11.21.19 Old Newsboys Day

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OLD NEWSBOYS SINCE 1957 · OLDNEWSBOYSDAY.ORG

THANK YOU! FOR MAKING A DIFFERENCE TODAY

DONATION

GIVING

63rd Annual Campaign Benefits Children’s Charities

Hundreds take to the streets today. All donationscollectedbenefitlocalcharities which serve at-risk children.

Old Newsboys Business Leaders

PHOTO PROVIDED BY SPARROW’S NEST

The 2019 Old Newsboys Day campaign continues a long tradition of business and community leaders’ commitment to support the organization and its efforts to reach out to St. Louis area children.

See Business Leaders, Page A6

GENE SLAY’S BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

SPARROW’S NEST

ST. LOUIS AREA FOODBANK

A club where kids succeed one afternoon at a time

Nurturing a lifelong family

Fighting hunger and feeding hope

Old Newsboys Day Special Correspondents High school students throughout the community contribute their writing skills to tell the story of children’s charities in this 2019 special edition.

Unless otherwise noted, photos are contributed by the nonprofit agencies.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY GENE SLAY’S BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

See INSIDE

SEE STORY INSIDE · Page A2

PHOTO PROVIDED BY SPARROW’S NEST

CAROLINE RAMOS-HERRERA Senior Ritenour High School

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ST. LOUIS AREA FOODBANK

ANN ZHANG

GABE FLEISHER

Senior John Burroughs School

Senior John Burroughs School

SEE STORY INSIDE · Page A11

SEE STORY INSIDE · Page A11

WE SUPPORT OLD NEWSBOYS CHILDREN’S CHARITIES!

GOOD PEOPLE. GREAT PRODUCTS.

Quality Beverage

William K. Busch Mike Walsh

Commerce Bancshares Foundation

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Participating high school journalists

Old Newsboys’ heart connects kids to community concern

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.

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:

Dear Friends, Thank you for your purchase of this newspaper. You just made a difference in a child’s life. You are part of a St. Louis tradition. Since our first event in 1957, Old Newsboys volunteers have headed out in rain, shine, sleet or snow onto area street corners to sell newspapers for a donation. It sets our community apart from many others in our nation.

Your donation - $1, $5 or $100 or more - goes back to help local charities assist children of all ages. Just as that first year, when a total of $34,413 was collected, your gift is used for socks, uniforms, books, food, beds, learning equipment and social opportunities which at-risk children would otherwise not have.

Hundreds of children’s charities in the St. Louis bistate area have benefited from your generosity. We look at them as the heroes who keep children’s dreams alive and champion our own positive view of the world as we help children celebrate victories in their lives because of the Old Newsboys’ mission.

Because Old Newsboys is a nonprofit, charitable endeavor of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, citizens like you can rest assured that your support goes directly to help these children. This unique partnership between you and businesses and nonprofit organizations continues to be a positive force in the St. Louis community.

This year, we look forward to new friends, new faces, new goals - ours stands at $650,000 - and sharing this paper filled with stories written by high school journalists about the charities we have learned to serve.

Again, thank you for your purchase of this newspaper.

Best wishes for a wonderful holiday season.

Warmest regards,

Doug and Molly Sansone, 2019 Chairpersons

• Aim High, Kaylee O’Dell-Freshman & Alex Vancil-Senior, Lafayette High School • Annie’s Hope, Andrea Lin, Senior, Francis Howell High School • Beyond Housing, Macy Cronin, Sophomore, Francis Howell North High School • Books for Newborns, Marin Ellington, Sophomore, Marquette High School • Carried with Love, Mackenzie Davis, Senior, Ritenour High School • Catholic Children’s Home, Ashley Haberberger, Sophomore, Liberty High School • Central Institute for the Deaf, Abby Prywitch, Junior, Parkway Central High School • Christian Family Services, Sophie Carite, Senior, Francis Howell North High School • Down Syndrome Association of Greater St. Louis, Allison Cavato, Senior, Francis Howell North High School • The Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition, Helen McGrath, Senior, Nerinx Hall High School • Gene Slay’s Boys & Girls Club, Caroline Ramos-Herrera, Senior, Ritenour High School • Give Kids A Smile, Tina Chen and Carrie Zhang, Seniors, John Burroughs School • Heartlinks Grief Center, Quynh Trinh, Senior, Ritenour High School • HOME WORKS!, Emily Scott, Senior, Francis Howell High School • Jefferson County Community Partnership, Molly McLaughlin, Senior, Villa Duchesne School • Kids In The Middle, Jon Sky, Senior, John Burroughs School • Kinetic Tapestry, Adina Cazacu-De Luca, Senior, John Burroughs School • LifeWise STL, Marie Prindiville, Junior, Nerinx Hall High School • The Little Bit Foundation, Mollie Banstetter, Sophomore, Liberty High School • Marygrove, Ethan Peter, Senior, Kirkwood High School • Megan Meier Foundation, Gracie Bowman, Senior, Francis Howell North High School • National Council of Jewish Women in St. Louis, Meta Stephens, Senior, Nerinx Hall High School • North Side Community School, Hallie Williams, Senior, John Burroughs School • Ranken-Jordan, Liza Baumstark, Freshman, Nerinx Hall High School • Ride On St. Louis, Alana Conway, Freshman, Marquette High School • Saint Louis Crisis Nursery, Carrie Zhang, Senior, John Burroughs School • Sneakers with Soul, Kopal Kumar, Freshman, Lafayette High School • Sparrow’s Nest, Ann Zhang, Senior, John Burroughs School • St. Louis Area Foodbank, Gabe Fleisher, Senior, John Burroughs School • ThriVe, Jessica Hornberger, Senior, Francis Howell High School

GENE SLAY’S BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

A club where kids succeed one afternoon at a time CAROLINE RAMOS-HERRERA Senior Ritenour High School

P

laying outdoors is a powerful activity for children to experience the world. However, not all kids have the opportunity or luxury to feel safe playing outside. Gene Slay’s Girls & Boys Club (GSGBC) provides the opportunity for at-risk and underserved youth to have a safe environment to learn, participate and find somewhere they belong.

The youth attending GSGBC often come from neighborhoods suffering from poverty and violence where outdoor play is simply not a viable option. By attending GSGBC, kids can safely take advantage of more than six acres of fields, playgrounds and gardens. The kids are empowered to recognize their physical, intellectual and emotional potential.

child who comes through our doors.”

Kane acknowledged not every child learns at the same pace or even in the same way, so he is proud of the opportunities available at GSGBC. The club provides an opportunity for young people to receive the extra help they specifically need to become successful in their academics. By providing a wide range of activities, the club ensures each child who joins GSGBC will find something they’re passionate about. From there, the organization uses that passion to motivate the kids to gain the skills they may not be as excited about.

programs help the children sound out words and find a love for reading and writing.

“The kids who come to GSGBC achieve powerful outcomes, such as

improved ability to read, physical fitness, academic attitudes, ability to swim, ability to heal from traumatic events and even more,” Kane said.

The GSGBC also offers reading and literacy programs like Blueprint for Reading Success, My Reading Coach and Literacy Workstations. These At the Gene Slay’s Boys & Girls Club, kids gain the skills they need to thrive.

Initially created as a recreation center and safe haven, today the club offers several programs including sports, academics, college readiness groups, art and more. It has many activities to choose from, but the purpose is to assist children who may come from poverty or a place where violence is common.

“There are several reasons why organizations like GSGBC are necessary,” said Jeremy Kane, an annual fund manager. “We serve a large number of families featuring single parents working multiple jobs. These parents care deeply about their children but are not afforded ample time to provide everything their kids need such as one-on-one homework assistance.

Our club provides professional, caring adults to meet the needs of each Whether on the basketball court or in the art room, kids who come to GSGBC find their passion.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY GENE SLAY’S BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

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Invested in Our Community Edward Jones is proud to support the 2019 OLD NEWSBOYS DAY CAMPAIGN.

CEA-8189F-A © 2019 EDWARD D. JONES & CO., L.P. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Member SIPC

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OLD NEWSBOYS 63RD 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 2018 Old Newsboys Day proceeds are:

Academic Development Institute

Our Lady’s Inn - St. Charles

Aim High St. Louis

Our Lady’s Inn - St. Louis

Alive, Inc.

Our Little Haven

Angel’s Arms

Penuel Inc.

Annie’s Hope - Center for Grieving Kids

Puentes de Esperanza

Assistance League of St. Louis

Ranken Jordan Home for Convalescent Crippled Children

Beyond Housing

Ready Readers

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri

Releasing the Waters Worldwide

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois

Ride On - St. Louis

Birthright of St. Charles

Room at the Inn

Birthright of Wentzville

PHOTO PROVIDED BY HOME WORKS!

Books for Newborns

Griffin Center

Saint Louis Crisis Nursery Saint Louis University Speech - Language - Hearing Clinic

Guardian Angel Settlement Association Healing Hearts Grief Support, Inc. Heartlinks Grief Center Highland Area Christian Service Ministry Holy Angels Shelter HOME WORKS! The Teacher Home Visit Program House of Neighborly Services Monroe County, IL House of Pais, Inc. Hoyleton Youth and Family Services Infant Loss Resources (formerly SIDS Resources) Jefferson County Community Partnership Kids in the Middle KidSmart PHOTO PROVIDED BY DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OF GREATER ST. LOUIS

Books for STL Kids

Kinetic Tapestry Kingdom House

PHOTO PROVIDED BY RIDE ON - ST. LOUIS

Santa’s Helpers

Boys & Girls Club of Greater St. Louis

Serving Our Community Kids Corp (S.O.C.K.S., Corp.)

Boys Hope Girls Hope of St. Louis

Sister Thea Bowman Catholic School

Burns Recovered/Midwest Children’s Burn Camp

Sneakers With Soul

Call For Help, Inc.

Society of St. Vincent de Paul Belleville Council

Cardinal Ritter Senior Services

SoulFisher Ministries

Care to Learn

Sparrow’s Nest, The

Caring for Kids

Springboard to Learning

Carondelet Community Betterment Federation, Inc.

St. Anthony of Padua Parish dba St. Anthony Food Pantry

Carried With Love

St. Joseph Institute for the Deaf

Catholic Children’s Home

St. Louis Arc

Centerstone Illinois

St. Louis Area Foodbank

Central Institute for the Deaf

St. Louis Bicycleworks, Inc.

Children’s Home Society of MO Christian Family Service, Inc. Community Care Center Cornerstone Center for Early Learning, Inc. Covenant House Missouri

PHOTO PROVIDED BY CENTRAL INSTITUTE FOR THE DEAF

Kirk Care Inc. L.I.F.E. Foundation Lemay Child and Family Center Life Bridge Partnership

St. Louis Internship Program SLIP St. Martha’s Hall St. Rita - SVOP Strong Tower Ranch Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Services

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 Marygrove Megan Meier Foundation Midtown Community Services National Council of Jewish Women PHOTO PROVIDED BY FOSTER & ADOPTIVE CARE COALITION

Disability Resource Association DOORWAYS Down Syndrome Association of Greater St. Louis East Side Heart & Home Family

North Side Community School Northside Youth and Senior Service Center One Hope United Our Lady of Guadalupe

PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE SPARROW’S NEST

Thrive St. Louis, INC. Torah Prep School

Epworth Children & Family Services

TREE House of Greater St. Louis

Flance Early Learning Center

Tri-County Birthright

Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition

University City Children’s Center

Friends of African-American Families and Children Service

Unleashing Potential (formerly Neighborhood Houses)

Center, Inc.

Vincent Gray Academy

Friends of Kids with Cancer

Violence Prevention Center of Southwestern Illinois

Gene Slay’s Girls & Boys Club of St. Louis

Voices for Children

Give Kids A Smile

Walker Scottish Rite Clinic for Childhood Language Disorders

Giving is a Family Tradition

Webster Child Care Center

Good Shepherd Children and Family Services

Webster-Rock Hill Ministries

Grace United Church of Christ Preschool Grace’s Place Crisis Nursery

Women in Charge PHOTO PROVIDED BY NORTHSIDE YOUTH AND SENIOR SERVICE CENTER

Youth In Need

To make a difference in the lives of St. Louis kids, donate online at oldnewsboysday.org.

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OLD NEWSBOYS w w w . O L D N E W S B O Y S D A Y. o r g

Old Newsboys aid kids’ charities 24/7 Sansones subscribe to helping at-risk children 22 to 6, and everyone who was in town came and participated in the polo matches we initiated last year and continued this year. Our daughter, Maria, recently graduated from college and she will certainly participate with us on Old Newsboys Day this year. Any charities that involve children and are part of the St. Louis area attract us.

That is clearly the mission of Old Newsboys.”

Molly said the executive board is invested and committed to year-round fundraising for Old Newsboys.

BY JANICE DENHAM

G ra te f u l c h a r i ty lead e rs moved Doug and Molly Sansone.

Their first year as chairmen of the Old Newsboys campaign to help at-risk children was coming to a close. They watched as boots-on-the-ground leaders of charities received funding for their programs.

“They were all so grateful.

It was better than Christmas morning. They were all wearing huge smiles. Seeing these people accept their checks – for some of them it’s the biggest one of the year – was a happy moment,” Molly said.

Thousands of volunteers for Old Newsboys, wearing bright green aprons, will weave their way around traffic and in various St. Louis Bread Co. locations on Thursday morning, Nov. 21, 2019, to collect donations for this special-edition newspaper, planned and published by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. All proceeds help children obtain life necessities.

“All revenues go to Old Newsboys because there is no overhead due to the internal help of the Post-Dispatch. The task is daunting but knowing that some of the money pays for immediate help – like buying kids everyday shoes – is motivating,” Molly added.

Of course, no matter how hard the Sansones and the Old Newsboys’ committee plan, the weather – particularly midNovember weather – is not within their control. Family legends about the wintry conditions on the Thursday before Thanksgiving have been shared for decades. “My dad was an Old Newsboy years ago, and I remember him going out to sell papers in the cold,” Doug said.

Hazardous weather conditions of snow and ice finally prevailed in 2018. For the first time since the Globe-Democrat, then St. Louis’ second daily newspaper, sponsored its inaugural

“Everybody [on the board] is very active … they were not sure what the polo match would mean for them, but they invited friends and participated wholeheartedly that first year.

The second year we added cars on display … and expanded the kids’ corner to attract families.

This came about with enthusiasm and encouragement of the board to get better every year,” she said.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY OLD NEWSBOYS

Doug and Molly Sansone with Fredbird in 2018. campaign in 1957, the outdoor collection was postponed a day.

Doug said, “It threw things off. Everybody likes seeing people on the streets, but should know it’s not the only day when funds are accepted. You can give 365 days a year. We are always here.” So is the need.

Now in its 63rd year, Old Newsboys, a nonprofit organization itself, has raised $20 million for hundreds of local children’s charities in both Missouri and Illinois. This past year nearly 150 charities received grants requested to deliver items like clothing, medicine, equipment,

hygiene products, food, activity materials and other nonstop basic necessities.

With support from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, the event continues to identify with newspapers. Local high school students write stories about the charities served by Old Newsboys. The newspaper delivers a message of caretakers responding to today’s needs. Stories by student journalists also appear on stltoday.com.

Frontline groups rely on Old Newsboys to open their hearts, put socks on tiny feet and fill children’s hungry bellies. As kids

grow, so do their needs. Some grants enrich children’s lives to help them thrive in school.

After their first year serving as chairpersons, the Sansones’ resolved to surpass fundraising expectations in 2020. Molly said, “We had heard of a lot of these charities, but we knew them just by their name alone. Providing immediate help for their efforts was motivating,” Molly said.

POLO MATCH FUNDRAISER Involving their own children in Old Newsboys has been important to the Sansones. Doug said, “We have six children ages

BOTH INDIVIDUALS AND BUSINESSES CAN HELP The couple – married more than 23 years – and their family enterprise, the Sansone Group, exemplify many firms in the St. Louis area that contribute both personally and professionally to Old Newsboys. Their involvement encourages others. “There are people [and businesses] who would love to be involved in this child-centered cause today,” Molly said.

