Community Guide 2013

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Denton Record-Chronicle September 29, 2013

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September 29, 2013

Welcome

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Aimee Crane, a represenative of Communities in Schools of North Texas, works with 3year-old Cooper Gonzalez during Toddler Time at Borman Elementary School in November 2012.

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elcome to the inaugural edition of the Community Guide, a comprehensive list of nonprofit agencies and services available in our area.

In the past six to eight weeks, we have invited any and all nonprofit agencies to submit a profile for inclusion in this special guide.

More than 110 answered our calls for submissions, and we want to offer them our thanks.

We hope you will find this information as insightful and helpful as we did. And, we invite you to keep us in mind for the next edition of the Community Guide.

Dawn Cobb, Managing Editor, Denton Record-Chronicle

NONPROFITS Aikido of Denton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Amazing Love Ministries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 American Cancer Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 American Heart Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Arc of Denton County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Argyle United Methodist Church . . . . . . . . . . .7 Asbury United Methodist Church . . . . . . . . . .7 Benjamin Lyon Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution . . . . . .7 Big Brothers Big Sisters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 The Blue Ribbon Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Born 2 Be Therapeutic Equestrian Center . . . .8 Boys and Girls Clubs of North Central Texas . .9 The Bridge Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Children’s Advocacy Center for Denton County Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Christian Community Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Communities in Schools of North Texas . . . .10 Congregation Kol Ami . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Cornerstone Cooperative Preschool . . . . . . .10 Court Appointed Special Advocates of Denton County Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Covenant Church—Cross Roads Campus . . . .12 Cross Timbers Community Church . . . . . . . . .12 Cumberland Presbyterian Children’s Home . .12 Cure for Clara . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Denton African American Scholarship Foundation Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Denton Animal Shelter Foundation Inc. . . . . .13 Denton Area Mothers of Multiples . . . . . . . . .13 Denton Area Partnership for End-of-Life Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Denton Area Young Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Denton Benefit League . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Denton Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . .15 Denton Christian Preschool . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Community Guide

Al Key/ DRC file photo

Index Denton City County Day School . . . . . . . . . .16 Denton Community Chorus . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Denton Community Food Center . . . . . . . . . .16 Denton Community Health Clinic . . . . . . . . .17 Denton Community Theatre Inc. . . . . . . . . . .18 Denton County Friends of the Family . . . . . .18 Denton County Genealogical Society Inc. . . .18 Denton County Historical Commission . . . . .18 Denton County MHMR Center . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Denton County Office of History and Culture– Denton County Museums . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Denton County Raiders Select Sports Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Denton Festival Foundation Inc. . . . . . . . . . .20 Denton Holiday Festival Association . . . . . . .20 Denton Kiwanis Club Children’s Clinic . . . . . .20 Denton Parks Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Denton Public Library Literacy Program . . . . .20 Denton Public School Foundation Inc. . . . . .21 EaglePointe Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Elm Fork Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalist Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Encounter Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Exercise and Sports Nutrition Clinic (Institute for Women’s Health) at Texas Woman’s University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Explorium Denton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Family Health Care Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 First United Methodist Church of Denton . . .23 Fred Moore Day Nursery School . . . . . . . . . .24 Friends of the Denton Public Libraries . . . . .24 Friends of the Library (Sanger) . . . . . . . . . . .24 Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas . . . . . . . . . . .24 Goodfellows of Pilot Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Good Samaritan Society–Denton Village . . . .25 Goodwill Industries of Fort Worth . . . . . . . . .26 Greater Denton Arts Council . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Habitat for Humanity of Denton County . . . .26 Habitat for Humanity ReStore . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Health Services of North Texas . . . . . . . . . . .28 Hearts for Homes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 HOPE Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Interfaith Ministries of Denton Inc. . . . . . . . .29 Keep Aubrey Beautiful . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Keep Denton Beautiful . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Keep Lewisville Beautiful . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Lake Shore Baptist Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Lantana Ladies League . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Lewisville Lake Symphony . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Little Elm Education Center . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 The Little Light House-Denton Inc. . . . . . . . .31 Marine Corps League . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Msgr. King Emergency Outreach Center . . . . .31 Muscular Dystrophy Association–Greater Fort Worth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Music Theatre of Denton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 North Texas Book Festival Inc. . . . . . . . . . . .34 North Texas Housing Coalition . . . . . . . . . . .34 North Texas Metroplex Children’s Choirs Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 North Texas Stockings for Soldiers Campaign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Opera on Tap North Texas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Orange Out Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Our Daily Bread Community Soup Kitchen . .36 Pilot Point Community Opera House . . . . . . .38 Ranch Hand Rescue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 Reading & Radio Resource . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 Riding Unlimited Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 RSVP: Serving Denton County . . . . . . . . . . .39 Ryan High School Grad Night . . . . . . . . . . . .40 The Salvation Army Denton . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 SCRAP Denton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Seniors in Motion Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 Serve Denton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 The Shepherd’s Hand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 Siamese Rescue Alliance-TX . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 Solutions of North Texas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 SPAN/Meals on Wheels of Denton County . .45 SpiritHorse International Therapeutic Riding Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Stepping Stones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 St. Paul Christian Learning Center . . . . . . . . .46 Stuck in the Middle Charity . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 Susan G. Komen North Texas . . . . . . . . . . . .47 Texas Cowboys Against Cancer . . . . . . . . . . .48 Texas Sporting Breed Rescue Inc. . . . . . . . . .48 Thin Line Film Fest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 United Through H.O.P.E. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 United Way of Denton County . . . . . . . . . . . .50 Val’s House International Ministries . . . . . . .50 Vision Ministries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 Visual Arts Society of Texas . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 Volunteer Services Council for Denton State Supported Living Center . . . . .52 Woman to Woman Pregnancy Resource . . . .52 Women Starting Over . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 STORIES Project Blueprint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 211 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 2013/2014 Nonprofit Calendar . . . . . . . . . .54 Mental health gap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 Income tax assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 BankOn Denton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

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Community Guide

September 29, 2013

Denton Record-Chronicle

AIKIDO OF DENTON Contact information: 940-591-9104, aikidoofdenton@gmail.com Website: www.aikidoofdenton.org, www.facebook.com/pages/Aikido-ofDenton/166056723412015 Address: 416 S. Elm St., Suite 102 Director: John Thompson Mission statement: To spread the Japanese martial art of aikido to the community.

Executive board members: Matt Bourbon, Clark Promerleau, Kalah Hood, John Thompson Overview of services: Training in the Japanese martial art of aikido to instill proper self-defense, overall fitness, mental awareness and a sense of community.

History: Our school started in the early 1990s as a UNT student club, and moved to a community-based location in 1997.

Under the teaching of John Thompson, 3rd degree black belt, Aikido of Denton has grown into a well-established school providing classes for all age levels.

Success story: Our kids’ program is the highlight of the school, where we see our students maturing in physical awareness and mental stature. The day-to-day gains of these students are immeasurable.

Major fundraisers: Our major event of the year is a summer seminar led by Skip Chapman Sensei, 5th dan of Jersey Shore Aikikai. This year we had 55 people training on the mat with good spirit.

AMAZING LOVE MINISTRIES Contact information: 940-381-5190, pastorgarybeal@amazingloveministries.net Website: amazingloveministries.net, www.facebook.com/amazingloveministries Address: 819 McKinney St. Director: Pastor Gary Beal Mission statement: Showing God’s amazing love.

Executive board members: Pastors Gary Beal, Nan Beal and Danae Daria Overview of services: Sunday services at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.; Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. Feed My Sheep community dinner, 6:30 p.m. Bible study, food pantry and lunch bags History: Amazing Love Ministries started in April 2006, and Feed My Sheep started in May 2012.

Success story: In 2012, we served Thanksgiving dinner to those in need in our community.

Major fundraisers: annual yard sale Volunteer opportunities: To volunteer

David Minton/DRC file photo

Relay for Life participants round a corner of the Guyer High School track in April. The annual event raises money for the American Cancer Society. for Feed My Sheep, call Pastor Nan Beal at 940-381-5190.

