OLD NEWSBOYS
11.19.2020 • THURSDAY • M 1
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH • N1
OLD NEWSBOYS 2020 THANK YOU FOR MAKING A DIFFERENCE TODAY
DONATE HERE
SINCE 1957 OLDNEWSBOYSDAY.ORG
DONATION
Dedicated to Lou Brock JUNE 18, 1938 - SEPTEMBER 6, 2020 OLD NEWSBOYS EMERITUS CHAIR 1999-2019 SEE STORY INSIDE: PAGE 2
OR GO TO OLDNEWSBOYSDAY.ORG
64th annual campaign benefits children’s charities online You won’t see us on street corners this year, but you can still support children’s charities through an online campaign.
CARING FOR KIDS
Caring for Kids offers crucial help to children amidst COVID-19
PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE BROCK FAMILY
Old Newsboys campaign moves online to aid kids THE STANGES WRITE NEW CHAPTER TO HELP AT-RISK CHILDREN BY JANICE DENHAM
PHOTO PROVIDED BY CARING FOR KIDS
SEE STORY INSIDE: PAGE 6
HOYLETON YOUTH & FAMILY SERVICES
Lehre House – A place of their own
PHOTO PROVIDED BY HOYLETON YOUTH & FAMILY SERVICES
SEE STORY INSIDE: PAGE 9
URBANREACHSTL
Bringing forth a story of hope and victory
In Paola and Kirk Stange’s lives, Old Newsboys is all about helping local, at-risk children. The chairmen of Old Newsboys 2020 knew one thing for certain: This year’s campaign would be held – virtually – to raise funds for children’s charities with ever-increasing needs. The one thing missing this year? Volunteers wearing bright green aprons to solicit funds on street corners. Instead, the public is asked to donate generously online or by check to the Metro St. Louis community project now in its 64th year. What remains the same is that articles featuring the charities served written by local high school journalists are available within this section and also online at oldnewsboysday.org, the same link for direct donations. This year’s edition is dedicated to the late Lou Brock, an all-star baseball player and supporter of Old Newsboys. See related story on page 2.
OLD NEWSBOYS: EASY CHOICE TO SUPPORT PHOTO PROVIDED BY URBANREACHSTL
SEE STORY INSIDE: PAGE 10
U.S. ASSOCIATION FOR BLIND ATHLETES
Everyone deserves the opportunity to take part in the fun of sports
PHOTO PROVIDED BY U.S. ASSOCIATION FOR BLIND ATHLETES
SEE STORY INSIDE: PAGE 12
GRACE MY FEET
Inspiring hope through the gift of shoes
PHOTO PROVIDED BY GRACE MY FEET
SEE STORY INSIDE: PAGE 12
The Stanges head their own firm focused on family law. “My career choice is indicative of my love of kids,” said Paola. “Through my work, I am trying to implement the best possible outcomes for children. Old Newsboys supports charities that help needy [kids].” Kirk said supporting Old Newsboys was an easy choice after the Stanges founded their firm. The St. Louis tradition, known as “the charity of last resort,” attracted them because many of its funding requests come from small grassroots charities seeking diapers, formula, shoes, backpacks and other necessities to help children grow into responsible citizens. “We did a lot of research [on charities]. Paola was the spearhead who got really involved. It is our duty to give back, and there is no better cause. When you have your own business, you make a conscious effort to do more and assume more responsibility as it grows,” Kirk said, indicating how their volunteer roles have grown in the last decade. Paola is treasurer of the nonprofit organization and the couple was named to its Hall of Fame in 2017. Since her first introduction to hawking the special-edition newspaper on street corners, Paola has marked Old
PHOTO BY CHRISTINA KLING-GARRETT
Newsboys Day on her calendar every year. Their son, dressed as Captain America, came along one year to learn volunteerism as a young superhero’s everyday goal.
CHALLENGES FOR 2020 Old Newsboys awarded grants to nearly 150 charities last winter. Because of support from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, all donations directly fund charities’ needs. Of course, unexpected events altered this years’ experience. The Old Newsboys organization reacted positively when changing needs required retargeting funds specified in earlier requests. Making a donation online, Kirk noted, offers an option to reach a little deeper into pockets to better lifetime chances for children. “A lot of people empty the cash in their cars, but hopefully people will donate a little more than they usually do,” Paola said of online donations. “An envelope will be in those newspapers, too, to send donations to this longstanding tradition.” Planning a campaign that culminates outdoors at dawn in mid-November creates worries, particularly when, just two years ago, hazardous weather conditions postponed the event for the first time. Switching to a virtual
campaign for Old Newsboys Day 2020 was a gradual decision as COVID-19 crept deeper into everyday life. “We had a concert in February where we gave [volunteers] Bob and Mary Ciapciak the first ‘Love the Children Award,’” Paola recalled as the most recent public event for Old Newsboys. The board monitored CDC recommendations through spring and summer. An annual polo match for early September was canceled. It was time to keep everyone safe, they decided, so Old Newsboys Day turned into a virtual celebration to better children’s lives. This year’s chairmen want to pass along to their own children – Benjamin, now 12, and Amelia, 10 – the responsible goal of giving back by volunteering. Paola considered her mother’s example as she was a young girl growing up in Atlanta, Georgia. Like her mother, she doesn’t want to let anyone down. “With hundreds of applications due to this year’s circumstances, it will be heart-wrenching if we don’t have enough money to give them everything they ask,” she said. After all, rain, snow and sleet hasn’t kept Old Newsboys down. Nor will COVID-19. oldnewsboysday.org
N2 • ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
OLD NEWSBOYS
M 1 • THURSDAY • 11.19.2020
Lou Brock’s focus ignited fires to better kids’ futures OLD NEWSBOYS DEDICATES 2020 EDITION TO STRONG LEADER BY JANICE DENHAM
Accusing St. Louis Cardinal Lou Brock of burglary for stealing bases fell short compared to his ability to capture hearts as he tried to improve St. Louisans’ lives. The outfielder voted into the Baseball Hall of Fame on the first ballot prioritized kids’ needs by spending hours and hours of personal time trying to better young lives. “He was a pushover for kids. He would stoop down to the children. He had a special connection to kids and they to him,” said Jackie Brock, his wife and partner in the effort. The Old Newsboys campaign will miss him in the starting lineup following his death on Sept. 6, 2020. Starting in 1996, he assumed leadership roles in the nonprofit organization. The Brocks became chairs emeritus every year after chairing Old Newsboys Day in 1999. They hawked the special edition in exchange for donations every Thursday before Thanksgiving. They encouraged people like former Cardinal greats Ozzie Smith and Albert Pujols and businessman Billy Busch to join them. Lou’s voice, ringing out on his megaphone, warned, “If you don’t get your newspaper today, you will have to wait a whole year!” They brought guests to corporate and backers’ fundraisers and became honorary chairs for an annual golf tournament begun in 2012. “We were true hustlers for the kids,” said Jackie, a former schoolteacher. “I guess he would want no child to experience the depravity that he grew up with. It did not impede his success. I look back to
PHOTO COURTESY OF OLD NEWSBOYS
Lou Brock with members of his family receiving an award at the Golden Plate Awards dinner held at Cedar Lake Cellars in 2019.
his early years with his family being sharecroppers and the distance he had to travel to get to school. A desire to help was his continuous motivation.” Lou never complained when they woke at 4 a.m. to don bright aprons on reliably freezing/wet/snowy days to collect for Old Newsboys. The Brock team competed to see whose apron held more donations. Lou was hard to beat, Jackie admitted, as they joined volunteers trailing traffic at street corners and stepped into restaurants, onto busses and into St. Louis Lambert International Airport.
“And the people of St. Louis, I tell you, supported what that morning was every year – blowing horns and stopping to donate,” she recalled. In 2019, they accepted a special Old Newsboys grant for their own Lou and Jackie Brock Scholarship Fund. She thinks the first virtual Old Newsboys edition would encourage his best ideas. “Lou loved the computer and his skills always amazed me. He would add his ideas. He was always lending gifts and talents from within to promote the things from his heart,” Jackie said.
Participating high school journalists Old Newsboys Fund for Children’s Charities helps nonprofits that help St. Louis area children. For this special edition, high school journalists wrote about those nonprofits which received funding. Check out the articles within the section and online at: oldnewsboysday.org. Your donations help make the work you’ll read about possible. Thank you. Our gratitude also goes to the student journalists who offered their expertise to learn and tell about these wonderful organizations:
MIDTOWN COMMUNITY McKENNA HUDSON FRESHMAN FRANCIS HOWELL NORTH HIGH SCHOOL
SOULFISHER MINISTRIES KAYLA ANNE BAKER SENIOR RITENOUR HIGH SCHOOL
ALIVE, INC
GiFT
SPRINGBOARD TO LEARNING
MACY CRONIN
CARTER VAN BUSKIRK
JUNIOR FRANCIS HOWELL NORTH HIGH SCHOOL
JUNIOR MARQUETTE HIGH SCHOOL
MAGGIE PANIAN, FRESHMAN KORISSA SMITH, JUNIOR GRAND CENTER ARTS ACADEMY
CARING FOR KIDS
GIRL SCOUTS
ST. LOUIS ARC
ASHLYNN PEREZ
AKHILA SWARNA
LIZZIE KAYSER
SENIOR FRANCIS HOWELL NORTH HIGH SCHOOL
SOPHOMORE MARQUETTE HIGH SCHOOL
SENIOR LIBERTY HIGH SCHOOL
CARITAS FAMILY SOLUTIONS
GRACE MY FEET
ST. LOUIS INTERNSHIP
MICHAEL DOLAN
PRESTON SMITH
JACK VENNEMAN
SENIOR DE SMET JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL
SOPHOMORE MARQUETTE HIGH SCHOOL
SENIOR DE SMET JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL
CENTERSTONE ALTON
GRACE’S PLACE
THE BUDDY FUND
CHASE PRAY
DONOVAN HUGHES
MEGHAN BRICKEY
FRESHMAN FRANCIS HOWELL NORTH HIGH SCHOOL
JUNIOR DE SMET JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL
SENIOR GRAND CENTER ARTS ACADEMY
CORNERSTONE
HAVEN OF GRACE
TREE HOUSE
CHRISTOPHER CAMPOS
ARPITHA SISTLA
GRACE WALTON
SENIOR RITENOUR HIGH SCHOOL
JUNIOR MARQUETTE HIGH SCHOOL
JUNIOR EUREKA HIGH SCHOOL
EVERY CHILD’S HOPE
HOYLETON YOUTH/FAMILY
UNITED 4 CHILDREN
SEDONA SAYERS
AMELIA HURLEY
HARIETT KRAJCOVIC
SENIOR EUREKA HIGH SCHOOL
SENIOR KIRKWOOD HIGH SCHOOL
SOPHOMORE KIRKWOOD HIGH SCHOOL
EXCEPTIONAL EQUESTRIANS
HUMANITRI
URBANREACHSTL
JACKSON HUETER, JUNIOR LANEY SMITH, SENIOR
IANNE SALVOSA
EMILY SULLIVAN
JEFFERSON HIGH SCHOOL
SENIOR LIBERTY HIGH SCHOOL
JUNIOR JEFFERSON HIGH SCHOOL
EYC
ISAIAH 58
U.S. FOR BLIND ATHLETES
LIZA COOPER
RYAN FLAVIN
SEBASTIAN KELLY
SOPHOMORE MARQUETTE HIGH SCHOOL
SENIOR DE SMET JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL
SENIOR DE SMET JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL
GASA
L.I.F.E FOUNDATION
WOMEN IN CHARGE
AARUSHI BUTE
BEN HUGHES
FAITH BOYD
SOPHOMORE MARQUETTE HIGH SCHOOL
JUNIOR MARQUETTE HIGH SCHOOL
SENIOR RITENOUR HIGH SCHOOL
OLD NEWSBOYS
11.19.2020 • THURSDAY • M 1
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH • N3
Thank you, St. Louis! With the help of our business leaders, the Old Newsboys organization awarded grants to nearly 150 children’s charities. For more information visit oldnewsboysday.org. The mission of Old Newsboys is simple — to ensure that children who are at risk in our community, because of abuse or poverty, receive adequate food, shelter, clothing, medical care and are provided equal opportunity for social development.
