Year-End Giving, Dec. 13, 2024 by Cleveland Jewish Publication Company

END-OF-YEAR GIVING

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Make charitable donations part of your holiday gifting

STEVE MARK

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And, with Chanukah arriving later than usual this year, there could be a volume of procrastinators waiting even longer to decide on holiday gifts.

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As we embrace the season of giving, let's reflect on the values of peace and goodwill. This time is about kindness and generosity, reaching out to those in need, and spreading joy. As we enter the new year, let’s commit to fostering compassion and unity, creating lasting positivity that extends well beyond the holidays.

As we embrace the season of giving, let's reflect on the values of peace and goodwill. This time is about kindness and generosity, reaching out to those in need, and spreading joy As we enter the new year, let’s commit to fostering compassion and unity, creating lasting positivity that extends well beyond the holidays.

Enter the increasing practice of making charitable donations as holiday gifts, and one of the multitude of reasons why charitable donations overall are greater during the holidays than any other time of year.

size of gifts varies from year to year. Overall, our donations increase by approximately 50% from October to December.”

Many charities rely on the kick-start from Giving Tuesday, which takes place on the Tuesday after anksgiving.

Andrea Ponikvar, director of advancement of the Cleveland Zoological Society, and Tom Royer, president and CEO of Beech Brook in Gar eld Heights, o ered observations on the trend of donations as gifts to others.

“ e holiday season accounts for just over 40% of our general operating support revenue,” Ponikvar said. “November and December are also very important months for zoo membership sales, with many people purchasing memberships for holiday gifts.

“Our Giving Tuesday campaign centers around our annual toy drive which bene ts the children and families we serve throughout the year,” Royer said. “Our goal is that every child we serve receives a gift for the holiday season.”

e season of giving is crucial to the likes of the Zoological Society.

ese two months make up nearly 20% of annual membership revenue. We are so grateful to our donors and members who make charitable donations over the holidays to set us up for success in the new year.”

Fidelity Charitable reports that 59% of Americans would rather forsake a gift for themselves and instead receive a donation to charity on their behalf.

“Our holiday gifts come in both in-kind (physical items, such as toys) and monetary donations,” Royer said. “ e number and

“The holiday season accounts for just over 40% of our general operating support revenue.”

Andrea Ponikvar Cleveland Zoological Society

“Our ZooFund campaign is a great way for anyone to support the Zoo Society during the season of giving,” said Ponikvar. “ is campaign secures critical operating support for the Zoo Society, empowering our team to focus its e orts on raising funds for the zoo’s nationally recognized programs in animal care and well-being, science education and international wildlife conservation.”

Whether Clevelanders employ charitable donations as holiday gifts or not, there is little doubt that the holiday season is vital to many nonpro ts.

“Year-end donations are more critical than ever in helping Beech Brook achieve our charitable goals,” Royer said. “ is time of year is pivotal for us to secure the funding necessary to sustain and expand our services into the new year. Year-end gifts en-able Beech Brook to expand its impact, innovate new programs, and respond swiftly to emerging needs in the community.”

Ponikvar said, “Holiday giving season is key to reaching our fundraising goals. Whether it’s through a donation to ZooFund, a gift of appreciated stock before the end of the year, a zoo membership, or supporting one of our other donor programs, the generosity of our friends and donors helps us ensure that the zoo and the community it serves continue to thrive.”

Steve Mark is a freelance journalist.

Ponikvar Royer

Year-end giving: A critical lifeline for nonprofits

STEVE MARK

According to USA Facts, there are 1.97 million nonpro ts in the U.S. All of them want and need your nancial support in some form, so competition in this area is erce.

Traci Felder, chief philanthropy o cer at the Mandel Jewish Community Center of Cleveland, and Dayan Gross, director of development at the Maltz Museum, both in Beachwood, discussed strategies for year-end giving.

“Holiday giving typically represents a signi cant portion of charitable contributions for many nonpro t organizations,” Gross said. “At the Maltz Museum, year-end donations, particularly during December, often account for a notable percentage of our annual appeal contributions. is trend aligns with the broader philanthropic landscape, where nearly 30% of donations for our annual appeal are made in December.”

Felder noted that in the case of the Mandel Jewish Community Center of Cleveland, “Based on the nature of our business, being a community center with year-round programming, donors give throughout the year versus just the holiday season.

“We begin planning our end-of-year campaign in October to prepare for the last three days of the calendar year, which are typically the largest giving days for nonpro ts,” she said.

Gross said, “End-of-year donations are critical to meeting the museum’s annual fundraising goals.

ese funds often provide the nal boost to reach nancial targets and support upcoming initiatives for the new scal year. ey also help close the gap on any unmet goals for special exhibitions or educational programs. Without strong holiday giving, it would be challenging to sustain core operations and expand outreach e orts.”

When considering a way to funnel funds to a charity, many options exist.

“For most people, monetary donations are one of the simplest ways to give,” Felder pointed out. “However, donating stocks and securities is also an option. Additionally, individuals can increase their contributions by using their company’s matching gift program, if available. Running a fun, year-end or holiday-themed social media campaign is a creative way to engage with supporters during the busy giving season. However, I believe it is critically important to cultivate relationships all year round so that individuals and families feel motivated to support the organization at any time.”

Gross suggested these particular avenues:

• Direct contributions: “Cash or online donations remain the most e cient and impactful way to support nonpro ts.”

• Donor-Advised Funds: “ ese allow donors to make charitable contributions with tax advantages.”

• Securities: “Gifts of appreciated stock can provide donors with signi cant tax bene ts.”

• Employer matching gifts: “Many companies match employee donations, e ectively doubling the impact.”

• Planned gifts: “Including the organization in your will or estate planning creates a lasting legacy.”

City Mission offering ‘cold weather overflow’

As temperatures dip to near freezing, e City Mission is o ering cold weather over ow - meaning any man, woman or child seeking safe shelter is welcome in the facility.

“During temperatures like this, it really is a matter of life and death,” e City Mission CEO Linda Uveges said in a news release. “We have received an increasing number of calls from women living in cars with their children. We are here to provide safe, warm shelter for those with nowhere to go.”

Laura’s Home Women’s Crisis Center is also o ering safety from the cold for women and children, the release said.

“It is critical during these dangerous temperatures that we continue to o er safe shelter, digni ed and compassionate care to all who come to our doors,” Michael Hahn, COO of e City Mission, said in the release.

Additionally, e City Mission’s Rothstein Village Transitional Housing is set to open soon, according to the release, which will provide housing for 16 families on the Laura’s Home campus.

“Laura’s Home has been completely lled for a decade,” Uveges said in the release. “We receive 38 calls a day from women and children seeking safe shelter. is new Rothstein Village

Transitional Housing comes at a pivotal time as family homelessness has increased 16%.” Rothstein Village Transitional Housing for Families is supported by a $1.5 million gift agreement from Jackie and Dr. Fred Rothstein.

To read more about the Rothstein’s gift and The City Mission’s Rothstein Village Transitional Housing for Families,, visit shorturl.at/yYtHz

Compassionately serving pregnant and parenting women with children under 5 by providing transitional housing with programs and services to move them from poverty to prosperity.

Steve Mark is a freelance journalist.

Felder

Gross

Dr. Fred and Jackie Rothstein | Submitted photo

Year-end donations support charities and offer tax benefits

STEVE MARK

While charitable giving is, no doubt, from the heart, contributions at year’s end, before the new year begins, is simple: for many, there are significant tax ramifications. Often, IRS deductions are at stake for those who itemize their filings.

Tara Camera, executive director of Greater Cleveland Fisher House, Peggy Sobul, chief development officer at Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity, and Aristea

Tzouloufis, chief development officer at the Ronald McDonald House of Northeast Ohio, shared tips on how giving – even as late as 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 31 – can benefit the donor as well as the intended charity.

“Year-end giving benefits recipients in so many ways, but it also does for donors,” Camera said. “One, of course, is tax incentives. Donations made by Dec. 31 are eligible for tax deductions on a donor’s current year’s tax return, helping them reduce their taxable income.”

Tzouloufis said, “In the spirit of giving,

donors will sometimes donate as a ‘gift’ or ‘in honor’ of a loved one. This is a wonderful idea for those people in your life ‘who have everything.’ It also allows for the donor to engage their loved ones with their favorite charities. There is also a tax benefit (obviously).”

Sobul said, “When a donor makes a yearend gift of cash or appreciated securities, there may be a tax benefit for them. It is best for a donor to talk with a tax professional to see if their donations would provide such a benefit. There are also benefits associated with making qualified charitable distributions from their IRA if they are 70½ or older. Many organizations also have giving societies which qualify donors for benefits from the organization with certain levels of gifts.”

Knowing how important such deductions can be for an individual – and how critical the financial assistance is for each organization, there are serious strategies in play.

time to donate stock versus a cash donation, or to make a qualified charitable distribution through your IRA or other retirement investment account.”

Sobul expanded on the frequently-used tax advantages:

“A donor can utilize a transfer of appreciated securities to make a larger gift than may be possible with available discretionary funds. Normally, funds that are distributed from a traditional IRA are includible in a donor’s taxable income, which is likely to increase their overall tax burden.

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“A significant percentage of our revenue is donated in December,” Tzouloufis said. “This support is crucial for our day-to-day operations as we care for families with an ill or injured child. Our year-end appeal features the Nedley family. The Nedleys stayed with us while their son, Carter, was in treatment. Over the years, they have become donors, ambassadors and our friends. They are very much a part of our RMHC NEO family.”

“However, qualified charitable donations are an exception to this rule – funds go directly from their IRA to their chosen charitable organization without going to the donor first, thereby lowering their adjusted gross income and effectively reducing their income taxes.

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Sobul said, “Since over a quarter of our individual giving comes in this time of year, they (donors) play a vital role for us. They not only help us to end the year strong, but also help to provide a solid foundation for our work in 2025. Greater Cleveland Habitat does a year-end giving campaign. We work in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity International to reach out to our previous donors, current donors, and volunteers.”

“QCDs can also satisfy a donor’s required minimum distributions that they must withdraw annually from their traditional IRA once they reach 73 years old to avoid a tax penalty.”

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Despite the financial benefits involved, Camera offered this perspective: “‘Giving’ looks different for everyone, but it all combines together to create an amazing impact for those who have sacrificed so much for all of us. Donating also helps foster a sense of giving back to your community, which makes things better for everyone within it, the donor included, and regardless of age. It also creates a stronger bond among families when they focus on a common interest and cause.

Camera said, “Throughout the year, we try to find various ways to reach potential donors – through social media, fundraisers and community outreach opportunities, for example. Like most organizations, we focus on Giving Tuesday during this time of year. We just wrapped up our social media campaign.”

There are many ways to contribute and many strategies for each end-of-year donor.

“And, as it’s the season of giving, some people start to think of how they can spread holiday joy, to help others outside of their family and friends, in the spirit of giving back.”

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“There are a variety of ways to give,” Tzouloufis said. “You can donate online or mail in a donation. This is also a fantastic

Steve Mark is a freelance journalist.

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Inspire family giving through Jewish holidays, traditions

MINDEE FREDMAN

Special to the CJN

Holidays are often a time of reflecting, sharing gratitude, making memories and coming together as a family. The spirit of giving that is central to the holidays can inspire conversations about tzedakah (charity), tikkun olam (repairing the world), and gemilut chasadim (acts of loving kindness). These meaningful conversations can create a space where charitable intentions can be nurtured, celebrated and transmitted to the next generation. Have you considered using this special time as an opportunity to engage in conversations about Jewish values and philanthropy?

Discussing multigenerational family philanthropy can instill a sense of collective purpose, deepen understanding and lead to greater respect among family members. As you approach the upcoming holidays together, here are some ideas to get these conversations started:

INTRODUCE FAMILY PHILANTHROPY EARLY

Start early. Begin discussions of tzedakah and giving when children are young. Consider setting up a family tzedakah box where everyone contributes to the giving and the recipient.

MODEL GENEROSITY AND TZEDAKAH

Be a role model and example by involving the younger generation in your own charitable acts – whether that is volunteering, engaging in a hands-on activity, donating, or planning and attending nonpro t events.

Cleveland Museum of Natural History receives $350K grant from National Endowment for Humanities

e Cleveland Museum of Natural History was recently awarded a $350,000 grant from the National Endowment for Humanities to support the sustainable preservation of the museum’s humanities collection, including anthropology, ne arts, rare books collections and archives.

e project, called “Ensuring the Sustainable Preservation of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History’s Humanities Collection,” intends to increase energy e ciency and help the museum work towards its environmental sustainability goals. e grant is the largest NEH grant the museum has ever received, and its rst since 1986.

e museum’s humanities collections include around 15,000 objects within the cultural anthropology department ranging from the modern date to over 6,000 years ago, as well as 7,000 objects in the ne arts collection. Additionally, the rare books collection features 1,000 volumes of high historical or aesthetic value, according to a news release.

e museum began its project in 2019, with the rst two phases including construction of a central utility plant and a new 20,000-square-foot storage facility and re suppression system that will be completed later this year. e nal phase will replace the current heating, ventilation an d air conditioning system to enhance the museum’s climate control abilities and address the need for microclimates within certain collections, the release said.

FACILITATE FAMILY DISCUSSIONS AROUND PHILANTHROPY

Share family history, anecdotes, and values so younger generations can learn about where they come from, stories, values and strengths they have inherited, and what the family legacy means to them.

Ask questions to inspire conversation, and make sure everyone is heard. Ask open ended questions like: What values drive your giving? What are the most important challenges in the Jewish community? Who are your role models for giving tzedekah? How would you describe our family’s traditions around giving?

CREATE A GIVING TRADITION WITH PERSONAL IMPACT

Use the holidays as an opportunity to reinforce family philanthropic values and create new traditions, such as volunteering together as a family or making a collective donation in lieu of gifts one night.

During these times, when families gather and celebrate shared traditions, it can be powerful to re ect on how the teachings of the season – such as light overcoming darkness during Chanukah – relate to

Together We Can extend justice

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the ways you can contribute to the world around you. Discussing family philanthropy and Jewish values during the holidays can be a meaningful way to bring your family together to honor your traditions and create new ones.

Wishing you and your loved ones beautiful holidays lled with light, love, meaning and purpose.

Mindee Fredman is vice president, supporting foundations at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland in Beachwood and a 21/64 Certified Advisor in family philanthropy.

DISCLAIMER

The Cleveland Jewish News does not make endorsements of political candidates and/or political or other ballot issues on any level. Letters, commentaries, opinions, advertisements and online posts appearing in the Cleveland Jewish News, on cjn.org or our social media pages reflect the views and thoughts of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company, its board, officers or staff or any other organization unless explicitly stated.

Fredman

Year-end gifting strategies to maximize charitable impact

ROBERT J. NEIDES Special to the CJN

Specific tax-deductible charitable giving strategies can help reduce tax burdens while also supporting important charitable causes. Here are some strategies you can consider to accomplish these dual goals.