Although needs of the children remain constant, some things have changed since that first year when $34,413 was collected for children’s charities in exchange for a one-of-a-kind newspaper. Making donations is easy with online payments.

Oldnewsboysday.org welcomes any amount around-the-clock to help kids.

“After all,” Molly asked, “how can you not love helping kids?”

Chairman’s Charity gives newcomers a feel of ‘home’

BY JANICE DENHAM

Think about moving into a new home.

Where do the kids attend school? How do they get there? Is there a store nearby for the baby’s cough medicine? Will a job be waiting?

Now make that move to a destination far, far away without understanding the local language, not having personal resources and neither friends nor relatives waiting.

Meeting people who faced those challenges led the Sansone family to help individuals caught in the dilemma of flight from a land of violence to an uncertain, but hopeful future.

Decades ago, Anthony F. Sansone Sr. and his wife, Mary Anne, helped a ministry at St. Pius X Catholic Church in south St. Louis. The ministry was led by Sister Paulette Weindel, who is referred to by their son Doug Sansone as a “modern-

The human spirit is alive and well in children, whether they are born in a free land or saved to live in one.

day Mother Teresa (who) had absolutely no funding to help the people who were coming to our country legally to look for a better life.”

The Sansone family pitched in to help with items from air conditioners and clothes to rent and money for food. Relatives and friends assisted with personal manpower and support. As Doug, Cindy and other children of Anthony and Mary Anne grew up and began personal involvement in charitable organizations, the younger generation took the reins in what they formalized into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Doug and Molly Sansone are now board members of the not-for-profit FIRST – Friends of Immigrants & Refugees of St. Louis firststl.org – established to assist immigrants and refugees in becoming productive, self-sufficient citizens of the local community. As co-chairmen for the 2019-2020 Old Newsboys campaign, they have designated the charity to receive this year’s $10,000 Chairmen’s Charity of Choice grant.

Cindy Finney, an older sister in the Sansone clan of eight siblings, and president of FIRST’s board of directors, said FIRST follows the simple philosophy of now-retired Sister Paulette, who still serves on its board of directors. “The real goal, as Sister would say, is to get [the new residents] to be good, contributing members of society. To do that, we do basic things for them.” Education is a primary objective, Finney said, but no one who is hungry cares to do homework, so FIRST concentrates efforts on food, rent and gas bills.

“Those who needed help always found Sister Paulette,” Doug recalled. “She heard [of those in need] by word of mouth and she would call us. A sewing machine, some heaters. We would go to the store,

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DOUG AND MOLLY SANSONE

Doug and Molly Sansone and their children deliver Christmas presents to members of a family who came to St. Louis from Liberia as refugees. buy them and deliver them to Sister. It was important to be able to provide 30, 40, 50 window air conditioner units to an apartment in oppressive heat.”

“Somewhere in all our families’ histories, we were immigrants,” Doug said. A little assistance helps newcomers negotiate a leg up in a new system. Molly reasoned that helping others in need is a matter of human dignity. “When they arrive, they have no money and don’t understand the culture.

Their English is not good. We simply help out those human beings so they can thrive in our society,” she said.

Efforts over the years have reached refugees from many depressed parts of the world, including Sudan, Afghanistan, Somalia and Eritrea. An interview with a Somali family on the FIRST website recounts rebel terror in their African home, barebones subsistence in three refugee camps and uncertainty as they journeyed from Kenya to their ultimate destination – St. Louis, Missouri.

Through FIRST, Molly, Doug and their family have recently aided a Liberian fam-

ily surmounting new surroundings and unexpected challenges.

Molly said, “We adjust to what they are facing. Sometimes there is a little more desperate situation through illness or tragedy or greater needs of the children, so we help them a little longer.”

Happy times with them, like sharing Christmas presents, have become precious memories for the Sansone family too.

“Little kids are involved and it is an eyeopening situation for ourselves and our own kids. There is always a big conversation with them on how important it is to help other people,” she added.

Cindy recalled her younger brother’s heart for helping people. “One time when we delivered items, something like window air conditioners, Doug, who was only a teen then, helped take up a table and ended up emptying all the money out of his pockets to those people,” she said.

Watching the universality of human emotion provided perspective. “They live in fear, but respond with gratitude and joy,” Finney said.

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N E W S B O Y S

Business Leaders Team 2 0 1 9 O L D N EWS BOYS C H A I RS

O L D N EWS BOYS C H A I RS E M E R I T US

Doug and Molly Sansone

Lou and Jackie Brock

The mission of Old Newsboys is simple —

- CHAIRS 2019 Sansone Group, celebrating its 62nd anniversary in commercial real estate, continues to

- CHAIRS EMERITUS 1999-2019 - CHAIRMEN, OLD NEWSBOYS 1999-2000 - HONORARY CHAIRS, GOLF TOURNAMENT 2012-16

to ensure that children who are at risk in our community,

extend its commitment to the St. Louis community by serving local children through organizations like Old Newsboys. Doug Sansone participates in day-to-day operation of the St. Louisbased company with his father, CEO Anthony Sansone Sr., and three brothers – Jim, Nick and Tim Sansone. Sansone Group wholeheartedly supports the effort to improve the lives of youths

Sansone Group

because of abuse or poverty, receive adequate food, shelter,

Lou and Jackie Brock have stolen the hearts of St. Louisans. The Old Newsboys lineup has relied on them as active cheerleaders for kids and children’s charities since 1996. They personally support the annual golf tournament and leadership rallies, spread the word and invite others to join them in the Campaign for Kids. Not only have they hawked newspapers, but continue to extend a helping hand to the cause year-round.

in the local community. Doug and wife Molly take the plight of children to heart by working to fulfill the dreams of local youth. “Giving back to our community is important to Molly and me - particularly children’s charities as we have been blessed with six children of our own.”

clothing, medical care and are provided equal opportunity for social development.

P R ES I D E N TS C LU B Jay Schaeffer Shields

Bob Ciapciak

- HALL OF FAME 2003 - CHAIR, BUSINESS EDITION 2003-07 - WETTERAU AWARD 2006 - FOUNDER, PRESIDENTS CLUB 2008-19 - BOARD MEMBER

- CHAIRMAN, OLD NEWSBOYS 2007-08 - HALL OF FAME 2009

Schaeffer Manufacturing Co.

Jay Schaeffer Shields, CEO of Schaeffer Manufacturing Co., sees Old Newsboys as a great way to give back to the community. He was recruited to help with Old Newsboys Day by Ted Wetterau, longtime chairman of Old Newsboys and founder of Shop ‘n Save. Giving back to the community is important, Shields emphasized. “Ted Wetterau asked me to step up and recruit other mid-sized companies to join in helping the kids,” he said. Shields also co-founded Sons & Daughters of Soulard on the Old Newsboys model to raise money for the homeless in Soulard. It connects with local business leaders to raise money for Peter & Paul Community Services. Shields and his wife, Maria, have four children.

Brad Goss

SmithAmundsen LLC Brad Goss, managing partner of SmithAmundsen’s St. Louis office, has more than 35 years’ experience providing services in real estate development, zoning, subdivision, construction, leasing and municipal law. He represents developers, homeowners associations, banks, contractors, subcontractors and governmental entities. His clients operate in home building, lending, land development, commercial development, commercial leasing and public/private incentive financing. Notably, Goss originated and drafted legislation providing development rights for qualifying TAD special districts and has represented clients in matters related to NID, CIDs and TIFs.

Edward Jones

Bob Ciapciak serves as Partner, Office of the Managing Partner, at Edward Jones.

“The children of St. Louis are our future,” he said. “Old Newsboys Day helps provide them with things that many of us take for granted – everything from blankets to bikes. These gifts can literally transform the lives of children at risk because they are a clear sign that someone cares about them. Edward Jones is proud to continue our support of this extremely important organization.”

Akberet Boykin Farr

Emerson

Akberet Boykin Farr is vice president, diversity and inclusion, for Emerson. She has more than 20 years of experience in human resources, including organizational development, recruitment and retention, benefits administration and legal compliance. Before joining Emerson, Farr served as vice president of human resources at Nidec Motor Corporation.

She is a proud graduate of Saint Louis University where she completed both her graduate and undergraduate studies, earning a doctorate in philosophy, master’s degree in business administration and bachelor’s degree in science. Dedicated to serving the local St. Louis community, Farr serves on the Board of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis and City Academy.

Mike Walsh

Scott Niekamp

Niekamp Financial

- CHAIRMAN, OLD NEWSBOYS 2014-15 - HALL OF FAME 2007 - CHAIR, BUSINESS EDITION LEADER 2008-13 - BOARD MEMBER Involved with Old Newsboys since 2004, Scott Niekamp, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, principal with Niekamp Financial, has seen first-hand results of community and business volunteers collaborating. He considers it an honor to serve St. Louis’ children through Old Newsboys. From the beginning, the team at Niekamp Financial has manned corners, volunteered at golf tournaments and collected donations. Most recently, Niekamp Financial hosted the VIP tent at second annual Old Newsboys Polo Match at Kräftig Fields. “As our commitment and support for clients’ financial security needs have continued to grow,” he said, “so has our partnership with ONB and its support of families in need here in our local St. Louis community. I am inspired that the organization is committed to so many local children’s charities.”

- CHAIRMAN, OLD NEWSBOYS 2010-12 - HALL OF FAME 2009 - BOARD VICE PRESIDENT Mike Walsh – former chairman – has been a corner volunteer since 1980, corporate sponsor and board member 10 years and chaired the charity from 2010-2012.

Walsh’s father instilled the organization’s rich and deep history as he left in early morning year after year to man a street corner in terrible weather. Local volunteer stories repeat this dedication. Board service gives Walsh first-hand witness to the emotional gratitude of organizations and individuals that Old Newsboys serves. “There is nothing more satisfying than handing a check to the executive director of one of the charities we serve and listening to the deep appreciation,” he said of the commitment to improving the lives of children. “No matter how bad the forecast, we know it is just one day, while the children served face their challenges every day.”

Kirk C. Stange and Paola Arzu Stange

Billy Busch

Stange Law Firm, PC

- OLD NEWSBOYS SPIRIT 2015 - HALL OF FAME 2017 - BOARD TREASURER (PAOLA) Stange Law Firm, PC, is a family law firm with 20 locations in the Midwest in St. Louis, Kansas City, Columbia, Springfield, Wichita, Tulsa and beyond. Paola is Treasurer of Old Newsboys. Beyond their commitment to Old Newsboys, where they have received the “Making a Difference” and “Golden Plate” Awards, Paola is on the Board of Trustees of the Endangered Wolf Center and the Board of Directors of the Mid-County YMCA. Paola is also a member of the Emory Law Alumni Board. At Maryville University, Kirk is a member of the National Leadership Council and the Advisory Council of Kids Rock Cancer. Missouri/Kansas Super Lawyers Magazine includes Paola on the “Rising Stars” list and Kirk on the “Super Lawyers” list.

Carl Bolm

Steve Noles

- CO-CHAIR, BUSINESS LEADER TEAM 2014-18 - HALL OF FAME 2015 - BOARD MEMBER - CO-CHAIR, DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE 2018

- HALL OF FAME 2014 - CO-CHAIR, BUSINESS LEADER TEAM 2014-19 - BOARD MEMBER - CO-CHAIR, DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE 2019

Investa Management

Investa Management Group’s president Carl Bolm has created the perfect business combination of snow, wine and salt. His St. Louis-based companies – BSR Services snow and ice management provider, Cedar Lake Cellars winery and event venue, Champion Salt bulk de-icing road salt supplier, and Missouri Wine Wobble fun run – reflect his commitment to the local community. The active Old Newsboys board member is devoted to its mission to help area charities dedicated to the needs of at-risk children. He was appointed to Missouri’s Coordinating Board for Higher Education in 2017. He is a member of Entrepreneurs’ Organization and Young Leader Board (USO) and sits on Busey Bank Advisory Board. Other favorite charities include The Mission Continues, Operation Food Search, The BackStoppers and TREE House of Greater St. Louis.

Imo’s Pizza, Noles Restaurants/Properties and Old Newsboys have been associated for many years in a partnership that has provided immense rewards and fulfillment for all. “With more than 50 employees working corners annually, we are proud to be part of such a wonderful organization that provides support to those in need here in our hometown,” Noles said. “The history of Old Newsboys’ support for the many youth charities in the community and enthusiasm from our employees to volunteer on Old Newsboys Day has become an annual tradition. As a long-standing member of the Old Newsboys Board, it brings me great joy to be affiliated with St. Louis’ most respected charity that continues to change the lives of children year after year”.

Ray Farris

- CHAIRMAN, OLD NEWSBOYS 2016-17

St. Louis Post-Dispatch

- HONORARY CHAIR 2015 - BOARD MEMBER

- CHAIRMAN, OLD NEWSBOYS 2013 - BOARD PRESIDENT - HALL OF FAME 2017

Billy Busch follows his family’s longstanding tradition of commitment to the Old Newsboys Campaign for Kids. His father, August A. “Gussie” Busch, was chair of Old Newsboys Day in 1966, then stepped onto the pavement for many years to help sell the special edition. “It is an honor to rally around an organization which raises money to help children. My father was always excited to get up early on those cold mornings to help kids who don’t have their basic needs met,” Busch said. With his own family in prime learning ages of 13 to 27, he and wife Christi hope to extend his family’s legacy of bringing heartwarming moments to the community of all ages – particularly children in need – while continuing the Busch brewing heritage that his great-grandfather started.

Imo’s Pizza

Peter von Gontard and Susie von Gontard

Sandberg Phoenix & von Gontard

Susie and Peter von Gontard Sr. believe in supporting activities that help youths thrive in the St. Louis community. Peter is senior counsel and a founding member of Sandberg Phoenix & von Gontard law firm, with peer acclaim among “Best Lawyers in America” and “Missouri / Kansas Super Lawyers.” Always eager to score high points to present polo as a sport which raises funds for youth betterment, Susie was instrumental in bringing the polo match to Old Newsboys, and Peter once again announced the game at the second annual match in 2019 at Kräftig Polo Field.

Ray Farris strengthens, encourages and improves our community as the ultimate Old Newsboy. As president and publisher of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, he shares the passion of Old Newboys with the entire company, leading those who create, print and distribute the newspaper and online products. “I’m just one of hundreds at the Post-Dispatch who are devoted to the Old Newsboys mission to help the children of St. Louis,” said Farris. “It’s our goal to inform the region about the important work being done and to provide a channel for our community to get involved. Our employees are proud of their commitment to Old Newsboys and, together, we can all make a difference.”

B US I N ESS L EA D E RS Heutel Family Sunset Ford

Just as the Heutel family five generations ago looked on the positive side of the street with a splendid view of the sunset in south St. Louis, today the great- and greatgreat-grandsons of Peter Heutel have faith that organizations like Old Newsboys can alleviate inequities among children so they can be energized to move into the world unhindered by them. We look forward to continuing a longstanding relationship and support the organization’s efforts to improve children’s lives. Sunset Auto Repair and Supply Co. became a cornerstone in the community more than 100 years ago.

Lisa Clark

St. Louis Post-Dispatch - BOARD SECRETARY “Old Newsboys is truly a community effort” said Lisa Clark, vice president of market development for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. “From the students writing for the Old Newsboys Day edition of the paper to the dedicated work of each charity, we’re all focused on making life better for the children.” Her expertise in research, strategic planning and marketing is vital to the Old Newsboys’ mission.

Robert H. Mooney

The Omega Group UBS Financial Services

- OLD NEWSBOYS SPIRIT 2017 A sixth-year Business Leader, Rob Mooney continues to be amazed with the impact Old Newsboys has on the St. Louis community. “St. Louis is a gem of a city. It is a strong arts and cultural community. It has been important to me to support children’s charities in the community and do meaningful work on their behalf,” he said. The attraction spurs him to attract others to the commitment. “It is a privilege to be involved with Old Newsboys. This iconic organization makes a meaningful difference in the lives of so many children,” Mooney added.

Armstrong Teasdale LLP

Saint Louis Bread Co.