Donations needed: nonperishable foods, water, sleeping bags, winter coats, hats and gloves, finances How to donate: Call 940-381-5190.

AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY Contact information: 817-737-9990 Website: http://relayforlife.org/rfl dentontx, www.facebook.com/#!/RFLof Denton, www.cancer.org Address: 3301 West Freeway, Fort Worth 76107 Director: Scott Abbott Mission statement: The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives, and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy and service.

Overview of services: For 100 years, the American Cancer Society has worked relentlessly to save lives and create a world with less cancer and more birthdays.

Together with millions of our supporters worldwide, we’re helping people stay well, get well, finding cures and fighting back against cancer.

Some of the society’s specific community-based support programs in North Texas include: Reach to Recovery, free lodging at our Hope Lodge facilities, Man to Man, rides to treatment, local patient navigation, cancer prevention and detection information, cancer support, Personal Health Managers and more.

History: The American Cancer Society was founded in 1913 and was orginally known as the American Society for the Control of Cancer. The society was founded by 15 prominent physicians and business leaders in New York City. In 1945, it became known as the American Cancer Society. Society-funded researchers have contributed to nearly every major cancer research breakthrough we’ve seen in the more than 60 years since the society’s research program began.

Success story: As a community-based organization, the American Cancer Society has a presence in more than 5,000 communities — communities like ours in Denton. In 2012, 6,430 cancer survivors

and 30,994 participants took part in Relay for Life in North Texas and raised nearly $5 million for our mission. Our presence is evidenced by volunteer-driven fundraising events, which also serve as a means of helping the community access the organization’s many offerings.

Major fundraisers: Relay for Life, a12hour event, offers everyone an opportunity to participate in the fight against this lifethreatening disease. Team members take turns walking around a track in honor of those who continuously battle cancer.

Relay for Life of Denton 2014 will take place at Guyer High School on April 19.

Volunteer opportunities: We have opportunites for individuals to participate on the 2014 Relay for Life of Denton planning committee. We also need volunteers for the day of the event. Contact Heather Howrilka at hhowrilka@nstar bank.com or Kimberly Beasley at kimberly.beasley@f-s-b.com.

Donations needed: donations and sponsorships for Relay for Life of Denton How to donate: Visit http://relayfor life.org/rflDentonTx or mail donations to: Attn: Relay for Life of Denton, 3301 West Freeway, Fort Worth, TX 76107.

Denton Record-Chronicle

AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

Contact information: Claire Kinzy, claire.kinzy@heart.org Website: www.heart.org/dallas, www.facebook.com/ahadenton Address: 8200 Brookriver Drive, N100, Dallas 75247 Director: Angela Nawar, corporate market director for Denton Mission statement: To build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

Overview of services: Research, education and awareness initiatives that combat cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

History: The American Heart Association is the nation’s oldest, largest voluntary organization devoted to fighting cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

Founded by six cardiologists in 1924, our organization now includes more than 22.5 million volunteers and supporters working tirelessly to eliminate these diseases.

We fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies and provide lifesaving tools and information to save and improve lives.

Major fundraisers: Denton Heart Walk, Oct. 26; and Denton Go Red for Women Luncheon, Feb. 14 Volunteer opportunities: Volunteer opportunities are available year round as well as specific event support.

Donations needed: All donations are welcome.

How to donate: Contact Angela Nawar at angela.nawar@heart.org.

ARC OF DENTON COUNTY

Contact information: 972-436-8471, info@arcofdentoncounty.org Website: http://arcofdentoncounty.org, or find “Arc of Denton County” on Facebook Address: P.O. Box 1279, Denton, TX 76202 Director: Sandra Willis Mission statement: The Arc of Denton County, a nonprofit, volunteer organization, is committed to expanding opportunities for people with any developmental disability to exercise the same rights, freedoms and responsibilities as their fellow citizens by providing family support, public awareness, advocacy service and referral.

Executive board members: Michael Eyanagho, Susan Jamieson, Kay Goodman, Carol Foote, Carol Hinkle, David Horton, Marshall West, Sally

September 29, 2013 Martinez and Sage Ann Garber Overview of services: Self-Advocate leaders of Denton County, adult socials and educational meetings, community outreach and education, book club and sibling program.

History: As Arc USA celebrates its 60th anniversary, 2012 marks 45 years of service for The Arc of Denton County. The national organization, originally called The Association for Retarded Children, was later renamed The ARC. Over the years, the national, state and local associations have responded to and served the needs of the disability community. The Arc of Denton County reflects a history of that progress since its charter in 1967.

When parents of very young children with disabilities saw need for early training for their youngsters, they banded together and opened a preschool in a Denton church. When the public schools became responsible for special education for children with special needs from preschool ages through high school, that same Arc opened a day workshop.

As private and governmental agencies took over that role, Arc closed that operation and began to focus on serving social, recreational and training needs of not only the obvious population, but also of providers, families and siblings. For instance, The Arc of Denton County, partnering with the local MHMR Center, sponsors one of the state’s largest chapters of Self-Advocates. Sustained by donations, United Way funding, community fundraisers, and grants such as those over the years from the Denton Benefit League, with the hard work of its board and many dedicated volunteers, The Arc of Denton County remains committed to its mission of giving people with disabilities the same rights, responsibilities and freedom as all citizens enjoy.

Success story: Charlotte is a part of our reading club. She has improved and enjoys reading back stories she has written, though she doesn’t yet see herself reading her reports at meetings. The book club itself is successful — it is well attended and a confidence builder even for those who can’t read.

Major fundraisers: Order braided bread in August by calling 972-436-8471 to order for pickup in November. See the website for upcoming fundraisers.

Volunteer opportunities: We welcome volunteers to participate at any of our monthly events. We also look for volunteers to help out with our book club, the third Wednesday of every month at 6 p.m.

at the MHMR clinic off Loop 288.

Donations needed: gift cards to Walmart, Staples, Office Max, etc.; lettersize copy paper; e-readers, used or new.

How to donate: Call 972-436-8471 to find out how to donate.

ARGYLE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Contact information: 940-464-1333 Website: www.argyleumc.org Address: 9033 Fort Worth Drive, Argyle 76226 Senior pastor: the Rev. Chris Schoolcraft Mission statement: Make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Committee chairs: Dana Bolin, Jay Wilson, Eric Lamon, Kelly Hawkins History: Founded in 1894 and moved to present location in 2009.

Volunteer opportunities: Please contact us.

How to donate: Please visit our website.

ASBURY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Contact information: 940-387-6487, vickiemiddleton@asburydenton.org Website: www.asburydenton.org Address: 117 Hercules Lane, Denton Director: Rob Price, senior minister Mission statement: To worship and glorify God; to call all people of our community and the world to a personal faith in Jesus Christ and to active integration into the life of his Church; to nurture each person in spiritual growth; to minister to the physical and spiritual welfare of those in need in the local and world community.

Executive board members: Rob Price, senior minister; Bob Sikes, finance chairman; James Carpenter, administrative council chairman; Jim Willison, board of trustees History: Founded in July 1950 and not having a permanent place to meet, a small group of dedicated and enthusiastic Christians constructed a brush arbor on Wood Street in Denton, eventually becoming Asbury United Methodist Church on Sept. 24, 1950. The new church met in many temporary places in Denton before building the first church at 1919 N. Elm St. in 1952. With a growing membership, the need to expand eventually led us to our current place of worship at 117 Hercules Lane.

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Success story: Since 1950, Asbury has played a vital role to the Denton community by ministering to those in need.

Volunteer opportunities: Asbury Relief Ministry Food Pantry and Denton County Toy Store, providing Christmas for children in need in Denton County.

Donations needed: nonperishable food, toiletries, etc. for the food pantry, and new, unwrapped toys for Denton County Toy Store How to donate: Call 940-387-6487 and leave a message, or send an e-mail.

Approaching the Christmas season, dropoff boxes will be placed in area businesses for toys for the Denton County Toy Store.