• Gift appreciated publicly traded securities that have been held for more than a year: Appreciated stocks, bonds and mutual funds are increasingly popular assets that can be used to make charitable donations. Nonprofits are exempt from federal taxation, so they can sell the gifted securities without incurring tax on the capital gains that the donor would incur if the donor first sold the securities and then donated cash.

• Concentrate multi-year giving: Concentrating several years’ worth of donations into a single year, then skipping contributions for several years and taking advantage of the standard deduction in those years, can allow you to make a significant charitable impact while maximizing tax deductions.

•Charitable donations directly paid from IRAs: If you are subject to taking a required minimum distribution (generally if at least age 72 and have pretax dollars funded retirement accounts) and plan to make a charitable contribution in the same year, making a qualified charitable distribution from your qualified plan might make sense.

A QCD allows you to transfer funds from your retirement account to a qualified charity that also satisfies the RMD requirement for the year without any tax consequences. Even if you do not have a required minimum distribution but are over the age of 70½ years old you are still eligible to make a direct charitable distribution from your IRA.

• Establish a donor advised fund: A DAF is an account that allows you to make charitable contributions to a unique type of public charity and receive an immediate tax deduction. Then, you can later direct contributions to other charities from the DAF. Donated assets can be invested and

earn returns without being taxed, expanding the impact of future charitable gifting.

OPTIMIZING THE IMPACT OF YOUR CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS

These strategies can help you maximize your charitable impact and reduce tax burdens. As year-end deadlines approach, now is the time to consult your legal, tax and financial professionals to discuss your strategies and goals.

Robert J. Neides is a partner in Eide Bailly’s Cleveland office.

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Solon High School junior receives $40K scholarship from College Board

Solon High School junior Isabelle McClung was presented on Nov. 25 with a surprise $40,000 College Board scholarship during her Music in Motion show choir class.

Solon High School principal Erin Short and superintendent Fred Bolden presented the scholarship, according to a news release.

“It’s like a dream come true,” Isabelle said in the release. “I had just gone on a college visit to an out-of-state university that I really loved, but I also saw the reality of how expensive college is – especially if it is out of state. Now, with this scholarship, I am thinking maybe I have a chance! I can look at many different opportunities. I am humbled and overwhelmed. This scholarship is going to help me follow my dreams.”

Isabelle won the scholarship by completing key college and career planning steps through College Board’s BigFuture platform, the release said. Her chances for winning increased by her creation of her college list and adding colleges to it by using BigFuture, which helps students personalize plans for their future.

“This scholarship will make a significant impact on Isabelle’s educational journey,” Short said in the

release. “Her involvement in both performing arts and environmental studies exemplifies the well-rounded and balanced education and rigor we strive for at Solon High School. This is also an important reminder to all our students to read their informational emails and follow the suggestions of our counseling team about recommended college and career readiness steps they can take to help them each step of the way on their journey toward life after high school.”

Isabelle said in the release that she read about the scholarships on the College Board website, but didn’t understand how “easy” it was to qualify for them.

“Use the resources and listen to the advice of your guidance counselors,” she said in the release as advice to other high school students.

Isabelle’s parents, Braxton and Emma McClung, said in the release they feel other students should also make sure they’re utilizing the tools recommended by school counselors.

“The process is more complicated today than it was when we went to college,” Emma McClung said. “The school and the counselors provide tremendous resources. All of this support helps so much.”

There are monthly drawings for $500 and $40,000

High School

shows off her $40,000 ceremonial check, which is reflective of the $40,000 random drawing scholarship she received for her use of the BigFuture platform. | Submitted photo

scholarships.

Current high school students can learn more about scholarship opportuntities by visiting bigfuture.org.

Great Lakes Science Center receives state funding to build water technology exhibit

Great Lakes Science Center received $500,000 from Ohio’s capital budget bill this summer for the construction of a new water technology exhibit. The exhibit will provide guests with an “immersive experience” to understand the role of the Great Lakes ecosystem and how new water technologies can protect it, according to a news release.

The exhibit will display solutions, experiments, testing stations and handson interactive experiences related to water conservation and efficiency. Concepts may include water purification, chemistry, advanced manufacturing, engineering feats and advancements in sustainable energy generation from water sources. The exhibit is intended to inspire future generations to tackle freshwater challenges in their communities.

The exhibit is part of a $21 million campaign to transform several exhibition galleries in the science center and committing to ensuring that programs are accessible to children and families.

Neides

Solon

junior Isabelle McClung

College fundraiser raises $6K for foundation honoring late Shaker Heights resident

KIRSTEN BEARD kbeard@cjn.org

About 200 runners and walkers turned out for a 5K run and walk Nov. 16 near Miami University in Oxford, honoring the late Jacob Butze and raising an estimated $6,000 for a memorial foundation named for him.

Jacob Butze, a 2018 graduate of St. Edward High School in Lakewood, died at age 20 on Dec. 27, 2020, from T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, an aggressive blood and bone cancer he was diagnosed

with in April 2019. He grew up in Shaker Heights and was studying business at the Miami University Farmer School of Business.

e annual run/walk was organized by Alpha Kappa Psi, the business fraternity Jacob Butze belonged to at the university, and held at Pe er Park in Oxford.

e Jacob Butze Memorial Foundation provides scholarships for individuals a ected by cancer, Brandt Butze, Jacob Butze’s father and founder of the foundation, said.

“It was like a completely di erent vibe,” Brandt Butze, a Shaker Heights resident and congregant at Congregation Mishkan Or in Beachwood, told the Cleveland Jewish News about the run/walk. “I’ve never seen anything like it.”

Nikki White, a Miami University marketing junior and vice president of philanthropy and inclusion for Alpha Kappa Psi, helped organize the event. She told the CJN this marked the largest turnout since its inception four years ago.

e event’s estimated $6,000 raised for the foundation included $1,000 in direct donations to the cause, she said.

“He (Jacob Butze) was really integrated with our brotherhood and was just super involved,” White, who resides o -campus in Oxford, said. “A lot of people would say that AKPsi was kind of Jacob’s home on campus.”

e event’s goal wasn’t necessarily to raise the most money but to “keep Jacob’s memory alive” throughout the university’s chapter and the Oxford community, White said. ere was a call to “reinvent what the

run meant and give a new breath of life to the event.”

White began marketing for the event early to help spread awareness of Jacob Butze’s story and obtain partnerships to help o set its cost. After securing corporate sponsors for the event, participants had the opportunity to win prizes and register for the National Bone Marrow Registry through the National Marrow Donor Program, she said. Around 100 people joined the registry.

“I wanted to bring in a ton of people,” she said. “I didn’t want it just to be AKPsi brothers or Psi brothers coming to the event. I wanted people in the Oxford community to come to the race and to be informed about the race. I wanted to see high schoolers there and just people all in the community.”

During the early stages of planning over the summer, Brandt Butze received a call from White and an associate to discuss the run and highlight the importance of his son’s legacy and journey. Historically, he has not been very involved in the event due to other projects and commitments closer to home in Shaker Heights, Brandt Butze said. But White said Brandt Butze helped get T-shirts for the event and “was there throughout every step of the way from that point moving forward to make sure that everything we were doing for the race was in line with Jacob’s legacy and memory.”

“I was de nitely more active this time, but I was more active in giving them goals,” Brandt Butze said. “And they (White and other event organizers) just crushed them. So, we feel like there’s going to be a lot of

momentum leading up to this in the next few years.”

Brandt Butze wants next year’s event to be even bigger and host 400 to 500 people, he said.

“We’re not going to stop,” he said. “Jacob wouldn’t have stopped.”

In 2017, Jacob Butze was selected as a Cleveland Jewish News High School Player of the Week for his cross country achievements during his senior year of high school at St. Edward, the CJN previously reported.

Along with the university fraternity chapter’s and the foundation’s annual run/ walk, which is hosted in Northeast Ohio in June each year, two benches have been dedicated in Jacob Butze’s honor at Miami University’s Farmer School of Business and at Horseshoe Lake in Shaker Heights.

White was “grateful” to have the opportunity to pay tribute to Jacob Butze’s legacy and believes doing so has “rubbed o ” on the AKPsi chapter and community, which gave way to the success of the event, she said.

“We were able to make this something that was bigger than ourselves and ultimately the vision,” White said.

Jacob Butze at Miami University in Oxford where he was enrolled in the Farmer School of Business and was a member of Alpha Kappa Psi and Delta Chi fraternities. After he died, the university awarded him a posthumous degree in spring 2021. He was set to graduate in 2022. | Submitted photos

Jacob, from left, Naomi, Ana and Brandt Butze before Jacob died from T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in December 2020.

Nikki White helped organize a fundraiser in Jacob Butze’s memory.

American Red Cross of Northern Ohio

How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community?

Your gift helps the American Red Cross shelter, feed and provide comfort to victims of disasters like home fires; supply about 40% of the nation’s blood; teach skills that save lives; distribute international humanitarian aid; and support veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission.

What factors contribute to your organization success?

The Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. Volunteers are the lifeblood of the Red Cross. 90% of our workforce is volunteers. And the Red Cross is proud that 90 cents of every dollar spent is invested in providing care and comfort to people in need.

Do you have any events planned in the coming year?

Join us as we honor residents who have acted courageously and selflessly in a time of emergency. We will recognize everyday citizens who have helped save or sustain the life or lives of others at the Acts of Courage Awards, March 6, 2025 at the Doubletree by Hilton Akron/Fairlawn, and at the Northeast Ohio Hero Awards, June 5, 2025 at the Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Tower. Visit redcross.org/nohevents for more information.

What’s New:

In 2024, extreme disasters caused an overwhelming toll on people in Northern Ohio and the U.S., who relied on the American Red Cross for relief and care as they faced the country’s second-highest number of billion-dollar disasters ever recorded. This year’s 24 major climate and weather events — each with losses exceeding $1 billion — are topped only by last year’s recordbreaking 28. To help, more than 120 Red Cross volunteers from Northern Ohio have been part of teams responding nonstop to provide shelter, food and other assistance to tens of thousands of people reeling from this year’s hurricanes, tornados, floods and wildfires — all while continuing to care for families still recovering from 2023’s extreme disasters.

Interested in helping?

Visit redcross.org/noh to learn more about becoming a Red Cross volunteer, to make a financial donation or to make an appointment to donate blood.

FROM HOME FIRES Helping to Keep Families Safe

More than 2,200 lives have been saved through the American Red Cross Home Fire Campaign. The initiative to make homes and families safer by installing free smoke alarms and helping residents develop escape plans began more than 30 years ago, thanks in part to the generosity and passion of the late Sam Miller, a past CJN Lifetime Achievement Award winner. While the Red Cross and its partners install smoke alarms year-round, a focused three-week event known as Sound the Alarm this spring in the Northern Ohio Region resulted in more than 700 homes and 1,530 residents made safer, as volunteers and partners installed nearly 1,850 smoke alarms.

Visit soundthealarm.org/noh for information on volunteering to help, or to request smoke alarms for your home. Working smoke alarms reduce the risk of serious injury or death in a home re by half. To support the Home Fire Campaign, visit redcross.org/donate.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio

How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community?

Support for Boys & Girls of Northeast Ohio beneﬁts youth ages 6-18 by providing safe, fun places for them to go after school and parents who have a positive, cost-free option for their children after school is out. BGCNEO provide kids with cultural and academic opportunities they might not otherwise have and safe places to go every day. Law enforcement statistics show the 3-7 p.m. weekday hours are when kids are most likely to get into trouble or become victims of crime. That is when our doors are open. Youth who go to our Clubs do better in school, make strong friendships and connect with caring adult mentors.

How can I/my company get involved with your organization?

We love to work with people and companies that share a love of our mission. Start exploring your options by visiting www.bgcneo.org. We have volunteer opportunities for individuals, companies and other nonproﬁts, with projects ranging from providing academic help to outdoor beautiﬁcation. Contact us at volunteer@bgcneo.org to learn more. Interested in a corporate partnership? We’d love your help in developing the next generation of leaders. Contact Erin Turner at eturner@bgcneo.org to get started. Want to make an individual gift? Your investment in BGCNEO can change lives. Contact Kim Cole at kcole@bgcneo.org to learn more about our giving options.

What sets your organization apart?

A lot of great organizations o er one or more of the programs we provide at BGCNEO. Some serve the same youth population we see. Some do not charge for services. But the only youth-serving nonproﬁt in the region providing a full range of academic, athletic and cultural programming to youth ages 6-18 at no cost to parents is BGCNEO. Our Clubs provide top-notch afterschool programming in neighborhoods where we are most needed, where most of the children are living below the poverty level. In a Harris survey, 54% of Club alumni said the Club “saved my life.”

Allen Smith Chief Executive O cer Lisa Aurilio Board Chair

Canopy Child Advocacy Center

How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community?

Making a gift to Canopy makes all the di erence in the life of a child in our community experiencing abuse. Services are provided at absolutely zero cost to families. Children and families receive forensic interviews, specialty medical examinations, mental health services, victim advocacy and are referred to critical resources in the community. A gift to Canopy is to become a partner in protection of the most vulnerable among us.

What is the best part about working at your organization?

The children and families we serve are the best part of working at Canopy. Children are resilient and their courage inspires us daily. Even after what is likely one of the hardest days of their life, children will often ask us, “Can I come back tomorrow?” They are listened to, valued, and deeply respected at Canopy and we are honored and privileged to serve them and their families and champion their voices.

What sets your organization apart?

Canopy serves children & families a ected by all forms of child abuse through a coordinated, community response to the prevention, investigation, assessment, prosecution, & treatment. Canopy is the central hub for child abuse cases in Cuyahoga County and we serve every community within its borders. With a recorded forensic interview in a child friendly environment, we prevent children reliving their trauma repeatedly. Services, such as medical exams from advance practitioners, and evidencebased mental health treatment, are also centralized for families. Family advocates support families to help them navigate the social service and criminal justice systems, while ensuring their rights are upheld and their needs are met.

Interested in helping? Get involved and change the lives of children and families experiencing child abuse in Cuyahoga County.

Jennifer Johnson Executive Director

William Lipscomb Board of Directors President

CHN Housing Partners

provides safe, quality and affordable housing to those who need it most. Whether they are looking to rent, buy, or prepare to become homeowners, CHN meets clients where they are in life and helps them achieve their goals.

will sleep next, they can focus on building brighter futures—

We believe that when people no longer worry about where they will sleep next, they can focus on building brighter futures— succeeding in their jobs, nurturing their families and thriving in all areas of life.

We believe in the Power of a Permanent Address™.

But don’t just take our word for it. Read Marilyn’s story below:

Marilyn and her son Mateo, pictured right, are residents of the Louise C. Stokes Scholar House, one of CHN’s newest developments serving student parents.