Don Hutcheson

John M. Hessel

- HALL OF FAME 2015 - CHAIRMAN, ALLOCATION COMMITTEE

- HALL OF FAME 2007

- HALL OF FAME 2015

Bill Corrigan

Bill Corrigan has been voted by his peers as one of the “Best Lawyers in America” / “Missouri / Kansas Super Lawyers” and one of the “Top Lawyers in St. Louis.”

He was one of the youngest presidents to be elected in the history of The Missouri Bar. Corrigan serves as outside general counsel to many St. Louis family-owned and closely held businesses on their legal needs. He is also recognized as a top business litigation attorney, having tried cases in five states.

Steve Wisniewski

RubinBrown LLP

Steve Wisniewski, partner in RubinBrown’s Wealth Advisory Services Group, reminisced about being a newsboy more than 40 years ago, selling the St. Louis Post-Dispatch to offices in Clayton. “I still remember the 25-cent tip I received from the esteemed lawyer, Charles Shaw. Being a newsboy was a tough job that helped build a foundation for my future. Now I have the opportunity to support the same organization.” Old Newsboys’ mission of serving at-risk children within the St. Louis community aligns with RubinBrown’s core value of devotion to community.

Don Hutcheson recently celebrated his 18-year anniversary with Saint Louis Bread Co. That was where he first encountered Old Newsboys Day in 1996. “I understand that Old Newsboys Day is very driven with youth organizations that play an integral part in the community,” Hutcheson said. “Those children are the future leaders of America and, therefore, we need to help some of these youth experience things that they might not otherwise get to.” Saint Louis Bread Co. donates its unsold bakery items to approximately 200 local hunger relief organizations. In 2018, over $7 million worth of unsold product was donated back to the St. Louis community through the Day-End Dough-Nation® program.

Lewis Rice LLC

John M. Hessel is a business leader who is deeply committed to the St. Louis community. He is a partner and management committee member of Lewis Rice LLC and has received many recognitions, including the 14th Annual Golden Plate Hall of Fame Award recognizing his support to the Old Newsboys Campaign. “I believe deeply in the mission of this campaign, because investing in the health and well-being of our community’s at-risk children is our shared responsibility. Lewis Rice is proud to provide support to this important initiative again this year,” Hessel said.

Jim Foster

Mary Ann Wagner

Steve Newstead

- HALL OF FAME 2014

- EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR - BOARD MEMBER

- HALL OF FAME 2005 - CHAIR, CORPORATE TEAM 2006-19 - BOARD MEMBER

McMahon Berger, PC Jim Foster, partner with McMahon Berger PC, one of the oldest and largest labor and employment law firms in the Midwest, has represented management for over 35 years.

Old Newsboys is one way he supports the Greater St. Louis community where he was born and raised. Foster considers it his privilege and honor to help. “Becoming a business leader is what I hope to be only the first step in developing a more significant effort to increase opportunities for children throughout the area,” he said. Foster and McMahon Berger believe Old Newsboys Day is a strong player in supporting and fostering a stronger community. Their local clients share a belief that local support of worthwhile causes helps guarantee a bright future for our region.

Jeff Hill

Westview Media

Jeff worked in Chicago for 10 years editing television programs and feature film for a production house before returning home to St. Louis in 2009 and founding Westview Media. He graduated from Columbia College Chicago in 2004 with a double major in cinematography and editing. While filming Old Newsboys Day in 2012, he learned about the organization’s worthy cause and how his own company’s professional and personal efforts could make a difference both creatively and collaboratively. Westview Media is pleased to be a sponsor for this worthwhile charity that helps needy and at-risk children in St. Louis.

When Mary Ann Wagner began her volunteer role with Old Newsboys Day in 1996, the fund-raiser brought in about $100,000 a year. The campaign has flourished, raising more than $600,000 annually in recent years to touch the lives of more local children. Wagner attributes Old Newsboys’ success to dedicated leaders, team members and the commitment of the Post-Dispatch and STLtoday.com.

She said, “It has been a privilege to work with so many dedicated individuals like Lou and Jackie Brock, Bob Ciapciak, Mike Walsh, Jay Schaeffer Shields, Scott Niekamp and Billy Busch, plus the current chairmen, Doug and Molly Sansone, in attempting to improve the lives of St. Louis’ children.”

Steve Newstead considers it a privilege to be involved in Old Newsboys. He became involved in 2003 as a partner at RubinBrown LLP. Since retiring in 2015, Newstead is thrilled to now have opportunity to continue working with leaders at Lee Enterprises and board members focused on raising money for underserved children in our community.

His passion for organizations and community projects like Old Newsboys shows. “Old Newsboys Day is a great St. Louis tradition. It’s really gratifying to know that the money raised through generous corporate donations and on the street in November benefits hundreds of local children’s charities,” he said.

Dr. Emily Johnson G’Sell

Tim Maynard

Magnolia Family Dental

Overcrest Capital Advisors, LLC For Tim Maynard, president of Overcrest Capital Advisors, Old Newsboys’ mission is vital - improving local children’s lives and serving as a social safety net for a greatly underserved and overlooked community, children who are homeless or in crisis. Tim, wife Denise and their two children have called St. Louis home since 2012. “Professionally, my efforts are focused on providing transaction advisory services to buyers and sellers of middle market companies. Overcrest facilitates deployment of capital to build growing businesses that contribute to the betterment of society, providing people with opportunities to thrive and develop their own paths to achievement. It is an honor to contribute to the enrichment of our adopted community,” he said.

Magnolia Family Dental is proud to support Old Newsboys Fund for Children’s Charites. Dr. Emily Johnson G’Sell believes that children are our greatest hope for the future and we must invest in them today. She received her bachelor of science degree from Truman State University and then graduated with honors from the School of Dentistry at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. As a “born-and-raised St. Louis girl” who values her own family very much, she is delighted to be able to practice in her hometown.

Mike Costello

University of Missouri-St. Louis Michael J. Costello is an assistant teaching professor in the field of business law and international business at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, encouraging students through participation as volunteers in Old Newsboy Day to give back to their community.

If you are interested in joining the Old Newsboys organization as a business leader, please email oldnewsboyscharities@gmail.com.

Because all children have the potential to change our future.

Donate at OldNewsboysDay.org

Old Newsboys funds over 150 local children’s charities providing the basic needs all children deserve.

OLD NEWSBOYS

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OLD NEWSBOYS

The year in review Old Newsboys puts street sales, baseball, polo and the ‘fun’ in fundraising for local kids’ projects.

(1) Lou Brock with members of his family receiving an award at the Golden Plate Awards dinner held at Cedar Lake Cellars (2) Carl and Gabriella Bolm, Susie von Gontard and guests celebrate at the Golden Plate Awards dinner held at Cedar Lake Cellars in February 2019. (3) Board members and supporters on the field promoting Old Newsboys before a Cardinals game in September. (4) Board members. (5) John Hessel, Mike Walsh and Steve Newstead selling papers on Old Newsboys Day 2018. (6) Molly Sansone presents funding to Old Newsboys recipient. (7) Ray and Pam Farris attending the Golden Plate Awards Dinner at Cedar Lake Cellars held February 2019. (8) From the left, Steve and Sherri Newstead with Missy and Greg Hill at the Old Newsboys Charity Polo Match on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019. (9) Scott Niekamp promoting Old Newsboys Day with media. (10) Ray Farris, Board President, on grant distribution day at Edward Jones Headquarters (11) Bill Corrigan presents funding to Old Newsboys recipient. (12) Paola Stange presents funding to Old Newsboys recipient. (13) Nearly 150 charities received grants from the 2018 Old Newsboys Campaign at the Edward Jones auditorium. Photos courtesy of Old Newsboys.

MORE ONLINE Read all articles by students at oldnewsboysday.org. Click on ‘latest news.’ Follow and Like and Share from the Old Newsboys STL social accounts: Twitter @OldNewsboysSTL, Instagram @OldNewsboysSTL and Facebook @OldNewsboysStLouis Whether you made a donation or sold papers at a corner, let us know with #oldnewsboysday or #ONDSTL19.

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SINCE 1957, OLD NEWSBOYS DAY HAS BEEN FORTUNATE TO HAVE A HISTORY OF IMPRESSIVE LEADERS. YEAR AFTER YEAR.

OUR CHAIRMEN AND THOUSANDS OF VOLUNTEERS WHO STAND WITH THEM HAVE BEEN DEDICATED TO CHILDREN AT RISK.

Whitelaw T. Terry 1958 Jimmy Conzelman 1959 Stan Musial 1960 Leif J. Sverdrup 1961 David R. Calhoun 1962 J. W. McAfee 1963 Ethan A.H. Shepley 1964 Edwin M. Clark 1965 William A. McDonnell 1966 August A. Busch 1967 James P. Hickok 1968 Frederic M. Pierce 1969 Harry F. Harrington 1970 Richard A. Goodson 1971 J. Arthur Baer 1972 Joseph A. Simpkins 1973 (No Chairman) 1974 Donald E. Lasater 1975 August A. Busch III 1976 Robert F. Hyland 1977 Clarence C. Barksdale 1978 Charles F. Knight 1979 John W. Hanley 1980 R. Hal Dean 1981 Leonor K. Sullivan 1982 Robert R. Hermann 1983 David S. Lewis 1984 Edward J. Schnuck 1985 Edward W. Frantel 1986 Donald N. Brandin 1987 William E. Cornelius 1988 William Maritz 1989 Dr. William Danforth 1990 G. Duncan Bauman 1991 Samuel Hayes 1992 Blanche Touhill 1993 Horace Wilkins, Jr. 1994 Craig Schnuck 1995 Rod Zimmerman 1996 Mark Lamping 1997 Ted Wetterau Bob Costas, Honorary Chair 1998 Karen Carroll Jack Buck, Honorary Chair 1999 Lou and Jackie Brock 2000 Tim Dorsey Georgia Frontiere, Honorary Chair 2001 Ted Wetterau Mike Bush, Honorary Chair 2002 Ted Wetterau Ozzie Smith, Honorary Chair 2003 Deanna Daughhetee & Ray Vinson Andy Benes, Honorary Chair 2004 Deanna Daughhetee & Ray Vinson Albert and Deidre Pujols, Honorary Chairs 2005 Marilyn Fox 2006 Marilyn Fox Mike Jones, 2005-06 Honorary Chair 2007 Robert Ciapciak Scott Linehan, Honorary Chair 2008 Robert Ciapciak Mary Strauss, Honorary Chair 2009 Ronald & Midge Krueger 2010 Mike Walsh Martin Duggin, Honorary Chair 2011 Mike Walsh 2012 Mike Walsh 2013 Ray Farris Kevin Demoff, Honorary Chair 2014 Scott Niekamp 2015 Scott Niekamp Billy Busch, Honorary Chair 2016 Billy Busch 2017 Billy Busch 2018 Doug & Molly Sansone 2019 Doug & Molly Sansone 1957

11.21.2019 • Thursday • M 1

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sT. LOuIs POsT-dIsPaTCh • A9

•• Proud to Support Old Newsboys Day Fund for Children’s Charities

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Dedicated to Representing Management Regarding Labor and Employment Issues

Offering Unparalleled Litigation Experience Centuries of Aggregate Labor Experience Cost-effective Service Is More Than a Catch Phrase

314-567-7350 www.mcmahonberger.com

OLD NEWSBOYS

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Emerson is proud to support institutions and organizations in our communities helping people in need, broadening experiences, and improving quality of life.

One of the organizations we are proud to support is Old Newsboys Day and its mission of helping children at risk in the St. Louis area.

World Headquarters 8000 W. Florissant Ave. St. Louis, Missouri 63136 www.emerson.com

OLD NEWSBOYS

11.21.2019 • Thursday • M 1

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SPARROW’S NEST

Nurturing a lifelong family ANN ZHANG Senior John Burroughs School

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he Sparrow has found a home,” reads the engraved stone at the entrance of Sparrow’s Nest, an adorable two-story house painted yellow and blue. The citation comes from Psalm 84:3, a warm message to all who enter.

Founded in 2013 by Carissa Figgins, Sparrow’s Nest provides sanctuary for homeless teen mothers and their children. Unlike most maternity homes, which will house a woman for six to eight weeks (the duration of typical maternity leave), Sparrow can extend its services for two years to ease young mothers’ transition into adulthood. Sparrow also welcomes girls regardless of whether they are pregnant or parenting.

“Most young ladies find us because somebody in their life cares about them, whether that is a teacher, a counselor, a neighbor,” says Elisa Zieg, the executive director of Sparrow’s Nest.

Zieg, who grew up in a children’s home in Texas, understands the significance of each resident’s journey through Sparrow. “I know how important it is for you to feel like you belong and for you to have family, even if the family is not by blood.”

Sparrow excels in providing a sense of home. Each mother receives her own bedroom which she can decorate as she wishes, as well as a bed for her child and a welcome basket of toiletries for new residents. Girls are responsible for keeping their bedrooms clean and taking care of small chores.

Pointing out a list dividing chores among the household, Zieg remarks, “We want to function as a family. It takes all of us to be able to do it.”

Also, Sparrow hangs dry erase boards on the doors around the upper floor, where the staff writes encouraging notes to the girls.

“We just want them to have that constant affirmation because so many girls feel shame when they find out that they’re pregnant,” Zieg said.

As a primary objective, Sparrow helps young mothers realize their potential through education. It is a non-negotiable requirement for residents to achieve their high school diploma or equivalency, while Sparrow lends a hand with responsibilities such as school supplies, health care and transportation.

Zieg tells the story of one mother who earned her GED 48 hours before her delivery. “These moms are amazing. They’re strong and brave, and they can accomplish so much.

We just make sure they have the opportunity.”

Afterward, if a girl chooses to pursue post-secondary education, Sparrow gives her a partial scholarship.

Whether her choice results in attending Saint Louis University, cosmetology school or military school, “we’ll support you,” Zieg said. “We want you to be dreaming and planning. We want you to get there.”

really where you spend a lot of the time,” says Zieg. Here, a grocery list for girls to add personal requests hangs on the fridge full of food. With the instruction of Sparrow’s staff or outside guests, each girl learns to cook for the entire house.

As Zieg notes, “We work really hard to help the moms understand that ideally, a parent is providing for their child. So we will provide for the mom, and then she needs to work to provide for her child.”

to go on in life and stumble, you’re going to fall, and if you have that place you can come back to, they’re going to help pick you up, wipe your knees off, give you a hug and help you figure it out.”

At the foot of the stairwell, Zieg pauses in front of an arrangement of the girls’ smiling pictures. “Some of them have chosen adoption, some of them have chosen to parent…”

Reminiscing, she glows with pride.

“There are just so many stories.”

Once a mother has acquired the skills taught by Sparrow, she leaves the nest.

Of course, she is still welcome to visit, and many mothers drop by before work or whenever they have the time.

Once more, Zieg emphasizes the importance of a lifelong family. “You’re going

Alex seeing Kaeden smile for the first time.

In addition to education, Sparrow provides the girls with life skills, part of its mission to break the cycle of poverty. Lessons include cooking, budgeting and financial literacy.

For each girl, Sparrow opens a bank account and takes her on a trip to deposit a check, often for the first time.

Sparrow also provides fun classes like sewing and piano lessons.

During their free time, girls can relax during movie nights or hang out in the backyard, where there is space for them to journal or play with their kids. There is even a fire pit to make s’mores. In the vegetable garden, the girls grow scarlet tomatoes.

“Like in most homes, the kitchen is

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY SPARROW’S NEST

Bonding is critical during the first year. Teddy reading to Izzy.

ST. LOUIS AREA FOODBANK

Fighting hunger and feeding hope GABE FLEISHER Senior John Burroughs School

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he St. Louis Area Foodbank has served hungry citizens of Missouri and Illinois since its founding in 1975.

The Foodbank works with over 550 partner organizations in the St. Louis region to fight food insecurity through a variety of different programs: providing food to local food pantries, distributing dairy, meat and fresh produce through their Mobile Distributions Programs, packaging nutrition-filled boxes for low-income seniors, guiding families through the food stamp application process, providing meals to children and families over the summer, and supplying families with food when they move from temporary housing to a permanent home.

