CHARISM NEIGHBORHOOD SUPPORT CENTERS RAISE OVER $12,000 AT ANNUAL BREAKFAST

“Nourishing the Mind, Nourishing the Community” was the theme of the Charism neighborhood support centers seventh annual Caring Neighbors

Breakfast fundraising event held October 9 at the NDSU Alumni Center.

Charism is a non-profit, neighborhood-based organization that seeks to provide outreach programs for low-income individuals and families in Fargo. The primary focus is to empower individuals by teaching them the skills they need to be successful. “We don’t go real broad, but we want to go deep. We want to really change a life,” said Julie Gunkelman, executive director.

Programs include afterschool and summer educational services for youth, a community food program and garden, book collection, and partnerships developing language skills, all with the purpose of building a stronger community.

Charism youth greeted the 130 guests who attended the breakfast, then sang songs and handed out apples with notes attached identifying financial needs at the center.

Keynote speaker Rosie Sauvageau, Miss North Dakota, spoke about her platform, “Celebrate Diversity: One Nation, All People.”

Along with asking for donations at the event, notecards with photos and artwork made by the children were also for sale, with proceeds going to support the center’s programs.

“Attitude of Gratitude” awards were presented to the Fargo Park District, accepted by Clay Whittlesey, for providing a building, staff and supplies; and to Julie Gunkelman, for program development. [AWM]