2020 OLD NEWSBOYS CHAIRS KIRK C. AND PAOLA ARZU STANGE STANGE LAW FIRM, PC
BUSINESS LEADERS
CARL BOLM INVESTA MANAGEMENT • CO-CHAIR, BUSINESS LEADER TEAM 2014-18
BILLY BUSCH
IAN CASO ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
• CHAIRMAN, OLD NEWSBOYS 2016-17 • HONORARY CHAIR
• BOARD PRESIDENT
BOB CIAPCIAK • CHAIRMAN, OLD NEWSBOYS 2007-08 • HALL OF FAME 2009
LISA CLARK ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH • BOARD SECRETARY
• BOARD MEMBER
• HALL OF FAME 2015 • BOARD MEMBER
BILL CORRIGAN ARMSTRONG TEASDALE LLP
LAURA DACUS PACE PROPERTIES
LAURA ELLENHORN EDWARD JONES
• HALL OF FAME 2015
RAY FARRIS LEE ENTERPRISES • CHAIRMAN, OLD NEWSBOYS 2013
BRAD GOSS SMITHAMUNDSEN LLC
JOHN M. HESSEL LEWIS RICE LLC • HALL OF FAME 2015
• BOARD PRESIDENT 2013-2019 • HALL OF FAME 2017
PETE AND JUSTIN HUETEL SUNSET FORD
ROBERT H. MOONEY THE OMEGA GROUP UBS FINANCIAL SERVICES • OLD NEWSBOYS SPIRIT 2017
MISSY HILL
JEFF HILL WESTVIEW MEDIA
• BOARD MEMBER
STEVE NEWSTEAD
DR. EMILY JOHNSON G’SELL MAGNOLIA FAMILY DENTAL
STEVE NOLES IMO’S PIZZA
• HALL OF FAME 2005
SCOTT NIEKAMP NIEKAMP FINANCIAL
• CHAIR, CORPORATE TEAM 2006-19
• CHAIRMAN, OLD NEWSBOYS 2014-15
• CO-CHAIR, BUSINESS LEADER TEAM 2014-19
• BOARD MEMBER
• HALL OF FAME 2007
• BOARD MEMBER
• DEVELOPMENT CHAIR 2020
• CHAIR, BUSINESS EDITION LEADER 2008-13
• HALL OF FAME 2014
TIM MAYNARD OVERCREST CAPITAL ADVISORS, LLC
DANNY POUGE MIDWEST BANKCENTRE
DOUG AND MOLLY SANSONE SANSONE GROUP • CO-CHAIRS, OLD NEWSBOYS 2018-2019
• BOARD MEMBER
WILL SHAFFNER MOHELA
JAY SCHAEFFER SHIELDS SCHAEFFER MANUFACTURING
MARY ANN WAGNER
MIKE WALSH
• EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
• CHAIRMAN, OLD NEWSBOYS 2010-2012
• BOARD MEMBER
• HALL OF FAME 2009 • BOARD VICE PRESIDENT
• HALL OF FAME 2003
STEVE WISNIEWSKI RUBINBROWN LLP
• CHAIR, BUSINESS EDITION 2003-07 • CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENTS CLUB 2008-19 • BOARD MEMBER
If you are interested in joining the Old Newsboys organization as a business leader, please email oldnewsboyscharities@gmail.com. TITLE SPONSORS
PRESENTING SPONSORS
GOOD PEOPLE. GREAT PRODUCTS.
SUPPORTERS MOHELA COMMERCE BANK OVERCREST CAPITAL ADVISORS, LLC MIDWEST BANK CENTRE MAGNOLIA FAMILY DENTAL WESTVIEW MEDIA STIFEL SUNSET FORD RUBIN BROWN
OLD NEWSBOYS
N4 • ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
M 1 • THURSDAY • 11.19.2020
OLD NEWSBOYS 64TH ANNUAL CAMPAIGN BENEFITS CHILDREN’S CHARITIES
CHILDREN’S CHARITIES BENEFITING FROM OLD NEWSBOYS CAMPAIGN FOR KIDS Thousands of children are helped each year through the OLD NEWSBOYS organization due to the efforts of local community and business leaders, the extensive network of Old Newsboys volunteers and the staff of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. The organizations that received funding from the 2019 Old Newsboys Day proceeds are:
Academic Development Institute
Monroe County House of Neighborly Service
Aim High St. Louis
National Council of Jewish Women
Alive, Inc.
North Side Community School
Angel’s Arms
Northside Youth and Senior Service Center
Annie’s Hope - Center for Grieving Kids
Our Lady of Guadalupe
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern MO
Penuel, Inc.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois
Puentes de Esperanza Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital
Birthright of St. Charles Ride On - St. Louis Birthright of Wentzville
PHOTO PROVIDED BY HUMANITRI
Santa’s Helpers
Books for Newborns
Grace My Feet
Books for STL Kids
Grace’s Place Crisis Nursery
Serving Our Community Kids Corp. (S.O.C.K.S., Corp.)
Boys & Girls Club of Greater St. Louis
Gray Summit United Methodist Church
Sister Thea Bowman Catholic School
Griffin Center Guardian Angel Settlement Association Haven Of Grace Healing Hearts Grief Support, Inc. Highland Area Christian Service Monistry HOME WORKS! The Teacher Home Visit Program House of Pais, Inc. Hoyleton Youth and Family Services PHOTO PROVIDED BY CARING FOR KIDS
Humanitri
PHOTO PROVIDED BY TREE HOUSE OF GREATER ST. LOUIS
Boys Hope Girls Hope of St. Louis
Infant Loss Resources (formerly SIDS Resources)
Sneakers With Soul
Buddy Fund, The
Isaiah 58 Ministries
SoulFisher Ministries
Burns Recovered/Midwest Children’s Burn Camp
Jefferson County Community Partnership
Southside Early Childhood Center Sparrow’s Nest, The
Cardinal Ritter Senior Services Springboard to Learning Caring for Kids Sprog Inc. CARITAS Carried With Love
St. Anthony of Padua Parish St. Anthony Food Pantry
Centerstone Illinois
St. Louis Arc
Circle of Concern
St. Louis Bicycleworks, Inc.
Claytonia Terrace Residents Association
St. Louis Internship Program (SLIP)
Collinsville Charities for Children
St. Louis Learning Disabilities Association
Cornerstone Center for Early Learning, Inc. Covenant House Missouri Disability Resource Association Down Syndrome Association of Greater St. Louis
PHOTO PROVIDED BY EYC ACADEMY
St. Martha’s Hall
Kids in the Middle
St. Rita’s Catholic Church
Kinetic Tapestry
Strong Tower Ranch
Kingdom House (LifeWise)
Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Services
L.I.F.E. Foundation, The Lemay Child anf Family Center Lift for Life Gym Little Bit Foundation, The Logos School Lutheran Family Children Services of MO Lydia’s House, Inc. Manasseh Ministry Marian Middle School PHOTO PROVIDED BY MIDTOWN COMMUNITY SERVICES
PHOTO PROVIDED BY ST. LOUIS ARC
Marygrove
East Side Heart & Home Family
Megan Meier Foundation
TREE House of Greater St. Louis
Every Childs Hope (ECH)
Midtown Community Services
United 4 Children
Epworth Children & Family Services
Mission St. Louis
United States Association for Blind Athletes
Exceptional Equestrians of the Missouri Valley
University City Children’s Center
EYC Academy
UrbanReachSTL, Inc
Friends of Kids with Cancer
Vincent Gray Academy
Future Stars Academy
Walker Scottish Rite Clinic for Childhood Language Disorders
Gene Slay’s Girls & Boys Club of St. Louis Webster Child Care Center Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois Webster-Rock Hill Ministries Give Kids A Smile Women in Charge Giving is a Family Tradition Youth In Action Good Shepherd Children and Family Services
PHOTO PROVIDED BY SPRINGBOARD TO LEARNING
Youth In Need
To make a difference in the lives of St. Louis kids, donate online at oldnewsboysday.org.
OLD NEWSBOYS
11.19.2020 • THURSDAY • M 1
Kirk C. Stange
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH • N5
Paola A. Stange
WWW.STANGELAWFIRM.COM
855-805-0595 HEADQUARTERS OFFICE - CLAYTON, MO ST. CHARLES, MO | ELLISVILLE, MO | ARNOLD, MO | UNION, MO | TROY, MO COLUMBIA, MO | SPRINGFIELD, MO | LEE’S SUMMIT, MO | ST. LOUIS CITY, MO* KANSAS CITY, MO* | BELLEVILLE, IL | MARYVILLE, IL | SPRINGFIELD, IL WATERLOO, IL* | BLOOMINGTON, IL | OVERLAND PARK, KS | WICHITA, KS TOPEKA, KS | TULSA, OK | OKLAHOMA CITY, OK *BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
Navigating the Holidays as a Co-Parent During COVID-19 The holidays are always a tough time for co-parents and their children. This is especially emphasized this season by the existence of COVID-19. Inevitably, this pandemic has altered the daily lives of many individuals and families throughout the country. Each state has varying restrictions that affect everyone differently. Unfortunately, it has also affected custody agreements, visitation schedules, and complicated co-parenting in general. This is why having a plan in place for the holidays is of the utmost importance. There can be a lot of variables that can affect your plan for the holidays. Some issues may revolve around the geographical distance between the parents, or if the child has to be transported across state lines. One parent may live in a COVID-19 hotspot, while the other is an area that has remained largely unaffected by the pandemic. Or, even worse, perhaps one parent is showing symptoms or has had the virus, so there is concern over infecting a family member. Regardless of the situation, there is a correct way to approach the holidays as a co-parent. Creating a plan and maintaining open lines of communication between you and the other parent will help create consistency for your children and greatly reduce the chance of conflict. As always, communication should be open and transparent to foster harmony during the holiday season. To avoid trouble during the holidays, create a schedule and share it with everyone involved. All
gatherings and visits can be included in the list, along with which parent will care for the children during those times. Solidifying a schedule for your co-parenting in advance will help make the time surrounding the holidays more smooth and less stressful. Understand that the holidays can already be a difficult time for co-parents, and the added existence of COVID-19 only makes things harder. That is why it is important to think of your child first. You and your co-parent should work together to create a new “normal” that is both healthy for the two of you and your child. When the effort is put in to create harmony, you will be in the best position possible to ensure the creation of happy and healthy holiday memories. Stange Law Firm, PC, limits their practice to family law matters including divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, adoption, collaborative law and other domestic relation matters. Stange Law Firm, PC, gives clients 24/7 access to their case through a secured online case tracker found on the website. They also give clients their cell phone numbers. Stange Law Firm, PC, understands the emotions that can come from a divorce or family law matter. No matter the family law issue you face, we are here to help you rebuild your life. Call for a consultation today at 855805-0595.