“The mission of the St. Louis Area Foodbank is to build stronger communities by empowering people with food and hope,” said Meredith Knopp, president and CEO. “It’s hard to thrive on an empty stomach. Our staff and dedicated volunteers are working daily to provide food for today and hope for a better tomorrow.

We believe everyone deserves access to food and the promise of a healthy diet. Our work is made possible by the support of the communities we serve.”

Knopp shared that she was drawn to the St. Louis Area Foodbank by some of her earliest childhood memories, volunteering at area soup kitchens in Detroit, Michigan. “As a veteran who has deployed to many different countries worldwide and now as a mother, my heart hurts at the knowledge that there are children, families, veterans and seniors in our community that don’t have three healthy meals a day,” she said, citing these factors as motivating her to continue to work to provide food for all people in the St. Louis community, regardless of age, race, gender or economic status.

St. Louis Area Foodbank employee, Donald Bethune, carries a bag of carrots to be distributed to individuals and families affected by the flooding in Hardin, Illinois.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ST. LOUIS AREA FOODBANK

While the Foodbank was originally founded as the Food Crisis Network, an organization dedicated to assisting young mothers with providing nutrition to their newborns, the charity now pledges to help feed anyone in need of assistance. “Hunger does not discriminate,” Knopp pointed out.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ST. LOUIS AREA FOODBANK

The St. Louis Area top - St. Louis Area Foodbank truck driver, Donzeal Lenard, Foodbank operates poses with donations collected from an employee-organized in 26 counties across food drive at The Boeing Company. above - A community volunteer sorts and boxes food to be distributed by the St. Louis Missouri and Illinois, Area Foodbank at their facility in Bridgeton, Missouri. distributing more than 45 million pounds of without costs, as bringing in food, food and personal care items to more storing it and distributing it all rethan 392,000 people every year. quire funding. Old Newsboys Day is a According to the charity, there are pivotal source of this funding for the 427,000 “food insecure” people in St. Louis Area Foodbank. As Knopp those localities -- and “the Foodsaid, the annual event “demonstrates bank works to feed all of them,” we can all do something to help Knopp said. She shared the Foodensure people in our community are bank’s eventual vision for the future: fed.” a stronger, healthier bi-state region where no one goes to bed hungry.

Or, to quote an aphorism commonly employed at the Foodbank: “Hunger However, the Foodbank’s work can effect anyone, but anyone can enacting that vision does not come affect hunger.”

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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.

©2019 Schnucks

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2019

SINCE 1957 · OLDNEWSBOYSDAY.ORG

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SAINT LOUIS CRISIS NURSERY

Preventing child abuse and supporting families CARRIE ZHANG Senior John Burroughs School

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n 1986, members of the St. Louis area identified a growing issue persisting in the community – child abuse. With support from the St. Louis Junior League and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, the Saint Louis Crisis Nursery was founded with a mission of child abuse prevention and support for families in need. Crisis Nursery began with one location in St. Louis City, and today, there are five locations across the St. Louis and St. Charles region. In addition, Crisis Nursery has 10 outreach centers that provide services through their Family Empowerment Program.

The Saint Louis Crisis Nursery is open 24-hours a day, 365 days a year.

Each location can provide for up to 46 children at a given time. Laura Coatney, the Development Director and a longtime staff member at Crisis Nursery, said, “For me, everyday is different because we don’t know from day-to-day what age the kids are going to be or how many kids are going to be at the nursery.”

Yet, Crisis Nursery is still able to provide children with three meals a day and three snacks, a medical exam and over-the-counter or prescription medication, therapeutic counseling and a safe and fun environment.

Currently, Crisis Nursery cares for nearly 5,000 children a year and provides home-based and community counseling for an additional 400 families.

Despite their success, the journey hasn’t been easy throughout the past 30 years. According to Coatney, a lack of space has been a major issue with Crisis Nursery receiving more requests than they could accommodate.

Funding for the organization has also been an obstacle. For Crisis Nursery to keep their doors open 24/7, donations — both monetary and supplies — are essential. “We need things like socks and underwear. Kids go through those quite a bit, because we serve almost 450 kids a month, we use a lot of those,” Coatley said. Furthermore, funding has not always been consistent with changes in state-level and foundation donations. At the state level, funding priority for organizations is not guaranteed.

Fortunately, Crisis Nursery has been able to overcome these issues. With

the addition of four other locations, staff members are able to find space for each child. Crisis Nursery has developed a process that diversifies its funding. Coatley said, “There’s no one stream of funding that we rely heavily on, so if that changes, we can continue to operate.”

Crisis Nursery has helped families who are faced with unimaginable, dire situations. Members of the St. Louis community can contribute to their mission by volunteering or donating. Children often come to Crisis Nursery with shoes that are too small or seasonally inappropriate clothing. Volunteers can donate items like clothing, toys and therapeutic supplies or they can volunteer to interact with the kids. Monetary donations and partnerships with members of the community are essential to keeping the doors open.

Crisis Nursery’s mission is essential to helping the St. Louis community.

Coatley said, “Crisis nursery is there to help families when they can’t put food on the table or keep a home or roof over their heads. There are so many factors that feed into a family crisis that we’re able to address.”

Although Crisis Nursery has accomplished much in the past 30 years, staff members want to see the organization continue to grow. Crisis Nursery hopes to establish additional facilities in communities where resources are lacking and poverty is at an all-time high.

The staff at Crisis Nursery provide a nurturing environment for children.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY SAINT LOUIS CRISIS NURSERY

PHOTO PROVIDED BY SAINT LOUIS CRISIS NURSERY

Kids have a great time at the Crisis Nursery while their parents resolve grown-up problems.

CARRIED WITH LOVE

Carrying support to the smallest of those in need MACKENZIE DAVIS Senior Ritenour High School

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ounder Stephanie Militello noticed there was more of a need for families who had children with disabilities so she decided to create an organization that would assist in their daily lives.

The nonprofit organization, Carried with Love, was created in 2017. Its mission is to supply specialty carriers for babies, toddlers and small children who have disabilities.

Without a physical storage space, Militello keeps the inventory at her home.

To be eligible for a carrier, families must live in the St. Louis metropolitan area (Missouri counties only), and be participating in First Steps or Early Childhood Special Education. However, Militello and her organization strive to help anyone in need.

“We provide carriers to families who have children with disabilities, no matter what the financial situation is,” Militello said. “We do ask about the family size and income on

the application, but this is mostly for grant purposes. It is very expensive to pay for medical and other equipment expenses, so even families who are middle class can really struggle with costs. We do not want to exclude any families who are in need.”

and host fundraising events along with the other two board members. Because we are an all-volunteer organization with no paid staff, 95 percent of the donations we receive go directly to purchasing new carriers for families in need.”

Katy Keller, the treasurer of the company, spoke about donations the organization receives. “I write applications for grant funds to help us pay for the new carriers that we purchase for families,” Keller said. “I keep track of expenses for those grants and plan

In addition to the financial side of the business, there come many emotions. Keller noted she understood the purpose of the organization from the start, but her first delivery of a specialty carrier truly showed her the lasting effect it has on families.

“The joy we receive from providing carriers to families in need is found in reading their thank-you notes and seeing the photos of the parents wearing the children comfortably and happily,” Keller said.

The purpose of a specialty carrier is to make it easier for the parents to get their child around including getting their child out of the house, doctor’s appointments, school, among many other things. In their first year, the nonprofit was able to supply 15 carriers to Missouri families.

Although the organization is still growing and trying to help more families, Militello has already seen many rewards from its existence.

The organization has partnered with Cotton Babies in Fenton, Missouri to provide a customized carrier selection for families, based on the child’s abilities and the family’s needs. Carriers are also donated to the organization and may be provided to families when there is an appropriate match.

“It’s great to provide the carriers to the families and see the pictures they share. I just enjoy making life easier for parents who have a lot going on. We have also worked with several foster families, which is a really fun population for me to work with since that’s where I started my social work career,” said Militello.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY GETTY IMAGES

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M 1 • THUrSDAy • 11.21.2019

CATHOLIC CHILDREN’S HOME

Dedicated to protecting and caring for children ASHLEY HABERBERGER Sophomore Liberty High School

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or more than 137 years, the Catholic Children’s Home in Alton, Illinois has provided a safe place for healing and growth, helping neglected or abused children in a multitude of ways. While the Children’s Home was founded as an orphanage, it now helps all kinds of children in need. It is currently home to 14 boys (ages 11-18) and has 43 children who attend their Special Education School.

The residential services provided by the home include all aspects of care and consist of long-term programs (residency lasting six months or longer) and an emergency shelter care program (residency which lasts less than a month). Children may be placed in the home by state welfare agencies, private welfare agencies or school districts.

Children who have struggled in the public school setting may be recommended to the home’s Special Education School, which takes in students in elementary, middle and high school. It even has a

PHOTO PROVIDED BY GETTY IMAGES

young elementary and high school class for children on the autistic spectrum. Students typically start their day by being bussed in from surrounding school districts, served breakfast cooked in house and then having a class meeting with school counselors. The primary purpose of this meeting is to help gauge any challenges the students may be facing that day, as the home takes a “trauma-informed” approach in order to level the playing field for all students.

Classes follow a “structured teaching” model, where students individually rotate through subjects in 15-20 minute intervals which allows for more one-on-one attention, helps kids who have difficulties paying attention to more successfully retain the information and allows the children to learn at their own pace.

Most of the classrooms also have some sort of sensory activity within them, such as an individual tent where they can silently read, a rubber band on the bottom of the chair that they can fidget with their feet, etc. in order to help the kids stay focused and meet their educational needs.

Michael Shelton-Montez has been the administrator of the Catholic Children’s Home for four years but has spent 28 years as a part of the staff, joining when he was in college.

He also is the adopted and long-term foster father of seven kids, five of them from the Catholic Children’s Home.

“I think the most important part of the Children’s Home, as an administrator, is that we create an environment where we don’t concentrate on it being rule-based, we concentrate on it being relationship-based,” Shelton-Montez said. “What that means is we put a large emphasis on our staff creating and developing relationships with each of the students and the kids that live there as well, because it’s through these relationships that we help them figure out why they’re feeling the way they’re

PHOTO PROVIDED BY GETTY IMAGES

feeling, why they’re making the decisions they’re making and where that’s coming from within.”

The relationships built between staff and child also helps teach the kids that although relationships can be damaged, they do not have to stay that way. It is possible to rebuild and repair relationships, and the restoration of a relationship is just as important as building one in the first place.

Renese Barnes has worked at the Children’s Home for nearly 18 years and has been a therapist for the transitional living program since 2005.

The program, LIFT, prepares males ages 17-21 for the next step in their life, whether it be going to college or getting their own apartment. LIFT helps them work on things such as life skills, mental health issues and employment to make sure that by the time they age out of the system, they’re able to be self-sufficient.

“I know there are many children out there in need of services, not just a place to live, but treatment, educational support and they’re not afforded the opportunity,” Barnes said. “There are many agencies like ours that have been shut down due

to finances, among other things, so there are fewer and fewer places offering services like these, but the need is still very great. I believe we are meeting that need, not only for this community but for kids from all over the state,” Barnes said.

The Catholic Children’s Home has a tremendous impact on both staff and youth. The children grow and get to realize they are valued, and the staff, in all programs, know they impacted the life of a child.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY GETTY IMAGES

Lewis Rice proudly supports Old Newsboys Day and its efforts to aid children’s charities in the St. Louis community.

The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements. ©2017 Lewis Rice LLC

OLD NEWSBOYS

11.21.2019 • Thursday • M 1

sT. LOuIs POsT-dIsPaTCh • B3

JEFFERSON COUNTY COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP

Organized outreach strengthens community MOLLY MCLAUGHLIN Senior Villa Duchesne School

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ot knowing who or where to turn to in a time of need can be extremely difficult.

This where Jefferson County Community Partnership (JCCP) steps in, offering resources by providing a variety of support programs to low-income families.

Serving the community since 1995, JCCP has touched the lives of many by promoting change through community collaboration. Several of these programs include resources for parenting, home repair and transportation services. Tracy Smith, executive director of the Jefferson County Community Partnership explains, “All of JCCP’s programs

help serve the community.” She specifically mentions the partnership’s Safe Babies program which she says, “provides training to new moms and dads or caregivers. It also provides material support to qualifying families when they complete the short training.”

Services are not limited to parenting programs: “Our Hammers of Hope program provides home repairs to qualifying homeowners when the repairs are related to health or safety issues,” Smith said. “The JeffCo Express program supports the need for public transportation in Jefferson County, Missouri allowing for affordable transportation to get around many areas of the county for needed services.”

Profits earned on Old Newsboys Day specifically support JCCP’s The Parenting Network (TPN), which works to give parents a better understanding of their child’s development. Funds coming in help support low-income families by providing critically needed items for their young children. These items include diapers, wipes, toilet paper, pull-ups, laundry detergent and baby wash. When a household struggles to have these needed items, it creates a stressor, which could negatively impact everyday parent-child interactions.

TPN has done an amazing job providing the resources needed to help encourage healthy parenting. One woman commented, “At 35 years old I had never held a baby, nevertheless cared for one. I have learned so much about parenting and believe I am a good mom and better off with TPN in my life. I honestly do not know where I would be without TPN.”

PHOTO PROVIDED BY JEFFERSON COUNTY COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP

A community baby shower hosted by The Parenting Network and other area agencies catches Valkyrie enjoying her cupcake.

TPN works alongside parents to improve parenting skills and make sure children will be successful when it comes time to enter school.

Moreover, the program helps parents adapt to changing roles and helps stay-at-home and teen parents through home visits and education meetings.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY JEFFERSON COUNTY COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP

The network helps parents act upon early referrals when delays are detected to increase positive parent and child interactions. Children are given access to age-appropriate books, materials and activities.

Ultimately, the long-term goals of TPN are to improve the physical care and well-being of children, increase school readiness and improve children’s social, emotional and behavioral development. In addition, TPN does its best to reduce the likelihood of child abuse and neglect.

JCCP has been a constant support system to so many with a mission of achieving “positive results in Jefferson County by identifying concerns, locating resources and then facilitating change through community collaboration,” according to Smith.

Not only has JCCP touched the lives of many, but it has been there to welcome all families in need of guidance. It is truly the light at the end of the tunnel for those utilizing its programs.

Above: Josiah is an emerging reader while enjoying his tummy time. Right: Quinn finishes a fine motor toy manipulative activity from The Parenting Network lending library in his home.

GIVE KIDS A SMILE®

Charity provides kids with healthy smiles TINA CHEN & CARRIE ZHANG Seniors John Burroughs School

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or some children in the St. Louis area, access to oral health care is a luxury. Give Kids A Smile®, a nonprofit organization founded in 2002, aims to ensure all children in the St. Louis region have access to dental health care.

Dental hygiene or lack thereof can have a profound effect on a person’s overall health, especially young children.

Fortunately for the children of St. Louis, Give Kids A Smile® has stepped in to provide free dentistry for those who either lack insurance or who are on Medicaid.

“Everything we put into our mouths that affects our teeth and gums, also touches the rest of the body,” said Erica Steen, executive director of Give Kids A Smile®.

The organization provides comprehensive dental care services through a two-day dental clinic held at Saint Louis University in February and October each year. Children between 12 months and 14 years old are eligible. Every year, approximately 400 children take advantage of these free clinics where they receive checkups, X-rays and have the option to undergo fillings, crowns or surgery.

Clara and Heaven practicing the right way to brush teeth.

According to Steen, Missouri ranks below average in the nation for access to oral health care. In addition, dental insurance is separate from health insurance, and many times dentists will not accept patients under Medicaid because of the associated paperwork.

Give Kids A Smile® also works to eliminate obstacles such as lack of transportation for participants to visit clinics. Steen remembers a 4-year-old girl, Natalie, who suffered from dental pain. “Her grandmother didn’t have a car, so we sent an Uber to bring them to the clinic, and one of

the dentists checked her out,” Steen said. “In the meantime, Natalie has seen one of our dentists in between the biannual clinics, which is part of the Smile Factories program.

The program allows patients to see dentists at their private dental offices outside of the free clinics.”

