand culturalfabricofColumbus.

COMMUNITYPULSETheArtsCouncilprovides financialsupporttoartistsandartsorganizations withpublicly-fundedgrants,fellowshipsandcash awardsfromtheirprivatelyfundedendowment. Theyadvancetheartswithsupportthroughthe ArtMakesColumbus/ColumbusMakesArt citywidemarketingcampaign,includinganevents calendar,artistdirectory,public-artdatabaseand more.Theyproducetwomajorartseventseach year:theColumbusArtsFestivalathree-day,free eventthatfeaturesvisual&performingartsand theCommunityArtsPartnershipAwardsthat celebratethecontributionsofindividuals& businessestotheartsinColumbus.

FOCUSAREA(S)Arts&Culture,Education

I T Y P U L S E C O L U M B U S

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF COLUMBUS

ESTABLISHED 1923

MISSION Committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

COMMUNITY PULSE The Junior League of Columbus is part of a network of 295 Junior Leagues across the globe. We are a learning organization dedicated to; promoting voluntarism through our Quick Impact opportunities, developing the potential of women through our hands-on training through placements, and improving communities through projects and programs developed by our organization. Our programs included Kelton House Museum & Garden, Adopt-aBackpack for Children (ABC) Project, and Bridging the G.A.P.

FOCUS AREA(S) Arts & Culture, Community Development, Education

C I T Y P U L S E C O L U M

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586 E Town St Columbus, OH 43215

2717 jlcolumbus.org

MARYHAVEN

ESTABLISHED 1953

MISSION Maryhaven helps individuals and families lead healthy lives free from addiction and mental illness by providing education, treatment and support.

COMMUNITY PULSE Maryhaven is Central Ohio’s largest and most comprehensive behavioral health services provider specializing in addiction recovery. Our expert clinicians and counselors have served more than 300,000 men, women and adolescents since 1953. We carefully follow a holistic approach to personal health and wellness that focuses on each patient’s specific individual physical and mental health needs that enable him or her to live a healthy and productive life.

FOCUS AREA(S) Health & Wellness, Human Services

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MY VERY OWN BLANKET

ESTABLISHED 1999

MISSION My Very Own Blanket is dedicated to warming the heart of every child in the foster care system and children in need with a blanket, to give them a feeling of comfort, security and most of all, a SMILE. Each blanket is personalized with the child’s name, a tradition for My Very Own Blanket since 1999.

COMMUNITY PULSE My Very Own Blanket is based in Westerville, but we have an international presence. We exist due to the kindness of our "Blanket Angels" - individuals, students, seniors, faith based & business groups who make blankets for a child they will never meet, who deserves to be loved. From 1999's first blanket, to helping 30,000 children in 2022, Jessica’s vision still holds true: "When we all do a little, together we can accomplish a lot.”

FOCUS AREA(S) Children, Human Services, International

T

U

W. Main Street

NETCARE ACCESS

ESTABLISHED 1972

MISSION We help people in a mental health or substance use crisis. We help the courts and community agencies by providing professional evaluations and assessments for those that need them.

COMMUNITY PULSE Netcare Access is Franklin County’s 24-hour mental health and substance abuse crisis intervention and assessment services for adults and those with developmental disabilities. We are a part of the county’s Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health (ADAMH) system, providing referrals to other ADAMH agencies for treatment services.

FOCUS AREA(S) Health & Wellness, Human Services

199 S Central Ave Columbus, OH 43223

276 2273 netcareaccess.org

C I T Y P U L S E C O L U M B U S C O

RACE FOR HOPE FOR COLORECTAL CANCER

ESTABLISHED 2004

MISSION To raise awareness about colorectal cancer.

COMMUNITY PULSE Working together, Race for Hope raises awareness about young onset colorectal cancer. Our focus is to educate on the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer, especially in the under 50 population. In a recent JAMA publication, researchers predict, "For the age group 2049, colorectal cancer was estimated to become the leading cause of cancer related deaths by 2030. Together we can make a difference in the fight to stop colorectal cancer. There is always hope.