BENJAMIN LYON CHAPTER, NATIONAL SOCIETY DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION Contact information: 940-384-1212, mleonscot@verizon.net Director: Linda J. Scott, chapter regent Mission statement: Service to God, home and country.

Executive board members: Wanda Samek, vice regent; Susanne Barnett, recording secretary; Veneta Lewis, treasurer; Catherine Giles, corresponding secretary, Donna Cunningham, chaplain; Diana White, registrar; Mary Hunter, librarian; Pam Fant, historian; Mary Hafer, parliamentarian.

Overview of services: Commemoration of patriotic holidays; promotion of literacy; awarding scholarships; recognition for good citizens; promotion of historic preservation and knowledge of history.

History: The Benjamin Lyon Chapter began 85 years ago.

Success story: Our recent Flag Day event promoted knowlege and respect for the American flag in an event attended by 65 adults and children.

Major fundraisers: silent auction, part of our summer potluck luncheon.

Volunteer opportunities: Service to veterans, promoting literacy, working with children in our Children of the American Revolution group.

Donations needed: items for veterans at the veterans hospital.

How to donate: Call 940-384-1212 for more information.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS Contact information: 1-888-887BIGS, info@bbbstx.org Website: www.bbbstx.org, www.face

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Community Guide

book.com/bbbsdenton Address: 723 Interstate 35E, Suite 214, Denton 76025 Director: Janemarie Clark Mission statement: To provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported oneto-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever. We partner with parents/guardians, volunteers and others in the community and hold ourselves accountable for each child in our program achieving higher aspirations, greater confidence and better relationships while also avoiding risky behaviors and achieving educational success.

Executive board members: board chairperson Rett Dean, David Broughton, Bret Chance, Keith Hopkins, Derrick Morgan, Kenneth Manous, Susan Passariello, Edward Patterson, Guy T. Phillips, Richard Rogers, Ginger Snider, Vanessa Van Trease, Corey Van Trease, Heather Rozell Overview of services: Mentoring is the act of providing guidance and friendship to someone who could use a role model for life’s choices and decisions. By mentoring, people can help others reach goals and improve self-esteem. When mentoring children, volunteers offer to help build a strong foundation for youth as they grow. How does mentoring work? It’s simple. Someone volunteers to develop a relationship with a young person, offering support and guidance. By spending time together, learning new things and enjoying friendship, the mentor helps the young person make better life choices.

History: Big Brothers Big Sisters of America was founded in 1904, and came to Dallas in 1927. As the successes of the mentoring program grew more apparent to community educators and juvenile probation officers, Big Brothers Big Sisters was founded in Denton County in 1975.

The program came to Texas in 1927, when the growing number of boys passing through the Juvenile Court System in Dallas County inspired the humble beginnings of what is now the nation’s largest Big Brothers Big Sisters agency.

Success story: For Little Sister Jenny, having a Big Sister through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program introduced a world of professional career options that she never thought possible.

Jenny was matched with Joy when Jenny was just 7 years old. Her parents divorced when she was very young and her home life had its challenges. “My mom was frequently ill and in the hospi-

September 29, 2013 tal, so she was not able to take care of us the way she wanted to,” Jenny explains.

“We were not well off and my dad was not around very often to help.”

While Jenny’s mom provided all the love and guidance she could, Big Sister Joy showed Jenny hope for a brighter future.

Joy worked as an executive for a major cosmetics brand. She was poised and professional and shared her love for fashion and beauty with Jenny. Once, during a visit to the corporate headquarters building where Joy worked, Jenny noticed the shiny gold-colored faucets in the ladies’ room. She decided at that moment that she wanted to set goals for a professional career of her own.

With Joy’s encouragement, Jenny worked hard in school and graduated from Carrollton’s Newman Smith High School with honors in 2007. She received academic scholarships to college and graduated from the University of North Texas. Most recently, she completed her master’s degree from UNT in 2013, while holding management positions with an engineering firm.

Even though Jenny and Joy’s match officially ended when Jenny graduated from high school, the ladies are bonded for life. Jenny seeks Joy’s advice and encouragement with every major decision, and Joy continues to help Jenny set goals and celebrate successes. Their shared love of fashion and cosmetics has turned into a side career for Jenny, as well. Today you can see Jenny appear in television commercials and newspaper advertisements all over North Texas. “I was a tomboy when I met Joy,” says Jenny. “But she showed me that the way we present ourselves through clothes and appearance can be very important … and fun.”

After receiving Joy’s love and guidance for 11 years with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, Jenny knew the best way to show her gratitude would be to pass those lessons along to another little girl struggling to reach her potential. Jenny has been a Big Sister to 9-year-old Crystal for more than two years now. And just like she learned from Joy, Jenny is helping Crystal to set goals for the future, and rewarding her for all her achievements.

Major fundraisers: Bowl for Kids Sake, each April at Brunswick Zone in Denton. Businesses are encouraged to sponsor the event in kind or for a $500 donation. Teams of five or six bowlers compete together for fun prizes and wacky trophies. Bowlers are encouraged to raise

at least $100 each.

Volunteer opportunities: More than 600 Denton County volunteers participate as mentors each year. Mentorship requires a committment of meeting with the mentee two to four times per month, for a minimum of 12 months. Other volunteers are needed to help run community activities and support the operations of the local organization.

Donations needed: Gifts of any size are appreciated, as the approximate cost for supporting one mentoring relationship for one year is $1,000. Also appreciated are office supplies and access to local activities — for example, tickets to sporting events, movie passes or zoo admission.

How to donate: Contact jclark@bbbs tx.org for more information on donating, volunteering or participating in Bowl for Kids Sake.

THE BLUE RIBBON CLUB Contact information: shop@weldons western.com Address: 345 E. Hickory St., Denton 76201 Director: Weldon Burgoon, president Mission statement: Supporting the 4-H, FFA and FCCLA youth of Denton County.

Executive board members: Weldon Burgoon, president; David Fogle, vice president; Jana Bullock, treasurer; Kippie Wilkinson, secretary; and board members Gary Neilson, Beryl Roberts, Jim Lancaster, Bobby Jones, Shirley Haisler, Robert David, Tracy Yarbrough, Mike Sommers, David Fulton and RD Martin Overview of services: Community members along with businesswomen and men of Denton County raise funds to support Denton County youth at the Denton County Livestock Association Youth Fair auction sale and award more than 30 scholarships each year.

History: In November 1984, a group of Denton County business people met to organize a booster club for the DCLA Youth Fair auction sale.

Success story: In 2013, more than $200,000 in projects were auctioned off at the auction sale, and the Blue Ribbon Club distributed 34 scholarships to students involved with the Youth Fair through 4-H, FCCLA and FFA. Major fundraisers: We begin contacts in February each year. The last Saturday of February, the Denton FFA Alumni have an auction to raise money and allow the Blue Ribbon Club to include 10 lots that

Denton Record-Chronicle raise support money.

Volunteer opportunities: Monthly meetings are held the third Tuesday in September and October, then resume on the third Monday in January through April. Dues of $25 per family will get you a meal at all six meetings. Anyone interested in helping solicit funds is welcome.

Volunteers are always welcomed.

Donations needed: Support money is raised to buy auction projects as well as to help support kids whose projects do not make the sale.

How to donate: Contact Weldon Burgoon at 940-382-1921 or any board member.

BORN 2 BE THERAPEUTIC EQUESTRIAN CENTER Contact information: 940-595-8200, born2betec@gmail.com Website: www.born2betec.org, www.facebook.com/Born2BeTherapeutic EquestrianCenter Address: 3575 Sauls Road, Aubrey 76227 Director: Mary Gwinner Mission statement: Dedicated to providing the opportunity for individuals to become all they were Born 2 Be through a partnership with the horse.

Executive board members: Karen Schrepel, Sarah McArdle, Cathy Wirz, Cynthia Mitchell, Edie Curtis Overview of services: Therapeutic riding is based on individual needs. Goals may include improvement in muscle tone, range of motion, rhythm, muscle strength, balance and coordination. Riding and carriage driving instruction goals may include improvement in attention span, spatial relations, sensory awareness, sequential performance and reasoning skills. Horsemanship skills that may be developed include cantering, posting, carriage driving and stable management.