Here to Help You Rebuild Your Life™ DIVORCE | PATERNITY | ADOPTION | CHILD SUPPORT | MODIFICATIONS CHILD CUSTODY | COLLABORATIVE LAW | MEDIATION | FAMILY LAW Note: The choice of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Kirk C. Stange is responsible for the content. Headquarters office: 120 South Central Avenue, Suite 450, Clayton, MO 63105
OLD NEWSBOYS
N6 • ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
M 1 • THURSDAY • 11.19.2020
CARING FOR KIDS
Caring for Kids offers crucial help to children amidst COVID-19 ASHLYNN PEREZ SENIOR
have grown tremendously. The pandemic ushered in an economic crisis for many families, and as a result, the children of St. Louis have suffered directly.
FRANCIS HOWELL NORTH
For years, Caring for Kids has worked tirelessly to provide children with everyday needs. Social workers partner with this nonprofit organization to receive funds for ages newborn to 21. The funds provide children with essential needs such as beds, school supplies, uniforms and food.
“As we all know, 2020 has been a year like none other,” said Tori Foster, president of the board of directors. “Not only have children suffered from food insecurities but they have been profoundly impacted by the lack of the most basic needs.”
Caring for Kids focuses on lending a hand to children who have been involved in the St. Louis court system. They make all efforts to respond to requests within three days. The nonprofit has helped approximately 1,300 kids since its establishment in 2003.
Caring for Kids is committed to providing funds to support children with growing needs during this pandemic. Despite these new obstacles, the nonprofit purchased 32 beds for children in need during July, and in August they provided them with school supplies. They also sent over a hundred gift cards to families within the court system for necessities such as food, paper goods and cleaning supplies.
Though Abrams believes the organization has always met essential needs in the community, since the outbreak of COVID-19 the needs and demands
The nonprofit organization receives the majority of its funds from annual fundraising events,
“We give them anything that will make them feel like they’re just regular kids,” said Jan Abrams, executive director.
but with the spread of COVID-19, these types of gatherings have been eliminated. In response, Caring for Kids is endeavoring to put together a virtual fundraiser in the winter. “Our kids need us,” Abrams said. “We want them to feel like they have a family and know that somebody cares about them. They need the services we provide.”
PHOTO PROVIDED BY CARING FOR KIDS
Children volunteers collected books for a school project and donated them to Caring for Kids.
ST. LOUIS INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
Internship program gives students opportunities of a lifetime JACK VENNEMAN SENIOR DE SMET JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL
Sometimes finding a career path that is truly right for an individual can be difficult. Finances are almost always involved and finding something one is passionate about can take time. Many times kids aren’t able to display their talents due to a lack of opportunities.
The St. Louis Internship Program (SLIP) provides hope and opportunity for high school students in financial need through paid summer internships, intensive employability training and year-round college and career planning. SLIP offers a wide variety of internships from law to health care to global manufacturing. “We enjoy providing these great opportunities to our students along with paid internships in corporate settings,” said Shanise Johnson, executive director and alumna. “Our intention is to offer the program to as many students that are interested.” Johnson took part in the program when she was younger and can attest to the organization setting her up for success upon entering the professional world. Returning to SLIP was a natural step for her. “My love for seeing individuals grow continues to press upon my heart,” Johnson said.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY ST. LOUIS INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
(From left to right) Tran Luong, Farat Wdaa, Paul Kelley, Dr. Bruce Green and Shanise Johnson represent some of the many career paths offered by SLIP.
Students work hard to earn the opportunity to receive an internship.
The program’s goal is to develop the student’s foundation in having an excellent reputation and a great work ethic. Season Walker directly benefited from her internship as she felt unsure of her career interests until hearing about the organization. “I always knew I wanted to do something with law,” Walker said. “It was difficult for me to determine if I wanted to attend law school or not. Based on my career interviews, I was placed in the human services field.” Walker feels she was set up for success by the St.Louis Internship Program. She wasn’t sure if she’d be ready for the workplace if SLIP had not been in the picture. While the organization is quite serious about career and professional development skills, Walker noted that the SLIP made her feel cared for and gave her the confidence to succeed. “The atmosphere was great,” Walker said. “The facilitators were always smiling and telling jokes. It was a very enjoyable time even though we were focused on a serious topic. It was a great feeling to know that people cared and wanted me to be successful.”
THE HAVEN OF GRACE
The Haven of Grace is truly that – A haven ARPITHA SISTLA JUNIOR MARQUETTE HIGH SCHOOL
Now more than ever, being a homeless pregnant woman or a homeless mother with kids is incredibly difficult. The pandemic has severely impacted all of St. Louis, but homeless mothers are among the hardest hit. Founded in 1988, the nonprofit’s mission is to provide homeless mothers with a safe and nurturing home, educational services for mothers and their children and hope and support to endure through tough times. The nonprofit’s current director had previous experience working with homeless individuals for 24 years before she retired in 2014 and joined The Haven team. “When I retired, I realized I wanted to work with people at the beginning of life rather than working with people who are at the end of their lives,” said Kimberly Brown, executive director.
When originally founded, The Haven of Grace did not offer nearly as many services as they have available today. Currently, The Haven of Grace offers homeless mothers therapy services and a religious community church in addition to housing, job consultation, career planning and educational programs. PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE HAVEN OF GRACE
One way The Haven of Grace is uniquely different from other organizations aimed at helping homeless women is that they are proudly founded in faith and aspire to use Christianity and religion to further support mothers. The Haven of Grace supports homeless mothers using a three-spirit approach. First, mothers may stay in the maternity shelter for up to a year after the baby is born. From there, the mothers and their children may move into The Quads which is an independent living center separate from The Haven’s main shelter. Finally, mothers graduate into The Haven’s aftercare program which supports them for up to another 10 years. “The best part is seeing mothers change the trajectory of their lives,” Brown said. “We love seeing something
Executive director, Kimberly Brown, embraces the children of the mothers at the Haven.
as simple as a young lady learning to prepare and enjoy a full, proper meal after she’s been used to popping things in the microwave all her life,” Brown said. During 2019, the nonprofit assisted 32 mothers and 33 children. Currently, there are five mothers and four children living at the shelter and four mothers living at The Quads. Mothers who have been through the Haven of Grace programs have gone on to graduate college, become professionals in their fields and own businesses. “The women that come to us just need to sit and have a place to think,” Brown said. “We don’t ask mothers why they became homeless, but rather we make sure they do not experience homelessness again.”
11.19.2020 • THURSDAY • M 1
OLD NEWSBOYS
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH • N7
CORNERSTONE CENTER FOR EARLY LEARNING, INC.
Creative exploration builds enthusiastic learners CHRISTOPHER CAMPOS SENIOR RITENOUR HIGH SCHOOL
At the corner of S. 39th street and Russell Boulevard sits the Cornerstone Center for Early Learning, serving St. Louis-area families from varying backgrounds and situations. The Cornerstone Center for Early Learning follows a simple mission statement throughout their existence, “To provide quality, comprehensive, and affordable childcare and preschool education in a nurturing, creative environment for St. Louis-area families of all economic backgrounds.” The journey for affordable childcare and education began in 1969, when a group of churches founded the center in south St. Louis City. Along with childcare and education resources, the center has been able to provide families with childcare essentials and health screenings to ensure that all affiliated families are accommodated and set up for future success.
“The most important goal of our early childhood curriculum is to help children become inquisitive and enthusiastic learners,” said Jami Melton, development specialist. “We are encouraging children to have good habits and attitudes, particularly a positive sense of themselves, which will make a difference throughout their lives.” PHOTO PROVIDED BY CORNERSTONE CENTER FOR EARLY LEARNING, INC.
Melton emphasized the importance of encouraging the children to be active and creative explorers, while not being afraid to try their ideas and develop their unique thoughts that come through the development years. Not only has the Cornerstone Center provided countless children with a great education throughout the years, but their physical needs have also been met. “Children are in a safe environment where they receive breakfast, lunch and a snack,” said Toni Jackson, center director. “Younger children have diapers and wipes provided.” In addition to becoming the Center’s director, Jackson’s three children completed their early childhood education at the Center. Jackson explained that the many educators who have cared for and educated
Students at the Cornerstone Center for Early Learning work together to build using large blocks.
her children are truly a part of their family, and she will forever be indebted to them. Melton echoes Jackson’s sentiments and believes that the Center’s educators are positive role models who contribute to growth and development for the students. She knows that every child has unique qualities and capacities with which they can enrich the community. “We believe every child is an individual who deserves to be treated with dignity and respect,” Melton said. “We believe that parents deserve the assurance that their children are safe, nurtured and acknowledged while they are in our care.”
GIRL SCOUTS OF SOUTHERN ILLINOIS
Heroes with courage, confidence and character AKHILA SWARNA SOPHOMORE MARQUETTE HIGH SCHOOL
Every year, Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois shapes the childhood of many girls and instills lifelong values through the various programs, opportunities and activities it offers.
Not only are girls taught to have courage, confidence and character in their everyday lives, but they are also given the opportunity to boost their leadership and social skills. “When people think of Girl Scouts, they have a lot of respect for the work these girls do to better themselves and the public,” said Loretta Graham, CEO at Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois. “I would say that they are heroes in our community.” Continuing to provide that reinforcement to girls regardless of the current pandemic is another goal of the Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois. The scouts have remained excellent stewards of the community. The scouts recently prepared face masks and cookies for first responders to convey their appreciation.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY GIRL SCOUTS OF SOUTHERN ILLINOIS
Loretta Graham (left picture) presents the Gold Award, the highest honor in Girl Scouts, to Madison Sanker (right) and Graham (right picture) also presents the Gold Award to Colleen McCracken (left).