PHOTO PROVIDED BY GIVE KIDS A SMILE

Tiny Smiles is another clinic offering dental hygiene for children 12 months to 5 years old. The Tiny Smiles program is for children who have complicated oral health care needs.

“For example, a parent providing formula milk to a newborn baby may not realize the sugar in the formula will attach to the gums,” Steen said. “If the parents don’t know the proper way to clean baby teeth, their child may have problems when the teeth grow in.”

PHOTO PROVIDED BY GIVE KIDS A SMILE

A mom and her kids after visiting the Give Kids a Smile clinic.

Like many nonprofits, Give Kids A Smile® faces the challenge of obtaining sufficient funding. “We receive funding from grants and foundations, and we also receive donations from individuals and local businesses,” Steen said. “The organization also holds two annual fundraisers – a trivia night and a golf tournament. However, any member of the community can contribute to

the cause by volunteering, spreading awareness or holding toothbrush drives.”

Steen spends much of her time networking with local businesses and nonprofits. She finds the St. Louis community to be very generous with donations and their time.

Above all, Give Kids A Smile® aims to bring joy to the children it serves. In addition to a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss, patients and families can relax and play together in the party area, which features music and games.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY GIVE KIDS A SMILE

Justin gives a thumbs up while waiting to see the dentist.

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THE LITTLE BIT FOUNDATION

A ‘little bit’ of help gives a child hope MOLLIE BANSTETTER Sophomore Liberty High School

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ducation is arguably one of the most important parts of childhood, and unfortunately for many children, school cannot be a top priority because they have bigger worries.

Some kids have to find a way to keep warm in the winter or keep their shoes lasting for as long as possible because their families can’t afford a new pair.

Thanks to The Little Bit Foundation, kids do not have to worry about borrowing a coat or buying school supplies. Little Bits is a staple in the St. Louis area, providing much more than just supplies. “Our organization is embedding resources and services into schools,” said Emily Johnson, program director.

The Little Bit Foundation was created in the winter of 2001 beginning with a coat drive. CEO and co-founder Rose Hanley was handing out coats collected for a St. Louis city elementary school when the depth of poverty amongst

the children hit her. It was then she realized every little bit helps.

The foundation has grown immensely since then. The nonprofit organization has a bigger building with a warehouse full of supplies to give to underprivileged children in the St. Louis area. The Little Bit Foundation is not just a drop organization; they are fully immersed in the schools. “We are there to support the family and the scholars in any way they need,” Johnson said.

To ensure the steady relationship between students and the organization, Little Bit sets up a boutique in any space available in schools and sends volunteers to help a few hours a week. The boutique’s setup includes coats and jackets hanging on racks, everyday clothes on shelves, school supplies in bins and stuffed animals placed throughout.

Amy Lottes, director of grant management, explains what she calls the Little Bit transformation. “The students will come into the boutique with their heads down, make no eye contact and won’t speak. However, when our volunteers get down on the floor with them and open up the bags and put the shoes on their feet and help them hold up their new uniforms they change into a whole

PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE LITTLE BIT FOUNDATION

Two second graders from Patrick Henry Downtown Academy, one of The Little Bit’s partner schools, get excited about going home with new pairs of socks.

different student,” Lottes said.

“We would love for people to understand our program is so much more than just stuff. We have all these health, wellness and nutrition programs and outreach in the

community, because it’s serving the whole child, mind, body and spirit and not just their physical needs,” Lottes said.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE LITTLE BIT FOUNDATION

PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE LITTLE BIT FOUNDATION

The BusyBodies wellness program partners with Gateway To Oral Health and brings state-of-the-art quality dental care to Little Bit’s students. This allows students to get the dental care they need right there at their school from committed, competent and compassionate dentists, hygienists and dental assistants.

CEO Rose Hanley celebrates the completion of adopting the entire Riverview Gardens School District with a ribbon cutting and mini prep rally. After the ceremony, Little Bit kicked off the What’s Next Fair, where students were able to talk to 40+ vendors about what to do after high school.

SNEAKERS WITH SOUL

Sneakers with Soul works to help local kids put their best foot forward KOPAL KUMAR Freshman Lafayette High School

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neakers with Soul is located in Manchester, Missouri and donates approximately 1,500 to 2,000 pairs of new sneakers every year to children in need throughout the St. Louis area.

The nonprofit agency was founded

by Maurice Parisien in 2010 when he and half a dozen church members at Manchester United Methodist Church (UMC) sat down to discuss potential mission programs. They were looking for an outreach ministry that would impact the community and decided to focus on at-risk kids, grades kindergarten through 12th.

There were many ideas that went around the table but the one that stuck was providing new high-quality sneakers to kids in need. Quality shoes are something every child is in need of. Ill-fitting shoes can cause a series of physical problems which can be prevented during childhood, the most critical years of growth. In an effort to prevent as many children as possible from facing these problems, Parisien founded Sneakers with Soul.

“Regardless of a child’s age, ethnicity or socioeconomic status, all kids are special,” Parisien said. “The opportunity to wear a new pair of properly fitting, quality sneakers allows a child to feel good about their appearance and that goes to the heart of the mission of Sneakers with Soul.”

Manchester UMC was very supportive of the organization and its mission.

In 2017, Parisien would diverge from Manchester UMC to make Sneakers with Soul a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Today, Sneakers with Soul has formed relationships with 12 client-facing agencies, including LifeWise STL (formerly Kingdom House), Helping Hand Me Downs, Epworth Children and Family Services, as well as the Normandy Schools Collaborative and the Parkway School District. The nonprofit organization relies heavily on these partnerships to ensure new sneakers are distributed to the children and youth with the greatest need.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY SNEAKERS WITH SOUL

A young boy looking for a special pair of sneakers.

The work of Sneakers with Soul is making a great impact on the community. Once, Parisien can remember fitting a young lady for a new pair of sneakers when she looked at him and expressed her gratitude. “I had to stop for a moment to collect myself,” Parisien reflects.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY SNEAKERS WITH SOUL

A young girl checking out her new sneakers at the LifeWise STL back-to-school event.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY SNEAKERS WITH SOUL

Shoes ready for distribution at Marian Middle School.

11.21.2019 • Thursday • M 1

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Kirk C. Stange

sT. LOuIs POsT-dIsPaTCh • B5

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 *BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Divorce Filings Decrease in Anticipation of the Holidays With the holiday season in full swing, no one wants to take the role of “Grinch” and cast a pall over the events and family gatherings. Obviously, if you are considering a divorce, all is not well in your marriage. But this time of year, if you have a family vacation scheduled or just some time with extended family, you probably want to believe in the advertising hype and happy depictions of families joining together for celebrations.

All of that busyness makes for a lull in divorce filings, as even those in unhappy marriages focus on things other than their own unhappiness. Some couples may not agree on much, but they may agree that they should allow their children one last holiday season, unconcerned with visitation schedules and custody arrangements.

Some may simply want to avoid the embarrassment of the forced togetherness of some parties or gatherings, where if they filed the first week of December for divorce, they would be forced to spend most of the month explaining to everyone they run into what happened to their marriage and why they are divorcing.

With the New Year just around the corner, it may seem best to make a fresh start in the next year. January tends to be quiet, with fewer gatherings, allowing you the time to contemplate your new situation and regain your composure. It also allows your children a full year to be prepared for the potential of a separated holiday.

There is no ideal time for a divorce, but there may be a time when it is right and necessary. You will know when it is that time.

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 855-805-0595.

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. Principal place of business 120 South Central Avenue, Suite 450, Clayton, MO 63105

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THE FOSTER AND ADOPTIVE CARE COALITION

M 1 • THUrSDAy • 11.21.2019

NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN IN ST. LOUIS

Program works to reduce Women advocating for change shortage of foster care homes HELEN MCGRATH Senior Nerinx Hall High School

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he Foster and Adoptive Care Coalition’s vision is to provide a community that embraces its most vulnerable members, ensuring each child in foster care has an opportunity for a healthy, successful life. Founded in 1989, the coalition strives to create permanency in foster children’s lives by recruiting and supporting foster and adoptive families in the metropolitan St. Louis region.

short-term intervention to search for relatives and identify potential placement options or support.

Placement homes for children can be fragile. The goal is to identify one primary placement provider and one-to-two other relatives as potential back-up placement providers.

Caseworkers reach out to relatives, close family friends, and those who are interested in fostering a child.

The 30 Days to Family® program is highly successful in achieving its primary goal of increasing placements with relatives. A 2016 independent study of child welfare administrative data comparing children served and not served produced evidence of several notable outcomes. Other

successful programs at The Coalition include Extreme Recruitment® A Place to Call Home, the Jones Foundation Family Program, Project SOAR, and Wendy’s Wonderful Kids.

“Our call to action as a community is to educate and stay involved,” Williams said. “The shortage of homes [in which] foster children [can] thrive is an awareness problem before anything else. There is always something you can do to help, even if it’s not fostering or adopting right now. We need every bit of help we can receive – the stakes are too high.”

“Although it’s one of our biggest programs, my ultimate goal would be to see the [Back to School! Store] go out of business,” said Jennifer Bernstein, advocacy manager. “The store is great, but when you boil it all down, it’s a Band-Aid,” Bernstein said. “If we don’t get down to the systemic issues, then there’s really no point in doing it at all.”

PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE FOSTER AND ADOPTIVE CARE COALITION

One of the most successful programs at The Foster and Adoptive Care Coalition is 30 Days to Family®, a

T

he National Council of Jewish Women in St. Louis (NCJWSTL) has over a century of experience in assisting the St. Louis community. A local affiliate of a national organization, they advocate for change coupled with extensive programming that assists women, children and families in need. The NCJWSTL fights for issues like Medicaid expansion, an end to human trafficking and gun violence prevention. The tie-in of advocacy and community service creates a blended mission, helping the underlying conditions and the people affected by it. A volunteer-run organization, the NCJWSTL relies on many hands and donations to keep their doors open.

One of the organization’s largest programs helping underserved elementary school children is the Back to School! Store, held one day a year at a pop-up location. The NCJWSTL partners with over 50 different organizations to help identify and preregister underserved children who are in need of assistance. Once at the Back to School! Store, children are paired with a volunteer who walks them through the process of picking out what they might need. This could include winter coats, school supplies or personal care items. Old Newsboys is crucial in helping the NCJWSTL obtain these supplies, as the Back to School! Store helps over 1,500 children each year and requires more than 600 volunteers.

Coalition staff celebrates 30 years of finding homes for children in foster care.

“The main work the Coalition does is finding placement homes for foster children,” said Kyle Williams, director of development. “The caseworkers sort through different cases and attempt to find permanent or temporary homes. The files are cut and dry – meaning the reasons children get placed in the foster system range from drug addiction, physical and mental abuse, homelessness and neglect.”

META STEPHENS Senior Nerinx Hall High School

This message is central to everything the National Council of Jewish Women continues to do. In Jefferson City, Missouri the NCJWSTL supports different policies that help immigrants, human trafficking victims, voting rights and many more. The organization then offers the opportunity to help people learn about their rights and legislative issues with book clubs and Lunch and Learns.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN IN ST. LOUIS

A child and volunteer shop at the BackTo-School! Store.

In addition, the organization’s repertoire includes various programs that serve women in need. These programs include the Healing Hearts Bank, which provides underserved women and families with microloans to help them become more financially independent. Another is the Wife Widow Woman program, a support group for women who have lost their life partners. Even further, the NCJWSTL holds a year-round resale shop where anyone can shop and buy gently used clothes; with the profits going back to the NCJWSTL. If you are looking to help out directly, the resale shop is a great place to buy clothes or even volunteer.

A combination of volunteers and donations allow the NCJWSTL to be successful, and without them and Old Newsboys, underserved women, children and families would not receive the help they need.

CHRISTIAN FAMILY SERVICES

Helping moms helps families SOPHIE CARITE Senior Francis Howell North High School

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hristian Family Services (CFS) is a St. Louis nonprofit providing supportive family care through temporary foster care placements and adoptive services to local community members.

In both of the programs, the staff works to provide not only counseling and maternity care, but a safe and familial environment for clients and their children.

ConnectCare is a voluntary child-care program in which the child of a parent in crisis is temporarily placed with one of CFS licensed foster families.

“This particular program is based on protecting the relationship between parent and child,” said Sarah Gentry, ConnectCare coordinator. “It’s a short-term placement, anywhere from two weeks to a month of care is typical. We hope to be able to provide a safe place for these little ones while parents become stabilized.”

The majority of individuals involved with ConnectCare are single moms needing support during a time they find themselves unable to take care of their children.

“Most of our moms in ConnectCare have no one they trust,” said Jodi Mitchell, social services supervisor.

“So imagine having a child and you need to go to the hospital to get your arm fixed or you need to have surgery and you can’t pick up over 10 pounds. You know your child weighs 15 [pounds] and you have no one to watch your kids – no one. So that’s where they call us.”

Both Gentry and Mitchell agree the mothers in ConnectCare do not take the decision lightly. The choice to put their child in the care of CFS comes as a last resort after having already exhausted all other resources. Before children, (or as Gentry and Mitchell affectionately refer to them as ‘kiddos’) are placed into the care of

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CHRISTIAN FAMILY SERVICES

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CHRISTIAN FAMILY SERVICES

The Fornier family

another family, CFS sits down with the parent to discuss a plan and give them all the resources they can to get back on their feet. This could include counseling, classes or by simply being a friend during a tough time.

The same goes for women who call CFS looking to make an adoption plan or who come seeking help for their unplanned pregnancy. CFS aims to build a personal bond with the women who put their child up for adoption through the program.

“Moms come to us at any point during pregnancy,” Mitchell said.

“They can call us from four weeks to 40, and we try to help them in any way possible. We meet with them and assess what’s going on in their lives…”

The Mitulski family

CFS meets with women all throughout

pregnancy, determining what they’re looking for in an adoptive family.

From the level of contact after adoption to what kind of home they see their child fitting in to, CFS makes a detailed plan and matches the birth mother to one of the families that CFS has waiting to adopt.

CFS also puts an emphasis on staying involved with the adoptive family, helping them to adjust or with communication between themselves and the birth mother, should that be something they choose to do.

“They say the birth process is a miracle, well then you have a double miracle when you have an adoption,” Mitchell said. “We really do feel like God puts families together and places kids to homes where they are intended to be.”

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NORTH SIDE COMMUNITY SCHOOL

High expectations are the norm at North Side Community School HALLIE WILLIAMS Senior John Burroughs School

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orth Side Community School (NSCS) is one of St. Louis City’s highest-performing charter schools. Students attending the school live within a 5-mile radius face heavy challenges from poverty and violence. North Side opened in 2009 and has grown from 57 to over 535 students in 2019.

Founded by long-time St. Louis residents and respected education professionals, NSCS is a free public school with open enrollment for children in prekindergarten through seventh grade. The school has plans to add an eighth grade class in 2020.

“This area of the city offered few choices for children in 2009,” said Chester Asher, executive director for NSCS. “The school founders decided they wanted to do something in the lowest income and most violent area of the city.”

PHOTO PROVIDED BY NORTH SIDE COMMUNITY SCHOOL

Kindergarten graduation is a big deal at North Side. Our families go all out to celebrate the young scholars rising to first grade.

In addition to North Side Elementary School, the new middle school built in August 2018 is situated in the heart of the Grand Center Arts District.

The teachers, the mission, the small class sizes and the students’ ambition make North Side Community School special. Unlike many schools that focus primarily on academics, North Side has found success by supporting students not only in the classroom but at home with their families and their basic living needs.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY NORTH SIDE COMMUNITY SCHOOL

The expectations are high, and the kids rise to the occasion.

A field trip to Eckert’s Apple Orchard in Millstadt, Ill.

NSCS has racked up several awards

and accolades in the past four years.

According to Asher, families are attracted to the school due to the proven results, academic excellence and overall family satisfaction.

Awards and recognition position the school well in fund-raising efforts.

Donors and foundations want to support organizations that are achieving at high levels, and North Side Community School accomplishes this year after year.

“We want our students to achieve at the highest levels so our graduates will gain admission to the best private and public schools in the St. Louis region,” Asher said.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY NORTH SIDE COMMUNITY SCHOOL

North Side students learn how to be a friend through JUSTICE character education program.