“In the few months we have lived in Scholar House, we have enjoyed every moment. My favorite part is the community, and we greet one another with a big smile. Everyone here is a full-time student with children, just like me, so we can offer each other support and understand what challenges each other face.”

- Marilyn S. what we’ve investing in affordable housing for our community. scan

The Power of a Permanent Address ™ is not just our slogan, it’s worked towards for 43 years. We invite you to join us by invest Visit www.chnhousingpartners.org today or scan the QR code to make a year-end donation.

Cleveland Ballet

Interested

in helping at Cleveland Ballet?

Support our mission to make dance accessible to all and ensure the future of ballet in Northeast Ohio by volunteering, attending performances, or donating. Your contribution matters!

How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community:

Charitable contributions to Cleveland Ballet are crucial for enhancing community access to the arts, as well as safeguarding the future of ballet in Northeast Ohio. Your support directly funds essential educational programs, community impact programs, and a ordable performances such as the ballet’s “Pay What You Can,” ensuring that world-class ballet is accessible to everyone. Your support empowers us to strengthen the community’s artistic landscape, cultivate a vibrant culture, and nurture the next generation of ballet enthusiasts. Your involvement plays a key role in making this happen. Together, we are connecting art with life.

What

organizations do you collaborate or partner with:

Cleveland Ballet recognize the transformative power of the arts and proudly collaborates with organizations such as the Cleveland Pops Orchestra, M.U.S.i.C Stars in Classics, Cleveland Museum of Art, and community impact groups such as the Boys and Girls Club of Northeastern Ohio and numerous school districts. Together, we create impactful experiences that enhance our community and foster a profound appreciation for the arts, establishing Cleveland Ballet as a cultural cornerstone. Rooted in an unwavering commitment to the health and wellness of our dancers, Cleveland Ballet has also established a strong partnership with the University Hospitals Drusinsky Sports Medicine Institute.

What sets your organization apart:

Cleveland Ballet is a unique cultural gem in Northeast Ohio, committed to making the enchanting world of ballet accessible to all. Through innovative initiatives like “Pay What You Can” performances, we actively dismantle ﬁnancial barriers, inviting a diverse audience to immerse themselves in the artistry of dance. Cleveland Ballet is proud to be among the prestigious ranks of a Playhouse Square resident company and a partner with esteemed arts organizations that foster unforgettable artistic experiences to enrich our city’s cultural landscape. By celebrating inclusivity and creativity, Cleveland Ballet nurtures a vibrant community spirit, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the beauty of ballet.

Interested in helping? Support our mission to make dance accessible to all and ensure the future of ballet in Northeast Ohio by volunteering, attending performances, or donating. Your contribution matters!

A refreshed and invigorated Cleveland Ballet is emerging, stronger than ever with a promise to inspire audiences with world-class ballet. Only through our patrons’ support are we able to deliver on that potential and continue building on a foundation of artistic excellence and astute management.

Larry Goodman, PhD. President and Chief Executive O cer Timour Bourtasenkov Artistic Director

Cleveland Jewish News Foundation

Our Mission:

The CJN Foundation is an independent organization that supports the mission of the Cleveland Jewish News. At the heart of the foundation is the need to preserve, protect and keep our words alive for the Jewish community, now and in the future, through three specific goals:

• Preserve Jewish community history with free, worldwide access to the Samuel H. Miller Keeping Our Words Alive Digital Archive of the Cleveland Jewish News

• Educate the community through community programs, events and subscription initiatives

• Build for the future by supporting the CJN internship program

Access Your Geneology; Jewish News of Interest:

The Samuel H. Miller Keeping Our Words Alive Digital Archive of the Cleveland Jewish News contains the entire history of the Cleveland Jewish News, an independent community newspaper continuously published weekly since October 30, 1964. More than 120,000 newspaper pages are presented here just as they appeared in print. More recent issues, converted from PDF, are full-color. Every edition is fully indexed in a searchable format.

135+ Years of Cleveland Jewish History

The archive includes more than 135 years of Cleveland’s Jewish history from the Cleveland Jewish News and each of its predecessor newspapers.

• The Hebrew Observer

• The Jewish Independent

• The Jewish Review

• The Jewish Review and Observer

• The Jewish World (Idishe Velt)

JEWISH NEWS FOUNDATION Chairman: Mark Bogomolny; Vice Chairs: Bruce Friedman, Kenneth B. Liffman, Marcy Young; Secretary: Shari Loveman Goldberg; Treasurer: Larry Friedman; Assistant Treasurer: Clifford Wolf Directors: Aaron Evenchik, Barry Feldman, Anna Gecht, David Gottlieb, Estra Grant, Debra Rothschild, Lane Schlessel, Paul J. Singerman (ex officio); Emeritus Directors: Barry R. Chesler*, David Kaufman, Susan C. Levine, Martin H. Marcus, Paul J. Singerman, Ronald J. Teplitzky, Norman Wain*, Chuck Whitehill *of blessed memory

Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation donates $13M to support lakefront trail project

Construction has begun on the new 2.7-mile North Marginal Trail between East 9th and East 55th streets on Cleveland’s east side lakefront. The trail is a partnership between Cuyahoga County, the Cleveland Metroparks and the city of Cleveland. Cuyahoga County will manage construction of the project, and the Cleveland Metroparks will manage and operate the trail once it is constructed, according to a news release.

The Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation provided a $5 million gift to the Cleveland Metroparks intended for construction of the trail, and the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency provided an additional $5.6 million in funding through the Federal Highway Administration’s Carbon Reduction Program and local match funds from Cuyahoga County and the city of Cleveland.

“Cuyahoga County is committed to expanding mobility options for residents and visitors throughout our region,” Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne said in the release. “The North Marginal Trail is an essential component of our plan to connect people to the lakefront. As we continue to develop the Cuyahoga Greenways Plan, we are creating more opportunities for people to access green spaces, use public transportation, and benefit from community resources and amenities.”

North Marginal Trail will be a new trail connection completing a missing link of the Cleveland Lakefront Bikeway, connecting to the existing portion of the bikeway from East 55th Street to Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, according to the release. It will traverse along the north side of North Marginal Road,

improving neighborhood connectivity and connecting to existing trails to University Circle, Doan Brook and the Shaker Lakes.

“Designing an equitable and inclusive city means creating connections that offer every resident access to all the opportunities and resources Cleveland has to offer,” Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb said in the release. “As we work to transform our North Coast Lakefront, this trail will ensure that our neighbors in St. Clair-Superior and Glenville can enjoy the beauty and the benefits of being on the lake. Thank you to the county, the Metroparks, the Mandel Foundation and NOACA for making this project possible.”

When it is finished, the trail will provide safe access to the lakefront on foot or by bicycle to the St. Clair-Superior and Glenville neighborhoods. Current conditions on North Marginal Trail along the lakefront force pedestrians and bicyclists to share the road with other vehicles to reach destinations on the lakefront on Cleveland’s east side.

“The North Marginal Trail not only completes a vital link in the Cleveland Lakefront Bikeway but is another step in enhancing neighborhood connectivity and lakefront access, weaving together seamless, safe connections to parks, marinas and vibrant community spaces,” Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian M. Zimmerman said in the release. “This investment is a testament to our region’s ability to partner and collaborate to make our region safer, greener and more connected to our lakefront.”

In addition to the $5 million gift from the Mandel Foundation to support construction of the trail, the Mandel Foundation granted an additional $8 million to Cleveland Metroparks intended for management of the 48-acre portion of Gordon Park south of Interstate 90 between East 72nd Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. LAND Studio, the Cleveland Metroparks and

other project partners are running a community engagement process with adjacent neighborhoods to obtain feedback of investment into the park.

“Lake Erie is an integral part of our city and region – from our environmental health, our economic vitality and our cultural heritage,” Stephen H. Hoffman, chair of the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation, said in the release. “We are pleased to be partnering with the Metroparks and other stakeholders to help fund the construction of this transformative new trail that will serve as a catalyst for tremendous investment in furthering lakefront access and recreational opportunities for all our citizens, but especially the residents of neighborhoods that are adjacent to Lake Erie within the city of Cleveland.”

North Marginal Trail was named an Important Regional Link in the Cuyahoga Greenways Plan, which is an effort to envision, plan and implement trail connections throughout Cuyahoga County to enhance mobility, health, well-being and economic strength. As part of the plan, Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency is leading implementation of the trail along the Lake Erie waterfront.

“This a much-needed project that exhibits a broader impact by creating connections between communities and the lakefront,” NOACA Executive Director and CEO Grace Gallucci said in the release. “NOACA is committed to allocating funds to provide safer access to regional assets. The project’s dedicated lanes separated from vehicular travel will create a sense of place for all who use the trail. We are excited about this next improvement as we continue to plan and build regional connectivity.”

North Marginal Trail has a total estimated cost of about $12 million and is expected to open to the public during the summer of 2026.

NCAA Women’s Final Four provides Northeast Ohio $32.9 million in direct spend

The 2024 NCAA Women’s Final Four, which was held from April 4 to April 7 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, provided Northeast Ohio with $32.9 million in direct spend, Greater Cleveland Sports Commission announced in a news release.

During the Women’s Final Four, Cleveland attracted tens of thousands of visitors, with 36,584 attending the two sold-out sessions and millions of viewers tuning in from their televisions. With 18.9 million viewers, this was the first year that the NCAA Women’s Championship Game drew more viewers than the NCAA Men’s Championship Game, which had 14.8 million.

“Hosting the Women’s Final Four was a proud moment for the city of Cleveland,” David Gilbert, president and CEO of Greater Cleveland Sports Commission and Destination Cleveland, said in the release. “Our city has earned a reputation for being one of the top cities in America for hosting events, and it took us a long time to get there. We’ve hosted a lot of great events, including a Women’s Final Four back in 2007, but this one was special. We are incredibly lucky to have been selected to host this event during the rise in women’s basketball. The influx of visitors significantly boosted our local economy during this historic weekend.”

Destinations International event impact calculator, an

industry standard calculation of the economic value of an event, estimated the Women’s Final Four’s economic impact for Northeast Ohio. The calculator uses 10 different data sources to offer an industry-wide standard, with sample inputs including length and category of the event, approximate number of spectators per athlete or participant, approximate number of spectators from outside of the region and average daily hotel rate.

The Cleveland Cavaliers and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Mid-American Conference, Destination Cleveland and the city of Cleveland partnered to prepare for the Women’s Final Four this year.

“The 2024 NCAA Women’s Final Four in Cleveland was an example of what can be achieved through strong community partnerships and a shared commitment to women’s sports,” Mid-American Conference Commissioner Jon Steinbrecher said in the release. “This historic event not only celebrated the rise of women’s basketball but also brought significant economic benefits to Northeast Ohio. The collaboration between the MAC, Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse and the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission was crucial to its success. We are proud to have led this experience and look forward to future opportunities to work with our partners to host major NCAA Championships, while providing an exceptional experience for the student-athletes and fans.”

Nic Barlage, CEO of the Cleveland Cavaliers, Rock Entertainment Group and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, said

in the release, “The opportunity to welcome and host tens of thousands who traveled to Cleveland at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse for the Women’s Final Four alongside the millions who tuned in from around the globe was a truly special experience and momentum-driver for Cleveland, our community and our organization. It was an honor to champion our city and women’s basketball alongside the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission and Destination Cleveland for this great event. The tournament had an immediate and significant impact on Northeast Ohio, and we look forward to supporting the long-lasting positive outcomes it will continue to have for our community.”

In addition to the economic impact of the event, the numbers associated with free community events set several benchmarks, with 11,291 fans attending Super Saturday Practice at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, 20,624 fans attending Tourney Town, the free festival at the Huntington Convention Center, and 2,500 youth signing up for Bounce, a parade from Public Square to Tourney Town. Cleveland hotels also had the best April on record.

Additionally, Connecting Cleveland attracted more than 150 college-age attendees and 40 C-Suite mentors for a day of keynote speakers, panels and networking. The Cleveland local organizing committee was the first to bring this idea to the NCAA, and it is now scheduled to be an official program of future Women’s Final Fours.

Hoffman

Gilbert

Cleveland Metroparks

Our Mission: Protecting nature, connecting communities and inspiring conser vation of our world.

What’s New:

Parks have become more important than ever for communities to stay connected to each other and the natural world around us. Through a wide range of opportunities, you can directly support Cleveland Metroparks’ special places and programs or focus on initiatives like the Trails Fund, which helps expand and maintain the trail experience across the Emerald Necklace. An enduring priority of Cleveland Metroparks is the preservation and protection of our local forests, wetlands, rivers and streams. Gifts to the Conservation Fund support forest plantings, habitat enhancement, wildlife research and the protection of important natural resources. Visit clevelandmetroparks.com/donate to make your tax-deductible gift today.

Interested in Helping?

Bisi Mikleus Director of Development

Cleveland State University Foundation

How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community?

Over 85% of Cleveland State University graduates are still in the area 10 years after graduation and contribute to the workforce, economy and community. Gifts to the university ultimately support people that will one day contribute to Greater Cleveland’s vibrant future. The future of Cleveland is inextricably linked to the future of Cleveland State. And philanthropy is one of the primary drivers which fuels the success of the institution and, by extension, the region.

What sets your organization apart?

Students come to Cleveland State and make better lives for themselves and for their families. In 2023, U.S. News and Report named the university the no. 1 in Ohio for social mobility. That means students who might come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds don’t leave that way. They start careers and get ahead. We’re proud to be a place that is ground zero for this sort of transformation. When we say a Cleveland State education is life-changing, it’s no exaggeration.

Do you have any events planned in the coming year?

We’re looking forward to Radiance 2025, our signature annual celebration of philanthropy. In times like these, donor support is more important than ever, and honoring those who generously give to the university is fitting. On May 8, we will salute the donors who contribute significantly to student success. We’ll hear incredible stories from some of our students whose lives have been changed and who are thriving because of the generosity of our many donors. Radiance always serves as a poignant reminder of the extraordinary power of giving.

Interested in helping? Contact

Laura Bloomberg President Karen White CSU Foundation Board Chair

“Helpensurethat DFSCwillcontinueto thriveandserve womenforanother26

“Helpensurethat DFSCwillcontinueto thriveandserve womenforanother26 yearsandbeyond!”

years andbeyond!”

“Helpensurethat

“Helpensurethat DFSCwillcontinueto thriveandserve womenforanother26 yearsandbeyond!”

(L-R)RickiWeiss,TraciFelder,MelonyButler

“Helpensurethat DFSCwillcontinueto thriveandserve womenforanother26 yearsandbeyond!”

(L-R)RickiWeiss,TraciFelder,MelonyButler

DFSCwillcontinueto thriveandserve womenforanother26 yearsandbeyond!”

DRESSFORSUCCESSCLEVELAND

DDressforSuccessCleveland(DFSC)has madesignificantstridesoverthepast 26years.

ressforSuccessCleveland(DFSC)has madesignificantstridesoverthepast 26years.