“Not only are we continuing to provide programs,
but the girls remain involved in helping our community,” Graham said. “In Girl Scouts, when we fall, we get back up.” Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois serves over 9,000 girls and 3,587 adult volunteers in mostly rural counties in Southern Illinois. The organization offers every girl a chance to practice a lifetime of leadership, adventure and success. According to the website, the Girl Scout promise is, “try to serve God and my country, to help people at all times, and to live by the Girl Scout Law.” Beth Hammock, chief advancement and marketing officer at Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois abided by this promise. She started her Girl Scout journey at 7 years old in Monterey, California. Since Hammock was young, she traveled a lot and attended a new school every one to two years. Through Girl Scouts, she always had a built-in group of friends regardless of where she moved. “Girl Scouts shaped me by teaching me to be courageous, strong, resourceful and so much more,” Hammock said.
GUARDIAN ANGEL SETTLEMENT ASSOCIATION
Guardian angels giving back AARUSHI BUTE SOPHOMORE MARQUETTE HIGH SCHOOL
The Guardian Angel Settlement Association (GASA) has served the St. Louis community for more than 150 years. Founded by the Daughters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul, the nuns were on a mission to serve orphaned or friendless girls. Today, the mission of GASA is to serve people living in poverty by helping them improve the quality of their lives and achieve economic independence. The nonprofit has evolved into a wide array of services including food pantries, self-sufficiency services, emergency assistance and early childhood programs. “Our programs help bring stability and hope to those in need,” said Stephanie Betts, community engagement coordinator. “It truly is amazing.” Guardian Angel has two main service areas: the childhood development center and the social services center. The Childhood Development Center works to provide education and care to children from six weeks to 5 years old. More than 175 children participate in the program each year and 100
percent of the kids graduate kindergarten ready. “Education is a critical component of getting these kids out of poverty,” Betts said. “Knowing that we can launch these kids into the best schools we can give them is a big thing. It’s sort of what we do better than anyone else.” GASA also assists adults with the social services center. Social services include emergency rental, utility, food assistance, senior services, self-sufficiency programs and a resale shop. PHOTO PROVIDED BY GUARDIAN ANGEL SETTLEMENT ASSOCIATION The nonprofit’s food pantry Children having a great time in the Childhood Development Center. currently assists those living in zip codes 63104 and 63118. The pantry cona roof over their heads.” tains most staple foods like canned foods, bread, pasta, etc. and usually has produce and meat. Volunteers, corporate and school groups and a core group of families who have supported Guardian An“It’s something to be proud of,” Betts said. “The gel for years are the backbone of the organization. work we do in the community serves many basic needs. I know in my heart people can’t live their “I am blown away by how far we’ve come and I am exbest lives unless they have food in their bellies or tremely excited to see what we can do next,” Betts said.
OLD NEWSBOYS
N8 • ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
M 1 • THURSDAY • 11.19.2020
WE ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT THE FRONTLINE EFFORTS OF THE OLD NEWSBOYS! ONE OF OUR GREATEST ASSETS ARE THE CHILDREN OF OUR COMMUNITY. That’s why Niekamp Financial is a proud sponsor of Old Newsboys and their important work benefiting local Saint Louis Children’s Charities! Partnerships like these make our community a better place to live and work. We thank our clients and friends for their generous contributions to this virtual campaign and all past support!
At Magnolia Family Dental, Dr. Emily Johnson and her talented team provide a patient-centric approach to caring for your family’s smiles.
Scott Niekamp Niekamp Financial 314.744.5217 Chesterfield niekampfinancial.com
10322 Manchester Road 314 822.4521 magnoliadentalstl.com
Scott S Niekamp uses Niekamp Financial as a marketing name for doing business as representatives of Northwestern Mutual. Niekamp Financial is not a registered investment adviser, broker-dealer, insurance agency or federal savings bank. 07-1016 © 2020 Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM), (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI. Scott S Niekamp provides investment brokerage services as a Registered Representative of Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS), a subsidiary of NM, broker-dealer, registered investment adviser and member FINRA and SIPC. Scott S Niekamp is an Insurance Agent(s) of NM. Scott S Niekamp provides investment advisory services as an Advisor of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company®, (NMWMC) Milwaukee, WI, a subsidiary of NM and a federal savings bank. There may be instances when this agent represents companies in addition to NM or its subsidiaries.
WE’RE PROUD TO SUPPORT the Old Newsboys Fund for Children’s Charities.
THANK YOU ST. LOUIS AND THE MANY VOLUNTEERS WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR CHILDREN AT RISK IN THE ST. LOUIS AREA.
OLD NEWSBOYS
11.19.2020 • THURSDAY • M 1
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH • N9
GRACE’S PLACE CRISIS NURSERY
Keeping children safe in times of crisis DONOVAN HUGHES JUNIOR DE SMET JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL
Grace’s Place tackles the ongoing crisis of children starving, lack of proper education, physical activity and many more essentials. “Our goal is to care for children or their parents in any situation where their needs aren’t being met,” said Amanda Jones, CEO. “Grace’s Place was founded after our area United Way completed a needs assessment in our county and one of the needs identified for our communities was a crisis nursery.” The nonprofit provides children with a safe and nurturing environment while their parents navigate a host of situations. Family members may be encountering a loss of employment or shelter. Also, children may be experiencing child abuse or neglect. Established in 2010, the nonprofit is a licensed emergency shelter for children ages birth to 18 years old. Aside from providing crisis care, Grace’s Place also provides respite care to families when they are experiencing higher levels of stress. “During the first few months of the pandemic, our
licensing agent asked that we only provide crisis care,” Jones said. “It was difficult to not be able to help every family who reached out as we knew stress levels were on the rise, yet we weren’t able to provide respite care.”
day at their place of work or school, to making and selling friendship bracelets,” Jones said.
Although Grace’s Place is located in Franklin County, the nonprofit provides care to anyone, regardless of where they live or how much a family earns. Soon, there will be a second location opening nearby in Union.
“Grace’s Place operates as a normal house,” Jones said. “We feed them, play with them and help with their homework. Most importantly, we keep them feeling supported and safe.”
Children may stay at the crisis nursery for up to 30 days at a time while receiving 24/7 care.
“There is no other service like ours in Washington,” Jones said. “We can take care of eight children at a time and our second location in Union will be able to take care of six children.” Grace’s Place relies on donors not only for monetary donations but also donations of essential items such as new clothing and nonperishable food. “We love when community members get creative – from hosting a dress-down
PHOTO PROVIDED BY GRACE’S PLACE CRISIS NURSERY
Children having fun without the problems of the world on their back.
HOYLETON YOUTH & FAMILY SERVICES - LEHRE HOUSE
Lehre House – A place of their own AMELIA HURLEY SENIOR KIRKWOOD HIGH SCHOOL
Hoyleton Youth and Family Services is a faithbased organization that restores families, prepares young adults to make positive life decisions, helps parents and guardians be better parents and provides wellness education.
“The Hoyleton staff works hard to carry out our mission which is to help people, young and old, regardless of their beliefs and backgrounds,” said Sharon Schultz, director of child welfare. The nonprofit offers several programs including transitional living options for young men ages 17 to 21. The residential program at the Lehre House in Belleville, Illinois, is set up for intellectually disabled young men transitioning from foster care. Many times when a young man enters the foster care system at a young age, they feel alone and discouraged about the future. Once they enter the transitional living program, they soon develop confidence and realize they can indeed have a productive life.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY HOYLETON YOUTH & FAMILY SERVICES - LEHRE HOUSE
Two young men enjoy a game of hoops at the Lehre House.
The program at the Lehre House teaches important life skills such as socialization techniques, budgeting and self-care approaches. Hoyleton programs for young men offer both
group and independent living options. Participants move to independent living once specific objectives are achieved. “Our care and compassion are what drives us on a day-to-day basis,” Schultz said. “We are helping young people to live on their own and prepare for the next stage of their life.” Hoyleton Youth & Family Services also offers other programs including counseling care, foster care and placement, therapeutic residential care, Hispanic community support and community outreach. Since 1895, Hoyleton has grown to become one of Southern Illinois’ leaders in providing emotional and mental health services for every stage of youth and family development. The nonprofit also thrives off of their volunteer work. Volunteers can take the helm in several ways such as assembling backpacks for children, helping stuff goodie bags for events, donating Christmas gifts, baking with kids and taking them fishing. “We have a variety of ways for people to volunteer and help our clients,” Schultz said. “It doesn’t always have to be about buying them something. Our clients love spending time with the volunteers and enjoy building relationships with them.”
THE BUDDY FUND
Giving hope to underprivileged kids through sports MEGHAN BRICKEY SENIOR
their own. The nonprofit works with nearly 80 organizations in the St. Louis area including schools, nonprofits and Girl Scout troops.
GRAND CENTER ARTS ACADEMY
Buddy Blattner, a sportscaster and professional baseball player had a big heart. He dreamed of providing at-risk youth the opportunity to participate in sports. In 1962, Blattner established The Buddy Fund and began providing sports equipment and recreational activities to underprivileged kids who live in a tough environment. Keith Clay, a teenager from north St. Louis was one of those kids. “I was a troubled kid for a while – the longest time actually,” Clay said. “I got kicked off the team so many times because I couldn’t control my anger.” To date, The Buddy fund has helped over 450,000 youth and provided more than $3.8M in sports equipment. They work as a bridge by buying equipment at a low cost and then sharing it with various nonprofits who can’t afford the items to supply on
“After fundraising, we purchase large and sometimes small quantities of sports equipment and recreational supplies and pass them on,” said Ann Lederman, executive director. “[The kids] may not have parents and a sense of belonging is important for them.” Lederman has been working with The Buddy Fund for the last three years. She is the sole employee at the nonprofit which relies heavily on volunteers. Marygrove is an organization The Buddy Fund assists regularly. Marygrove is one of the only organizations in the St. Louis metro area that offers a broad spectrum of residential and communitybased programming, including therapeutic residential treatment and foster care. “They had a basketball hoop that could no longer be used and the kids wanted to get out and play,” Lederman said. “It was a little out of our scope but we managed by putting up two new hoops.” Another organization The Buddy Fund has helped is
PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE BUDDY FUND
The many faces of The Buddy Fund.
Lift for Life Academy, an independent charter middle school in the city of St. Louis. Even during the pandemic, the organization continues to adapt and thrive. The Buddy Fund ensured their partners had everything they needed to keep the community safe during this unprecedented time. “We have provided nearly 2,000 masks and hand sanitizer to local organizations since the outbreak,” Lederman said. “Our organization continued fundraising and hosted our 58th annual golf classic and auction this past September.” Nothing can stop The Buddy Fund from changing lives one youth at a time through sports.
N10 • ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
OLD NEWSBOYS
M 1 • THURSDAY • 11.19.2020
ST. LOUIS ARC
St. Louis Arc inspires and empowers people with disabilities LIZZIE KAYSER SENIOR LIBERTY HIGH SCHOOL
Building connections is an essential aspect of life. People interact with others daily, whether in school, at work or home. For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, these interactions can be more complex and often overlooked. That’s where St. Louis Arc comes in.