KIDS IN THE MIDDLE®

Helping families make a positive transition JON SKY Senior John Burroughs School

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ince 1977, Kids In The Middle® (KITM) has operated as the only nonprofit organization in St. Louis focused on counseling for children of divorced families.

KITM is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive and nurturing environment for kids and their families to manage this life transition.

KITM’s comprehensive array of services include group and individual counseling for children, individual counseling for parents, co-parenting classes and groups, family counseling, as well as school outreach services.

Through these therapist-guided sessions, children and their families are able to normalize their feelings and express themselves. Children from ages 3 ½ to 18 are taught positive coping skills and acceptance while adults have a number of options depending on their level of conflict with a co-parent. Family counseling is a helpful way to discuss issues together with the goal of creating better relationships and communication within the family.

All of KITM’s programs utilize the Children of Divorce Intervention Program (CODIP). The evidence-based model was approved by The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

KITM clinical staff consists of licensed social workers and counselors, all with specialized training in working with high-conflict parents and issues pertaining to divorce and separation. KITM utilizes a family system approach, where services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each member of the family, making the organization unique compared to other counseling services.

“We do not accept insurance and we do not testify, unlike other counseling agencies, but we also do not turn anyone away due to their inability to pay,” said Sarah Barone, chief development officer. KITM allows families and children to pay based on what they can afford. Barone described the payment as a sliding scale based on financial abilities. “If a family cannot provide anything, we do not want their mental health to suffer, so we can put them on a scholarship,” Barone said.

Currently, more than 40 percent of KITM clients are from low-income

PHOTO PROVIDED BY KIDS IN THE MIDDLE

Through group counseling kids learn they are not alone.

households and 90 percent of clients receive financial assistance. This largely is possible thanks to the assistance of a number of individual donors, corporations, foundations, government grants and the United Way of Greater St. Louis.

the St. Louis community has been profound. With the comprehensive family approach, KITM has hosted 4,796 group counseling sessions, 2,790 individual sessions for parents and 635 family sessions among a number of other programs.

The impact of Kids In The Middle® on

In 2018, KITM reported significant results with 83 percent of children stating that they “developed and demonstrated the use of positive coping skills,” 77 percent of children saying they “demonstrated the ability to identify and express their feelings appropriately” and 67 percent of parents in co-parenting counseling mentioning “increased effective co-parenting behaviors.”

PHOTO PROVIDED BY GETTY IMAGES

No one expects a divorce or other life adversity. When such disruptive events occur it is comforting to know that Kids In The Middle® is there to help with the transition.

Providing support for groups like KITM is an essential obligation for our community.

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EDUCATION

2019

SINCE 1957 · OLDNEWSBOYSDAY.ORG

SECTION C

BEYOND HOUSING

A community-based approach to helping families MACY CRONIN Sophomore Francis Howell North High School

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community is made up of houses, stores and every person that calls it their home. Beyond Housing is an organization that understands not all communities have equal opportunities to prosper. By providing access for the less fortunate to buy their first homes or rent their first apartment, Beyond Housing is helping communities in the Normandy School District.

When the organization first began in 1975 they were only helping one municipality in the Normandy School District, now they have expanded to 24. This plan of action is called the 24:1 Initiative. It focuses on helping the citizens of these municipalities to provide their children with a better education. By allowing the children to have better access to education, Beyond Housing is setting them up to have a more successful future.

“Our belief is that a strong public education system is at the heart of a strong community, and to have a strong community, you have to have strong families and neighborhoods,”

PHOTO PROVIDED BY BEYOND HOUSING

Normandy Schools Collaborative students and 24:1 residents enjoying a nice day outside of Barack Obama School.

said Chris Krehmeyer, CEO, Beyond Housing. “For us, it’s about how we support the families living in the

Normandy School District and to do that, [we are] listening to the voice of the people that live there.”

Beyond Housing’s mission is to help all people residing in the Normandy School District and because of this, building trusting relationships is important for both parties. Assisting people with personal problems requires a certain level of trust, and Beyond Housing works day in and day out to create a cohesive relationship with them.

“The biggest factor about building trust is being in constant relationship with individuals of the community,” Krehmeyer said. “You can’t just show up and say, ‘trust Development of Pine Lawn Homes on Beachwood and Oakwood Avenues completed in 2019.

me’. Trust is built over time and by listening and respecting the people you’re trying to serve. That’s how you build trust, not at the ribbon cuttings, groundbreakings or the fancy things, but in the day-to-day lives of people that want something better for themselves.”

Running an organization that strives to help every citizen in the district requires resources. “Beyond Housing needs flexible charitable contributions,” Krehmeyer said. “That would give us additional resources to help with the programs as effectively as possible and make an impact on people’s lives. We need to be good at what we do every day from a mission delivery standpoint, and we need to keep pushing ourselves to evolve and grow and be innovative in how we do that work.”

PHOTO PROVIDED BY BEYOND HOUSING

DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OF GREATER ST. LOUIS

Looking past differences for a successful life ALLISON CAVATO Senior Francis Howell North High School

W

hen people first meet or notice each other, they can be quick to judge — whether it be in class, at the store, at work — everywhere.

People tend to look past the similarities they share with others and focus on the differences instead. Address-

ing this perception problem through support, education and advocacy is the focus of the Down Syndrome Association of Greater St. Louis (DSAGSL).

The DSAGSL was founded in 1976 by a small group of families who wanted to get together to share resources and support each other. Throughout the years, the organization has built its mission to benefit the lives of people with Down syndrome. The primary goal of the organization is to see individuals with Down syndrome reach their full potential.

DSAGLS offers a variety of programs that build skills and independence. Programs include employment assistance, music, speech and physical therapy ensuring clients continue to have the resources they need throughout all stages of life. The organization also offers resources and workshops to families and teachers. DSAGSL is the only organization in St. Louis solely dedicated to serving individuals with Down syndrome from birth to advanced age.

A young man performs in the Rock 21 music program. This program is a favorite among many community members and allows for members to be able to show their talent.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OF GREATER ST. LOUIS

Erin Suelmann was hired as director of programs in 2012 and promoted to executive director in 2016.

DSAGSL is very near and dear to Suelmann’s heart, because her 33-yearold brother has Down syndrome.

“I thoroughly enjoy coming to work knowing I’m making a difference in people’s lives, especially people who are underserved and forgotten about PHOTO PROVIDED BY DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OF GREATER ST. LOUIS by the general A little girl receives the DSAGLS first birthday books as part of community,” her birthday present.

Suelmann said.

“I love advocatfuture, the Hammond family hopes ing for the rights of people with develthe DSAGSL will continue to address opmental disabilities and connecting topics such as job placement, indewith new families.” pendent living, transportation and socialization.

Along with the 250 regular volunteers

that partake in this organization, there are many families that have been extremely active in the organization from the beginning, including the family of Bret Hammond. The Hammond family has been involved with DSAGSL since the moment Bret was born. They continue to attend Christmas and Halloween parties, brunches and fundraising events to help bring awareness to Down syndrome. In the

“We are very conscious of volunteering and helping in any way we can to help others to achieve their goals,” said Jim Hammond, Bret’s dad.

DSAGSL concentrates on ability versus disability — what a person can do versus what they cannot. According to Jim Hammond, “Bret has taught us more than we could ever teach him!”

C2 • ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH

OLD NEWSBOYS

M 1 • THUrSDAy • 11.21.2019

AIM HIGH

Local group aims to help at-risk youth prepare for high school success and beyond KAYLEE O’DELL Freshman Lafayette High School

ALEX VANCIL Senior Lafayette High School

A

im High, a local nonprofit organization keeps students learning during the summer months while building confidence in their academic abilities. Founded in 1991 by faculty members at John Burroughs High School, the program sought to help 50 bright fifth graders excel in school by making education interesting. Eventually, the program expanded to upwards of 250 students every summer and has been growing ever since. The summer-based program is a handson, tuition-free program designed to prepare students academically for high school. The group also teaches social and emotional development,

along with teamwork and character skills.

“There’s a lot of pressure entering into high school, and if you’re coming from a deficit position to start with, that can be daunting, and many kids give up hope,” said Julie Angelica, Aim High executive director. “Our goal is to reach them early, so they see themselves as learners and school becomes a way for them to get to where they want to go.”

The Aim High program consists of a five-week summer school, along with monthly Saturday meetings during the school year. Meetings are held at John Burroughs High School and St. Louis Priory School. Four hundred kids attended in 2018. Aim High has incorporated academic schooling such as math, science, English and social studies, along with confidence-boosting activities.

In the morning, students participate in electives and academic instruction such as step club, theater and robotics. In the afternoon, the focus turns to social and emotional learning such as teamwork and character building.

“Aim High focuses on social and emotional development just as much as the academics,” Angelica said.

“You cannot teach math to a kid if they are hungry or if a parent has just been arrested.”

The organization accepts applications from all over the St. Louis region; however, the organization focuses mainly on public school students within St. Louis, University City, Normandy and Ritenour school districts. They accept rising sixth graders, and occasionally seventh graders, to the four-year program.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY AIM HIGH

Ninth graders searching magazines for vision board ideas.

The student must first be nominated by their teacher for the program.

The group then goes through the process of acceptance. Students are scored based on grades, behavior and free or reduced lunch eligibility.

Aim High is specifically looking for children with decent grades who have room for improvement and

PHOTO PROVIDED BY AIM HIGH

A sixth-grade class constructs kaleidoscopes.

children with some sort of stressor in their life, indicating a community would be beneficial for them. Once selected, the student is asked to write an essay explaining his or her goals and struggles, along with describing themselves and what they expect from the program.

The students who are accepted into the program are faced with more personal attention then they would encounter in a normal school setting because the teacher to student ratio is fairly small. This allows the students to receive help by a more personalized approach, allowing them to make the most progress they can. In addition, Aim High takes students on various field trips throughout the five-week period to local companies and cultural institutions.

There are a variety of paid employees and volunteers who staff the Aim High program. According to Angelica, teacher assistants are key figures in building relationships and behavioral redirection. Many of the volunteers are program alumni.

High school students may also volunteer up to 200 hours a summer to help with the students and make the

experience more fun for the children in the program.

Aim High pushes students to be their best and teaches confidence while preparing them to become better students after graduating from the program and entering high school. “We want our students to become problem-solvers and world-changers,” Angelica said.

Aim High provides a solid start for young students who need extra support to succeed.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY AIM HIGH

Staff versus student basketball tournament.

Overcrest Capital Advisors is proud to support the youth of St. Louis with Old Newsboys Fund for Children’s Charities

Transaction Advisors to Buyers and Sellers of Middle Market Companies

www.overcrest.com

OLD NEWSBOYS

11.21.2019 • Thursday • M 1

sT. LOuIs POsT-dIsPaTCh • C3

BUYING Coins - Diamonds - Jewelry - Gold - Silver “EXTRA, EXTRA...

Scotsman is looking to buy the area’s finest and wants to spend at least $500,000 this week!”

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We desperately need Old Watches, Diamonds, All Coins, and Estate Jewelry!

For over half a century now, the people of this community have been able to count on Scotsman Coin and Jewelry’s expert team of buyers to provide them with careful, confidential, and courteous evaluations of their coins, jewelry, paper money, and more. We take our responsibility very seriously; our mission being to offer the most people the most money for their valuables. Visit us this week for a free review of your items and our generous buy offer.

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OLD NEWSBOYS

C4 • ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH

M 1 • THUrSDAy • 11.21.2019

CENTRAL INSTITUTE FOR THE DEAF

Preparing children to speak up for themselves ABBY PRYWITCH Junior Parkway Central High School

F

or over 100 years, the Central Institute for the Deaf (CID) has been providing support to students and families. CID’s mission is to teach students who are either deaf or hard of hearing to talk, listen and read.

One such student was Allie Lane.

When she was born, doctors suspected a hearing impairment due to test results and her low birth weight.

However, Lane continued to pass hearing tests until 2005 when she was 3 years old. It was not until an audiologist covered their mouth during a test when they discovered Lane was profoundly deaf; she could hear low pitches, but not the high ones.

After further discussion it was determined Lane’s hearing loss might become more severe over time. Allie’s father, Chad Lane, spent some time researching the different learning philosophies for children with hearing loss and where to go from there.

CID teachers lead students in reading instruction.

“We are fortunate to have some very fine schools for the deaf in St. Louis, and we visited each one,” said Chad Lane. “After additional research, we decided to go the oral-aural route and enrolled Allie at the Central Institute for the Deaf where she received her new hearing aids.”

Lane spent three years at CID and experienced excellent results. She gained a love for reading and accumulated a large book collection. She went from being two years behind from her hearing peers to testing one year ahead academically.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY CHRIS MALACARNE

“I think the most important thing about our organization is that we are different from most other schools for the deaf because we don’t teach sign language. We teach the children to talk,” said Robin Feder, executive director. “My personal mission is to ensure we meet the needs of everyone we serve: the students, the families and the professionals.”

Feder has been with CID for over 45 years, serving in many different positions before becoming the executive director in 2003. Feder also started the development office for the organization in the late ‘80s.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY KIM READMOND

Pennants from schools where CID alumni attended hang in the gym.

Each year, CID serves over 200 students from infancy to age 12.

Students attend CID until they are ready to graduate and move into their neighborhood schools. This school year, Lane started at John Burroughs on a full scholarship. While it was an adjustment, she quickly became

used to the new responsibilities and homework.

“From initial registration and applying for financial aid to daily class, and finally to graduation, we felt the school and staff were 100 percent dedicated to helping Allie succeed,” her father said. “She continues to speak up for herself in a lighthearted and extroverted way.”

CID students hail from all around the country. They attend college and become successful lawyers, doctors, dentists, college professors and graphic designers. Pennants representing the schools where graduates have attended hang in the gym at CID. At some point during her time with CID, Lane decided she wanted to go to Washington University in St. Louis to become a deaf educator, and she still works toward that goal today.

BOOKS FOR NEWBORNS

Reading crucial to the mother-baby bond MARIN ELLINGTON Sophomore Marquette High School

A

young boy sits quietly in one of the back pews at a weekly Sunday mass. Richard Nix Sr. smiles at the boy as he turns around and begins to play with him, yet the boy remains silent. Near the end of mass, the boy receives a book from a nearby child, sits down and begins to read aloud.

“That’s it. It’s the books,” Nix remembers saying during that mass.

“We have to get these kids books in their homes.”

Nix is the founder and vice chairman of the board at Books for Newborns.

Founded in 2017, the nonprofit organization provides new mothers in at-risk situations with a book bag full of books so they can read to their children.

Increasing literacy rates is not the only goal for this organization, however.

Helping mothers connect with their babies and establish a bond from a young age is also important to the child’s development.

Using funds they receive, including funding from Old Newsboys Day, the staff purchases copies of books that have been approved for the program.

Books for Newborns volunteers assembling book bags.

These books are later sorted into book bags to be distributed.

different organizations throughout the St. Louis area.

“Every dollar, every penny that we receive all goes into book bags,” Nix said.

Book bags are put together by volunteer workers who also make cards, notes and more to thank the numerous donors of goods and services. Volunteers are not particularly hard to find in the eyes of the organization. What is extremely hard to find, however, is fundraising.

Each book bag costs $15 to put together, but that is the one and only expense for the nonprofit. Everything from the warehouse to put the bags together to the accountants is donated by many

“People cannot see 20 years ahead,” said Mike Hogan, chairman of the board. “They are not willing to contribute to the cause because they see no immediate benefit from the money they put in. The long-term consequences of even a small donation, however, ultimately change people’s lives.”

Although they are not able to meet the mothers themselves, active members such as Nix and Hogan take the time to make sure the book bags end up in the hands of social workers who understands the importance of the bond between a mother and her child.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY BOOKS FOR NEWBORNS

An example of what a book bag may include.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY BOOKS FOR NEWBORNS

“We’re trying to break the cycle and create an environment in which the baby feels loved and the mother feels comfortable giving that love,” Hogan said.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY BOOKS FOR NEWBORNS

Chairman Mike Hogan (left), City of St. Louis Director of Public Safety and Advisory Board member Jimmie Edwards (center) and Vice Chairman and Founder Richard Nix Sr. (right) celebrate “Richard Nix Sr. Day” in St. Louis at Books for Newborns’ first significant fundraiser on October 13. The Oktoberfest event at the Piper Palm House was attended by more than 250 people and raised over $36,000 (about 2/3 of the agency’s annual budget needs).