Riders may participate in demonstrations, competitions and Special Olympics equestrian events at the local and state level.

The goals for all of our riders include developing self-esteem and having fun.

History: Born 2 Be began operations in 2012 and is a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH) member. Though a young organization, Born 2 Be is staffed by volunteers with more than 25 years’ experience in therapeutic horsemanship programs.

Born 2 Be started with a few people sitting around a table wanting to provide a safe, friendly, rider-oriented place for peo-

Denton Record-Chronicle ple with disabilities to reach their full potential as riders.

Success story: A shy teenage girl has really come out of her shell, now being able to speak publicly, and finished her Stars and Stripes award due in large part to her horsemanship activities.

Riding has allowed one rider to maintain muscle strength despite multiple sclerosis. She enjoyed riding growing up and has found, as an adult with MS, that riding is a form of exercise that is low impact, and is helping her maintain mobility and independence.

One young man has grown up to ride independently, even cantering. Riding horses provides a place for him to focus his thoughts and be independent. He has gone to college and has a job.

One young lady, though unable to speak, has learned to “talk” to her horse by patting his withers for “walk on.”

We have introduced quite a few new students to the sport of driving, and not only compete in events such as Chisholm Challenge but also compete in able-bodied driving events with our students.

Major fundraisers: Fajita Fiesta benefit dinner in the fall, and No Show Horse Show e-mail and mail annual campaign in the winter.

Volunteer opportunities: horse care, leaders and sidewalkers, board of directors membership, development and marketing assistance Donations needed: horses, tack, horse care, sponsors for riders How to donate: cash or check mailed to Born 2 Be; or PayPal donation via www.solutionfoundation.org

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF NORTH CENTRAL TEXAS

Contact information: 940-239-9309, spowell@bgcnct.org, @BGCNCT on Twitter Website: www.bgcnct.org, www.face book.com/pages/Boys-Girls-Clubs-ofNorth-Central-Texas/295833664895 Address: 303 Alamo Ave., Lake Dallas 75065 Director: J.B. “Babs” Troutman, president Mission statement: To enable all young people, especially those who need us the most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens by promoting education, positive choice and healthy lifestyles.

Executive board members: Chris McLucas, Roger Sims, Cynthia Northrup

September 29, 2013 White, Mitzi Willis, Reyna Castillo, Chris Stabile, Babs Troutman, John Heusinkveld, Rena Rebecek Overview of services: Prevention and support through through our extended learning activities that include homework assistance, tutoring, mentoring, job and life skills. Kids come for FUN, we offer FUNdamentals.

History: Boys & Girls Clubs of America had its beginnings in 1860 with three women in Hartford, Conn.: Mary Goodwin, Alice Goodwin and Elizabeth Hammersley. Believing that boys who roamed the streets should have a positive alternative, they organized the first club. A cause was born. Currently there are more than 4,000 Boys and Girls Clubs in all 50 states that serve more than 4 million youth ages of 6-17 every school day.

Success story: In the last nine years, none of our club members have been involved in the juvenile justice system; there have been no teen pregnancies; all members have graduated on time, and 98 percent of club members have a “B” or above grade average.

Major fundraisers: Annual benefit golf tournament on the last Thursday of April.

The 2014 tournament will be on April 24, location to be determined.

Volunteer opportunities: mentoring, homework assistance, helping young childrren to learn to read better, special events assistance Donations needed: newer computers, art supplies, cash donations, sports equipment, school supplies, DVD movies, tables and chairs for library, computer games How to donate: Visit our location, or contact us to arrange for special pickups.

THE BRIDGE CHURCH Contact information: 940-735-2080, info@findthebridge.com, @findthebridge on Twitter Website: www.findthebridge.com Address: 625 Dallas Drive, Suite 450 Director: Duane White Mission statement: Connecting people to life.

Executive board members: Duane White, Kris White, Shanna McClung, Dusty McClung Overview of services: spiritual guidance, counseling History: The Bridge Church started in Denton six years ago in April. We are a nondenominational, spirit-filled church.

CHILDREN’S ADVOCACY CENTER FOR DENTON COUNTY INC. Contact information: 972-317-2818, dan@cacdc.org Website: www.cacdc.org Address: 1854 Cain Drive, Lewisville 75077 Director: Dan Leal Mission statement: To provide justice and healing for abused children through interagency collaboration and community education.

Executive board members: Matthew Schirle, chairman; Cameron Cox, vice chairman; April Cain, treasurer; Susan Watson, secretary Overview of services: CACDC conducts of forensic interviews of children suspected of having been severely abused after a report has been made. CACDC also coordinates the criminal investigation of severe child abuse cases by bringing together law enforcement, Child Protective Services, the district attorney’s office, Juvenile Probation, medical professionals, and its own staff in one location. CACDC provides free counseling and support services for the children and their non-offending family members. The agency also provides free child abuse prevention classes for adults.

History: CACDC was incorporated in August 1994 and began providing services in April 1997. The agency was established through a joint effort among law enforcement, CPS, the DA’s office and community leaders. The founding board president was Denton resident Charles Stafford.

Success story: CACDC has many success stories. One that comes to mind is a young girl who came to CACDC more than 13 years ago at the age of 9. The young girl was a victim of abuse by her grandfather. The case was investigated, and the grandfather was sentenced to spend the rest of his life in prison. More important, the young lady went on to receive a presidential Scholarship to a local university and graduated in May with a bachelor’s degree. She had her first child recently, and she plans to work in nonprofit social services.

Major fundraisers: Children’s Advocacy Center Champions for Children Gala, April 5 at Circle R Ranch in Flower Mound. The event features dishes from top Denton County restaurants, celebrity athletes signing autographs, wine tastings, live auction, silent auction and more. The 2014 event will be called the North Texas Harley-

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Davidson Champions for Children Gala with the theme “Crystals and Chrome.”

Volunteer opportunities: front desk family greeters, gala committee, golf committee, weekend volunteers for community events, group projects, seasonal assistance programs Donations needed: monetary, backup server, DVD-Rs, photocopier paper, school supplies How to donate: Visit www.cacdc.org/ donate. CACDC also has a Circle of Healing donation society where donors can make a monthly pledge to pay for specific services for the children.

CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY ACTION Contact information: 972-221-1224 Website: www.ccahelps.org, www.face book.com/christiancommunityaction Address: 200 S. Mill St., Lewisville 75057 Director: Ron Batts, president and CEO Mission statement: In the spirit of Jesus Christ, Christian Community Action ministers to the poor by providing comprehensive services that alleviate suffering, bring hope and change lives.

Executive board members: Jeffery D. Price, chairman; Bill Cavalle, vice chairman; Ken Hughes, treasurer; Joseph Moore, secretary; Dirk Allison, Tom Black, Lisa Brodbeck, Philip Coup, Bill Dandridge, Bill Davidson, Dr. Tamra Deuser, Andy Gabehart, Robert Haro, Chad Hennings, Jim Jordan, Rhonda Loving, Brian Powell, Morris Salerno, Monica Utter Overview of services: Adult Health Center, medical, dental and vision services for the uninsured; Medication Assistance Program, access to free medications based on income; financial assistance with rent/mortgage, utilities, transportation, clothing, prescriptions, etc.; food pantry; affordable housing; New Hope Learning Center, low-cost, high-quality child care in Lewisville and The Colony, a partnership with First United Methodist Church; Back-to-School, Kids Eat Free (Summer Lunch Program), Christmas Toy Store, Senior Monday, Senior Christmas Gift Program and Holiday Meal Program; spiritual counseling, vocational and educational services, including GED and ESL classes, job-search skills, resume building, job fairs, forklift certification, etc.

History: Christian Community Action is a faith-based nonprofit service ministry

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that has been helping families in need for 40 years. CCA began in 1973 as a Bible study of seven people and has grown to an organization of more than 150 employees and more than 2,500 volunteers.