Sharon Spurlock, senior director of family support services. “We work hard to provide individualized services that can help make a difference to an adult, child or family. The services we provide are designed to maximize choice and to support people as they build quality lives within the St. Louis community.” In her role, Spurlock works with families to build their knowledge, connections and access to resources for their family members with disabilities. The nonprofit is dedicated to offering a lifetime of support, from the time a person is born into their later years in life.
St. Louis Arc was founded in 1952 to provide community-based services for individuals with disabilities. Today, the nonprofit provides a wide variety of services and support to families all over the St. Louis region. From housing to classes to therapy, they ensure that those they serve have all the tools they need to lead fulfilled lives.
“We believe offering a lifetime of support gives us a unique opportunity to support individuals and their families across the various life stages,” Spurlock said. “Our signature strength of building relationships gives families trusted allies to plan and problem solve as they navigate life with their loved one.”
“Our mission is to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to lead better lives by providing a lifetime of high-quality services, family support and advocacy,” said
More than anything, the organization wants acceptance for people with disabilities. In addition to building self-advocacy and decision-making skills, the nonprofit tries to include people with disabilities
in all aspects of work. St. Louis Arc speaks to legislators, attends committees and community meetings and votes to move disability agendas forward. “It’s important to us that people recognize those with disabilities as their neighbors, co-workers, friends and fellow citizens,” Spurlock said. “As you move through your day, I hope you’ll think about how we can all be more welcoming to each other.”
PHOTO PROVIDED BY ST. LOUIS ARC
R&R Camp is a weekend camping program that serves St. Louis County residents who have intellectual and developmental disabilities.
URBANREACHSTL
Bringing forth a story of hope and victory EMILY SULLIVAN JUNIOR JEFFERSON HIGH SCHOOL
One year ago, Regina Jlees’s life was turned upside down. She lost her husband and, from there, fell into a dark place where all she wanted was to be alone. UrbanReachSTL was there for her through it all. Jlees first learned of UrbanReachSTL when the group began serving the community of Columbus Square in St. Louis. “They provided a lot of support for me and my baby,” Jlees said. UrbanReachSTL is a nonprofit organization based in St. Louis and is run by Tina Squires and her daughter, Savannah. Their goal is to share Jesus’s love by showing others that there is hope even when circumstances make it seem otherwise.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY URBANREACHSTL
UrbanReachSTL kids creating colorful artwork using chalk.
Squires and her daughter first started serving inner-city neighborhoods for their church. In doing so, they realized there was a greater need and formed UrbanReachSTL, focusing on the lowest income zip codes such as 63106 and surrounding areas. “The safety rating for zip code 63106 is at a two out of 100, with 100 being the safest,” Squires said. Building relationships with the people in the community like Jlees and lending a helping hand are important to Squires. Due to safety concerns, most residents of the area keep to themselves. However, UrbanReach’s presence has started to change that. UrbanReachSTL provides the community with a safe place where kids can play while neighbors get a chance to know each other. The nonprofit lets the residents in these neighborhoods know that they are not alone. Through many acts of service such as raising money to provide food for families during COVID-19 to hosting summer Bible camps, they have established a trusting relationship with the residents. Every year, they try to take a group of kids out of the city to visit a ranch. There they can enjoy nature, ride horses and have bonfires. This is a great opportunity for them because most of these kids have not been out of the city of St. Louis. It lets them know that the environment they live in is not the only one out there.
UrbanReachSTL is not just stopping with summer camps and Bible clubs, however. In October 2019, they purchased a dilapidated building in the area that used to be a church but over the years had turned into a known drug house. The nonprofit plans to renovate the church and turn it into a center for the community. “We don’t want it to be just good enough,” Squires said. “We want it to be a place where people come, are welcomed and can receive services.” With a completion goal of 2021, the community center plans to have all the bells and whistles including therapy, art rooms, dance rooms, homework tutoring, a gym and more. “We want to bring in coaches and instructors to help the kids realize their talents that they might not have realized otherwise,” Squires said. Jlees also plans to take her kids to the center. She likes that UrbanReachSTL provides her children and those in the community with a place to spend their time in a positive, safe environment. In these communities impacted by poverty and crime, many think there is no way out. UrbanReachSTL is trying to change that thinking. “If you change a heart to see hope, then it can see a future,” Squires said.
HUMANITRI
Marked by the love of God, Humanitri’s work is transforming lives IANNE SALVOSA SENIOR LIBERTY HIGH SCHOOL
With Humanitri, serving the homeless involves much more than simply providing someone with a house. Reaching out to a wide demographic, including what Humanitri refers to as ‘hidden homelessness,’ the Lutheran-based organization aids its clients towards self-sufficiency. While the preconceived notion of a homeless individual is a person living on the street, Humanitri offers transitional housing services to people who have been living in domestic violence shelters, the homes of family and friends or in their cars. Executive director, Dr. Kim Schave, believes her work with Humanitri has broadened her view on what homelessness looks like in St. Louis. “I’ve been given a much more insightful look at what’s happening and it’s deepened my desire to help more,” Schave said. As part of their transformational housing program,
Humanitri places clients into a home with paid utilities and helps them learn how to manage their finances, household, self and stress. Other lessons include how to navigate the job application process, a skill Dr. Schave believes is taken for granted. “Oftentimes, there’s a learning process that hasn’t quite been there for some of the families that we’re serving so we try to help them with that,” Schave said. The program lasts up to two years and comes at no cost to clients. Beginning with the intake phase, potential clients go through an interview process to ensure they are ready to engage in the tasks required for the program. Clients are referred to the organization, either by referring themselves or being referred by churches, hospitals or schools. A significant number of Humanitri’s clients come from domestic violence shelters; however, more recently, they have seen an increase in clients that are unable to find daycare for their children or are not able to work due to the pandemic. “We want to make sure that we are successful in the work that we do so we can effectively transition families out of our program into their own homes,”
PHOTO PROVIDED BY HUMANITRI
A baby and his mother embrace in their transitional home provided by Humanitri.
Schave said. “Overall, we’re looking for someone willing to put the work into the program.” Humanitri places its focus on children as they are the main demographic of homeless individuals. The organization highlights a staggering statistic — the average age of a homeless person in America is nine. No matter what type of background a person has, the nonprofit believes the feeling of a family provides essential success within the program. Albeit a small organization, Humanitri stands with and behind their clients to ensure they achieve their goal of self-sufficiency. “There is no cookie-cutter homeless child or individual,” said Ashley Moore, director of child and youth programming. “Homelessness looks different for every individual.”
11.19.2020 • THURSDAY • M 1
OLD NEWSBOYS
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH • N11
Invested in Our Community Edward Jones is proud to support the 2020 OLD NEWSBOYS DAY CAMPAIGN.
OLD NEWSBOYS
N12 • ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
M 1 • THURSDAY • 11.19.2020
GRACE MY FEET
Inspiring hope through the gift of shoes PRESTON SMITH SOPHOMORE MARQUETTE HIGH SCHOOL
Behold, the pair of shoes. Simple in nature, and yet they serve a variety of purposes. They can be the essential item that completes a look for prom. They can propel an athlete to the finish line. Or they can protect the wearer from the dreaded discarded LEGO®. However, there are thousands of children around the world who don’t know what a truly comfortable shoe feels like. They are forced to wear shoes that are either several sizes too small, incredibly damaged or on many occasions, both. This is a problem founder Alfton Clark is working to solve with her charity, Grace My Feet. “I went to visit my son’s school one day and saw a student walking on the backs of her shoes,” Clark said. Turns out, that student was living with her grandparent who was unable to pay for a new pair of shoes that fit. Clark approached the school
administration who gave her permission, along with the girl’s grandparent, to buy her new shoes. After this experience, Clark thought there must be other kids struggling with not having properly sized shoes; hence Grace My Feet was founded. Today Grace My Feet has helped more than 900 students and they aim to help at least 200 more by the end of 2020. Many of these students come from single-parent families and some are even in foster care. The organization most commonly helps children in grades kindergarten through eighth. The organization isn’t stopping with just shoes. They’ve also been giving socks to children who need them, often in places like the Hazelwood School District. Clark is extremely grateful for what Grace My Feet has brought to her life. Now happily married with four children, she is looking forward to what comes next. “Today, I am more mindful of other people’s feelings and situations,” Clark said. “It has also made my children more appreciative of the simple things because there’s always someone worse off than you.”
PHOTO PROVIDED BY GRACE MY FEET
Grace My Feet has been providing shoes to children in the St. Louis area since 2017.
UNITED STATES ASSOCIATION FOR BLIND ATHLETES - MO CHAPTER
Everyone deserves the opportunity to take part in the fun of sports SEBASTIAN KELLY SENIOR
in Missouri and found a school for Gutic, they also found the Missouri Chapter of the United States Association of Blind Athletes (USABA).
DE SMET JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL
At age 9, Adnan Gutic and his family fled their country of Bosnia due to a civil war. Gutic, who is visually impaired, and his family pursued America for freedom and better opportunities. When they arrived
Established in 1981, the USABA helps push athletes to reach their highest goal of athletic greatness by providing competitive and recreational sports to blind and visually impaired individuals in the St. Louis area. The association provides hundreds of opportunities to play sports like any other athlete. One of those individuals happened to be Gutic. He started playing sports at an early age through the association and quickly learned he excelled in certain sports. He attended the Missouri School for the Blind in St. Louis for nine years, while wrestling for the Missouri USABA and becoming a world-renowned visually impaired athlete.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY UNITED STATES ASSOCIATION FOR BLIND ATHLETES - MO CHAPTER
Adnan walks off the mat after winning his match. Adnan is now a black belt.
“It’s an organization that provides athletes an avenue to
continue in a sport of their choice,” said Tom Culliton, president of the Missouri Chapter USABA. “Gutic would not have had these opportunities without the Missouri Chapter. He competed with athletes of all abilities.” In 2009, USA Judo held visually impaired divisions for the first time and Gutic came in first place in his weight division. He made his first IBSA World Championship Team in 2010 and also became a member of the 2011 IBSA World Games Team. “Being able to participate in sports builds confidence,” said Adnan Gutic, Paralympic Judo athlete. “It also allows me to meet lots of people. I enjoy learning about different cultures and having friends all around the world.” Gutic is currently positioned in first place for blind and visually impaired Judo athletes in the United States. He is currently ranked 14th in the world for blind and visually impaired Judo athletes, and strives to be in the top 10. Today, he currently lives in St. Louis, teaching Braille at the Missouri School for the Blind; he also trains at the White Dragon Judo Club.
THE SOULFISHER MINISTRIES
Breaking the cycle of the school-to-prison pipeline KAYLA ANNE BAKER
many challenges that come along with having an incarcerated parent.”
for help in class,” Williams said. “I felt unorganized without the help of Ms. Fisher and her staff.”
In 2018, Fisher established The SoulFisher Ministries, a nonprofit completely dedicated to helping women and children who have some form of justice involvement in their lives, including children with parents in the justice system. To date, the ministry has assisted over 1,000 students and 800 women in escaping the cycle of recidivism.
Fisher encourages anyone involved with the justice system to reach out for help when they are struggling. She stresses to find your ‘it’.