11.21.2019 • Thursday • M 1

OLD NEWSBOYS

sT. LOuIs POsT-dIsPaTCh • C5

WE PROUDLY SUPPORT THE CHAMPIONS OF ST. LOUIS! INCLUDING THE “GLORIOUS” EFFORTS OF THE OLD NEWSBOYS! Niekamp Financial is a proud sponsor of Old Newsboys and supports the important work they do benefiting hundreds of Saint Louis Children’s Charities.

Championship 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 campaign year after year.

Scott Niekamp

CFP®, ChFC®, CLU® Niekamp Financial Chesterfield niekampfinancial.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 © 2019 Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM), Milwaukee, WI (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries. Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (securities), 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, is a Registered Representative(s) of NMIS. Scott S Niekamp, is a Representative of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company®, (NMWMC) Milwaukee, WI (fiduciary and fee-based financial planning services), a subsidiary of NM and federal savings bank. All NMWMC products and services are offered only by properly credentialed Representatives who operate from agency offices of NMWMC. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and CFP® (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

OLD NEWSBOYS

C6 • ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH

M 1 • THUrSDAy • 11.21.2019

Coming Soon! 2020 St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway

LLS IS PROUD TO LANCH OUR NEW CHILDREN’S INITIATIVE The LLS Children’s Initiative is an unprecedented global research collaboration to usher in a new era of pediatric drug development, research and patient support, and transform care for children with blood cancer research.

This initiative seeks to accelerate treatments with fewer harmful side effects so that young patients with cancer not only survive, but thrive for generations to come.

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11.21.2019 • Thursday • M 1

OLD NEWSBOYS

sT. LOuIs POsT-dIsPaTCh • C7

It’s about community, for all of us. com·mu·ni·ty [kuh-myoo-ni-tee] –noun, plural 1. a unified body of individuals: • people with common interests living in a particular area • a body of persons having a common history or common social, economic and political interests 2. society at large

As the oldest news organization in the area, we take our responsibility seriously. We care about our community and are committed to making a difference through our stories, commentary, photos and video.

Each day, we strive towards the highest of standards – a tradition of excellence we have embodied for more than 141 years. We know our reputation is built on trust, engagement and public service. It’s about community, for all of us.

C8 • ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH

OLD NEWSBOYS

M 1 • THUrSDAy • 11.21.2019

THANK YOU!

FOR MAKING A DIFFERENCE

SPONSORED BY

PLATINUM: Ameren Illinois; Edward Jones; Emerson; Imo’s Pizza - Noles Properties; Investa Management Group: BSR Services Inc., Cedar Lake Cellars and The Battlegrounds; Northwestern Mutual - Niekamp Financial; Saint Louis Bread Co.; Sansone Group; Schaeffer Manufacturing Co.; Stange Law Firm; St. Louis Post-Dispatch GOLD: Anonymous; Sam and Marilyn Fox Family Foundation; Lewis Rice; McMahon-Berger; Overcrest Captial Advisors; Quality Beverage; SmithAmundsen; St. Louis Cardinals; Sunset Ford; The Omega Group UBS Financial Services; Mike and Lisa Walsh; The von Gontard Family Foundation; Westview Media SILVER: Anonymous; Commerce Banc Shares Foundation; Drury Hotels; MOHELA; Magnolia Family Dental; Midwest BankCentre; The Wagner Family; RubinBrown; University of Missouri-St. Louis

( Donations accepted at www.oldnewsboysday.org )

OLD NEWSBOYS

11.21.2019 • Thursday • M 1

sT. LOuIs POsT-dIsPaTCh • C9

LIFEWISE STL

A transformational, not transactional service

I

example, they assist with debt counseling, instruct on health and overall wellness and provide caretakers for seniors so they can live at home for as long as possible.

sible through the generous donations of the community.”

MARIE PRINDIVILLE Junior Nerinx Hall High School

magine an organization where knowledge and nurture could change someone’s future.

LifeWise STL helps individuals and families achieve economic well-being by providing high-impact, relationship-based programming and by addressing systemic barriers to their success. LifeWise uses a model based on educational programming combined with personalized and supportive coaching so people at every age live wisely.

“It’s difficult to dream big when you’re exposed to such a small world,” said John Walker, president and CEO of LifeWise STL. “Fortunately, our programs touch approximately 25,000 lives each year and are only made pos-

The various programs through LifeWise begins with young children.

The organization offers a fully licensed and accredited creative curriculum program that helps start kids off on the right foot. The creative curriculum consists of interactive play-based learning for children entering preschool. For elementary and middle school students, LifeWise assists with enrollment and provides transportation to and from the organization.

Other services include healthy dinners, academic courses, tutoring, fun activities, therapy and a summer reading camp.

Spanning beyond early childhood development, LifeWise continues supportive services through the influential time of the teenage years. Being a teenager is a vital time, which is why LifeWise offers a variety of courses and programs to help prepare for the future. Teens can expect many offerings such as tutoring, academics, financial/

LifeWise creates an environment where people feel dignified. In addition, the participants are active contributors and decide what they want out of the process.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY LIFEWISE STL

employment classes, college trips and service opportunities. LifeWise assists with current needs and prepares teenagers for the future. LifeWise helps create well-rounded children and teenagers and teaches skills that can be utilized in every aspect of their lives.

Adults and seniors are also participants in these programs. Specifically, LifeWise touches on the different categories that will subsequently create a better life for adults and seniors. For

“The process is transformational, not transactional,” Walker said. “LifeWise isn’t just providing a one-time service and then they leave; the individuals are actively participating throughout the programs and ultimately changing their lives for the better.”

People helping people is truly what life is about, and through the ongoing generous donations of the community, LifeWise has been able to create a safe environment with impactful programs that will forever change lives.

THRIVE

Advocating for women’s health so they can thrive JESSICA HORNBERGER Senior Francis Howell High School

I

n this day and age, it seems that no woman is safe when it comes to sexual health. The worry of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and pregnancy can be too much for one to handle. Many women don’t seek help in clinics for fear of being judged or ridiculed. That is not the case when it comes to ThriVe® St. Louis.

In 1983, Mary Nelson saw a need to help underserved women facing unintended or crisis pregnancies. Inspired by her faith and desire to reach her community, she founded the Crisis Pregnancy Centers of St. Louis which evolved into the modern-day ThriVe® St. Louis.

Serving approximately 7,500 women in the past year alone, ThriVe’s mission is

to empower women and men to make life-affirming, esteemable and healthy decisions about sex, pregnancy and relationships. ThriVe has a strict confidentiality policy so that no person feels ashamed or scared to visit.

manager. “While ThriVe does not perform or refer abortions, we do offer pre-abortion screenings and comprehensive abortion education from sources like the CDC, FDA and Missouri Department of Health.

ThriVe offers women’s health care services at three brick and mortar locations in St. Louis City, St. Charles County, North County and via Mobile Medical Centers.

Nearly 75 percent of ThriVe’s budget comes from individual donors. The other 25 percent comes from grants, corporations, faith-based organizations, foundations, donated services and merchandise.

One reason ThriVe stands out from other women’s health clinics is that all testing is free or low cost. Many times, women will put their health at risk because they can’t afford medical care. ThriVe wants to put a stop to this epidemic by making medical care free or low cost to everyone who comes in for help.

Services offered include pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and STD testing and treatment. ThriVe also teaches men and women the symptoms of STDs and how to avoid them.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY THRIVE

In the past year, ThriVe has provided 2,262 pregnancy tests and 2,724 STD tests. ThriVe also provides community referrals, pregnancy referrals, pregnancy options advocacy and educational resources.

“ThriVe is an anti-abortion clinic but this does not stop them from helping people obtain the best medical care possible,” said Katie Totra special event

“We understand sexual health is important, but it can be awkward,” Totra said. “This is why our employees are highly-skilled, credentialed and supportive. They specialize in providing patient-centered care in a judgment-free environment at premier health care facilities.”

ThriVe’s goal is to provide world-class services and support to underserved women in crisis in order to make healthy, safe and strong choices.

A full service business law firm with a simple promise -- put you first SmithAmundsen’s St. Louis office consists of 24 attorneys, regularly handling every kind of business problem from transactions to complex commercial litigation, from tax to real estate and everything in between.

For more information about us, or our other offices, contact Brad Goss at 314.719.3702 or bgoss@salawus.com.

www.saLAWus.com 120 S Central Ave, Suite 700 | St. Louis, MO 63105 | 314.719.3700

C10 • ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH

OLD NEWSBOYS

M 1 • THUrSDAy • 11.21.2019

THANK YOU ST. LOUIS AND

THE MANY VOLUNTEERS WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR CHILDREN AT RISK IN THE ST. LOUIS AREA.

11.21.2019 • Thursday • M 1

OLD NEWSBOYS

sT. LOuIs POsT-dIsPaTCh • C11

KINETIC TAPESTRY

Using laughs to dig deeper ADINA CAZACU-DE LUCA Senior John Burroughs School

A

t 7 p.m. on a Tuesday night, a small studio with aerial silks and gymnastic rings hanging from the ceiling bustles as energetic students end juggling class and share cupcakes. It’s a regular night at the Kinetic Tapestry Circus Barn in Maryland Heights, Missouri.

Kinetic Tapestry is a nonprofit organization with a mission of “impacting people with truth through excellent, entertaining and meaningful performances while using a unique blend of theater, dance and circus arts,” according to their website. Founded in 2015 by Jaime and Vanessa Zayas, Kinetic Tapestry now teaches 17 classes to over 70 students of all ages - ranging from 6-year-olds to adults.

As director Jaime Zayas explains, the goal of education in the circus arts is to give a smile to those who need it most. “If you’re feeling sad and all of a sudden you think of something I did or a joke I told that brings a smile to your face, then my job is done,” said Zayas.

“Some of the work is as simple as comedy, but we also go deeper. We bring people hope. That’s what we want for the audience — to receive a message of hope and laughter.”

Zayas realizes the lighthearted nature of their organization, saying “we’re not finding the cure for cancer.” However, he listed firmly the ways Kinetic Tapestry shapes its students as well as its audiences. “Our kids know how to work with people. They know how to give people respect and how to work on a team. We teach them that if you have a talent, use it for good. In this case, they’re using it to make people laugh for those 30 minutes.”

To work toward this goal, Kinetic Tapestry organizes the Barnstormers Troop, a group of performers (ages 10-18) that go out into the community 12 to 14 times a year. Audiences have included the Missouri veterans, senior citizens, clients of First Steps Back Home (an organization that aids the

The Kinetic Tapestry Physical Theatre

Barnstormers Troop

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY KINETIC TAPESTRY

homeless) and foster families. Additionally, the troop performs annually at Oasis International for refugee families.

The organization does not charge for performances. They are able to travel abroad from entirely fundraised money. Locally, it allows Kinetic to run the world-class Barnstormers free of charge and support the scholarships that help those students get their lessons. “When you take a class, hire the group or donate, you’re continuing our mission,” Zayas said.

In addition to local outreach, Kinetic Tapestry performs in international communities. In the past, they’ve performed in the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, Sudanese refugee camps in Egypt, orphanages in Nicaragua and hurricane-struck communities in Puerto Rico. Zayas noted the power in these performances comes through the universal language of movement. “Most of what we do is physical. We don’t use a lot of words because we don’t need to in order to get the laugh.”

“The end goal,” he continued, “is to create better humans. It’s not just about the circus tricks for us; it’s about what we can put in people’s hearts.”

HOME WORKS!

Home visit program combats decreasing levels of education EMILY SCOTT Senior Francis Howell High School

A

cross the Greater St. Louis area teachers are equipping parents, families and guardians with the tools to effectively be engaged in their child’s education. HOME WORKS! The Teacher Home Visit Program trains and supports educators and other school personnel to enter the homes of struggling students in order to improve academic achievement, attendance and school behavior.

“There are children in our region and throughout the country who come to school one or two years behind because of the lack of reading, talking, playing or singing at home,” said Karen Kalish, founder and CEO. “Many of these parents have two or three jobs, and they simply have little time to provide academic enrichment at home. Frequently, the kids without parental and family engagement end up in the criminal justice system.”

The program started in 2007 and

today reaches 31 schools from nine districts, specifically five charter schools, two early childhood centers, 21 elementary schools, three middle schools and five high schools.

Parental and family engagement has proven to be positively impactful in a child’s education. And HOME WORKS! is making a difference in the lives of each child and family.

The home visit program makes a connection with parents and builds a trusting relationship so that parents and teachers become partners in the students’ education.

“We are making a difference, but this [issue] will not be solved overnight,” Kalish said.

According to a HOME WORKS! survey, 90 percent of parents said the organization has had a positive impact on their relationship with the teachers, and 91 percent of teachers surveyed agreed that HOME WORKS! helped them better understand their students and their home life.

Nearly 100 percent of all teachers surveyed saw an improvement in behavior after being enrolled in the HOME WORKS! program.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY HOME WORKS!

Mother and daughter at a parent/teacher learning team meeting at Woerner Elementary School.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY HOME WORKS!

Siblings of Vashon High School students at a family dinner at Vashon in 2018.

“The best part is hearing the stories of families who are changing the way they are relating to their children by putting an emphasis on education,” Kalish said.

“We need children to have jobs that put food on the table, keep the lights on and pay the rent, but they can’t be successful if they can’t read,” Kalish said.

Kalish desires for all children to be in the workforce, not the workhouse.

Testimonials and more information can be found at teacherhomevisit.org.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY HOME WORKS!

Mother, son and teacher at a family dinner at University City High School in 2017.

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HEALING

2019

SINCE 1957 · OLDNEWSBOYSDAY.ORG

SECTION D

RANKEN-JORDAN

A children-first approach to healing LIZA BAUMSTARK Freshman Nerinx Hall High School

O

n April 9th, 1941, Mary Ranken Jordan, along with her husband, Clay, founded the Ranken-Jordan Home for Convalescent Crippled Children. With the help of a small staff, they cared for children suffering from bone tuberculosis, polio and osteomyelitis.

Things have changed tremendously since then, but the Ranken-Jordan Home, now known as Ranken-Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital, has continued to provide expert care to St. Louis area children. According to their website, Ranken-Jordan’s mission is to “consider the children first in all that we do,” and that is the driving force behind their work.

“The children hospitalized at RankenJordan are the sickest of the sick,” said Jennifer Brown, head of corporate and foundation relations at RankenJordan. “The children at Ranken suffer from traumatic brain injuries, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, issues relating to premature birth and developmental delays. More than half of the children we care for need 24-hour care and require respiratory therapists.”

The team at Ranken-Jordan recognizes the patients are in extremely unfortunate situations, but they also realize kids are kids. Ranken-Jordan’s state-of-the-art facility is designed as a therapy space to help patients heal through play. Over 70 percent of the kid’s waking hours are spent outside of the hospital room; therefore, it was important to place extra care into cultivating a happy, positive environment.

Walking into the facility, patients and employees are greeted with a welcoming environment filled with bright colors and a lot of laughter. The warm environment Ranken-Jordan works to cultivate its unique therapy style called “Care Beyond the Bedside.”

Included in this model of treatment is a mental health program – because

- Patients look forward to Wednesday afternoons when they practice their golf skills with golf pro, Kevin Corn. right - Art therapy is an important part of the healing process at Ranken-Jordan.

above

Ranken-Jordan strongly believes in treating the whole person and not just the physical body. A full-time in-patient clinical psychologist and a part-time clinical psychiatrist are on staff to address the needs of patients and families dealing with emotional trauma connected to the injury or illness.

In addition to the in-patient team, the out-patient team works hard to care for the patients who are not hospitalized. Last year alone, the outpatient team completed over 6,200 outpatient therapy sessions. The recent expansion of the facility has allowed for more space to care for children, and additions to the therapy staff are ensuring every child receives the care they need.