ABOUT DRESSFORSUCCESSCLEVELAND

DDABOUT DRESSFORSUCCESSCLEVELAND

ABOUT DRESSFORSUCCESSCLEVELAND

ressforSuccessCleveland(DFSC)has madesignificantstridesoverthepast 26years.

DDFromitsbeginningsin1998,theorganization hasgrownfromprovidingwomenwithtwo suits—oneforjobinterviewsandanotherfor whentheywerehired—toofferingholistic solutionsthathelpwomenenter,thrive, advance,andretoolintheworkforce.

Fromitsbeginningsin1998,theorganization hasgrownfromprovidingwomenwithtwo suits—oneforjobinterviewsandanotherfor whentheywerehired—toofferingholistic solutionsthathelpwomenenter,thrive, advance,andretoolintheworkforce.

2011:MelonyButlertookoverasExecutive DirectorandlaterbecameCEOin2021.She hasledtheorganizationtodevelopits currentservicemodel,where79%offirsttimeservicesareprovidedoffsiteat communitypartnerfacilitiesorvirtually.

ABOUT DRESSFORSUCCESSCLEVELAND

ressforSuccessCleveland(DFSC)has madesignificantstridesoverthepast 26years.

DressforSuccessCleveland(DFSC)has madesignificantstridesoverthepast 26years.

1998:RickiWeiss,thefounderofDFSC,was oneof31womennationwidewhocontacted NancyLublin,founderofDressforSuccess Worldwide,toestablishanaffiliatein Cleveland.

2002:UndertheleadershipofTraciFelderas Executive Director,DFSCnavigated

2002:UndertheleadershipofTraciFelderas ExecutiveDirector,DFSCnavigated

ressforSuccessCleveland(DFSC)has madesignificantstridesoverthepast 26years.

2002:UndertheleadershipofTraciFelderas Executive Director,DFSCnavigated significantshiftsinworkforcedevelopment fundingfornon-profits,leadingtothe relocationofDFSCtoitscurrentfacility.

2002:UndertheleadershipofTraciFelderas ExecutiveDirector,DFSCnavigated significantshiftsinworkforcedevelopment fundingfornon-profits,leadingtothe relocationofDFSCtoitscurrentfacility.

1998:RickiWeiss,thefounderofDFSC,was oneof31womennationwidewhocontacted NancyLublin,founderofDressforSuccess

Today,DFSCremainsgroundedinits volunteer-basednetwork,empoweringover 900womenannually.Volunteersserveas mentors,coaches,facilitators,andpersonal stylists,allcontributingtohelpingthese womenachieveeconomicindependence. DressforSuccessClevelandnowserves CuyahogaandSummitcounties,andis expandingintoLorainandLakecounties. Theorganization’sgoalistobroadenits reachacrossNortheastOhio.Tocontinueits missionandexpand intonewterritories,

Today,DFSCremainsgroundedinits volunteer-based network,empoweringover 900womenannually.Volunteersserveas mentors,coaches,facilitators,andpersonal stylists,allcontributingtohelpingthese womenachieveeconomicindependence. DressforSuccessClevelandnowserves CuyahogaandSummitcounties,andis expandingintoLorainandLakecounties. Theorganization’sgoalistobroadenits reachacrossNortheastOhio.Tocontinueits missionandexpandintonewterritories,

Today,DFSCremainsgroundedinits volunteer-basednetwork,empoweringover 900womenannually.Volunteersserveas mentors,coaches,facilitators,andpersonal stylists,allcontributingtohelpingthese womenachieveeconomicindependence. Dress forSuccessClevelandnowserves CuyahogaandSummitcounties,andis expandingintoLorainandLakecounties. Theorganization’sgoalistobroadenits reachacrossNortheastOhio.Tocontinueits missionandexpandintonewterritories, DFSCneedsthesupportofdonors—pastand present.HelpensurethatDFSCwill continuetothriveandservewomenfor another26yearsandbeyond!

1998:RickiWeiss,thefounderofDFSC,was oneof31womennationwidewhocontacted NancyLublin,founderofDressforSuccess

Today,DFSCremainsgrounde volunteer-based network,empoweringover 900womenannually.Volunteersserveas mentors,coaches,facilitators,andpersonal stylists,allcontributingtohelpingthese womenachieveeconomicindependence. DressforSuccessClevelandnowserves

(L-R) Ricki Weiss, Traci Felder, Melony Butler

(L-R)RickiWeiss,TraciFelder,MelonyButlerABOUT

(L-R)RickiWeiss,TraciFelder,MelonyButler

American Red Cross awards $5K scholarship to Brush High School graduate

The American Red Cross awarded Brush High School graduate Meredith Davis Cooper a $5,000 scholarship for her efforts to recruit diverse blood donors and raise awareness about sickle cell disease through blood drives during the 2023-2024 school year.

Brush High School in Lyndhurst was one of the top 10 schools in the country that collected the most units from African American students and qualified to receive the

A Kid

Oscholarship. As National Honor Society president, Cooper collaborated with Jill Stranic and Sallie Fine, Brush High School teachers and National Honor Society advisers to promote the blood program at the school. She helped recruit blood donors for three blood drives and donated blood herself. She also encouraged fellow students to give by educating them on the need for more diverse blood donors for sickle cell patients.

“She was an excellent student and leader,” Stranic said in a news release. “By stepping up and donating blood herself, she took ownership and was a great ambassador for the process.”

Cooper is studying architecture at Kent State University and hopes to one day own her own firm, according to the release. She said the scholarship was a “shocking surprise” and she is extremely grateful, the release stated.

Again Annual Holiday Adventure attracts 2,000 critically ill children

ver 2,000 critically ill children, siblings and parents navigating lifethreatening conditions celebrated the season at the A Kid Again Annual Holiday Adventure on Dec. 7 at the I-X Center in Cleveland, according to a news release.

Presented by longtime supporters Kaulig Giving, the event featured volunteer support from Kaulig Giving’s team. At the Adopt A

Bear craft station, children stuffed heir own bear, gave it a heart, named it and completed adoption papers. Lady Jane’s Haircuts through their Wicked Awesome Wishes Foundation also donated to this enrolled families favorite Adventure.

The adventure included activities such as OMG Gaming, a holiday inflatable maize where volunteers passed out treats, bounce

houses and other inflatable games.

Applebee’s provided over 2,000 meals during the event, the release said.

“This Holiday Adventure represents the heart of what we do – bringing families together to create joyful moments and lifelong memories,” Christine Bucknell, executive director of A Kid Again Northern Ohio, said in a news release. “Thanks to our

University Hospitals leadership works to strengthen communities

University Hospitals is working to remedy local food insecurity through a collaborative effort dedicated to improving the lives of children, according to a news release. University Hospitals leadership volunteered at the nonprofit End 68 Hours of Hunger Lake County, committed to confronting the 68 hours of hunger many students experience between the free lunch received in school on Friday and Monday’s free school breakfast.

University Hospitals east market leadership volunteered at the Painesville nonprofit as part of the UH caregiver Community Volunteer Time Off program. End 68 Hours of Hunger provides food to school children to carry them through the weekend. Each bag of food costs about $11 each week and includes two breakfasts, two lunches and three dinners for a child.

Chief operating officers, chief medical officers, chief nursing officers and directors of operations and clinical services from UH Beachwood, Conneaut, Geauga, Geneva, Lake West

and TriPoint medical centers, as well as executive assistants and partners in human resources and compliance, showed up to lend a helping hand. They packed bags, broke down boxes and stocked the assembly line.

“Food insecurity in our communities is an issue we are always working to overcome, and we came together as a team to pack more than 1,000 bags of food for children in need,” Dr. Don DeCarlo, chief medical officer, UH East Market, said in the release. “It was a very rewarding experience, especially knowing this program is entirely volunteer-based.”

Through the volunteer time off program, UH caregivers can use four hours of paid time off annually to volunteer and benefit the communities in which they live and work, the release said.

“I’m really grateful we were able to take a few hours out of our day to do this,” Dr. Robyn Strosaker, COO, UH East Market, said in the release. “Volunteering is a great way to bond with

amazing partners and sponsors, we’re able to offer a magical day that allows families to step away from their medical challenges and embrace the joy of the season.”

About A Kid Again A Kid Again is a national organization with a mission to foster hope, happiness and healing for children with life-threatening health conditions and their families, according to the release.

each other beyond the walls of our hospitals. Through the power of teamwork and collaboration, we made such a large impact in a short amount of time.”

Since February 2022, more than 800 UH caregivers have donated nearly 3,500 hours of their time to help their communities, according to the release. UH caregivers can find opportunities year-round from 90 nonprofit community partners to volunteer across the entire system. UH is open to suggestions on additional organizations that align with its mission and service our primary impact areas of maternal & child health, well-being, and economic opportunity.

“The UH VTO program helps UH realize its goals for promoting wellness throughout our communities,” Elyse Mulligan, manager, public policy and community health engagement, said in the release. “It is through UH caregiver involvement that we will increase service to our communities and strengthen the bonds among our caregivers within UH.”

Ursuline College, Gannon U receive $100K grant for strategic partnership

Ursuline College in Pepper Pike and Gannon University in Erie, Pa., recently received a joint $100,000 grant from the Transformational Partnerships Fund. Ursuline and Gannon announced in September they would enter a strategic partnership that would create the largest Catholic institution on Lake Erie. Both schools are now in the due-diligence phase of the process and expect to sign a definitive agreement in mid-December and the funds from this grant will be used to support the partnership, according to a news release.

“We have been very impressed with Ursuline President David King and Gannon President Walter Iwanenko, and with the deliberate, student-centric approach that Gannon University and Ursuline College are taking,” John MacIntosh, managing partner of SeaChange Capital Partners, which manages the Transformational Partnerships Fund, said in the release. “We are delighted to support this partnership.”

The Transformational Partnerships Fund supports colleges and universities interested in exploring partnerships that could

fundamentally improve how they operate and serve students – especially students of color, students from low-income families, and other underserved populations, the release stated. The fund makes grants that can be used to hire experts in law, finance, governance, human resources or other related fields.

“We are pleased to have received this funding,” King said in the release. “This support will help us navigate this important stage of the process as we remain focused on the student experience and academic excellence.”

Iwanenko said that they are “thankful for the Transformational Partnerships Fund – for our endeavor and for their ongoing support of higher education.”

Once a definitive agreement is signed between the two institutions, it will require the approval of various accreditation boards. Full integration of the schools, which will take place over the next year, is expected to provide growth, enhanced programs and more opportunities and resources for students on all three campuses, according to the release.

Gannon also has a campus in Ruskin, Fla.

Empowering Epilepsy

What’s your origin story?

Empowering Epilepsy was founded in 2014 by Leigh Goldie, who, after growing up with epilepsy due to a traumatic brain injury, recognized the dire need for support and resources for those living with epilepsy and seizures outside of their epileptologist’s o ce. She created Empowering Epilepsy to connect people with epilepsy to experts and peers for education, care, and friendship. Empowering Epilepsy anchors a caring community that empowers our members and their loved ones to better understand and manage their treatment plan, ﬁnd community, and take back control of their lives throughout their epilepsy journey.

What sets your organization apart?

What sets Empowering Epilepsy apart is our commitment to changing the conversation about epilepsy. With 1 in 10 people experiencing a seizure in their lifetime and 1 in 26 diagnosed with epilepsy, we connect individuals to experts, peers, and essential resources. Our Patient Education Program o ers personalized, one-on-one sessions with epilepsy specialists, expert insights, and comprehensive resources to help individuals better understand their diagnosis and treatment plan. We provide education, emotional support, and practical tools and resources to empower people to better manage their disease and learn how to better talk with their doctor, all while creating a caring community where no one feels alone at any stage throughout their epilepsy journey.

How can I/my organization get involved with your organization?

You can get involved with Empowering Epilepsy by supporting our fundraising e orts, making a donation, or participating in our annual events, like our Leprechaun Chase in March and The Power of Purple on April 5, 2025. Many companies o er matching gift programs, allowing you to double your impact. You can also organize a personal fundraiser to help us change the conversation about epilepsy and seizures. Your contributions directly support our free or low-cost programs and services, which empower individuals with epilepsy to better manage their disease and improve their quality of life. Every donation helps us provide education, support, and resources for those in need.

Forbes House

Forbes House has been a safe haven for survivors of domestic violence for nearly 50 years. Since 1977, Forbes House has empowered survivors to recover, reclaim and rebuild their lives. Serving Cuyahoga, Lake County and Northeast Ohio, our emergency shelter o ers support through a 24-hour crisis line, safe shelter, counseling, support groups, legal advocacy and prevention education for survivors of domestic violence and their children. Services are provided at no cost. Though physically located in Lake County, Forbes House serves all of Northeast Ohio and beyond; caring for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human tra cking.

In 2023, we provided:

• 1,609 crisis calls

• 584 individuals served

• 439 court advocacy

• 121 relocation assistance

• 144 survivors sheltered – 6,808 bed nights • 7,300+ services delivered

Interested in helping?

If you would like to make a monetary donation, an in-kind donation, or volunteer your time with the Forbes House, please contact Kathy Strancar at 440-357-7321 or kstrancar@forbeshouse.org.

Foundation to Combat Antisemitism

How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community?

FCAS was founded in 2019 in response to the alarming rise in Jewish hate across the United States. Gifts to FCAS allow us to reach the 47% Americans who are unengaged on the topic of Jewish hate and inspire them to move o the sidelines and stand up to hate in its many forms.

What

,s your organization’s proudest

achievement?

In a short amount of time, FCAS has achieved incredible reach and impact:

• Launched the Blue Square # as a symbol for unity and solidarity in the ﬁght against Jewish hate, reaching over 178 million people

• Hosted the ﬁrst-ever convening of all major US sports league commissioners

• Unengaged Americans are 35% more likely to stand up to Jewish hate after seeing one of our ads

How can I/my company get involved with your organization?

• Donate at FCAS.com/donate

• Order a free Blue Square pin at FCAS.org

• Sign up for our newsletter at FCAS.org/newsletter and follow us on social media @StandUpToJewishHate

Interested in helping:

Join us to combat antisemitism. Get informed, speak up, wear & share the Blue Square, or donate

Great Lakes Science Center

Organizations greatest achievement

On April 8, 2024, Cleveland experienced a remarkable celestial event—a total solar eclipse. In collaboration with NASA’s Glenn Research Center and the Cleveland Orchestra, Great Lakes Science Center proudly hosted a three-day festival to celebrate this extraordinary occasion. Nearly 37,000 attendees participated in the festival, contributing to an estimated regional economic impact of around $25 million from eclipse-related events that attracted more than 90,000 visitors to Greater Cleveland. Total Eclipse Fest marked the most signiﬁcant event in the museum’s 28-year history, with guests traveling from as far away as Japan.