SENIOR RITENOUR HIGH SCHOOL
Shawntelle Fisher spent most of her early years stuck in a trend of recidivism. As is the case with some young women in America, Fisher experienced an upbringing of pressure after becoming a mother at age 15. She became involved in the justice system at age 17 and continued offending until she reached her late 20s. Fisher’s seventh offense was her final one, as she decided once and for all that she would escape the justice system and help other incarcerated women in the process. It began at the Federal Correctional Institution in Waseca, Minnesota, where Fisher joined a tutoring program to help other inmates earn their GED the same program in which she would eventually become a leader. “I spent [many] years of my life cycling in and out of prison,” Fisher said. “As a result, my daughter faced
Although the pandemic has affected the nonprofit in the last year,they have continued to move forward providing services. “Knowing that so many people are struggling with challenges makes it difficult to be content with not doing something,” Fisher said. “When COVID-19 closed the schools, I couldn’t rest knowing the students we serve, and so many others, would lose access to the food they rely on.” The unrest caused many students to feel the same way as Fisher, including 7-year-old Lauren Williams. “The ministry gave me the confidence to ask
“Your ‘it’ is whatever drives your passion and makes you stand out in a crowd,” Fisher said. “Don’t waste time chasing someone else’s ‘it’. If you are struggling there are organizations like The SoulFisher Ministries that are waiting to help you.”
PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE SOULFISHER MINISTRIES
Women involved in the criminal justice system receive their education through The SoulFisher Ministries.
OLD NEWSBOYS
11.19.2020 • THURSDAY • M 1
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH • N13
EMPOWERING YOUTH AND COMMUNITIES ACADEMY
Full circle – Feeling lost to becoming successful She went from zero to everything. Literally.
solved by one simple solution: attending Empowering Youth and Communities Academy (EYC). Established in 2018, the academy is a small school located in Chesterfield, Missouri, with a one-to-one teacher-student ratio. The academy creates individualized learning plans for students who struggle in a traditional school environment.
Mary (name changed to protect privacy) had zero high school credits due to dropping out. Various stressors had influenced this decision, such as neglect and sometimes physical abuse. She had no idea what to do next.
Lou Reuss created EYC because of his son. He first noticed his son having problems in school beginning in the third grade. After a meeting with his son’s principal to address his struggles in school, Reuss felt no better than he had when he first walked into the office.
As Mary attempted to put her life back in order, she decided to pursue her GED. However, with no credits, she didn’t know where to go for help or how to obtain an education without the atmosphere of public school. Mary felt lost.
“That 2½-hour meeting felt like I had been in a boxing match with a heavyweight fighter,” said Reuss, co-founder and head of school. “We both walked out of there pretty exhausted and beaten up. We didn’t know what was next.”
Fast forward several years, and she’s sitting in a college class. A cap and gown are hanging in her closet for graduation. Mary will graduate alongside her daughter with a diploma for an office management position.
That feeling of hopelessness led Reuss to go back to school, earn his education degree and open EYC. He wanted to create a place where parents and students could control their learning and take it at their own pace.Reuss stated that his son would have greatly benefited from EYC Academy’s personalized approach.
LIZA COOPER SOPHOMORE MARQUETTE HIGH SCHOOL
All of Mary’s unanswered questions of the past were
PHOTO PROVIDED BY EMPOWERING YOUTH AND COMMUNITIES ACADEMY
Student (Josh Vaughan) discusses his daily educational goal with art teacher (Sarah Peck) while working with modeling clay.
“I think the most important quality of a teacher is the ability to listen,” Reuss said. “If they can hear you, you build trust. And once you have trust between a teacher and a student, I believe there are very few things that can’t be accomplished.” The staff encourages students to set goals and rewards them when they have reached a milestone. The students are not the only ones who are being rewarded, though. Tammy Noel, co-founder and executive director, said the real reward occurs when a student comes to them and doesn’t think they will graduate from high school, but after enrolling at EYC the student recognizes they are adjusting well to the academy environment and loving to learn. “When you see them feel good about themselves, that’s what motivates me,” Noel said.
ALIVE, INC.
Staying safe and alive MACY CRONIN JUNIOR FRANCIS HOWELL NORTH
It’s no secret that nonprofits exist to provide a service impact in our communities. They feed, restore, provide shelter, educate, encourage and nurture our community members. And sometimes a nonprofit exists to keep someone safe and alive.
ALIVE, Inc. (Alternatives to Living in Violent Environments) is indeed that nonprofit.According to their website, ALIVE’s vision is to ‘end domestic abuse, restoring safety and peace one family at a time.’ “ALIVE provides programs that empower domestic abuse victims to move forward and build lives free of violence and full of hope,” said Debra Cotten, vice president of philanthropy. In 1983, ALIVE began operating in a local church with eight volunteers and today has expanded with well over 100 volunteers and a staff of nearly 40. Over the years, the nonprofit has developed into a full-service, domestic violence prevention agency for adults and children impacted by domestic abuse.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY ALIVE, INC.
ALIVE is committed to increasing awareness about domestic abuse and the available help. Outreach at community events like the one Emily, ALIVE staff member, is attending help create a supportive community.
provides victims and their children with rest in confidentially-located area motels when all domestic violence shelter beds in St. Louis are full. “Before the pandemic, the Nights of Safety program operated on a human contact basis, so case management and all interaction was done in person,” said Tirsa Woodson, Nights of Safety supervisor. “But now, we’re not able to observe and provide the support they need because a lot of the time the support is just seeing a face.” In addition to the lack of human contact, donations have started to wane due to only being able to accept prepackaged, manufactured goods to ensure the safety of their staff and victims. The nonprofit’s most urgent need for funding is determining how to replace the many event funding losses due to the pandemic.
“The biggest barrier right now is the opportunity for them [the victims] to contact us,” Cotten said. “We found out that victims didn’t have the privacy to call us safely because their abuser was right there, so we developed a crisis line which is a live chat feature.”
“Event funding enables us to do the work we do,” Cotten said. “The funding we acquire supports our programs and anything else we need.”
ALIVE’s Nights of Safety program remains a large component of the nonprofit. The program temporarily
“ALIVE is willing and able to go beyond their limits to help abuse victims in the St. Louis area and that has amazed me on a personal level,” Woodson said.
Cotten and Woodson both agree that what they are doing is something special. They are working for a nonprofit they say is like no other.
EVERY CHILD’S HOPE
Holding onto the future with hope for every child SEDONA SAYERS SENIOR EUREKA HIGH SCHOOL
In the early 1800s, an outbreak of cholera quickly spread across the globe, leaving chaos in its wake. By the second and third wave of the outbreak, thousands of lives were lost. Subsequently, the year 1854 became known as “The Year of Cholera”. Reverend Louis Nollau believed an orphanage should be a home where children should live together and learn to care for themselves. With the help of others, Rev. Nollau founded the German Protestant Orphan’s Home. Most of the children who were placed in the home had lost their parents in the cholera outbreaks. Renamed the Evangelical Children’s Home (ECH) in 1945, services and programs were adapted to meet the ever-changing needs of St. Louis youth. Today, ECH is no longer an orphanage, but caring for vulnerable children is still at the heart of each program. More than 200 ECH staff members across Missouri
are dedicated to preventing child abuse, treating emotional trauma and mental health issues and providing aftercare and follow-up services. Each year ECH helps more than 1,400 youth and children find healing and hope for their futures. “ECH has a rich history of serving children and families that have experienced unimaginable trauma and life challenges,” said Sherry Gerke, chief development officer. “Most of the agency leaders and staff who work directly with clients have been at the agency for many years.”
“Over the years what we understand to be the best process for children and families to heal and grow may have evolved and changed, but the core driving force of doing what is right by them has not. Every Child’s Hope strives to provide the highest and most professional service possible to every child and family that we have the privilege to serve.”
One of the hardest things to face in life sometimes is change. ECH believes change is the only way to get better. When faced with life’s struggles, the nonprofit provides hope for a better future. ECH is devoted to determining the best and right way to assist children and families to accomplish their goals. “One of our core values is the development of a continuous learning environment,” said Michael Brennan, CEO.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY EVERY CHILD’S HOPE
An encouraging word display hangs in a classroom at the children’s home.
OLD NEWSBOYS
N14 • ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
M 1 • THURSDAY • 11.19.2020
MOHELA was created to assist Missouri students and families in accessing and completing higher education.We’re proud to support Old Newsboys in its efforts to provide at-risk children with equal opportunities to live healthy, educated lives.
Old Best wishes to the Newsboys for year ahead!
MOHELA | 633 Spirit Drive | Chesterfield | MO | 63005 888.866.4352 | mohela.com
Rising Together.
Because all children have the potential to change our future. Donate at OldNewsboysDay.org
We support Old Newsboys Day and their commtiment to St. Louis area charities. Partnering to invest in our community, we all RISE TOGETHER.
(314) 631-5500 (800) 894 -1350 MidwestBankCentre.com Member FDIC NMLS #685869
Old Newsboys funds over 150 local children’s charities providing the basic needs all children deserve.
OLD NEWSBOYS
11.19.2020 • THURSDAY • M 1
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH • N15
MIDTOWN COMMUNITY SERVICES
Building a community for St. Louis families McKENNA HUDSON FRESHMAN
In 2016, Midtown Community Services became its own nonprofit which enabled them to serve a wider range of people in 21 different zip codes.
FRANCIS HOWELL NORTH
Among the streets of metropolitan St. Louis, there is no refuge from the loud and busy lifestyle which can be a difficult place to prosper and thrive. However, amongst the chaos of everyday life, people can find sanctuary in the open arms of Midtown Community Services. The nonprofit offers a safe place for low-income and underprivileged children and adults alike where they can build relationships and create a diverse and peaceful community. “Midtown Community Services provides individuals a place to be themselves and to grow and learn from everyone around them,” said Barbara Schaefer, executive director. As executive director, Schaefer’s role is to make sure all of Midtown’s programs live up to its expectations. The organization began serving the community in 1982 under Catholic Charities due to a growing need in the neighborhood for a safe place.
Midtown offers a large array of programs including Youth Development, Family PRIDE and many more. The Youth Development program teaches children leadership skills that they can use as they progress through life. According to Schaefer, young kids and teens need to have a place to learn, build relationships and have fun.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY MIDTOWN COMMUNITY SERVICES
Fresh produce growing in City Greens Market garden.
“We want to make sure that when our students graduate from high school that they have a plan,” Schaefer said. “Whether it’s going to work, attending college or a trade school – when they walk out of our doors, Midtown wants them to have a plan in place for their future.” The nonprofit not only serves those less fortunate, but they also help serve St. Louis as a whole. When they first opened, there were no healthy food options in the area. To provide people with a more nutritional food source, the neighborhood came together to create a community garden. The fresh produce grown in the garden was brought to
Midtown and organized into a marketplace called City Greens Market. “City Greens Market was a great option for families looking for affordable, fresh foods,” Schaefer said. “The Market quickly grew and has become its own nonprofit which still serves residents today. “We do our best to empower people with what they learn and to use it the rest of their lives,” Schaefer said. “Midtown is a place where individuals come to build a peaceful community. It speaks volumes to our programs.”