One of the biggest responsibilities of Ranken-Jordan is to successfully transition patients from in-patient

care to living at home. The hospital provides spiritual care, counseling and community integration trips. In these community integration trips, children are taught how to adapt to real-world situations such as opening doors in public spaces and getting out of cars.

They also offer patients fishing and golfing trips. Trips such as these are crucial to the healing process but are not covered by insurance. Through Old Newsboys, the resources for these programs can be provided to the patients. Just last year, the funds from Old Newsboys covered the costs of five fishing rods for their therapeutic fishing program. These rods are especially

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY RANKEN-JORDAN

unique because they have a pumpand-launch action that eliminates snares and tangles, therefore making it easier for children to fish without tangling their line.

It is the attention to details like special fishing rods, along with the unique care through the “Care Beyond the Bedside” model that truly sets Ranken-Jordan apart and proves they really do “consider the children first” in every step of the healing process.

RIDE ON ST. LOUIS

The healing power of horses ALANA CONWAY Freshman Marquette High School

M

arita Wassman has always had a passion for horses. “An addiction,” she calls it.

After being inspired by a neighboring stable, Wassman had the idea to create a charity based on Christian values. She wanted to provide people with any type of disability an alternative to emotional and physical therapy through equine-assisted activities and therapies. Hence, Ride On St. Louis was born. The nonprofit organization has been changing the lives of children and families since 1998.

Ride On St. Louis provides seven different services for all people involved in the facility: summer camp, unmounted activities, sports riding, adaptive riding, barn buddies, equine services for heroes and physical and occupational therapy.

A young girl named Stephanie began treatment with the nonprofit at age 13. She was diagnosed with Cardiofaciocutaneous (CFC) syndrome; a disorder only 500 people in the world have been diagnosed with. Wanting to be as active as her siblings, she aspired to do an activity that made her feel equal. Her doctor recommended hippotherapy.

With very little muscle tone, Stephanie needed to be supported while atop the horse. She could stay upright for five minutes or less before collapsing

A client and caregiver learn about what horses eat while feeding treats from a tray.

on the horse. Little by little, day after day, she grew stronger and she eventually gained enough strength to hold herself up for 45 minutes at a time.

This treatment has reduced Stephanie’s hospital visits.

“It was phenomenal,” Wassman said.

The horse’s movement specifically helps to strengthen the muscles of children and adults, but it also helps promote good communication skills.

Some children begin to speak within three to five visits.

Sue Stinehart, a volunteer of 16 years, recalled a time when a child with severe autism spoke his first words at the “whoa” sign, the phrase that signals for the horse to slow down to a halt. “When we asked him if he could

say ‘whoa’ again, he said it right back, clear as day,” Stinehart said. Stinehart is one of approximately 50 volunteers, and the nonprofit is always looking for more.

Ride On St. Louis will be moving from their current location in Kimmswick, Missouri to a new site in the 255/55 corridor. The stable where Ride On St. Louis currently resides has flooded five times since 2013. Relocating the center will avoid recurrent, costly damages to the facility, grounds and programs, and ensure continuous, uninterrupted service for those in need. The organization plans on using proceeds from the Old Newsboys grant to help purchase new program equipment.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY RIDE ON ST. LOUIS

A client pictured side sitting with staff and volunteers.

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MARYGROVE

Marygrove : A safe haven full of hope and healing Crofford, chief operations officer.

ETHAN PETER Senior Kirkwood High School

I

n 1984, Jen Niccum emerged from a van arriving at Marygrove and looked around at the tree-covered campus. “This won’t be different”, she thought. It couldn’t be different than the three foster homes the nine-year-old girl had previously been placed in and eventually removed from. It couldn’t be different than anywhere else she had been since she was removed from her drug-addicted parents. But it was.

Niccum said Marygrove created a healing environment for the children by offering therapists, social workers and tutors. Marygrove also utilizes recreational therapy, in which they help the children open up through games and other activities.

“We feel like many of the kids never had a childhood, so we allow the kids to be kids again,” Crofford said. “Our basic culture is to be a safe, warm and healing environment. We want to be as homelike as possible.”

Marygrove boasts a 71 percent success rate of children achieving the goals set

when they enter the program, whether the goals are to obtain a job, graduate from high school, or manage their mental health struggles. When Niccum left Marygrove she was hired at Schnucks — a position she still has today. In 2003, she married her husband and seven years later they had a son.

more children served. But despite the changes, the mission of helping children remained the same.

In 2014, Niccum returned to Marygrove with her husband and son.

“It was really emotional,” Niccum said.

Although Marygrove receives some government funding, Koerner said they rely on donations to continue operating. Marygrove also needs mentors and tutors to build relationships with the children.

Niccum said Marygrove was different than she remembered; the facilities were bigger, the program offerings were more extensive, and there were

“You see the effects of your work,” Crofford said. “If you can help one kid there’s a lot to motivate you to help more kids. Our job is very rewarding.”

Marygrove is a nonprofit organization caring for children, teens and young adults who have been diagnosed with behavioral and psychiatric disorders as a result of abuse and neglect.

Many come from abusive, violent and severely disruptive family situations; some come from failed adoptions; and, in a few instances, children are discharged from psychiatric hospitals directly to Marygrove.

Marygrove has grown since Niccum arrived in 1984. Today it serves 200 children daily and over 1,100 children through its comprehensive continuum of residential and community-based programming, including therapeutic residential treatment and foster care, transitional and independent living programs and crisis care.

“I meet all of the children when they arrive at Marygrove and place them in an appropriate treatment program,” said Michelle Koerner, director of admissions and therapy. “We take some of the most difficult kids who are in need of residential treatment and services.”

The treatment largely focuses on alleviating the mental health diagnoses the majority of Marygrove’s residents suffer from. “Many children suffer from neglect and trauma, and a large percentage have experienced physical, sexual or substance abuse,” said Rose

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MARYGROVE

Marygrove Baseball Game

Marygrove School - Learning fractions with candy

Evergreen Girls - Ready for school

HEARTLINKS GRIEF CENTER

Turning grief into growth QUYNH TRINH Senior Ritenour High School

F

or over two decades, Heartlinks Grief Center has provided trauma services to people of all ages in Southwest Illinois, helping them move from grief to growth.

Founded in 1997, the organization offers professional counseling, support groups and community outreach programs to individuals and families suffering from loss due to serious illness and death. It is the first and only group in the area that provides grief support for children, teens as well as adults.

Diana Cuddeback, the director of Heartlinks, founded the establishment and has been serving it since.

“There were no programs like this in the area, and there were people who had something bad happen and they did not know what to do. So they called the hospice thinking they might have services, and at the time, we really did not. We only had services for hospice people, and so our hospice decided we needed to do something about that,” Cuddeback said. “We opened Heartlinks and it just grew and grew.”

Heartlinks grew from its beginning as a lending library into the organization that it is today. Cuddeback remembers one specific interaction that spurred the idea for growth.

“I started by visiting houses and speaking with the kids and families,” Cuddeback said. “During one particular visit, I was speaking with a young man whose father had died. He asked me where I was going next, and I told him I was going to see somebody else.

I told the young man my next visit was only a year older than him and his dad died too. It dawned on me at that point that we needed to be doing more than just one-on-one counseling.”

Heartlinks serves over 2,500 people per year in six counties: St. Clair, Madison, Monroe, Clinton, Washington and Randolph; however, they

are not limited to those areas and will help any person who needs their services. Services include individual counseling and monthly group sessions where they teach coping skills and develop tools to manage grief.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY HEARTLINKS GRIEF CENTER

Family Grief Carnival night

Every session involves six groups and each group targets a certain audience.

For example, a person who lost a family member to an overdose may join a group of other people who have lost a loved one to drug-related problems.

Heartlinks also hosts special events for the community to have fun and interact. The organization recently hosted a Grief Carnival where the participants all met together so the adults could be with the kids. They played games and ate cotton candy.

The caregivers and kids worked together on things so the caregivers and kids could know what each other was thinking.

“During our events, like the Grief Carnival or the Super Bowl, we provide opportunities for people to be together so we can help them start the conversation,” Cuddeback said.

“Sometimes, the way to be OK is to talk about not being OK.” Cuddeback feels the need to respond

to what is going on in her community, and Heartlinks is aiming to provide services for those children.

“Everybody here who provides services is a clinician, licensed and trained; however, we do not treat grief as if it is a mental health problem,” said Cuddeback. “We treat grief as a problem in living.”

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ANNIE’S HOPE

Helping heal families one youth at a time ANDREA LIN Senior Francis Howell High School

W

hen a person is grieving a death, it is common for friends and family to feel lost for words or know how to help.

Frequently this results in the grieving person feeling even more isolated and alone. This can potentially be problematic for children and teenagers as unresolved grief is known to carry into adulthood and manifests in destructive ways such as psychological disorders and drug/alcohol abuse.

One place families can turn to is Annie’s Hope - The Center for Grieving Kids. Annie’s Hope is a nonprofit organization based in St. Louis that provides comprehensive support services

to children, teens and their families who are grieving a death. The different programs at Annie’s Hope allow youth to connect with peers who understand what they have experienced, which subsequently decreases feelings of isolation.

“This is one of the hardest things about grief - knowing what to do and say when someone is in pain,” said Amy LaBelle, grants and events director.

“More than anything, a person in mourning needs support; however, most of us don’t know how to provide it because we’ve been taught to give comfort instead. There’s a big difference between being supportive or helpful and offering comfort, which is meant to make a person happier.”

Annie’s Hope summer camps, schoolbased support groups and family support groups are the most sought-af-

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ANNIE’S HOPE

ter services the bereavement center provides. Additionally, more schools are enlisting Annie’s Hope to facilitate support groups for students grieving the death of someone significant. Families also benefit from these services and regularly return as volunteers where they receive a full day of training and shadowing.

“These programs need funding and volunteers more than anything else,” LaBelle said. “It can be fun to facilitate expressive art activities and try new coping skills with the kids.”

Annie’s Hope raises every penny of

its budget from private donations.

Therefore, it relies on the community including foundation grants, corporate sponsorships, individual donations, third-party fundraising events and special events to run all 10 of its free programs.

“Being present with someone who is grieving is very supportive,” LaBelle said. “With kids, it’s important to remember that they don’t always have the words to explain what they feel. Their play, sleep, eating and other behaviors may change as they experience grief, and it is a different journey for every person.”

Annie’s Hope aims to help grieving families discover their own courage, strength and hope for the future. Visit annieshope.org or call (314) 965-5015 to inquire about volunteer training, donations or bereavement support services.

MEGAN MEIER FOUNDATION

Turning loss into life lessons to engage in interactive group discussions and activities designed to increase an empathetic understanding of bullying-related issues.

GRACIE BOWMAN Senior Francis Howell North High School

B

ullying, depression and suicide - all three have tragic consequences if not addressed.

As adolescents grow and navigate the world, there are many pitfalls.

Social media is one such area that can become a nightmare for teenagers. Megan Meier experienced such a nightmare after being cyberbullied by an adult neighbor pretending to be a boy on MySpace. She took her own life at age 13.

Megan’s mom, Tina Meier, knew she had to channel her grief into action.

In December 2007, Meier founded the Megan Meier Foundation (MMF), a nonprofit organization advocating against cyberbullying to help prevent suicide. Built from the ground up, Meier uses Megan’s story to help families and young adults who are experiencing bullying.

“It was my passion and mission to go out and make a difference,” Meier said. “You cannot change your past, but you can change your future.”

Through donations and grants from Old Newsboys, MMF is able to hold its “Change Starts with Me” leadership workshop. The workshops are for middle and high school students

that walked in. Today, I realize this one is going to graduate, that one is going to college, this one is going to

be an attorney — that’s what gives me goosebumps.”

Meier also travels to schools around the area to speak with students about cyberbullying. She shares Megan’s story firsthand, hoping to make students aware of online cyberbullying. In addition to speaking at schools, the foundation holds events including a golf tournament, a trivia night and a bowling event called the Gobble Bowl. Not only are these events a great opportunity for people to donate to the organization, but they’re also a way to raise awareness.

“Each piece of work in the community makes a difference,” Meier said. “Volunteers are the backbone of any nonprofit.”

The Megan Meier Foundation events allow Meier the opportunity to speak with families individually.

She speaks with grieving parents who have lost a child to suicide, adolescents who have been experiencing depression and family members who don’t know how to speak to their children about safety on the internet. Meier’s goal is to share Megan’s story in hopes of eliminating cyberbullying and suicide.

“My favorite part [of the foundation] is sitting in my office when it’s quiet and going through cards, photos and notes from kids who came to the foundation in such a state of sadness,” Meier said. “I can still remember every one of them

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MEGAN MEIER FOUNDATION

Tina Meier holds a photo of her daughter, Megan Meier, for an article in People Magazine.

A group of students having fun at the annual Megan Meier Foundation Middle School Leadership Workshop.

Taking to the

Streets to

Change Lives

Armstrong Teasdale proudly supports the

Old Newsboys Day and its mission to ensure at-risk children receive protection, support and care

Thank you to our partner for helping make a difference.

Bill Corrigan, Board Member, Old Newsboys Day Partner, Armstrong Teasdale armstrongteasdale.law // 314.621.5070 The choice of an attorney is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements.

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Sunset Ford

Proud Community Supporter 107 years & counting…

We look forward to continuing our 25 year relationship with Old Newsboys to improve children’s lives!

At Magnolia Family Dental, Dr. Emily Johnson and her talented team provide a patient-centric approach to caring for your family’s smiles. It’s not just dental treatment – it’s a close collaborative relationship between us and you to help you enjoy a bright, beautiful, healthy, and natural smile for life.

– Heutel Family

Our expertise and patient-focused philosophy allow us to customize every treatment plan to include only the dental work you need, and nothing extra. Our advanced dental technology, including digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and panoramic X-rays, offer clearer images and more precise diagnoses and treatment options.

But our greatest investment is in our patients, and we show it every time you visit our office.

10322 Manchester Road 314 822.4521 www.magnoliadentalstl.co tl.com

Sunset Ford of St. Louis

11700 Gravois Rd., St. Louis, MO 63127

Sunset Ford of Waterloo

1425 North Illinois Route 3, Waterloo, IL 62298

Our differences make usstronger An inclusive environment creates growth opportunities for our employees. It opens new doors for our suppliers. It leads to better business decisions and performance. It results in a higher level of service, more satisfied customers, and even stronger local communities.

We’re proud to be part of a company that values the power of diversity, in thought and in actions.

Learn how diversity drives results at Ameren.com/diversity.

11.21.2019 • Thursday • M 1

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sT. LOuIs POsT-dIsPaTCh • D7

Sansone Group would like to extend our immense gratitude to the Old Newsboys organization for its unending dedication to the children of our region. There is no greater purpose. We are proud to support these efforts and commend Doug and Molly Sansone for chairing this campaign for a second year.

Sansone Group is a nationally recognized St. Louis-based commercial real estate firm that specializes in property and facility management, brokerage, development and redevelopment of retail, industrial, office and residential properties. Through our affiliations with Corfac International, SIOR, and CCIM, we help our clients with their real estate needs locally, nationally, and globally.

Founded in 1957 by Anthony F. Sansone, Sr., today he is joined by his sons, James, Douglas & Nicholas, as principals of the firm.

314.727.6664

// 120 S. Central Ave., Ste. 500 | St. Louis, MO 63105 // S A N S O N E G R O U P . C O M

BENEFITING OVER 200 LOCAL CHILDREN’S CHARITIES

Thank you for Another great event.

See you next year!

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY

The von GonTard Family FoundaTion SuSie and Peter von Gontard

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2019 Allocation Celebration!

THANK YOU OLD NEWSBOYS! Congratulations Old Newsboys on a job well done! Because of the dedication of thousands of …

… Old Newsboys volunteers, sponsors and patrons, nearly 150 grants to children’s charities …

… from the 2018 campaign. Grants will provide shelter, food, clothing, medical care …

… and social development for more than 100,000 St. Louis area children.

FUND FOR CHILDREN’S CHARITIES For more information or to join us, visit www.oldnewsboysday.org