How do gifts positively impact community

We partner with Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) to o er STEM programs that prepare students for tomorrow’s careers. Our Cleveland Creates education programs provide hands-on workshops for every 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade classroom in the CMSD. Over 100 high school students participate in the Science Center’s Robotics Initiative, which prepares them for FIRST Robotics competitions and community service projects where they design and manufacture 3-D printed prosthetics for children in need. We also host thousands of students from Title-I eligible schools for free-of-charge ﬁeld trips.

Do you have events planned for the year

Next year is the centennial of the historic restored steamship William G. Mather! Built in 1925 as the ﬂagship of the Cleveland-Cli s ﬂeet, the Mather is now a maritime museum. The centennial kicko will be the Anchor Ball, a fundraiser to be held at the Science Center on May 22, 2025, where guests will enjoy cocktails in the cargo hold, a dinner based on recipes served during the Mather’s time as a freighter, and a reception in the exhibit hall, where guests will get a preview of a new exhibit celebrating the Mather’s heritage and the future of great lakes shipping.

Interested in helping?

There are many ways you can be a part of Great Lakes Science Center! You can support us with a donation to help us continue to provide STEM for all. Visit our giving page at GreatScience.com/support/make-donation or contact our Development Team at development@glsc.org. If you wish to become a member, visit GreatScience.com/membership, stop by our Box O ce in person, or contact Membership at membership@glsc.org or 216-696-4576. If you like having fun and meeting new people, become a volunteer! You can learn more at GreatScience.com/volunteer or send an email to volunteer@glsc.org.

Kirsten M. Ellenbogen President & CEO Steve Karklin Board Chair

Cavaliers Community Foundation raises $1M at Wine and Gold Gala

The Cavaliers Community Foundation raised over $1 million at its third annual Wine and Gold Gala: Shaken Not Stirred on Oct. 9 at Cleveland Public Auditorium.

In a surprise announcement, the Cavaliers Community Foundation awarded a $30,000 grant to three local nonprofits in honor of a special celebration for the 202425 NBA season, according to a news release.

“Through the Cavaliers Community Foundation, we’re not just investing in programs – we are investing in people and their potential,” Nic Barlage, Cleveland Cavaliers, Rock Entertainment Group and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse CEO, said in the release. “Our goal is to create lasting, positive change by empowering our youth and strengthening our neighborhoods. We believe in using our platform to unite people, spark civic pride and encourage community involvement. By working together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant future for Cleveland and all of Northeast Ohio.”

The nonprofits that received the grants are The Boys and Girls Club of Northeast Ohio, Special Olympics and a Special Wish. According to the release, this marked the beginning of a yearlong initiative, with 27 additional $30,000 grants to be disbursed over the next year.

In addition, the foundation awarded two local Cleveland students $30,000 scholarships at the event to continue their education, according to the release.

Nearly 600 guests attended the event and heard from key executives from the Cavaliers organization, including Barlage, Koby Altman, president of basketball operations, and Kevin Clayton, executive vice president and chief impact officer, according to the release.

Funds raised from the James Bondinspired event venue further the foundation’s mission of investing in organizations that directly support the wellbeing of youth and families for the second consecutive year, the release stated.

University School receives $12M from ‘53 grad for middle school expansion

University School recently announced a transformational $12 million commitment to the school’s multiphase campus revitalization.

Richard (Dick) Matson made a leadership commitment of $12 million to the $42 million middle school project. He recently made an additional commitment of $7 million to his initial lead gift of $5 million.

Dick Matson is a member of the University School class of 1953. He graduated from Harvard University in Cambridge, Mass., earned his law degree from Columbia University in New York City and went on to become a Wall Street expert in insurance securities and later created two hedge funds, according to a news release. After owning and operating a winery in France with his wife, Cornelia, they moved to Sarasota, Fla., where they remain devoted supporters of cultural and educational institutions in Sarasota and Virginia, the release stated.

“US is pleased to report that the new Middle School addition will now be known as Matson Hall, with the Matson name being added to the list of those legendary figures who have shaped US into what it is today,” Head of School Patrick T. Gallagher

said in the release. “We are grateful that Dick’s enthusiasm for all things US will carry on in the lives of boys for generations to come.”

University School broke ground on the second phase of its updates to the historic Shaker Heights campus in January.

The middle school updates include

completely renovated, state-of-the-art classrooms; an additional state-of-the-art science STEAMworks Innovation Lab; and an indoor “porch” sweeping across the rear of the building, providing common gathering spaces for the community, according to the release.

In the first phases of the project, the school refurbished and expanded the

welcome center and lunch commons, added a new play park with a turf field and playground, and revived the arboretum. The reimagined middle school is set to open in fall 2025.

University School serves 845 boys in grades junior kindergarten to grade 12 on campuses in Shaker Heights and Hunting Valley.

Members of the Cleveland Cavaliers Foundation stand with two students who received $30,000 scholarships and their family at the Wine and Gold Gala on Oct. 9 at Cleveland Public Auditorium.

| Photo / Cleveland Cavaliers

Cornelia and Richard (Dick) Matson | Submitted photo

The exterior of what the new Matson Hall addition to the University School middle school could look like. | Submitted rendering

Greater Cleveland Fisher House

Our Mission:

Greater Cleveland Fisher House assists the Cleveland VA Fisher House in providing a temporary home away from home, free of charge, for military and veteran families while their loved one is receiving care at the Louis Stokes VA Medical Center. These families need to live 50 miles or more from the treatment facility to stay at the Fisher House.

What’s New:

The Cleveland VA Fisher House celebrated its 5-year anniversary in June. Since 2019, through our organization’s partnership with the VA team, we have helped serve more than 5,800 families and almost 10,000 individuals. And, staying at the Fisher House instead of a local hotel throughout these last 5 years has saved the families more than $1,860,000!

Thanks to our generous donors, our organization has provided more than 1,700 boxed lunches one day a week for the guests to take with them on the go, and almost 2,000 comforting prepared meals delivered one night a week so they don’t have to buy or make their own dinner after a difficult day visiting their loved one at the hospital. These are just some ways we’ve assisted these families this year.

With your help, we can do even more in 2025! Visit www.GreaterClevelandFisherHouse.org to learn more about how you can donate, volunteer, or attend one of our events.

Interested in Volunteering? Contact Us: Tara Camera | Executive Director | (440) 377-0067 | info@greaterclevelandfisherhouse.org

contact our nonprofit: PO Box 1852 • Cleveland, OH 44106 (440) 377-0067

www.greaterclevelandfisherhouse.org

Compassionate care is at the heart of what the Greater Cleveland Fisher House provides for military and Veteran families. Guests stay free of charge at the Cleveland VA Fisher House while their loved ones receive medical care at the Louis Stokes VA Medical Center.

Traveling from 50 miles or more, these families face stressful and uncertain times. Our mission is to ensure they have everything they need – comfort, support, and a home away from home—right when it matters most, especially during the holidays.

Visit www.GreaterClevelandFisherHouse.org to learn more about how you can help our nation’s heroes and their families. Donate today by scanning the QR code!

Founders Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher Cleveland VA Fisher House

Tara Camera Executive Director

HOLDEN FORESTS & GARDENS

Gifts to Holden Forests & Gardens help connect people to the wonder, beauty and value of plants and trees by:

• educating students from pre-school through middle school on the importance of nature through field trips and classroom programs

• building our green workforce through internships for high school and college students and adult learning opportunities

• advancing research on pests and diseases impacting our local tree canopy

• conserving over 3,500 acres of old growth forest, wetlands, and native and rare plants

• increasing the tree canopy in our region through tree plantings and community partnerships

Ed Moydell President & CEO

Welcomes people home, so lives are changed for good.

Humble Design Cleveland

Welcomes people home, so lives are changed for good.

Humble Design Cleveland transforms two homes per week for families, veterans, and individuals emerging from homelessness. These families are referred to Humble Design by social service agencies that work closely with these individuals to ensure that they have the support network they need to make the most of their new beginning. This service of fully furnishing a home with personalized items comes at no cost to those served. This allows the families to focus on what truly matters in their lives: their continued growth and future success.

Humble Design Cleveland

What is your organization's mission?

How do gifts impact the community?

Every empty house costs $6,000 to transform into a completely furnished and decorated home ﬁlled with hope, dignity, and magic that lasts long after the holidays are over. Your monetary donation allows Humble Design to purchase highly needed items as well as continue to provide services for families and veterans in need. We have seen the impact ﬁrst hand, 97% of families served by Humble Design remain housed 12 months later - which is almost double the national average.

At Humble Design Cleveland, we change lives and communities by custom designing and fully furnishing homes for individuals, and veterans emerging from homelessness. We know that having a home is key in breaking the cycle of poverty so we help move forward by creating spaces that give them the pride, hope, and dignity that they deserve.

• Individual Giving - Every monetary donation, no matter the size, ensures that children will no longer need to sleep on the ﬂoor, that families can share a home cooked meal at a table, and parents can feel safe and secure in their own home with curtains to cover their windows.

• Family Sponsorship - A business or group may opt to sponsor a family and participate in a Day of Joy. Help install all the carefully curated items into a family’s home and welcome them back into their new space. This unique opportunity directly impacts family’s experience and plays a major role in the vision coming to life. There are also opportunities to gather at Humble Design’s warehouse and work on projects behind the scenes such as organizing donations, repurposing furniture, or helping to prepare for a home installation.

Our process is simple. Twice a week, every week, we create a dignified and welcoming home by repurposing and pulling together gently used goods that have been donated by the community. We start by getting families up o the floor and into beautiful, beds. We design everything from top to bottom, from dishes to linens, from tables to couches. We make beds, fill vases with hang pictures and everything in-between. Families return to a home that will give them a fresh start, a place where they can dream together. The stability of a fully functioning home allows our families and veterans to thrive.

What is your organization'’s proudest achievement?

For more information on how to get involved with Humble Design, visit their website at www.HumbleDesign.org/Cleveland or email infocle@humbledesign.org with inquiries.

Our

Restoring life-changing people who make Design the environment, community we can

Since 2009, Humble Design has transformed over 2550 empty houses and apartments into homes across 5 cities around In 2020, Humble Design Cleveland opened its warehouse in Solon, Ohio. Despite the di culties of starting up in a pandemic, served our ﬁrst client in September of that year. With just over 2 years operational, Humble Design Cleveland has transformed homes, completed several community projects and directly changed the lives of over 500 Clevelanders.

How can people get involved with your organization?

When you donate to Humble Design Cleveland, you are helping to break the cycle of homelessness in our community by providing a future full of hope for generations to come.

A: Community support is critical to the success of Humble Design Cleveland. We couldn’t do what we do without our incredible volunteers, donors and supporters who make a real di erence in the lives of children, parents, and veterans in Cleveland. We in our motto of ‘togetherness to end homelessness’ and we need you! Become a volunteer, donate gently used furniture or household goods, or please consider a tax-deductible donation.

Debbie Eastburn

Brenda Szucs

Feeding our communities’ future

OUR APPROACH

Hunger Network feeds our communities’ future by fighting food inequity and injustice through a collaborative consortium of hunger centers, food donors, and non-profit partners. We serve our neighbors in need with dignity and compassion by operating two programs that close the last-mile meal gap to ensure that no one goes hungry, and no food goes to waste.

HUNGER RELIEF PROGRAM

Our Hunger Relief Program is an alliance of over 70 hunger centers located in Cuyahoga County. These centers work together to improve accessibility to and distribute healthy and culturally relevant foods, as well as personal and household hygiene items, free of charge. Community-based pantry and hot meal sites are located in neighborhoods where residents face food and nutrition insecurity. Hunger Network members provided almost 7.1 million meals to our community in 2023.

FOOD RESCUE PROGRAM

Our environmentally conscious Food Rescue Program utilizes a two-fold strategy: feeding our neighbors while reducing food waste and mitigating harmful carbon dioxide emissions from entering the atmosphere. Hunger Network is the first organization in Ohio and third in the nation to implement the innovative Food Rescue Hero app technology. This app allows us to recover fresh food and deliver it to nearby neighborhood distribution locations in under an hour. In 2023, Hunger Network Food Rescue Hero volunteers rescued 1.1 million pounds of food, which equates to almost 950,000 meals.

Year Incorporated: 1995 Number of Employees: 13 JOE DOSE CHAIR, BOARD OF TRUSTEES

help@hungernetwork.org

Ken Ganley Subaru Bedford donations support The Gathering Place

With every new Subaru purchased or leased, Subaru will donate $250 to a charity of your choice. In addition, Ken Ganley Subaru Bedford will also donate a minimum of $75 in total between The Gathering Place and Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana for each sold or leased vehicle, according to a news release. “We are honored and excited to be able to make

contributions to these worthy charities, especially our hometown organization, The Gathering Place,” General Manager Tim Nadvit said in the release. “Everyone knows someone whose life was affected by cancer in some way. The share the love event gives us the opportunity to make a difference.”

Internet and marketing director Cathy Burnstine agreed,

saying in the release, “I recently lost a very close friend to cancer, so to be able to contribute to The Gathering Place is very near and dear to my heart.”

Additionally, for every Subaru vehicle routine service visit during the Share the Love Event through Jan. 2, 2025, Ken Ganley Subaru Bedford will donate $5 to its Hometown Charities.

Business Volunteers Unlimited to host Homeless Stand Down 2025

Business Volunteers Unlimited will launch National Volunteer Week with its annual Homeless Stand Down on April 25, 2025, at Cleveland Public Auditorium.

In Cuyahoga County, more than 5,000 people experience homelessness each year, according to a news release. The event offers support to those experiencing homelessness by providing hot meals, new clothing, hygiene items, haircuts and medical checkups with the help of 400 volunteers, local businesses and 80 service providers to provide 1,000 individuals experiencing

homelessness with over 100 essential goods and services, the release said.

“BVU’s Homeless Stand Down is a testament to the power of people coming together and volunteering as a group; we can make a meaningful impact together,”

Elizabeth Voudouris, president and CEO of

BVU, said in the release. “We are honored to be in a position to connect hundreds of volunteers and service providers to provide a day of respite, resources, and reconnection to those in need.

NEO McDonald’s celebrates $1M in Round-Up for RMHC donations

McDonald’s owner-operators throughout Northeast Ohio recently reached a milestone: $1 million in Round-Up for RMHC donations thanks to the generosity of customers across the region, according to a news release.

The milestone donation was made at the McDonald’s at 712 Steels Corners Road in Stow, owned by Santiago Gil of Tomtreyco.

A celebration took place at the Stow location to commemorate the achievement, with an event featuring stories of recipients, speeches by the McDonald’s crew and community, cupcakes – and a shake/frozen beverage toast, the release said.

During the event, Gil said, “It’s an honor to be the site of the millionth dollar donation. This achievement reflects the commitment of not only our customers, but also our crew, who consistently ask that important question: ‘Would you

like to Round-Up?’