SPRINGBOARD TO LEARNING
Creative learning leads to success MAGGIE PANIAN FRESHMAN
programs in place to keep the connection going. However, not every student has access to the same resources which make digital learning available.
Springboard wants to have virtual opportunities as part of their ongoing programs. “If we’re virtual, we can reach anybody, anywhere.”
“There are students in some districts that are part of what we call the digital divide,” said Jonathan Webb, program facilitator. “They may not have the technological means to enjoy those programs in that form.”
Springboard to Learning stresses the importance of their work and how it differs from other similar art education programs. The nonprofit’s impact on students goes beyond learning music or how to write, they are learning how to work with other people.
GRAND CENTER ARTS ACADEMY
KORISSA SMITH JUNIOR GRAND CENTER ARTS ACADEMY
Springboard to Learning is a 51-year-old nonprofit organization that brings arts-integrated programs into the St. Louis schools. As the largest nonprofit providing these services, Springboard is on a mission to develop children who can think critically, collaborate and communicate, ultimately leading to a meaningful future. “A major impact of our work is kids having the opportunity to have a hands-on learning experience,” said Lauren Wiser, marketing and development manager. During the pandemic, the nonprofit didn’t let that prevent them from reaching their students. To date, Springboard to Learning has 50 interactive virtual
To combat this divide, Springboard created Arts & Learning Snacks which consists of mini-projects, supplies and instructions packed into art kits and distributed to families with their food deliveries.
“There are so many students can learn from working together,” Wiser said.
“We’ve delivered 6,000 of these already since the spring,” Webb said. “We plan to distribute 24,000 through the remainder of this next fiscal year.” Springboard’s expansion into virtual learning has been successful so far and also allows the organization to teach students at a wider reach. Webb said the transition to virtual programs isn’t something they want to keep only during the pandemic. He reiterated that
PHOTO PROVIDED BY SPRINGBOARD TO LEARNING
A student displays her completed infographic at the annual Art of Baseball culmination at Busch Stadium.
TREE HOUSE OF GREATER ST. LOUIS
St. Louis charity fights Coronavirus with virtual hippotherapy GRACE WALTON JUNIOR EUREKA HIGH SCHOOL
on the lives of their clients. From throwing a welcome back party for Bueltmann after his spinal fusion surgery to the socialization the clients receive through therapy, the organization has created a tight-knit family for those searching for a support system. PHOTO PROVIDED BY TREE HOUSE OF GREATER ST. LOUIS
Freedom. That’s how Stephen Bueltmann describes riding his horse Cappy at TREE House of Greater St. Louis. Bueltmann, 18, has muscular dystrophy and relies on the nonprofit for his therapeutic riding sessions. TREE House (Therapy, Recreation, Education and Exploration) is a therapeutic riding center resting in the hills of 90 acres of land just off Highway Z in Wentzville, Missouri. Specializing in hippotherapy along with individual riding lessons, TREE House works to strengthen the core and upper body, improve balance and increase flexibility.
Bueltmann’s mom explained how they feel like TREE House is an extended part of their family. “We’ve been going to the riding center for seven years and have been with the same team of therapists every week,” said Susan Bueltmann, Stephen’s mom. “They are like family to us.” Coronavirus, however, has thrown a few obstacles in the way for the TREE community, now that therapies are completely online. Despite their facilities being closed to the public, the horses still play a huge role in the interactions with clients.
“When you’re on a horse, every aspect of your being is affected by the horse’s movement,” said Kathy Castellitto, volunteer and outreach manager.” When you’re having fun, you relax, and the therapy is that much more effective. It serves as motivation for actually doing the therapy.”
“We use our horses in a virtual aspect,” Castellitto said. “We bring them into the barn and our therapist or equine manager works with the horse and performs the therapy the client is doing at home. The only interactions with the horses are through Zoom so we had to get more creative with the therapy lessons.”
Throughout the years, TREE has made a deep impact
While therapies are still moving forward through
Cappy’s movement is strengthening Stephen’s muscles and sense of balance while the two sidewalkers assist.
the pandemic, Debbie Harre, a physical therapist at TREE House, describes the pros and cons. “The kids are benefitting by maintaining some flexibility and strength, along with keeping them engaged in the horse so when they come back to the center it’s still familiar and they’ll remember their horse,” Harre said. “The disadvantage is that it’s not as extensive therapy as if we were hands-on and on a horse. It’s not ideal but we’re trying to keep them prepared for when they come back.” At this time, TREE House has no definite date for reopening but they are beginning to set precautions in place for when they do. As for the clients, Harre said whether they have participated in the virtual sessions or not, they are anxious to ride again. “I miss it big time,” Stephen said.
N16 • ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
OLD NEWSBOYS
M 1 • THURSDAY • 11.19.2020
EXCEPTIONAL EQUESTRIANS OF THE MISSOURI VALLEY, INC.
Sitting tall in the saddle JACKSON HUETER JUNIOR JEFFERSON HIGH SCHOOL
LANEY SMITH SENIOR JEFFERSON HIGH SCHOOL
By the time Julie Straatmann’s daughter, Maggie was three, doctors had informed her that Maggie might never walk. While she sensed that her daughter was delayed, she didn’t expect to get this news. “She had very low muscle tone in the beginning and before they [the doctors] gave her the cerebral palsy (CP) diagnosis, they told me she may never walk or run again,” Straatmann said. The family knew they needed to find therapies that would help Maggie become stronger. Based on the recommendation of a family member, Straatmann decided to investigate a unique option, equestrian
therapy at Exceptional Equestrians of the Missouri Valley (EEMV). The nonprofit organization provides therapeutic horseback riding lessons to individuals ages two and up in Franklin and St. Louis Counties. “It was not a hard decision because we knew they had the capabilities,” Straatmann said. She admits, though, that initially, it was slightly intimidating. “It’s overwhelming to see this little one on the back of this big strong horse.” After Maggie began her weekly therapy, she took her first step within a few short months. According to Lindsay Mohr, the administrative manager of EEMV, the movement of the horse is the only movement that mimics human walking.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY EXCEPTIONAL EQUESTRIANS OF THE MISSOURI VALLEY, INC.
Exceptional Equestrians of Missouri Valley offers a variety of unique equestrian therapy options for children and adults.
connecting with a pet or animal can have a calming effect, lower blood pressure, reduce depression and more. For individuals that deal with low self-esteem or maybe haven’t been accepted at school because they have a disability, having a relationship with an animal that is so large can be an important confidence-builder. “The fact that a horse weighs 2,000 pounds and is responsive to the different activities helps our clients become much more confident as individuals,” said Mohr.
“If somebody is not able to walk, their muscles never develop to give them the strength to do that,” Mohr said. “But if you sit on a horse, your muscles move exactly as they would if they were walking themselves.”
Today, Maggie is 18 and a confident senior in high school. To look at her now, many wouldn’t even guess she was diagnosed with CP. Straatmann encourages others to give the program a try.
In addition to physical benefits, therapeutic horseback riding has emotional benefits. Most people know that
“She’s so happy when we pull into the driveway of the stables,” Straatmann said.
ISAIAH 58 MINISTRIES
A ministry unified in Christ is touching the lives of those they serve RYAN FLAVIN SENIOR DE SMET JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL
Arthur Johnson came to Isaiah 58 Ministries after hearing about the organization from a friend, not knowing what to expect. Johnson was struggling to make ends meet with his wife being on disability and unable to work.
“The main focus of our ministry is to serve individuals living in south St. Louis city who are low income and struggle to make ends meet,” said Rev. Brenda Booth, executive director. The ministry began in 1969 when four churches in the neighborhood came together. As it grew, additional churches became involved. The nonprofit serves between 600 and 800 families every month through its food pantry and also assists with clothing and hygiene supplies. The food pantry provides many types of food such as fresh produce, deli and pastry items, bread and periodically dairy and eggs. Upon arriving, Johnson was met by caring people who immediately began to help. “I started meeting people like Brenda and other volunteers,” Johnson said. “It was nice and they were very helpful.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY ISAIAH 58 MINISTRIES
Arthur Johnson preparing bags for people in need.
After Isaiah 58 helped Johnson and his wife with basic needs, the nonprofit took the next step and offered him a job. Johnson now works at Isaiah 58 Ministries five days a week.
“It was a really big deal because they had so many other people coming and they asked me to help out,” Johnson said. Johnson says the people he’s met at Isaiah 58 Ministries have changed his life for the better. He would have never guessed that he would become such good friends with the volunteers who are much older than him. “These people have big hearts,” Johnson said. “They go beyond the limits of actually helping someone — they take that extra step.” Isaiah 58 Ministries also has a thrift store with gently used clothing, hosts a yearly Back-to-School Fair for students to receive school supplies and other items and runs a holiday store that allows individuals to shop for toys and other gifts for their families. Johnson says everything turns out to be a blessing in the end. “I tell anyone that asks that this is the top food pantry and ministry on the list.”
UNITED 4 CHILDREN
Empowering caregivers to nurture whole child development HARIETT KRAJCOVIC SOPHOMORE KIRKWOOD HIGH SCHOOL
When the pandemic began earlier in the year, the impact on businesses was immediate and left many feeling uncertain of the future. Due to the contagious nature and unknowns of COVID-19, it was unclear whether daycare providers would be able to remain open or if they would be forced to close. Fortunately, United 4 Children (U4C) was able to continue with their programming by shifting training and programs for daycare providers to almost entirely online. The nonprofit provides comprehensive services to childcare and after-school programs that address the many needs of the child. U4C provides children with healthy meals, safe places to learn and play and social-emotional and inclusive services for children with special needs or challenging behaviors. “There have been many hurdles affecting programs and
training for daycare providers in the area,” said Stephanie LaFleur, development and event coordinator. “Many of our services have been expanded or shifted to online. Our annual fall conference for childcare providers which helps them obtain hours towards earning their accreditation has also been moved online.” Although United 4 Children experienced some struggles during the pandemic, there have been new opportunities. U4C helped to create and maintain eight community collective hubs, all near public transportation. The community collective hubs are evenly distributed throughout the city so that daycare providers or families in need can obtain necessary supplies. Items such as bleach, soap, formula, diaper wipes and more are available at the hubs which have helped countless families and daycare providers. “U4C strives to meet community needs where other resources don’t exist and build relationships through shared values, creating equitable partnerships and meeting our commitments,” LaFleur said. “We meet our caregivers where they are and guide them with
the knowledge and skills necessary to ensure children feel safe, engaged and supported. When caregivers feel confident, our children are given the best care possible with every opportunity to succeed. United 4 Children was formed in 2012 after two organizations, St. Louis for Kids and the Child Day Care Association, merged. U4C focuses on impacting children ages newborn to 5 years old and with after-school programming support for children up to age 13. The nonprofit is helping to make sure every child, regardless of race or zip code, has access to early childhood education so they can have the foundation to thrive. U4C achieves its vision by providing resources such as professional development and accreditation assistance to support day care providers. The nonprofit ensures that child care providers have the necessary training so each child care center or provider can be as top quality as the next one. U4C also helps day care providers improve the services they already provide while connecting providers and families with mental and physical health resources.