FOCUS AREA(S) Health & Wellness

T Y P U L S E C O L U

SAM'S FANS

ESTABLISHED 2015

MISSION Sam's Fans is dedicated to supporting and enhancing Music and Art Therapy programs for seriously ill children and their families.

COMMUNITY PULSE Sam's Fans serves children and families all over Ohio with unique programs in every children's hospital in the state. Since its inception in 2015 we have provided music and art therapy services to more than 16,000 children. Sam's Fans was created by the family of Samantha McCarthy to honor her life and legacy.

FOCUS AREA(S) Children, Health & Wellness

THE SCATTER JOY PROJECT

ESTABLISHED 2021

MISSION To make the world a more compassionate, kind, and selfless place.

COMMUNITY PULSE The Scatter Joy Project is a 501(c) non-profit that fights for mental health and provides hope and help for those in the midst of personal struggle. Along with our crisis text line, resources, workshops and events, we also create opportunities to activate the community to act in more compassionate, kind, and selfless ways–to scatter joy. We are currently raising money to launch a mental health care scholarship program with the goal to cover the cost of therapy and counseling for those in need.

FOCUS AREA(S) Arts & Culture, Community Development, Health & Wellness, Human Services

I T Y P U L S E C O L U M B U S C O

T Y W I D E C H A R I T Y G U I D E / F

SOCIALVENTURES

ESTABLISHED2009

MISSIONSocialVenturesadvancesremarkably goodbusinesses—businessesthatintentionally integratesocialimpactasanon negotiable componentoftheirbusinessmodel. SocialVenturessupportsthesenonprofitandforprofitbusinessessothatentrepreneurs, consumersandbeneficiariesoftheirmission drivenendeavorsareallbetterpositionedto prosper.

COMMUNITYPULSESocialVenturescreates andconnectscommunityresourcestobusinesses thatcreatesocialimpact.SocialVentures advocatesfor,develops,andfundsbusinesses thataddresssocialproblemsinourcommunity. Theyofferresources,programs,acceleratorson socialenterpriseandactsasaprimarynetwork forsocialenterpriseactivityinCentralOhio.

FOCUSAREA(S)CommunityDevelopment, SocialJustice

C I T Y P U L S E C O L U M B U S C

470 W. Broad Street #12 Columbus, OH 43215 (614) 314-3855 socialventurescbus.com

ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL

ESTABLISHED2005

MISSIONToadvancecures,andmeansof prevention,forpediatriccatastrophicdiseases throughresearchandtreatment.Consistentwith thevisionofourfounderDannyThomas,nochildis deniedtreatmentbasedonrace,religionora family'sabilitytopay.

COMMUNITYPULSESt.JudeChildren’sResearch Hospitalisleadingthewaytheworldunderstands, treatsanddefeatschildhoodcancerandotherlifethreateningdiseases.Familiesneverreceiveabill fromSt.Judefortreatment,travel,housingorfood— becausealltheyshouldworryaboutishelpingtheir childlive.Bysharingourknowledgefreelyand exchangingideasopenly,we’reinspiringmore collaborationbetweendoctorsandresearchers worldwide,and,asaresult,providingmore lifesavingtreatmentsforchildreneverywhere.

FOCUSAREA(S)Children,Health&Wellness

Columbus, OH 43212

stjude.org

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STUDENT SUCCESS STORES

ESTABLISHED 2015

MISSION Helping students succeed in school by providing a free, anonymous place to shop for items that meet their basic needs.

COMMUNITY PULSE Student Success Stores exists to meet the basic needs of students in grades 6-12 from economically disadvantaged communities and to remove barriers to learning that can be created when life necessities are unavailable. Our work is designed with a deliberate focus on providing a foundation for the students we serve that leads to successful outcomes in life. We partner with school counselors, administrators, teachers, and non profits to open our stores in schools serving students living in poverty

FOCUS AREA(S) Children, Community Development

P.O. Box 14136 Columbus, OH 43214

THINK MAKE LIVE YOUTH

ESTABLISHED 2015

MISSION To provide opportunities for youth by inspiring action.

COMMUNITY PULSE Think Make Live Youth started off as a twenty minute PowerPoint presented by Terry Green for a senior humanities class at The Ohio State University. The organization now offers developmental leadership programs and community service initiatives for youth and young adults between the ages 14 21 years old. Think Make Live Youth provides mentorship, community engagement and leadership development training through monthly empowerment programs and annual community events.