“That simple question, which averages about 36 cents per donation, has collectively impacted families in need during their child’s medical journey. The program shows how small donations can add up to a life-changing difference.”

The McDonald’s Round-Up for RMHC program continues to play a vital role in supporting the mission of RMHC, providing essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families and promote healing when children need health care, according to the release. Money raised will stay local, benefiting families served by Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Northeast Ohio.

“One million dollars covers the cost of all 95 guest rooms at our Ronald McDonald House® programs in Akron and Cleveland for two months.,” Claire Fuller, development and McDonald’s engagement manager for RMHC Northeast Ohio, said in the release. “That means 95 families can focus

on their child’s care, free from the worry of lodging or meals during critical treatments.”

McDonald’s customers can join the “Gift for RMHC” campaign, celebrating 50 years of Ronald McDonald House Charities. Whether rounding up at the register, drive-thru or self-order kiosk, every small donation adds up to create a big impact for RMHC families, with 100% of proceeds directly supporting the RMHC mission, the release said. Just one day of round-ups from every McDonald’s customer in the U.S. could fund about 65,000 family night stays at a Ronald McDonald House – demonstrating the power of small acts of kindness, according to he release.

“Your generosity is helping families navigate one of the most difficult experiences of their lives,” Craig Wilson, CEO of RMHC Northeast Ohio, said in the release. “Together, we are offering support, comfort, and hope. A toast to everyone –thank you for your unwavering support. Cheers.”

$1M gift to fund Ohio Women’s Monument at Ohio Statehouse

The Capitol Square Foundation recently announced a $1 million anonymous gift to support the construction of the Ohio Women’s Monument, set to grace the grounds of the Ohio Statehouse. The gift was given in tribute to late Speaker Jo Ann Davidson, the trailblazing first female Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives, who died earlier this year, according to a news release.

“This transformational gift not only makes the Ohio Women’s Monument possible but ensures that Speaker Davidson’s remarkable legacy is etched into

Ohio’s history forever,” Charles Moses, chair of the Capitol Square Foundation, said in the release. “We are profoundly humbled by the donor’s generosity and proud to play a part in recognizing the vital contributions of women to our State and Nation.”

The project, approved last month by the Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board, gained momentum with a recent fundraising event featuring presidential historian Doris Kearns Goodwin. The monument, designed by sculptor Brenda Councill, is scheduled for completion in summer 2026 – a tribute as Ohio commemorates its historical milestones

and the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Laura Battocletti, executive director of CSRAB, celebrated the gift as a pivotal moment for the project.

“This gift is a profound honor for a woman who dedicated her life to advancing opportunities for women in Ohio’s political and business arenas,” Battocletti said in the release. “The Ohio Women’s Monument will stand as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come, particularly for the thousands of schoolchildren who visit the Statehouse every year. It’s a lasting tribute to the determination and vision of women

shaping history.”

Spearheaded by the Ohio Women’s Suffrage Monument Commission, chaired by Sen. Stephanie Kunze, the initiative seeks to celebrate all women who have made lasting contributions to Ohio and beyond, according to the release.

“This project honors the collective spirit and achievements of women throughout history,” Kunze said in the release. “This generous gift underscores the importance of recognizing those contributions and inspires us to continue the journey toward equality and opportunity.”

Journey Center for Safety and Healing

For nearly half a century, Journey Center for Safety and Healing (Journey) has been a leader in Cuyahoga County around issues of domestic violence and child abuse. Journey envisions a community where safety and well-being are achieved by empowering people to ﬁnd a path toward healthy, thriving relationships. Domestic violence and child abuse a ect the entire community.

Journey is the most comprehensive domestic violence agency in Northeast Ohio and is unique in combining domestic violence and child abuse in its mission. Services include a 24-Hour Helpline; emergency shelter; assistance with securing permanent housing; trauma therapy; justice system advocacy; support groups; supervised visitation and exchange; prevention, education, and training events; parenting classes; community advocacy; and culturally speciﬁc services for victims in the Hispanic community. Prevention and intervention services help people experiencing abuse ﬁnd strength and support as they determine their best path toward health and safety. Journey helps people heal from the trauma of abuse, provides community education to promote understanding of the dynamics and warning signs of abusive relationships, and delivers training and advocacy that improve systemic responses to family violence.

Journey does not charge for any service; victims have enough barriers in seeking assistance and cost should not be one of them. 60-70% of Journey’s annual budget comes from government grants; the di erence must be raised each year from the community – people like you. Gifts to Journey save lives. Private donations provide critical programming and empower victims with the services they need for safety and healing. A gift of $691 could help a victim navigate the court process, $417 could provide safe and sound visitation for a parent and their child, $312 could o er therapeutic healing to a victim, $99 could provide safe shelter for someone ﬂeeing their abuser, and $29.26 could feed a survivor for one week.

Interested in helping? Visit Journey’s website, make a

Estate planning is about more than death and taxes – it’s about protecting your assets, planning for your future, and creating your legacy. McCarthy Lebit’s Trust and Estate attorneys provide sophisticated estate planning services that extend well beyond a will – including tax minimization, asset protection, and business succession planning.

Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation donates over $3M

Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation announced Dec. 10 that it had donated over $3 million in grants to nonpro t organizations across multiple states.

Grant recipients will teach children in underserved communities about healthy eating and gardening; expand access to nancial literacy in rural communities; provide trauma-informed mental health services; accelerate adoptions from foster care; rehabilitate native wildlife; expand day services for older adults in need; increase access to a ordable housing; provide emergency shelter; and support the arts, according to a news release.

“Nonpro ts play a critical role in enhancing the quality of life in local communities,” Hunter A. Applewhite, president of the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation, said in the release.

“We’re pleased to provide grants that bolster their e orts. We’re committed to making a positive impact in the communities Dominion Energy serves.”

Funding is available to organizations in areas where Dominion Energy provides electricity or natural gas, or has signi cant business interests, according to the release.

Applications for the next round of grants will be accepted from Jan. 13 to Feb. 24, 2025, at dominionenergy.com/foundation.

The LCADA Way, The Nord Center changes name to Riveon Mental Health and Recovery

Two organizations recently merged to create Riveon Mental Health and Recovery.

In a news release, it was announced that Riveon Mental Health and Recovery would be the name of the resulting organization following a merger of e LCADA Way and e Nord Center, which was announced in January of this year. Based in Lorain County, Riveon’s name “embodies our mission to provide comprehensive behavioral health and addiction services that o er hope, healing and continuous support to our community,” the release said.

“ is collaboration represents a big win for our community,” Don Schi bauer, CEO of Riveon, said in the release. “Bringing the expertise of these two top-notch organizations together under one roof improves access to care through a ground-breaking ‘no wrong door approach’ to behavioral healthcare and

Sweet Dreams for

substance use disorder.”

e merger allows Riveon to “deliver critical healthcare service and champion key projects which best serve the community,” the release said, by addressing mental, emotional and physical health through an all-inclusive care model that “simpli es the path to recovery.”

“We now treat the whole person.” Dan Haight, COO of Riveon, said in the release.

“Together, we tackle the root issues of behavioral health and substance abuse.

At Riveon, we adapt to our clients’ needs, empowering them to navigate their recovery journey with resilience and continuous growth. We provide the resources and support necessary at every turn – always here. Always ready.”

Kids to celebrate 16 years with movie night Dec. 30

Sweet Dreams for Kids will celebrate its 16th anniversary with a movie night showing “Wonka” at 7 p.m. Dec. 30 at the Beachwood Community Center at 25325 Fairmount Blvd.

Previews will start at 6:30 p.m., and attendees are encouraged to wear their pajamas and bring blankets, pillows and

other cozy items. Tickets are $20 per person, with a $100 family max. Children ages 3 and under are free. Proceeds will bene t Sweet Dreams for Kids, a nonpro t organization that donates new pajamas to children in the hospital, according to a news release.

To register, text 952-994-0818 before Dec. 20.

Chaviva High School participates in chesed projects

Chaviva High School students recently participated in chesed projects, including the Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s annual fall cemetery cleanup, volunteering at the Cleveland Kosher Food Pantry and by dancing for a new bride to bring joy to her ceremony.

| Submitted photos

Chaviva High School raises over $60K at 7th annual 5K

Chaviva High School’s seventh annual girls-only 5k, held on Nov. 17, welcomed nearly 100 participants. Students, runners and cheerleaders trained for months to complete the 3.1-mile course, raising over $60,000 in the process. According to a news release, half of the funds will be donated to Lemaan Achai to support families in Israel. | Submitted photo

NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN/CLEVELAND

NCJW/CLE’s powerful voice resonates throughout the community. Through social justice, education and community engagement efforts, members work every day to identify and meet the needs in the community.

Becky Meiser Brouman Director of Volunteers, Community & Program Development rbrouman@ncjwcleveland.org

Please align your philanthropic commitment with your beliefs by supporting NCJW/CLE’s work in changing the lives of women, children and families.

Mindi Axner Executive Director, maxner@ncjwcleveland.org

We graciously accept gently-used women's, men's and children's clothing, home goods, furniture, and more! Donations support retail operations and other programs. Donation Drop-offs: Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM 26055 Emery Road Suite L, Warrensville Hts., OH 44128

We are grateful for the community's support. All donations support NCJW/CLE programs and initiatives.

Donate

How do donations to Ogen positively impact the community?

Donations to Ogen's Yuval Fund directly support Israel's reservists, contributing to both the country's defense and its wider society. By providing interest-free loans, resilience programs, and other crucial services, Ogen eases the significant financial burdens reservists and their families face due to their service. These individuals are essential to Israel's security, and Ogen's assistance allows them to focus on their vital roles without the added stress of financial worries. Donating to Ogen is not just about providing financial assistance; it's about strengthening the entire community by ensuring the well-being of those who protect it.

What's Ogen's origin story?

Ogen was founded in 1990 by Cleveland native Professor Eliezer Yaffe to create a more equitable and inclusive society in Israel. In this mission, Ogen has become a leading non-profit social-finance organization dedicated to improving financial well-being, particularly for those on the social and economic periphery. What began as a mission to provide affordable loans and financial guidance has evolved into a robust offering of various programs and services to empower individuals, families, small businesses, and non-profit organizations. To date, Ogen has disbursed over 80,000 loans totaling $550 million, demonstrating its commitment to creating a more resilient economic future for all Israelis.

How

did the campaign come together?

The campaign honors Yuval Silber, a reservist killed in action in November 2023. In his memory, his family and friends, along with the Peled-Scharf family, established the Yuval Loan Track to provide interest-free loans, resilience programs, and vital services to reservists facing financial hardships. To date, over 400 loans totaling S4 million have been distributed, but demand is surging, and funds are running low. Hundreds of reservists and their families still await support. This campaign addresses the urgent need for donations to sustain those who sacrifice so much for Israel's security, ensuring their resilience and that of their families.

Eidan Kaye VP Development and Partnerships

Nakhum Khaftzadi St 17, Jerusalem, Israel www.ogen.org

Ari H. Jaffe President, American Friends of Ogen

Papa’s Path

What’s your origin story?

Inspired by our father, Chuck “Papa” Babbush, Papa’s Path was created after his 2017 diagnosis and several challenging years living with Parkinson’s. Our organization was founded on the principle of improving everyday quality of life. As a retired maxillofacial surgeon who dedicated his life-long career to helping others, Papa is passionate about improving the patient experience. Following his Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery in January of 2023 and in appreciation of his new lease on life, we established our fund, launched the Papa’s Path website, and hosted our first event: The Babbush Family 24-Hour Walk.

What sets your organization apart?

Papa’s Path stands out because it’s deeply personal. Our perspective is shaped by our father’s journey—evolving from a dedicated caregiver to navigating life as a Parkinson’s patient. Our mission focuses on supporting those living with Parkinson’s in the present. Through our “Steady Essentials Toolbox” program, we provide adaptive living aids and resources to empower individuals and their caregivers, making everyday challenges more manageable.

How do gifts to your organization positively

impact the community?

Every contribution supports our signature initiatives: Our Steady Essentials Toolbox™ Program, Our Annual 24-Hour Walk for Parkinson’s and the Babbush Family Fund for Parkinson’s Education, Research, and Innovation at University Hospitals. Together, these efforts drive awareness, provide practical tools, and fund advancements in Parkinson’s care and research.

What’s your organization’s proudest achievement?

Our proudest achievement—and greatest joy—is working together as siblings to bring our father’s ideas to life. By creating programs and projects that benefit the Parkinson’s community both locally and nationally, we not only honor his vision but also provide meaningful support to others. As a Parkinson’s patient, he personally benefits from these efforts, and as a father, he takes tremendous pride in seeing our newly established 501(c)(3) non-profit make a real difference for so many.

Steady Essentials Toolbox™ Project:

“Having experienced firsthand how daunting it can be to tackle even the simplest daily tasks, my wish is to provide a boxed and tested collection of adaptive aids, such as reach sticks, zipper pulls, pencil grippers, and more, to make facing each day a bit more manageable.” ~Papa

24-Hour Walk for Parkinson’s:

Beyond raising awareness and funds, the event symbolizes the tireless efforts of those living with Parkinson’s. It embodies our family’s commitment to stand alongside Papa and the community, transforming challenges into hope.

SAVE THE DATE: August 2nd-3rd, 2025

The Babbush Family Fund for Parkinson’s Education, Research, and Innovation at University Hospitals:

We’re committed to fostering progress in neurology education and training for residents, fellows, and faculty at University Hospitals.

www.papaspath.org

SCORE

Our Mission:

SCORE’s mission is to foster vibrant small business communities. We aim to give every person the support they need to thrive as a small business owner through mentoring and education. At SCORE, we hold that: Our client’s successes are our successes. The quality of their experience at SCORE is the truest measure of our success as an organization. Giving back is the foundation on which we are built. We are proud to enable volunteers, stakeholders and sponsors to give back to their communities.

What’s New?:

SCORE Cleveland is honored to receive the 2024 SCORE District Chapter of the Year Award for outstanding performance in the Ohio District. The award shows that we are more dedicated than ever to helping our clients succeed, and we look forward to serving our local community.

Senior Transportation Connection

What is your origin story?

STC was founded in 2005, the result of several years of research on the current state of senior transportation and how best to meet a growing demand for coordinated service. A public-private initiative, STC would not have been successful without the advocacy and tireless work of three local activists with whom our community is very familiar: Lois Zaas, Lois K. Goodman, and Eleanor Steigman. Today, STC provides door to door transportation for over 30 cities, Cuyahoga County, and non-proﬁt organizations, ensuring that older adults and those with disabilities have access to safe, reliable, and a ordable transportation.

How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community?