WOMEN IN CHARGE
Building women up through education FAITH BOYD SENIOR RITENOUR HIGH SCHOOL
Women who are experiencing financial difficulty, in need of an education or who are facing any other crisis can find assistance at Women in Charge (WIC). The organization provides services to women struggling in various areas of their lives. In its early stages, the nonprofit was an employment agency that provided women with cleaning jobs. However, this concept did not garner the results they had envisioned. Women in Charge quickly shifted to an adult literacy program and grew from there. The nonprofit’s current mission is to educate women, heal their spirit and build their confidence so they can lead a rewarding life. This is achieved through a multitude of programs covering subjects such as high school core classes, financial advice and emotional counseling.
One of the major goals for Women in Charge is to provide women with the tools they need to be successful through education. So, it’s no surprise that one of the more popular programs at WIC is its adult literacy program. This involves one-on-one tutoring with women in core high school courses to prepare them for the HiSET (High School Equivalency Test), which shows that they have the same academic achievement as a typical high school graduate. “We understand that for many of the women who come to our program, they will not achieve their high school equivalency, but will leave more confident and with more skills than they had when they started the program,” said Lynn Chapman-Wolf, social worker. “We measure success by knowing if the women left the program in a better place than when they arrived, and for almost every woman the answer is yes.” While academics are a defining part of Women in Charge, their programs offer more than a standard education. Women who are struggling to bounce back from unfortunate situations are provided a safe space
PHOTO PROVIDED BY WOMEN IN CHARGE
Women in Charge staff prepares for their reopening after the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.
to regain their confidence, find their voice and achieve personal growth. For example, a woman who is having difficulties with raising her family can turn to the parent mentoring program which builds on her strengths and nurtures her through challenging situations. Or a woman who wants to sound more confident and qualified could take the professional speech course led by executive director, Vicki Sharp. WIC is persistent in its efforts to remove whatever barriers might hinder a woman’s success in her career or personal life. In some cases, a woman’s lack of motivation and frustration is the very barrier that mentors must break down for her to be guided into a pursuit of self-fulfillment. In a world filled with obstacles at nearly every turn, Women in Charge presents an opportunity to change a woman’s life for the better.
11.19.2020 • THURSDAY • M 1
OLD NEWSBOYS
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH • N17
THE L.I.F.E. FOUNDATION
Shaping the choices of young readers BEN HUGHES
“I always had a desire to give back to the community,” Weber said.
JUNIOR MARQUETTE HIGH SCHOOL
Law student turned public service warrior, Kristen Weber decided that a life of charity work was her calling. Weber is the founder and executive director of L.I.F.E. Foundation (Leaders in Furthering Education), a nonprofit organization that provides multicultural books to children in St. Louis.
Before founding the L.I.F.E. Foundation, Weber worked with large organizations in the area that focused on literacy development. She noticed a distinct lack of diversity in the books distributed to kids. Weber wanted to change that. However, when her concerns went unnoticed by the organizations she was working for, she decided to take matters into her own hands and start her charity. “What I noticed is that most of the books, reading activities and even backpacks we were handing out did not reflect the culture of the children in the community,” Weber said.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE L.I.F.E. FOUNDATION
L.I.F.E Foundation volunteers hand out a shipment of new books to members in the community.
Founded in 2009, the L.I.F.E. Foundation has donated nearly 60,000 books to children and adults all over the St. Louis area. The organization has grown significantly since opening and offers additional services such as school supplies and literacy programs.
The two biggest services that define the organization are the Pop-up Libraries and Reading Superhero programs. The Pop-up Library provides an opportunity for children to pick out the books they want to read at community events. Children can take as many books as they want free of charge. The Reading Superhero program provides children ages 3 to 4 years old with a free book every month for 24 months. This allows children and their families to build a home library that reflects their community and culture so kids can see themselves in the stories they are reading. In addition to providing books, the Reading Superhero program also provides reading activities for parents and kids to do together. The program also offers reading assessments so the nonprofit can monitor each child’s reading progress and provide extra help if needed. “It’s special because we’re the only ones doing this,” Weber said. “We want families in need to know that we are here for them.”
CARITAS FAMILY SOLUTIONS - ST. JOHN BOSCO CHILDREN’S CENTER
Helping children bounce back to a better life MICHAEL DOLAN SENIOR DE SMET JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL
He arrives at St. John Bosco Children’s Center broken, scared and anxious. James (name changed to protect privacy) is one of many kids to walk through those doors looking for a brighter future. After years of trauma, his developmental disabilities such as Asperger’s syndrome, obsessive-compulsive disorder and depression were triggered. As he looks around, James sees the open arms of those ready to care for him. St. John Bosco Children’s Center is one of many services that Caritas Family Solutions provides. The nonprofit social services agency works to meet the physical, social and emotional needs of vulnerable people in Southern Illinois like James. “The majority of kids come to us with a variety of behaviors, from anger management issues to depression,” said Gary Huelsmann, CEO. “Our goal is to help kids
deal with their trauma in a way that gets them back to their families, adopted families or foster care.” The Children’s Center can hold up to 36 kids from ages 6-18 years old. During their pursuit back to a normal life, the children have access to therapy, educational opportunities and health care professionals. “It is a humbling experience to run an organization that helps so many children and change their trajectory in life,” Huelsmann said. “Our cases are not easy.” The majority of children come to St. John Bosco through the Illinois Department of Children & Family Services. With the consistent stream of children, additional foster parents and funding is always a need. “I want readers to know there are many needs in Southern Illinois that are going unmet,” Huelsmann said. The majority of kids within the Children’s Center have such severe trauma which makes living in their current situation not possible. Once the child is physically and
emotionally healthy and has gained the skills and ability needed to live in a home environment, they are then placed in a suitable home. Counseling is provided to groups, individuals and families across the 42 counties in Southern Illinois. “The concept is that we are individually working on our own needs as part of a larger community,” said Mike Philbin, director of residential services. “These are people whose families have been torn apart and need our help.” Through counseling, children are taught the necessary techniques and tools to manage their deeper, underlying trauma. Counseling often plays the biggest role in the child’s success and their path back to a normal life. “They will always have that trauma but we give them the skills to help deal with it,” said Rico Dunn, residential supervisor.
CENTERSTONE ALTON – EDWARDS STREET
Centerstone – Where everyone is welcome CHASE PRAY FRESHMAN FRANCIS HOWELL NORTH
We all know someone who feels down, depressed or does things they normally wouldn’t do. There are also people in our lives that are open about their feelings, while others tend to hide them. The staff at Centerstone Alton understands this. The mental health center provides a level of care that is right for each person.
“As a health care organization, our mission is to provide care that can change people’s lives,” said Jocelyn Popit, director of advancement. Centerstone provides mental health care, addiction treatment and community education to individuals or those affected by it such as a family member. It doesn’t matter if you’re a child who comes to talk about a family member with an addiction or if you’re a depressed grown adult, you will be treated with care, respect and love. The organization cares for more than 13,000 people each year throughout Southern Illinois and the Metro East St. Louis areas. The staff includes primary care physicians, psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, nurses, counselors, case managers, health coaches and peer support specialists. Treatment is tailored to each person’s preferences and personal life goals.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY CENTERSTONE ALTON – EDWARDS STREET
Centerstone Alton – Edwards Street building.
COVID-19 hasn’t kept the health care
organization from providing the same level of compassion and attention. Centerstone has gone completely virtual during this precedent time. The organization uses telehealth to stay connected with their patients and has locations in Tennessee, Illinois, Indiana and Florida. “The pandemic hasn’t stopped us from giving our patients the support they come for, it just brings us together in a different setting,” Popit said. “It doesn’t matter if we’re on a computer screen or in the room together, the goal stays the same. Patients can keep in touch with us at all times,” Popit said. The Old Newsboys special edition newspaper holds a special place with Centerstone Alton. Each year, the organization donates its proceeds earned from the Newsboys issue to buy clothes and school supplies for kids in need. Last year, approximately $1,500 was put forward to help children in need. “We love to see the community’s reaction every year, Popit said. “If they have any questions or concerns they can reach us at centerstone.org or call 877- HOPE123.”
GIVING IS A FAMILY TRADITION (GIFT)
A GiFT Worth Giving CARTER VAN BUSKIRK JUNIOR MARQUETTE HIGH SCHOOL
Family is everything for Jennifer Krassinger, founder and executive director of Giving is a Family Tradition (GiFT). Krassinger has been a newborn intensive care nurse since 1998. Over time, she observed many struggling families and their hardships. As a result, she founded GiFT, an organization designed to help support these families. “What I discovered through my work is that many families are financially stressed and don’t have the means to take care of their newborn,” Krassinger said. “Seeing this through my work as a nurse, I was inspired and felt I had to do something.” Today GiFT is a charitable organization providing underprivileged families with the resources needed to support their newborns. Their mission is to strive to restore stability and dignity for families who experience prolonged hospitalization of their newborn
through education, providing infant care essentials and breaking barriers for visitation. PHOTO PROVIDED BY GIVING IS A FAMILY TRADITION (GIFT)
“When babies are hospitalized, families can encounter financial hardships,” Krassinger said. “We work with hospitals all across the St. Louis region to try to ensure the best quality care for newborns in need.” Krassinger said the cost of travel, lodging, meals and medical expenses can become expensive over time. To help aid families, their biggest focus is on a project called Destination Home. The Destination Home project helps families obtain essential supplies for their babies when they are discharged from the Intensive Care Unit. For example, Krassinger said they provide cribs, car seats, diapers, clothes, bath supplies and anything else that could be beneficial to the newborns. “With premature babies, many families might be unprepared,” Krassinger said. “When they get to the end of their hospitalization, they might be faced with the
Jennifer Krassinger, founder and executive director of Giving is a Family Tradition congregates with supporters holding signs encouraging people to donate.
choice of buying a crib or paying the electric bill. We are trying to alleviate some of that financial stress families have by providing some of the resources necessary for a healthy newborn.” Krassinger said there has been a huge increase in demand for GiFT this year. In 2020, they have helped a total of 200 families receive aid for their newborn babies. The outpour of support has inspired many to join the cause. “By volunteering or donating to GiFT, you are helping a family in need,” Krassinger said. “The idea is to empower families to get the best care possible, and not having those essentials makes this idea much more difficult. All in all, we are trying to help families live the life they should, the way they should.”
N18 • ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
OLD NEWSBOYS
M 1 • THURSDAY • 11.19.2020
SCHNUCKS SALUTES OLD NEWSBOYS DAY!
Thank you to the many volunteers who make Old Newsboys Day such a strong community tradition. Because of you, at-risk children throughout the area will receive food, shelter, clothing, medical care and the support they deserve year round.