FOCUS AREA(S) Children, Education, Social Justice

PO Box 83131 Columbus, OH 43203 (614) 815-9352 tmlyouth.org

WOMEN FOR ECONOMIC AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT (WELD)

ESTABLISHED2003

MISSION WELDdevelopsandadvances women’sleadershiptostrengthentheeconomic prosperityofthecommunitiesitserves.

COMMUNITYPULSEAsamembership-based nonprofit,WELDprovidesmeaningful opportunitiesforwomentobuildstrong communityconnectionswhilepayingforward theirsuccess.Theseconnectionsfosternew careersandbusinessbuildingopportunitiesand helpwomenfindmentorsandsponsors.We providewomenwithspecifictoolstoenhance theirindividualeconomicstatusandbuild programs,eventsandacommunitytosupport femaleleadershipdevelopmentandbusiness growth,donatingscholarshipstowomen strivingtowardseconomicindependence.

FOCUSAREA(S)Associations,Professional Development/Leadership

C I T Y P U L S E

N. State Street, #398 Westerville, OH 43082

890 2586 weldusa.org

YMCA OF CENTRAL OHIO

ESTABLISHED 1855

MISSION To serve the whole community through programs expressing Judeo Christian principles that build a healthy spirit, mind and body.

COMMUNITY PULSE The YMCA of Central Ohio is part of the very fabric of the communities it serves. Childcare, residential services, programs for persons with disabilities and older adults, camp, teen programs and many others have all carved their place in history to sustain and embody the mission of the YMCA of Central Ohio. With optimism, hope, compassion and commitment, YMCA leaders continue to prepare for the next 150 years in the face of tumultuous times and a historically comparative need for YMCA programs and services.

FOCUS AREA(S) Children, Community Development, Education, Health & Wellness, Human Services

With 13 locations throughout central Ohio, there's always a YMCA near you. Administration: 1907 Leonard Ave Columbus, OH 43219 (614) 389 4409 ymcacolumbus.org

T Y P U L S E C O L U M

Andrea Andrea Wilkins Wilkins

"The charity that I primarily support is Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio. I am honored to be currently chairing Paint the Town Center Red, which is an event for 200 women at Easton Town Center that typically raises over $100,000. I’ve been volunteering at Ronald McDonald House for about 10 years and am passionate about helping families stay close to their children who are battling a sickness."

ReadAndrea'sfullinterviewat citypulsecolumbus.com/people

Brittany Brittany Stricklen-Hillyard Stricklen-Hillyard

"Throughout my career, I have always sought out opportunities that allow me to make a difference and create change in my community. I have had the privilege of working with a multitude of nonprofit organizations that provide human services in Columbus. Fortunately, I have been able to grow in my fundraising career at Star House to support the mission and youth experiencing homelessness in our community."

Photo courtesy of Brittany Stricklen-Hillyard

CLASSOF2022

Brooke Brooke Arent Arent

" I only wanted to be a medical doctor when I was little. I was fascinated with science and medicine. I am glad I became a health scientist though and a business leader. It was drilled into me as a child I could only do one thing in my life, but that was totally wrong. It’s a relief that I have more than one thing to fall back if I ever need."

ReadBrooke'sfullinterviewat citypulsecolumbus.com/people

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Cheyenne Cheyenne Lenhart Lenhart

"I grew up in small town Ohio but had an itching to get out and learn more, see more, do more. I came to Columbus for college at Ohio State University where I took a research position my junior year working with youth experiencing homelessness and I fell in love, but I wanted to do more."

ReadCheyenne'sfullinterviewat citypulsecolumbus.com/people

I T Y P U L S E C O L U M B U S C

Chris Chris Moscato Moscato

"My career, like many, has been a long-winding path with many obstacles and barriers to overcome... Since joining Mid Ohio Food Collective I have been the project manager for multiple projects and have most recently been proud to work with the Mid-Ohio Farm team on achieving their long term vision for a sustainable, local food supply."