You’ve probably heard that lacking social connection can increase the risk for premature death as much as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. Every time STC picks up a rider, this risk goes down. Whether it’s talking with one of our drivers, the conversations our riders have during their senior center lunch, or even the interaction with the receptionist at the doctor’s o ce, STC creates important connections that impact one’s overall well-being!

How can people help STC?

Spread the word! Let your family members and friends know that STC is here to support you, your family, and your neighbor next door! Go to www.ridestc.org and ﬁnd out which communities we serve. Or call: 216-265-1489. And if you are looking for a vehicle to transport a group of people to a park, the theater, or a movie, give us a call and we will work to accommodate you and your group.

4735 W. 150th St. Cleveland, OH 44135

216-265-1489

www.ridestc.org

Top Leadership

Interested in helping? You may donate online at ridestc.org. Your gifts help us to keep our fares low. Give the gift of independence and mobility to Cuyahoga County Seniors today. STC is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. All contributions are tax-deductible.

4735 W. 150th St. Cleveland, OH 44135

216-265-1489

www.ridestc.org

Senior Transportation Connection (STC) enables seniors and adults with disabilities to live healthy and productive, independent lives. By providing door to door transportation that is safe, affordable, and accessible, our riders get to their doctor appointments, shop for groceries, and socialize with friends and family.

Laura Kleinman Executive Director Elliott Fischbach Director of Operations

Larry Orwin, board member of Friends of Breakthrough; Sam Steinhouse, board chair of Breakthrough Public Schools; Danielle Eisenberg, board chair of Breakthrough Public School; Matt Sattler, COO of Breakthrough Public Schools; Jeff Berlin, board chair of Friends of Breakthrough; Susan Ertle, president of Friends of Breakthrough; Andrew McRae, CEO of Breakthrough Public Schools; Carter Edman of Marous Brothers Construction; Ron Brownrigg, principal of Breakthrough Public Schools; and Jared Freeman, Dave Roberts and Rusty Lytle, all of Marous Brothers Construction, participate in a groundbreaking event for a new $2.9 million gym and multipurpose facility at Breakthrough Public School’s Woodland Hills campus on Dec. 4. | Submitted photos

Andrew McRae, CEO of Breakthrough Public Schools, describes the upcoming developments to the Woodland Hills campus on Dec. 4, which will be a $2.9 million gym and multipurpose facility project.

Breakthrough Public Schools breaks ground for Woodland Hills project

Breakthrough Public Schools held a groundbreaking event on Dec. 4 for its $2.9 million gym and multipurpose facility at its Woodland Hills campus. The new facility will include a gym, multipurpose spaces, offices and bathrooms, in an effort to improve student life and educational infrastructure and enhance the neighborhood, according to a news release. It will provide a dedicated lunch space for students and expanded program capabilities and serve as a new community hub, which can also be used as a polling site. Expected to be completed by the 2025-26 school year, the project was funded through various fundraising efforts, including through the Louise H. and Davis S. Ingalls Foundation, the Bruening Foundation, the Thompson Family Foundation, and Larry Orwin, a Friends of Breakthrough Schools Board member, who

raised more than $250,000 through his participation in the Badwater 135 Ultramarathon, the release said.

“This new gymnasium and multipurpose facility will not only enhance physical education and extracurricular opportunities but will also serve as a dynamic space for collaboration, innovation and community engagement,” Andrew McRae, CEO of Breakthrough Public Schools, said in the release. “We are thrilled to invest in the future of our Woodland Hills Campus and empower our scholars to reach their full potential in every area of their development.”

Susan Ertle, president of Friends of Breakthrough, said in the release, “we are thrilled to finally be getting the construction underway for this project that has been years in the making. We want to express particular thanks to all the donors who have helped to make this dream soon become a

reality for our scholars, our families, and all of the educators at the Breakthrough Woodland Hills campus.”

The campus serves pre-K through eighth grade students, with a student body that is 100% low income and 89% residing in Cleveland, and is dedicated to academic excellence, critical thinking and community responsibility, the release said.

“We look forward to inviting the public back next fall for the grand opening of this beautiful multi-purpose space that will enrich our scholars’ lives and be an asset to the broader community,” Sam Steinhouse, chair of the Breakthrough Schools board of directors, said in the release.

Alan Rosskamm was the founding CEO of Breakthrough Schools and retired in 2021 after 12 years.

Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity to dedicate two homes

Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity, dignitaries, faith groups and stakeholders will participate in a dedication event for two homes for two Cleveland families at 11 a.m. on Dec. 21 at 10522 Crestwood Avenue. Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb will be the special guest for the occasion.

One of the homes was sponsored by faith groups as part of Greater Cleveland Habitat’s Faith Build program, which involves different religious groups donating money and volunteering to build a Habitat Home, according to a news release. The second home was sponsored by Miguel Zubizarreta, Habitat board member and the former

chief technology officer and executive vice president of Westlake-based software company Hyland Software Inc., according to the release.

“As we end the year, these home dedications are significant because they are part of our 24 homes completed this year,” Peggy Sobul, Greater Cleveland Habitat for

Humanity chief development officer, said in the release. “We are thankful for our faith groups and other donors who believe in affordable homeownership. We are always proud to see how our community comes together to make the dream of affordable homeownership possible.”

Trailblazer Accelerator Program attracts new startup activity to Ohio

Earlier this year, JumpStart Inc. unveiled an expanded suite of entrepreneurial support services for health tech and software startups and as part of the enhanced services, it launched the Trailblazer Tech Accelerator Program to help Ohio-based early-stage – pre-seed and seed stage – startups prepare for venture capital investment, according to a news release.

The three-month program guides ambitious startup founders through fundamental growth phases, enhancing their readiness

for venture capital investment through a proven curriculum, expert access and individualized advising.

In addition to the invaluable learning experience, Trailblazer graduates gain access to the Preferred Partner Program that subsidizes critical business services including product development, clinical/regulatory, legal, finance and marketing.

“Ohio has an immense amount of up-and-coming tech talent,” Lorne Novick, chief services officer at JumpStart, said in the release. “Our thriving startup ecosystem offers a lot of

opportunities that early-stage startups and VC investors can benefit from.”

The third Trailblazer Accelerator cohort is to conclude on Dec. 12 with a showcase event, where participants will pitch their startups to influential investors and industry executives. JumpStart is a nonprofit entrepreneur support organization that equips entrepreneurs with the skills, services and support to build stronger businesses and communities, according to the release.

Shoes and Clothes for Kids

How has the move to the Community Resource Center (CRC) positively impacted SC4K?

The most significant impact has been realizing our founders’ dreams by adding direct service to families referred by the CRC. In just 7 months, we’ve served more than 500 families and 1,400 children through this program! Our 21 Distribution Partners and thousands of teachers also love shopping in the new SC4K Free Store. It’s expansive and well-lit, and with five dedicated dock doors, for easy access and loading of vehicles. The collaborative environment of the CRC brings synergy to neighbors in need, saving them time by connecting them to multiple social service agencies under one roof. SC4K benefits from the numerous Food Bank visitor and donor tours, which introduce them to the mission and impact of the organization’s work. It has also resulted in increased corporate and individual volunteers and new donors. Lastly, SC4K now has the space to host our annual friend/fundraiser, Party on South Waterloo, onsite. The event immerses attendees in our mission, programs, and impact through unique hands-on activities. Next year’s event will be held on October 16, 2025.

What makes your organization diﬀerent?

SC4K is the only organization providing new shoes, clothes, and school supplies to students in need year-round to break barriers to school attendance. Many kids living in poverty receive hand-me-down items, but SC4K provides new items through a digniﬁed shopping experience. When children and parents come to shop in the SC4K Free Store, they choose new items o the rack just like their peers who shop at retail stores, providing essential items and cost savings to families. Still, more importantly, it gives kids a sense of increased pride, conﬁdence, and ultimately, new outlooks as they step into the classroom, ready to learn and on an equal level as their peers. Teachers we serve report increased preparedness, better classroom engagement, and an interest in learning.

How can I get involved?

• Through our Program Sponsorships Opportunities, businesses and individuals can partner with SC4K meaningful ways. Partnerships can include hands-on team-building activities for employees, sponsoring monthly Partner and Teacher Shops, hosting a Show and Tell experience, and more! Reach out to us to discuss becoming a 2025 Program Partner.

• Through volunteer opportunities as an individual or group, you can help repair the world (tikkun olam). One-time days of service or regular shifts are available. Many “feet” make light work!

• Through your charitable donations (tzedakah), you can help inspire the next generation and give back to the children and teachers in our community who deserve our help the most.

Ready to Get Involved?

Monica Lloyd, Executive Director Kelly Rudlo , Chair, Board of Directors

Stan Hywet is a Northeast Ohio Treasure

Akron’s Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens is an extraordinary place of history and community, right here in Northeast Ohio. The former home of F.A. Seiberling (co-founder of The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company) and his family, the centerpiece of the estate is a 65-room Tudor revival manor house completed when the emergence of modern America made Akron the “Rubber Capital of the World.” The estate with fully restored historic gardens is an easy drive from Cleveland and is open for tours from April-December.

Ohio.The

714 N. Portage Path Akron, OH 44303

Please donate at: stanhywet.org/donate

Stan Hywet is a vibrant community resource, and a non-profit dedicated to the preservation of the estate and its history, while sharing this important place through informative tours, educational programs, special events, and engaging outreach. Guests from around the world and students from the region learn about history, art, architecture and more when they visit.

World.”The experiences.An

Support Stan Hywet with a donation so that the work of the estate can continue in the important areas of historic preservation, education/outreach, community engagement, and exceptional experiences. An investment in Stan Hywet is an investment in the cultural well-being of Northeast Ohio.

experiences.An

The

Manor

The Manor House and Gardens are open for tours, April - December

House and Gardens are open for tours, April - December

Your gift helps us preserve and share our

and serve as a resource

and recreational enrichment.

Questions: Please call 330.315.3239 or email jmasters@stanhywet.org

Wh at ’s you r origin s tory ?

In 194 8 , Stella Maris (L ati n fo r “ Sta r of t h e Sea”) ope n ed its doo rs Fat h e

Otis Winche s te r of t h e neig h bori n g St. Malac h i C h urch and mem b e rs of a rel ative ly n ew organi z ation, A l coholi cs Ano nymous, re cog n i z ed the nee d fo r a place to house a n d s u pport h omeless men th ro u g h thei r re cov er y f rom al coho l dependen cy

Origi n al ly housing 11 me n w h o were undergoing al coholic tre atme nt and re cov e r y, Stella Maris was a ref u ge where th ey r ecei v ed t h ree meal s a d ay, a p r e s c r ibed cou rs e of t r e atme nt, and th e cama rade r ie of ot h e rs. T h e g oa l was to e n d t h ei r addictio n and rebui l d thei r li v es

76 years later, Stella Maris, a place of hope and transformation for Cleveland’s recovery community, has grown to be the leader in mental health and addiction treatment services. Stella Maris is the only facility that oﬀers a full continuum of treatment services on one campus including, Centralized Intake and Medical Detoxiﬁcation, Inpatient and Outpatient Programs, Housing and Residential Services, wrap-around support services such as Case Management, Family Counseling, LGBTQ+ track, Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), Peer Support, Primary Care Medical Services, Trauma Therapy, Art Therapy, Music Therapy, and Workforce Development Training.

How do g ift s to yo ur o rgani zat io n p os iti ve ly im pac t the communi ty ?

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we are not only saving lives but doing so with an impact that is 20% higher than national averages. This year, Stella Maris served over 5,000 individuals – each one ﬁnding the courage to start anew on our Campus of Hope. Yet, the need for our services continues to grow. To meet this demand, we must expand and strengthen our capacity, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background or ﬁnancial circumstance, has access to quality recovery care.

This is a shared mission – one that invites you to partner with us in building a community where every person can ﬁnd healing and support. You r gift is more than a donation; it’s an investment in lives transformed and futures reclaimed.

Together, we can continue to build this legacy of recovery and growth for generations to come.

Do you h ave a ny eve nt s pla nned i n th e coming year ?

Yes!

The Rock of Faith Concert will be held June 22nd at Music Box, followed by Stella Fest on Saturday, September 20th, and the 3rd annual Reﬂ ections of Gratitude Breakfast on November 23rd. More Information can be found on our website.

How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community?

Every gift, no matter the size, helps The Centers build a healthier, more equitable community. Your support transforms lives by making health, family, work, and hope a reality for those we serve. Donations empower us to respond to community emergencies and pioneer innovative programs like STARS, creating lasting change.

How can I/my company get involved with your organization?

The Centers o ers diverse ways to make a di erence, from volunteering in classrooms and collecting essential hygiene items to coaching clients for job interviews. Corporate partners can align with us through tailored employee engagement projects, whether one-day activities or year-round initiatives. Additionally, our new Associate Board for young professionals fosters community impact through outreach, education, social events, and fundraising, o ering a vibrant space to promote our mission while connecting with like-minded changemakers.

What factors contribute to your organization’s success?

The Centers, our unique culture is built on ﬁve core values: Purpose, Belonging, Gratitude and Growth, Bravery, and the belief that “We Can and We Will.” These values guide our relationships and fuel our mission to achieve equity for all. We humbly serve our community with optimism, co-creating solutions that make tomorrow better than today. Our unwavering commitment to innovation and collaboration ensures we’re building a brighter future for everyone we touch.

At the CENTER of The Centers is our unique culture built on ﬁve core values: Purpose, Belonging, Gratitude and Growth, Bravery, and the belief that “We Can and We Will.” These values guide our relationships and fuel our mission to achieve equity for all. We humbly serve our community with optimism, co-creating solutions that make tomorrow better than today. Our unwavering commitment to innovation and collaboration ensures we’re building a brighter future for everyone we touch.

The Cleveland Orchestra

How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community?

Community support makes music a vibrant part of life in Northeast Ohio, bringing brilliant performances to the stage at Severance and Blossom; funding robust music education programs for students; creating opportunities for connection in our neighborhoods; and reaching more people through music online, on the radio, and on tour. Donations to The Cleveland Orchestra make up the most signiﬁcant portion of the ensemble’s operating revenue.

Every donation makes a di erence. When you support The Cleveland Orchestra, you inspire thousands across our community through the power of music. To learn more, contact Donor Services at 216-456-8400 or donate@clevelandorchestra.com.

How can I/my company get involved with your organization?

Enjoy the music by attending concerts at Severance and Blossom. Go deeper by becoming a donor and supporting the music you love. One way is to become a Stand Partner—a monthly giver who provides ongoing support for the music. Donors unlock special events throughout the year to enjoy (see below).

Do you have any events planned in the coming year?

The Orchestra o ers a variety of events to thank supporters. These include Meet the Artist chamber performances with Orchestra musicians; open rehearsals, your chance to see music-making in action; post-concert receptions with musicians and guest artists; and more.

In addition, The Cleveland Orchestra hosts major fundraising events each year: the Annual Gala, the Winter Spree, and the Blossom Summer Soirée. Each event features a beautiful cocktail hour, an elegant dinner, and a performance by the Orchestra.