Success story: CCA serves more than 10,000 individuals per year in 42 communities throughout Collin, Dallas, Denton, Tarrant and Wise counties.

Major fundraisers: Season of Hope Gala on Oct. 19, featuring Laura Bush as the keynote speaker, at the Gaylord Texan in Grapevine.

Volunteer opportunities: Donate.

Give. Volunteer. Pray. The face of poverty has changed significantly in recent years.

It could be a neighbor who was laid off from work, or a young mother who suddenly finds herself single. CCA can help these individuals transition out of crisis by offering a hand-UP, not a hand-out. But we need your support. Donations of goods sustain our reSale stores and are needed year-round. Volunteer your time to one of our many programs. Give a cash donation.

Host or participate in a food drive.

Donations needed: monetary; unneeded goods, like clothing, furniture and housewares How to donate: Visit the website for more information.

COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS OF NORTH TEXAS Contact information: info@cisnt.org Website: www.cisnt.org Address: 1565 W. Main St., Lewisville 75067 Director: Dana Smith Mission statement: To surround students with a community of support, empowering them to succeed in school and in life.

Executive board members: Andy Eads, Kathy Duke, Jon Madsen, Jeannetta Collier, Amber Fulton Overview of services: Comprehensive dropout prevention programs.

History: Communities in Schools of North Texas is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides research-based, dropout prevention services to socio-economically disadvantaged students with the purpose of helping students stay in school, eliminate barriers to academic success, and break the cycle of poverty. CISNT was established in 1993 and has grown over the past 20 years to become the primary provider of in-school dropout prevention programs, with 43 programs serving 4,600 at-risk students in North Texas.

September 29, 2013

Denton Record-Chronicle

Courtesy photo

Christy Leverett, manager of Christian Community Action's Lewisville reSale shop, rings up a customer. CCA relies on sales of donated items, especially furniture and household appliances, to help finance its programs.

Success story: Mentor Impact at Denton High School: Alicia is a committed tutor with CISNT. For the past year, Alicia worked consistently with one student in particular named Emma who needed help passing her math classes and the math portion of the TAKS test.

Emma’s counselor, math teacher and parent had been highly concerned about whether or not she would be able to pass the math TAKS this year because she had failed TAKS every year previously since elementary school. Alicia spent months working diligently with Emma on her math skills and tutored Emma during the weeks before the test, sometimes up to three times a week.

Major fundraisers: “Link to Kids” Golf Tournament in October, Texas Star Gala in May, “Every Nine Seconds” Giving Campaign in December and January Volunteer opportunities: mentors, tutors, administrative Donations needed: school supplies, office supplies, general operating support How to donate: Go to www.cisnt.org/ donate, or e-mail info@cisnt.org to arrange in-kind donations.

CONGREGATION KOL AMI Contact information: 972-539-1938, office@kolami-tx.org Website: www.kolami-tx.org Address: 1887 Timber Creek Road, Flower Mound 75028 Director: Rabbi Geoffrey W. Dennis Mission statement: We are dedicated to making all Jews and those who support

Judaism feel welcome and comfortable in our midst. Congregation Kol Ami strives to meet the needs of a membership with a wide range of Jewish experiences.

Executive board members: Caren Bornstein, president; Bruce Cohen, executive vice president; Elissa Ducar, treasurer; Victoria Milner, secretary Overview of services: worship, education, study and community History: Founded in the 1970s as a Chavurah fellowship on the University of North Texas campus, we have since grown to a community of more than 150 families who together sustain a dynamic spiritual life, a rich educational center, and a vibrant social scene for ourselves and for our children.

Success story: Building of an interfaith Habitat home in Lewisville.

Major fundraisers: Quiz Nite, including silent and live auctions and a delicious meal. Tables of 10 compete against each other in a game of trivia, followed by a live auction and entertainment. Proceeds benefit not only CKA but also our community.

Volunteer opportunities: assisting congregants and the Jewish community, fundraising, and more to be announced Donations needed: religious school scholarships How to donate: Visit the website to donate through PayPal.

CORNERSTONE COOPERATIVE PRESCHOOL Contact information: 940-382-1463, cooperatecornerstone@yahoo.com

Website: www.cornerstone-cooperative .org Address: 1205 N. Locust St., Denton 76201 Director: Christina Smith Mission statement: Where parents make the difference. A cooperative preschool allows parents to be directly involved in their child’s school, because co-op parents contribute their own time and energy to make it work.

Executive board members: Meagan Solomon, president; Tiffany Fuhrman, membership; Hope Scott, treasurer; Holly Nguyen, income treasurer Overview of services: Cornerstone teachers and parents have worked handin-hand to provide a high-quality, developmentally appropriate program that recognizes the importance of creative play in the lives of children. The school’s one-of-akind environment respects each child and family as a unique and valuable part of the community, nurturing not only future social, emotional and intellectual development of each individual child, but larger family and community relationships as well.

History: Cornerstone Cooperative Preschool, originally and legally known as Little Creek Preschool, was begun in 1970 with its first class graduating in 1971. It was established by a group of parents who wanted a quality preschool for their children at an affordable cost. Their plan was to collectively act as an administrative body to run the school and to hire a professional teacher to lead the class with the assistance of a helping parent. Cornerstone is the only cooperative preschool in the Denton area and offers parents the opportunity to be closely involved with their children’s first school experience.

Success story: Our whole school has been a success story of the little cooperative preschool that could. We opened our doors in 1970, changing our name to Cornerstone Cooperative Preschool in 1989 with huge success our first year, adding another teacher and opening enrollment to children from 2 to 5 years old. In fall 2006 the school expanded once again, by introducing a Tuesday/Thursday class for the bigger kids; this was followed by a Tuesday/Thursday toddler class in spring 2007 and an additional class for the 2- and 3-year-olds that fall. By now the school was at full capacity, almost doubling its membership since 2005. We are currently fully enrolled with more than 45 families, and several more on the waiting list.

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September 29, 2013

Major fundraisers: Pancake Supper and Silent Auction, 5 p.m. March 1 at First United Methodist Church of Denton Donations needed: paper goods, cleaning supplies and classroom supplies (paper, crayons, markers, paint) How to donate: Directly through the school location or online at http://peace lovepancakes.mydagsite.com.

COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATES OF DENTON COUNTY INC.

Contact information: 940-243-2272, lwillner@casadenton.org, @CASADenton on Twitter Website: www.casadenton.org, www.facebook.com/casadenton Address: 614 N. Bell Ave., Denton 76209 Director: Sherri Gideon Mission statement: To provide trained community volunteers, to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children, and to promote community awareness about child abuse issues.

Executive board members: Bob Mancino, president; Kay Schroeder, vice president; Shelly Krueger, secretary; Dana Haynie, treasurer

Overview of services: CASA’s Court Advocacy Program recruits, trains and supervises community volunteers to serve as court advocates for children in Denton County, ages birth to 18, who have been removed from their homes due to abuse and/or neglect, by Child Protective Services. CASA services focus on the investigation and monitoring of a child’s situation while in foster/alternative care.

Within 12 months of the initial removal, CASA seeks to determine which permanent placement is in the child’s best interests and makes that recommendation to the presiding judge.

CASA volunteer advocates generally focus on one child or sibling group, while caseworkers, attorneys and judges have heavy caseloads that prevent them from being able to give thorough, detailed attention to the case of each child who comes before them. CASA advocates meet with the child, the foster parents and the custodial parents on a regular basis. In addition, advocates review case documents and interview any person available who has had contact with the child.

CASA advocates also monitor the progress of the parents to determine if they are in compliance with their courtordered service plan and also help ensure

Community Guide

that the child or family receives services which the court has ordered.

History: CASA of Denton County is part of a national volunteer movement that began more than 35 years ago in Seattle. Judge David Soukop decided that he needed to know more about the children whose lives were in his hands. His solution was to use community volunteers to provide a “voice” in court for abused and neglected children who had entered the foster care system.