OhioFoodCollective

Derek Derek Wholihan Wholihan

"My mother has always been my number one cheerleader. She raised my sister and I all by herself and she always taught me to stand up for myself, chase my dreams, and be true to who I am. Other than my mother, I have always tried to surround myself with friends who lift me up and guide me in the right direction."

ReadDerek'sfullinterviewat citypulsecolumbus.com/people

Donte Donte Cook Cook

"I’m born and raised in the North Linden area. I began my journey in app startups back in 2013 where I launched my first app, Pocket Meter.

Now, nine years later I’m still at it, recently launching my second app (which is a game called “Curbball”). I’m truly passionate & driven by my love for my community and creating positive impact in those underserved communities."

ReadDonte'sfullinterviewat citypulsecolumbus.com/people

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ErikaGullick ErikaGullick

"I started cheer at just three years old. My cheer journey spans every level, from little league to competitive all star, collegiate and professional. After cheering at The Ohio State University for four years as an undergraduate, I went on to join the coaching staff at North Carolina State as the first non alumni assistant coach and eventually went on to cheer professionally for the Columbus Destroyers before opening The Cheer Institute in December of 2015."

Photo courtesy of Erika Gullick

Ernest Ernest

LevertJr.

"Every day is an opportunity to re-align my actions with my values and to use my gifts to contribute to the creation of a world in which everyone has what they need, some of what they want, operating in abundance, wisdom, and love so that we can all thrive."

citypulsecolumbus.com/people

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Esther Esther Salata Salata

"I am passionate about educating others on why it’s important to protect and conserve our environment. Besides my education and career, my path also includes lots of mosquito bites. I wanted to treat the entire backyard for the problem without using harsh chemicals. After difficulty finding a safe and natural solution in our local hardware stores, we decided to create our own product that not only kept us safe but also kept birds, bees, and our dog Benny safe, hence Benesafe."

ReadEsther'sfullinterviewat citypulsecolumbus.com/people

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Hilary Hilary Stone Stone

"Over the course of my career, I’ve worked at five nonprofits in four states across three regions of the United States. Through those moves, I made a lot of mistakes and learned a lot of lessons. My strengths grew from those challenges. I’m deeply curious, unencumbered by the status quo, and fueled by the magic that occurs when the right ideas, people, and resources are connected at the right time."

ReadHilary'sfullinterviewat citypulsecolumbus.com/people

Jackie Jackie Merkle Merkle

"At the age of three, I famously told my mom that I wanted to be a tightrope walker. I have no idea where I got that from, but I am so glad my career path took me somewhere else! ...

Receiving this award furthers my resolve to advance the work of diversity, equity, and inclusion and solidifies the important role I will continue to play in advancing inclusion, belonging, and wellbeing for all in the Columbus area."

ReadJackie'sfullinterviewat citypulsecolumbus.com/people

Jake Jake Marrah Marrah

"Since 2014, I’ve had the absolute privilege of working for a non-profit organization now known as the Columbus Dream Center... The best is yet to come. Columbus is growing and has so much in store for its future. If you are not already on the Cbus train then it's time to jump onboard, because you won’t want to miss what is next!"

ReadJake'sfullinterviewat citypulsecolumbus.com/people

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Jesse Jesse Taylor Taylor

"I love the practice of law, both in the practice’s intellectual problems and their solutions. A job will never be perfect, and even the best ones come with moments that are utterly maddening–but you ’ re doing the right thing for you if you ’ re satisfied and enriched when you can resolve those moments."

ReadJesse'sfullinterviewat citypulsecolumbus.com/people

Keira Keira Chatman Chatman

"I want to make an impact. An impact in the community, the neighborhood I grew up in, and with my future family. I recently invested in a project that will enable me to use practically every aspect of my professional background, and I’m thrilled to see where it will lead me. I like to develop plans on a yearly basis so that I can be flexible and adapt as my

flow."

ReadKeira'sfullinterviewat citypulsecolumbus.com/people

Lexi Lexi

Campbell Campbell

" I am extremely surprised and honored to be chosen for the Next Up Columbus award! Being young in my career, I know I still have room to grow and continue to make an impact on what I have started. Being chosen for the Next Up Columbus award will help connect me with other passionate, bright individuals in Columbus and build a future for other young professionals."