216-456-8400

clevelandorchestra.com Top Leadership

Interested in Helping? Contact our Donor Services team at 216-456-8400 or donate@clevelandorchestra.com.

André Gremillet President & CEO

Richard K. Smucker Chair, Board of Trustees

OneTable celebrates decade of impact

Through COVID-19, Oct. 7, 2023, and more, Shabbat has been a space for reflection and community for hundreds of thousands

OneTable, a North American nonprofit organization that empowers people in their 20s and 30s to envision new rituals and build community through Shabbat dinner, highlighted the organization’s decade of impact since its inception in summer 2014, according to a news release.

“Like love, Shabbat is an ever-replenishing resource for living a life of meaning and connection,” OneTable cofounder and CEO Aliza Kline said in the release. “Over the past ten years our lives have been turned upside down many times over – and OneTable Shabbat has been a constant. During Covid, when every day felt similar, Shabbat reminded us what day of the week it was.

“Since October 7, Shabbat has offered us both an oasis and a reminder of a better future. Ahad Ha’am’s infinite wisdom feels truer and truer every week, ‘More than the Jewish people keep Shabbat, Shabbat keeps the Jewish people.’ In fact, in the nine months following October 7, 2023, more than 75,000 Jewish young adults have gathered at OneTable Shabbat dinners, which is 40% higher than the previous year.”

OneTable reached these milestones in just 10 years:

• Dinner reservations: 1.1 million-plus

• Dinners: 150,000

• Locations: 700-plus

• Total participants: 285,000

• 2020 launched powered by OneTable, adapting and customizing its technology and peer engagement model for other organizations

• 2023 expanded to 50ish-plus/new generations with OneTable Together

“As OneTable turns 10, I am extremely proud of all we have accomplished and humbled by the OneTable communities that have brought our world closer,” board chair Rob Orley said in the release. “Just imagine what the creative connections and embrace of Jewish life and wisdom OneTable can inspire in the next ten years!”

Beyond the numbers, OneTable’s impact is personal to the 270,000 participants who have made more than 1 million reservations or hosted a dinner, according to the release.

“My first OneTable Shabbat dinner was just after I moved to New York City,” Matthew Berman of New York said in the release. “I had moved back to the US after spending two years living in Israel and was really seeking that magic of

ITEC Spreading the Light gala raises over $1M to empower Israeli children

The Israel Tennis & Education Centers

hosted its sold-out 2024 Gala, Spreading the Light, honoring the Eisenberg and Sellinger families at Canoe Studios in New York City on Nov. 19. The event brought together 350 attendees and raised over $1 million to support ITEC’s mission of transforming the lives of Israeli children through tennis and education, according to a news release.

The evening was a celebration of resilience and unity, featuring a personal story from Ziv Maman, a young leader shaped by ITEC’s programs, and a live

musical performance by Matisyahu, the release stated. Led by Wendy Slavin, president of the ITEC Foundation board and Gala chairwoman, alongside global CEO Eyal Taoz and global CFO Ilan Allali, the event underscored ITEC’s role in equipping children with life skills and building strong communities, especially in Israel’s underserved regions, the release stated.

The funds raised will directly support expanding ITEC’s programs, including mental health resources, leadership workshops and safe spaces for children in conflict zones, according to the release.

spontaneous Shabbat connections and conversations that happened in Israel. A friend I met in Israel and I decided to co-host a dinner and see what would happen; we invited a few people we knew but left the other invites up to chance.

“We ended up having an incredible meal that lasted hours. People of diverse backgrounds – religious and secular, traditional and progressive, extroverts and introverts – came together to share in each other’s presence under the light of the Shabbat candles. It felt like those Shabbats in Israel but also was something more because we had created it together. Without OneTable, we would never have made so many connections nor would we have been able to afford hosting so many people. I’m always looking forward to the next Friday night to host or to attend, and I am so grateful for OneTable’s commitment to bringing us together.”

Terra Zicklin of Los Angeles said in the release, “making time for Shabbat every week is incredibly important to me, and OneTable makes hosting or attending a Shabbat dinner accessible and fun. As both a host and participant, I love having the opportunity to gather with my Jewish LA community to light Shabbat candles. OneTable not only allows us to explore traditional practices but also encourages new and meaningful ways to experience Jewish joy together.”

Iris November endows CWRU award in memory of late husband

Agift from Case Western Reserve University alumna Iris Flaxman Hollander November will endow the Bernard Rich Hollander Public Service Award at the university’s school of law, according to a news release.

The honor will be given annually at the spring commencement ceremony to a graduating law student who has demonstrated academic excellence and a dedication to improving their community

through public service – a good Samaritan, much like the award’s namesake, the release said. The funds provided will help the graduate pursue a career in the nonprofit sector and can be for relocation costs or to explore research opportunities in the field.

November graduated from Flora Stone Mather College for Women, and her first husband, the late Bernard “Buddy” Rich Hollander, was an alumnus of Adelbert College, a CWRU predecessor school, and

CWRU School of Law.

As a student, Buddy served on the first law review at CWRU and went on to a career in the legal field, devoting a lifetime of service in the nonprofit sector, in an effort to aid the less fortunate and make the world a better place – tikkun olam, according to the release. He believed deeply that, beyond the welfare of one’s own family and friends, “the enhancement of the lives of others and those to come must be the real object of life,” the release said.

Buddy was also a singer and pianist, serving as a cantorial soloist for his synagogue.

Most recently, Iris established the Raymond R. November LLEAP Award at CWRU’s law school in recognition of her brother-in-law, Raymond Ronald November, also a CWRU alumnus.

Eyal Taoz, from left, Global CEO, David Frieberg, Wendy Slavin, ITEC Foundation board president and Gala chairwoman, Gerry Cohen, international board chair, Ilan Allali, ITEC CEO, Global CFO. | Photo / Michael Jurick

The Literacy Cooperative

How do gifts to your organization positively impact the community?

Every gift strengthens families and creates opportunities for brighter futures. TLC leads Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Cuyahoga County, a book gifting initiative that mails a brand new, age-appropriate book, at no cost to the family, to enrolled children every month from birth until 5, building home libraries, and instilling a love of books and family reading from an early age. Over 2,000,000 books mailed to more than 75,000 registered children, and 39,000 children are currently enrolled. The books are available in Spanish and English. Your gift connects families to critical resources, information and family engagement workshops to optimize their home literacy experiences/environments.

How does your organization measure success?

TLC measures success by evaluating program outcomes, community engagement, and systemic impact. Our survey results consistently show that Imagination Library is having the intended impact. Metrics include improved kindergarten readiness, with participants outperforming peers, and increased family literacy habits, as 78% of families report reading more with their children. Engagement rates, such as a 45% open rate for newsletters, and attendance at workshops reflect outreach success. 66% of respondents said Imagination Library books comprise at least half of their home libraries. Home libraries are strong predictor of educational success.

How can I/my company get involved with your organization?

Volunteer with us by assisting with events, book distribution, or family engagement activities. Sponsor or donate to our programs that support early literacy, professional development, and career pathways for adults. Collaborate as partner by hosting a lunch and learn, a special fundraising campaign, or sponsor and attend our annual fundraisers the Read Across America Celebration (Spring ’25) or our adult spelling bee the CLE Bee (Fall ’25). Advocate for literacy by raising awareness and supporting public policy efforts. Together, we can build a strong literate community.

The Literacy Cooperative 216-776-6180 www.literacycooperative.org

“Our family has benefited from Imagination Library by giving us a new, calm, and educational way to spend time together!! I also believe that we benefit from the fact the books are very age appropriate for each child. Which I was finding a little difficult as a mom to find books that my children could relate to and be interested in!! Also this momma benefits from saving some money by not having to buy so many books! Of course we could always borrow from our local library, but then we would not have our own collection of wonderful books!”

– program recipient

Julie Crocker Board of Trustees Chair

Top Leadership

Towards Employment

How do gifts positively impact the community?

Towards Employment is a champion and resource for people overcoming lack of opportunity, justice system involvement and other challenges to gain the skills and experience needed to advance towards a family-sustaining career. Your gift supports a career pathway of evidence-based, employer-driven training, and holistic support, coaching and mentorship, called WorkAdvance, which is proven to help people rise out of poverty and achieve economic stability and mobility.

Do you have any events planned in the coming year?

In the spring we will have a grand opening of our offices in the St. Clair/Superior neighborhood – and the community will be invited. Towards Employment also hosts a series of events for alumni – we welcome support for the Summer Resource Block Party and the Holiday Toy Giveaway – both events where Alumni connect to CLE resources while networking to build their own social capital.

What sets your organization apart?

We know what works! Our nationally recognized career pathway model has been proven through research to be effective in increasing earnings of low-income Clevelanders, including individuals with criminal justice involvement, and young adults disconnected from school or work. With this model, Towards Employment focuses on placing and sustaining people in good-paying jobs, while also providing the necessary wrap-around services to help address the “social determinants of work” such as housing insecurity, transportation, and legal issues. Addressing these issues helps people gain a foothold on a career pathway and supports their advancement.

Jill Rizika President and CEO Adaora Schmiedl Chief Advancement

Transplant House of Cleveland

How do gifts to your organization positively

impact others?

Gifts ensure housing and support for organ transplant patients and caregivers at a low cost, saving them $140 per night over what would be spent at a hotel. That’s a savings of $16,900 for a 4-month stay. Because only 4% of U.S. medical centers perform transplants, most who need this care must travel to access it. For many, the cost of lodging is prohibitive and the stress of the undertaking overwhelming. We focus on equity of access, community with others, professional social work support, and providing all the needed information and comforts to help with a successful organ transplant.

Do you have any events planned in the coming year?

Our annual 5K Run & 1 Mile Walk will be held at the House on Sunday, June 8. This family and dog-friendly event is hosted right on our campus and gives participants views of University Circle. Or, for a “fancier” experience, join us for “A Second Dance at Life,” our celebrity dance competition, dinner, and auction, in the historic LaSalle Theater in Cleveland on Saturday, October 25. Created by professional ballroom dancer, Lisa Vegas, and her husband and liver transplant recipient, Matthew Miller, we will celebrate the gift of life. Sponsorships available!

What sets your organization apart?

This is the only organization of its kind in Cleveland and one of 14 nationally, providing an array of support to organ transplant patients and their caregivers. Transplant House is shaped by the notion of “radical welcome,” embracing families with compassion, acceptance, and gratitude during a challenging medical journey. For 10 years we have provided a healing and supportive community that compliments and extends the world-class care patients receive at Cleveland’s medical centers, while also attending to the unique emotional and social needs of their caregivers. More than 1700 families have been served in that time.

2029 E. 115th St. Cleveland, OH 44106 216-973-2691 transplanthouseofcleveland.org

Interested in helping? Call 216-973-2691 or visit transplanthouseofcleveland.org to learn how you can support our mission.

A HOME AWAY FROM HOME

“A

liver transplant may have saved my husband’s life….but the love of Transplant House of Cleveland saved mine.” — Andrea, wife of liver recipient Al.

Transplant House of Cleveland provides affordable, temporary housing and a welcoming, supportive community to organ transplant patients and their families.

Learn how you can help by visiting transplanthouseofcleveland.org/ways-to-help or contact Elaine Turley by phone 216-973-2691 or email elainet@transplanthouseofcleveland.org.

Joanmarie Button President of the Board of Trustees

Elaine Turley Executive Director

United Way of Greater Cleveland

How do gifts to United Way impact the community?

When you donate to United Way of Greater Cleveland, you have immense impact in our community. Your gift supports United Way 211 to ensure that everyone has access to help. It also makes safe, stable housing a reality for more families. You also help us invest in proven solutions that remove barriers to economic opportunity. Together, we can create a stronger, more prosperous region for all of us!

How can individuals and companies get involved with United Way?

There are several ways to engage with United Way of Greater Cleveland. Many corporate partners sponsor events or host a Workplace Campaign, which support United Way through payroll deduction donations and engagement opportunities. For more information on corporate philanthropy at United Way, contact sﬂetcher@unitedwaycleveland.org. Individuals can engage with United Way by participating in programs, signing up to volunteer at volunteer.unitedway.org, attending events, or joining an a nity group. Emerging Leaders is our a nity group to engage young professionals in activities to further United Way’s mission. For more information, contact kmartinovic@unitedwaycleveland.org.

What is United Way’s origin story?

United Way of Greater Cleveland is considered one of the first United Ways in the world. In 1913, Cleveland became the first city to organize a true financial federation for health and welfare agencies – raising and allocating campaign funds through a single federated charity to address community needs. The first campaign raised $127,000 for 55 organizations. Though we have been known by many names, United Way continues the tradition of the annual campaign.

Understanding the needs of our community and vetting organizations to select the one(s) with the greatest impact can be a daunting task for individuals. By donating to United Way’s annual campaign, you can rest assured that you’re contributing to a trusted agency that deeply understands our community’s needs and invests your dollars where they will have the greatest impact.

www.unitedwaycleveland.org

UNITED WAY 211

THOSE WHO NEED

Sharon Sobol Jordan President & CEO

Vanessa Whiting Board Chair

Your legacy helps create a healthier community.

At University Hospitals, we take our commitment to our community seriously and are grateful for your ongoing support in this rapidly changing world. Together, we’ll continue to treat patients like family, find new treatments and cures, and prepare the next generation of caregivers. Join others who are helping advance the science of health and the art of compassion by leaving their legacy.

To learn more, contact our Gift Planning Team: UHGiving.org/giftplanning | 216-983-2200 Leave your legacy.

YWCA Greater Cleveland has been on a mission to eliminate racism, empower women, and end homelessness in Cleveland since 1868.

What’s your origin story?

Founded in 1868, YWCA Greater Cleveland is one of Cleveland’s oldest nonprofit organizations. From our inception, we have played a pivotal role in addressing the challenges faced by women and marginalized communities, continuously evolving to meet the pressing needs of society. We have a remarkable legacy as a trailblazing organization, advocating for women’s empowerment, social justice, and equity.

What sets your organization apart?

YWCA Greater Cleveland stands out as a beacon of hope and progress, blending a storied past with a forward-thinking approach to creating a more equitable future. We operate the only low-barrier emergency shelter for women in Cleveland and the only GOLD STAR rated trauma-informed, two-generational early childhood education program for families that have experienced homelessness. We distinguish ourselves through our:

rich legacy tri-fold mission focus on eliminating racism, empowering women, and ending homelessness comprehensive and community-centered approach to programming for women and families and homelessness prevention advocacy and policy impact focus on innovation including trauma-informed practices

How do donations positively impact the community?

Donations support programs that promote equity and opportunity. They help provide essential services such as transitional housing for young adults, permanent supportive housing for seniors, early childhood education, racial justice initiatives, and various community programs addressing health, safety, career, and education needs.