In 1991, a few concerned citizens gained the support of the five district court judges in Denton County who signed a “program support intent form,” endorsing not only the CASA concept but welcoming the proven assistance this program could provide to the courts. In 1992, the program was granted its Articles of Incorporation and began officially serving children.

CASA served five children during its first year. Today, CASA of Denton County Inc. is managed by a 15- to 20-member board of directors, employs 11 full-time staff, utilizes between 100 and 150 volunteer child advocates, and serves between 400 and 500 children annually.

Success story: Two-year-old Natalie weighed 13 pounds when she came into care because her mother was using

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methamphetamines and stealing to support her habit. Natalie was severely dehydrated and could not move her arms or legs out of the fetal position. She didn’t cry, speak or make eye contact with anyone, and it was immediately assumed that she must be mentally retarded or autistic.

A CASA volunteer visited Natalie and her sister Jennifer at the hospital on the day they were removed from their mother.

She immersed herself into all the medical information and was instrumental in helping to locate the best available foster home for these two girls.

The CASA advocate spent about 30 hours a week with the children for the first few weeks, attending doctor appointments and facilitating therapies for the girls.

Through many visits and talks with Jennifer, the advocate learned that Natalie had rarely been removed from her baby carrier. The advocate shared the information with Natalie’s doctors, who agreed that it was a likely cause of Natalie’s lack of muscle development.

Intensive daily physical therapy was needed, but CPS and the foster parents were unable to provide transportation for the daily hour-long commute. The advocate volunteered and made every appointment with her CASA child for the

Specializing in: • Wills • Durable & Medical Powers of Attorney • Living Wills • Probate • Heirship Applications • Applications for Guardianship Office Hours By Apointment Free Initial Consultation On the Courthouse Square In Denton 121 W. Hickory, Suite 105 Denton, TX Phone: (940) 765-4992 • Fax: (940) 488-4992 sklowry@sklowrylaw.com

Sharon K. Lowry Attorney at Law I3

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Community Guide

required four weeks. The doctors believed that Natalie would probably always require a wheelchair and never be able to live independently.

After a diligent search, the CASA advocate found an adoptive “forever” home for both girls in Kansas with a family who had already raised two special-needs children. When the CASA advocate last visited the girls, she watched as Natalie struggled to climb a three-foot ladder to go down a slide by herself. Jennifer thanked the advocate for helping her find “a good mommy and daddy.”

Major fundraisers: 15th annual Evening of Elegance Dinner and Live Auction Fundraiser, on Oct. 20 at The Grotto in Highland Village. The event features a five-course dinner by acclaimed chef Morris Salerno with dinner service provided by celebrity waiters, including local judges and public officials. CASA also hosts the Pulling for Kids Sporting Clay Tournament annually in May at the Dallas Gun Club in Lewisville.

Volunteer opportunities: For volunteer advocates, CASA conducts a 30-hour, pre-service training session three times per year. CASA also welcomes volunteers to help at our events and with administrative projects at the office. For more information, visit www.casadenton.org.

Donations needed: monetary donations; donations to the CARE4KIDS Fund, which helps provide items such as back-to-school clothes and supplies to toiletry items and birthday and Christmas presents.

How to donate: Donations may be mailed to or dropped off at the CASA office, or made online.

COVENANT CHURCH — CROSS ROADS CAMPUS Contact information: 940-365-1395, information@covenantcrossroads.org Website: www.covenantcrossroads.org Address: 8690 Liberty Road, Aubrey 76227 Campus pastors: Joe and Jean Parker Mission statement: At Covenant we are inspired by the unshakeable bond of covenant relationship that God chose to enter with his people. It’s this same bond that also unites us as believers in covenant with one another. We believe God has called us to expand his kingdom by sharing the message of his covenant, the ministry of reconciliation through Christ and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.

Senior founding pastors: Mike and

September 29, 2013 Kathy Hayes Overview of services: At Covenant we believe in changed lives. Church isn’t just another box to check off on your to-do list; it’s a place of life, renewal and hope. In authentic church community, there is true friendship, grace and a lifetime of learning and growing together.

Volunteer opportunities: various ministries within the church Donations needed: For more information on fundraisers and making donations, visit http://makeawaycharities.org.

CROSS TIMBERS COMMUNITY CHURCH Contact information: 940-240-5100, denton@crosstimberschurch.org, @tobyslough on Twitter Website: http://crosstimberschurch. org, www.facebook.com/ctdentontx Address: 312 W. McKinney St., Denton 76201 Lead pastor: Toby Slough Mission statement: We are a community of believers who are passionate about helping and serving others. We are a place where people like you can find healing and freedom, a church where you can grow and develop into followers of Christ who want to make a difference in the world.

Lead Team: Toby Slough, Jim Kuykendall, Kent Sparks and Danny Stokes Overview of services: More than anything, we want you to know that Cross Timbers is a place where you can come as you are and be a part of an authentic community. Our hope is that you will discover the life that God has for you.

History: Since 2000, we have grown from a small group of people meeting in the back of a local bar, into a community of believers who know that their story and the stories of others would be different if not for the love and grace of Jesus. We are the home to thousands of people with locations in Argyle, Denton, Eagle Mountain and Keller.

Success story: Stories are important.

They connect us to one another and to our community. We want to help change your story and the story of the next generation.

That is our mission. That is our passion.

To create environments where broken people experience life change through Jesus Christ. Our pastor, Toby Slough, was given a God-sized vision for the next generation. This vision is at the heart of Cross Timbers: Asking God for 10,000 spiritfilled, baptized believers walking in free-

dom, and committed to meeting the needs of the poor and the broken, both locally and around the world, in the next 10 years. How do we do this, you ask? By providing a place and the opportunity where people can make a difference in the world. The legacies we leave are the stories we’ve made. We invite you to be a part of our story.

Volunteer opportunities: Fix My Ride is a free event for those who need vehicle diagnostics, minor repairs and maintenance. Cross Timbers hosts Fix My Ride events two times each year. We are looking for volunteers to help as mechanics, service writers and parts runners, or to cook/serve food and love on the people who bring their vehicles in for service.

How to donate: Giving back to the community, by volunteering your time and talent is one way to be an example of Christ.

CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHILDREN’S HOME Contact information: 940-382-5112, info@cpch.org Website: www.cpch.org Address: 909 Greenlee St., Denton Director: Richard Brown Mission statement: In response to Christ’s love and example, we serve children and families by providing healing and hope.

Executive board members: Kay Goodman, chairman Overview of services: CPCH is one agency with four interrelated programs — Children’s Residential, Cumberland Emergency Shelter for Children, Single Parent Family and Cumberland Family Services — that help children and families find healing and hope through identifying their strengths and finding solutions to the challenges in their lives.

History: Established in 1904, Cumberland Presbyterian Children’s Home is located in Denton and serves the entire North Texas community. Our mission in response to Christ’s love and example, we serve children and families by providing healing and hope.

Major fundraisers: Cumberland Shuffle 5/10K, held in late summer at Texas Motor Speedway Volunteer opportunities: tutors, mentors, group projects, administrative Donations needed: monetary, towels, twin sheets, MP3 players, gift cards, hygiene products How to donate: Contact LaToyia

Denton Record-Chronicle Dennis at ldennis@cpch.org or visit www.cpch.org.

CURE FOR CLARA Contact information: stacytuma@ yahoo.com Website: www.cureforeclara.org Address: 5612 Rock Canyon, The Colony 75056 Director: Stacy Tuma Mission statement: Helping children with juvenile dermatomyositis and raising awareness of this rare, life-threatening disease.

Executive board members: Kathy Scott, Lindsey Bridges Overview of services: Donate to Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, MakeA-Wish Foundation and Cure JM Foundation.

History: The organization was founded in January 2010 when Clara, age 5 at the time, was diagnosed with JM. She has raised thousands of dollars over the last 2 1/2 years to help the children with diseases like JM. Success story: Every December, Clara holds a Toy Drive and donates all the toys to Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children.

Major fundraisers: Cure Fore Clara Golf Tournament, Nov. 11 at The Tribute Golf Club in The Colony; Cure for Clara annual Toy Drive in December Volunteer opportunities: We are always looking for volunteers for the golf tournament, barbecue and Toy Drive.