ReadLexi'sfullinterviewat citypulsecolumbus.com/people

LoLo

"The pulse of Columbus is US. It’s us everyday people working in our own individual lanes making to make life more meaningful and fulfilling for our community and generations to come. Whether you are an artist, a foodie, a tech wiz, an entrepreneur or politician, we are all working to do our part to make this life the best it can be for every single person."

ReadLoLo'sfullinterviewat citypulsecolumbus.com/people

Niyah Niyah Walters Walters

"Stay curious and teachable. There is always more to learn. Separate your work from your self worth, no matter the mistake you are and will always be worthy. In the highly competitive environment known as law school, it's very easy to take all your failures in school to heart as a part of your inherent value as a person. This serves as a reminder that we are so much more than the things that we do. Your best will always be good enough."

citypulsecolumbus.com/people

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Gamble Gamble

"I am a bit of a podcast junkie. I really enjoy many of the national journalism pods like The Daily, The Post Reports, The Journal, and the entire NPR line-up (Up First, Code Switch, & Consider This). However, I do have a ton of pods that keep me in tune with Black and Hip-Hop culture like Into America, Stuck with Damon Young, Diversifying, and Joe Budden Podcast. Lastly, for my locals, I love Columbus Can’t Wait, What We Talking ‘Bout, Gravity, Small Joys, and shameless plug Circle Time, whose longawaited 3rd Season is coming soon."

ReadPJ'sfullinterviewat citypulsecolumbus.com/people

Rena Rena Shak Shak

"I chose a career in pubic service because I wanted to be able to help make life better for people as a part of my job. I have been very intentional in choosing employment paths that allow me to help create positive change for people. That is what gets me up in the morning and gets me through the week. I know that I get to make a difference in our community through my work and I feel blessed to be able to do that."

ReadRena'sfullinterviewat citypulsecolumbus.com/people

Yasmeen Yasmeen Quadri Quadri

"When I ask people why they volunteer, almost everyone has a memory that they pinpoint as the key moment they found meaning in service... My interest in service took on many different forms as I grew up, with organizing trips to the Ronald McDonald House in middle school, fundraising for the Leukemia Lymphoma organization in high school, and ultimately creating an app to connect Ohio State students to service organizations in college."

ReadYasmeen'sfullinterviewat citypulsecolumbus.com/people

ZeeniaKaul ZeeniaKaul

"ReHevaBiosciencesistransformingcancer treatmentintodiseasemanagementbybringingnew, plant-derivedcancerdrugstomarket.My biopharmaceuticalstartupisbasedonmorethan20 yearsofresearchbymyparents,Dr.RenuWadhwa andDr.SunilKaul,bothacclaimedmolecular biologists.Growingup,Isawmyparents’devotionto theirresearch—overtime,asmalldiscoveryledto yearsofstudy,whichresultedintheidentificationofa uniqueseedlinefromacommonplantthatisselective inkillingcancercellswhileleavingnormalonesalone."

Photo courtesy of Zeenia Kaul

VOLUNTEER VOICES

P O W E R E D B Y

Besa connects people with community through experiences that transform lives. They make giving back easy and transformative to power a wave of civic engagement that lifts us all. Since 2012, Besa has completed more than 10,000 volunteer projects generating over $50 million in community impact.

"I love volunteering and taking the time out of my day to help others."

- Jayson Woody, Allstate Insurance (and Besa volunteer)

"I volunteer to give back to the community I love, promote inclusivity and be the change I want to see in the world."

- Jody Ganschinietz, Nationwide Children's Hospital (and Besa volunteer)

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VOLUNTEER VOICES

P O W E R E D B Y

"I volunteer to give back to my community."

Jenifur Godfrey, Nationwide Insurance (and Besa volunteer)

"My desire to volunteer is rooted in my faith in Jesus. 1 John 4:11 'Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.'"

- Jared French, CoverMyMeds (and Besa volunteer)

"Knowing that I am making a positive impact in people's lives makes me happy!"

- Lauren Ernst, VS&Co (and Besa volunteer)

CITY PULSE