Donations needed: new toys, books and blankets that can be donated to the children’s hospitals and monetary donations that go to Cure JM How to donate: Visit the “donate” link on www.cureforeclara.org.

DENTON AFRICAN AMERICAN SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION INC. Contact information: Harry Eaddy, 940-380-0761, hleaddy@hotmail.com Website: www.dentonaasf.org Address: 29 Wellington Oaks Circle, Denton 76210 Director: Harry Eaddy Executive board members: Val Morgan, Dr. Simon Allo, Stan Morton, the Rev. Reggie Logan Overview of services: Providing scholarships to graduating black students from Denton high schools.

History: The scholarship program orig-

Denton Record-Chronicle

inated with the Scholarship Committee of the Denton Branch of NAACP and was incorporated as a separate 501(c)(3) entity in 1989. From a modest beginning of only one $250 award in 1984, by 2011 the scholarship program had awarded more $200,000 to more than 250 graduates of Denton high schools. These funds have been donated by generous citizens of Denton in response to letters sent each year. Every cent contributed has gone to students; all expenses have been donated.

Success story: The success rate of scholarship recipients has been phenomenal. Almost all have graduated from university or are currently enrolled. Some have graduated from law school or medical school; others have earned master’s degrees (including one M.B.A. from Harvard). The 2011 recipients, graduating at or near the top of their high school classes, are attending MIT, New York University, Purdue, Oklahoma, Trinity University, Pittsburgh and UT Austin, as well as nearby universities SMU, UT Arlington, and UNT. Major fundraisers: DAASF has fundreaiser events in the fall (October or November) and Valentine’s Day weekend.

Volunteer opportunities: We are looking for people are creative and want to

September 29, 2013 support students and in the process have fun putting on fantastic events.

Donations needed: We are supported by generous donations from individuals, community organizations and companies How to donate: via mail (check or money order)

DENTON ANIMAL SHELTER FOUNDATION INC. Contact information: info@denton asf.com, @DentonASF on Twitter Website: www.dentonasf.com, www.facebook.com/DentonASF Address: P.O. Box 486, Denton 76202 Director: Laura Brewer, board chairman Mission statement: To save more Denton area pets.

Executive board members: Laura Brewer, David Carles, Leslie Marchman, Jon Scruggs, Bette Sherman, Sandi Brackeen, Jackie Bruce, Lisa Dicke, Kathleen Duffy, Jayne Howell, Nanci Kimmey, Peter Lane, Brenda Oxley, Rebecca Personett, Dick Shepherd, Jan Springer, Debbie Stafford, Charles Stafford, Ann Stuart, Joyce Swegle, Kimberly Truax Overview of services: fundraising and

support for the city of Denton animal shelter; public education on animal welfare; program support for abandoned and abused shelter animals; emergency medical subsidy for shelter pets.

History: Founded in 2006; raised $2 million to help build the new Denton animal shelter, which will open by summer 2014; funded almost $75,000 in adoption subsidies for thousands of shelter pets to help save them; provided over $20,000 in emergency medical support to shelter pets; organize and host three major community fundraisers annually to raise funds for shelter pets; write grants and promote the Denton shelter as well as DASF programs; help market shelter pets with social media and other advertising.

Success story: In 2008, DASF began a capital campaign to encourage the city to build a new shelter and to help fund the new Linda McNatt Animal Care and Adoption Center. The old shelter is more than 30 years old, out of date and out of capacity. DASF completed our goal of $2 million for the new shelter, which includes an on-site vet clinic, in July 2011. The new shelter is now under construction thanks to the advocacy of DASF and the cooperation of the city. The shelter will be state-ofthe-art and will save thousands more

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abandoned pets. Almost 5,000 animals are handled by the shelter annually at this time.

Major fundraisers: DonorBridge North Texas Day of Giving, one day in September when online donations are matched; Tails and Trails 10K/5K/1M Pet Walk and Festival at North Texas Fairgrounds every October; Wine & Whiskers, gourmet food and wine tasting at Denton Country Club in March; Puttin for Paws Golf Tournament at Denton Country Club, summer each year.

Volunteer opportunities: events, social media help, distribution of brochures and marketing materials to retail store partners, and monitoring donation boxes at retail locations Donations needed: All donations support the animals. DASF has no paid staff and is administered by an all-volunteer board.

How to donate: online or via mail

DENTON AREA MOTHERS OF MULTIPLES Contact information: dentonarea mothersofmultiples@gmail.com Website: http://dentonareamothersof multiples.org

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Address: P.O. Box 51464, Denton 76206 Director: Michelle Williams Mission statement: Dedicated to providing support to any mother or guardian of multiple-birth children. DAMOM strives to enhance knowledge and understanding of multiples through an exchange of ideas, information and communication between parents, educators, doctors and others.

Executive board members: Michelle Williams, co-president; Leah Strittmatter, co-president; Kim Davis, treasurer; Ashley Cogswell, secretary Overview of services: Denton Area Mothers of Multiples is a not-for-profit support group for mothers of twins, triplets and other higher-order multiples.

Guardians and mothers of multiple-birth children who live in Denton or the surrounding area are welcome to join our organization. DAMOM’s monthly meetings are on the second Monday of every month except July and December. In addition, DAMOM also has various events throughout the year, including play groups for multiples, socials, holiday parties, MOM’s night out community service projects and children’s parties.

History: Denton Area Mothers of Multiples is a chapter of the National Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs.

DAMOM was founded in 1999 by Malinda Yeargain, who has triplet boys, and other multiple moms who wanted to start a support group for mothers of multiples.

Success story: Kim Davis, treasurer, says: “I joined DAMOM in 2009 when I was pregnant with my twin boys, Joel and Jude. As a new expecting mom I read everything about pregnancy, babies and parenting I could get my hands on, but it was all primarily about having one baby and I wanted to be prepared for two. I could never articulate how much meeting the women in DAMOM meant to me and getting their advice and support. It was so nice to know that they knew exactly what I was going through and that everything was going to be OK. That is what helped me the most in my first year as a mom, just getting to go to the meetings each month to refresh myself and get encouragement. I have been a consecutive twoterm president for DAMOM and will be staying on the board this year as treasurer.

It is a pleasure to help continuing to provide the help and support for fellow mothers of multiples.”

Major fundraisers: Mudbug Boil, held

September 29, 2013 on the first Saturday in May in Denton Volunteer opportunities: We have volunteer opportunities throughout the year for members. E-mail to learn more.

Donations needed: advertising, coupons, diapers, gift certificates for our new MoMs How to donate: http://dentonarea mothersofmultiples.org/support, or e-mail dentonareamothersofmultiples@gmail.co m to advertise on our website.

DENTON AREA PARTNERSHIP FOR END-OF-LIFE CARE Contact information: dapec@aol.com Website: www.dapec.org, www.face book.com/DAPEC.org Address: The DAPEC Steering Committee meets at Denton’s North Branch Library at noon on the second Tuesday of each month. It is an open meeting.

Director: Rodney Bolejack, D.Min. Mission statement: To improve endof-life care for all communities and cultures in the Denton area.

Executive board members: Becky Knight, Kirsten Kaae, Sue Johnson, Rosemary Lockard, Sandra Mann, James Hilton, Alicia Ward, Bert Hayslip Overview of services: Education and awareness of hospice and end-of-life care possibilities and concerns History: DAPEC was begun by Kim Shellenberger and Rodney Bolejack in October 2004. We are affiliated with the Denton Foundation for Health Education.

A community needs assessment was conducted with the assistance of the UNT Sociology Department. Each spring we host the Grief and Loss Conference produced by the Hospice Foundation of America. Each November we host an event to celebrate National Hospice Month. This November we will host Denton Healthcare Decision Days (Nov. 12) to provide information and opportunity for individuals to complete advance directives for health care choices.

Success story: DAPEC has promoted awareness of advance directives and endof-life choices through a traveling art gallery entitled “Awakenings.” It was displayed at several area nursing homes and assisted living facilities across the county.

Each time it was displayed, dozens of advance directives were taken by those who viewed the gallery. It is available for display free of charge.

Major fundraisers: spring and fall education events

Volunteer opportunities: event planning, community awareness promotion, artwork, media development Donations needed: time, skills, financial donations How to donate: E-mail dapec@aol.com.

DENTON AREA YOUNG LIFE Contact information: Cat Ryden, younglifeoffice@yahoo.com Website: www.dentonarea.younglife.org Address: 2686 Old Alton Road, Denton 76210 Director: Catherine Ryden Mission statement: Introducing kids to Jesus Christ and helping them grow in their faith.

Executive board members: Tim and Tesh Beaty, Chris and Rae Cardenas, Dave and Becka Carr, Kelly Clark, Earl and Shannon Herrington, Pete and Sheila McCleskey, Johnny and Nancy Rhea, Clay and Emily Rozell, Clayton and Chelsea Ryden, Catherine Ryden Overview of services: Young Life doesn’t start with a program. It starts with adults who are concerned enough about kids to go to them, on their turf and in their culture, building bridges of authentic friendship. These relationships don’t happen overnight — they take time, patience, trust and consistency.

Kids’ lives are dramatically impacted when caring adults come alongside them, sharing God’s love with them. Because their Young Life leader believes in them, they begin to see that their lives have great worth, meaning and purpose. This is the first step of a lifelong journey; the choices they make today, based upon God’s love for them, will impact future decisions … careers chosen, marriages formed and families raised. All ripples from the time when a Young Life leader took time to reach out and enter their world.

History: In 1938, Jim Rayburn, a young Presbyterian youth leader and seminary student in Gainesville, was given a challenge. A local minister invited him to consider the neighborhood high school as his parish and develop ways of contacting kids who had no interest in church.

Rayburn started a weekly club for kids.

Young Life’s mission remains the same — to introduce adolescents to Jesus Christ and to help them grow in their faith. This happens when caring adults build genuine friendships and earn the right to be heard with their young friends. For more than six decades, God has blessed the Young Life staff, increasing its numbers from five

Denton Record-Chronicle to more than 3,300 — from one club in Texas to clubs in nearly every corner of the world.

Success story: Billy (name changed) first started coming to Young Life after meeting a Young Life leader who worked at Cumberland Presbyterian Children’s Home. Billy had been in and out of state care and tossed around between family members before landing in Denton when he was in high school. After attending Young Life club during the year, Billy had the chance to go to Windy Gap (Young Life resort camp in North Carolina) where his life was forever changed. He experienced adventure and excitement like he never had and upon coming back to Denton decided that despite his background and childhood, his life would look different and he wanted to make a difference in other’s lives. He went on to graduate from high school, became a volunteer Young Life leader and has almost completed his bachelor’s degree at UNT. Major fundraisers: Greater Denton Young Life Alumni and Friends Homecoming Celebration on Oct. 17 at Apogee Stadium: All friends of Young Life past, present and future living in greater Denton are invited to this celebration to look back and ahead at Denton Area Young Life. Keep YoungLife Running Club starts this fall: Come train for a marathon or half-marathon with your friends in Denton. We will travel together to a race. For more details on events, visit our Facebook page and our website Volunteer opportunities: Young Life is for everyone who wants to get the most out of life. Whether you are in middle school, high school or college; whatever your interests or abilities; no matter who you hang out with — Young Life welcomes you. If there is a Young Life club or camp near you, check it out. And if you’re a parent, or simply an adult who cares about kids in your community, Young Life welcomes your involvement.

Donations needed: financial How to donate: www.younglife.org/ giving

DENTON BENEFIT LEAGUE Contact information: 940-387-3311 Website: www.dentonbenefitleague.org Address: P.O. Box 725, Denton 76205 Director: June Berry, president Mission statement: To raise funds and promote volunteerism for the betterment of the community and for the improvement of its public nonprofit institutions.

Denton Record-Chronicle

Executive board members: June Berry, president; Margaret “Sam� Bays, president elect; Edene Riggs, first vice president (ball); Kimberly Karl, second vice president (grant allocations); Patti Richard, third vice president (membership); Patrice Frisby, fourth vice president (volunteer services); Melinda King, fifth vice president (tabloid); Sheryl David, sixth vice president (special arrangements and projects); Cathy Bryce, seventh vice president (underwriting); LaVonne Ankeney, secretary; Carmen Carradine, treasurer; Julia Monticino and Debbie Johnson Stafford, members-at-large.

Overview of services: The women of DBL serve Denton by volunteering in the community and raising funds to benefit programs and services that improve the area’s quality of life. All DBL activities are nonprofit, nonpolitical and nonsectarian.

All of the profits from fundraising activities are returned to the community in the form of grants to support social services, the arts, education and historic preservation.

History: DBL was established in 1973 under the leadership of Martha Len Nelson, Kathy Orr and the late Maurine Floyd. Its mission was and still is to promote volunteerism in the community and raise funds for charitable projects. The

September 29, 2013 group began with over 100 members and has now grown to more than 250. From the beginning, its principal fundraising event has been a formal ball held in the spring. Members also publish a tabloid supplement to the Denton RecordChronicle containing photos sponsored by businesses and individuals. Other fundraising projects have included a catering committee, musical programs, golf tournaments, a cookbook, Sensational Settings and festive afternoon teas.

Success story: DBL recently celebrated the 40th anniversary of its founding. To date, we have awarded $4,265,596 in grants to over 100 nonprofit organizations that serve the Denton area. In addition, members contribute more than 24,000 volunteer hours annually to support local programs and services. “Success� for DBL members comes in seeing our efforts at work all around us.

Over the last 40 years, DBL grants have helped fund the renovation of the Campus Theatre, provided equipment for community arts organizations and social service agencies, purchased school supplies and medical services for children from lowincome families, helped equip adult medical care services and nonprofit day care programs for children and adults, provid-

Community Guide

ed temporary shelter for the needy, and enabled a host of other items large and small that improve our area’s social services, our cultural activities, our education resources, and the preservation of our historical treasures.

Major fundraisers: “Tea and Trumpets,� 3 p.m. Dec. 15, in Hubbard Hall at TWU, a holiday tea with festive table settings; Annual Charity Ball, March 29 in Hubbard Hall at TWU; tabloid supplement to the Record-Chronicle, March 30.

Volunteer opportunities: Membership is open to women who live in the general vicinity of Denton and agree to support and participate in the work of DBL. How to donate: DBL invites the public to support its efforts by attending the Charity Ball and the holiday tea, making an underwriting donation for the ball, sponsoring a photo in the DBL Tabloid publication, supporting the silent auction and raffle at DBL events, and purchasing the DBL Cookbook.

DENTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Contact information: 940-382-9693, info@denton-chamber.org, @DentonChamber on Twitter

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Website: www.denton-chamber.org, find Denton Chamber of Commerce on Facebook Address: 414 W. Parkway, Denton 76201 Director: Chuck Carpenter, president Mission statement: To represent and serve members by providing leadership on key issues that impact economic growth, educational excellence, quality of life and diversity of the Denton community.

Executive board members: Mark Burroughs, board chair; Larry Parker, board chair elect; Chuck Fremaux, past board chair; Jeff King, treasurer; Kimberly Reasoner, vice chair; Virgil Strange, vice chair; Sharon Venable, vice chair Overview of services: The Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)(6) organization, providing the framework to serve as the front door to the community for visitors, potential new residents and prospective business and industry. Specific initiatives include Women in Commerce, leadership development and a Small Business Development Center.

History: Established in 1909, the Denton chamber has been a consistent and credible representative of local business, and is one of only 250 in the entire nation to have achieved and maintained

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Community Guide

September 29, 2013

Denton Record-Chronicle

accreditation by through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for more than 35 years.

Success story: Denton ISD New Employee event; supported creation of the new gas utility referendum; Denton County Days in Austin during regular session of the Texas Legislature, biannually since 1987.

Volunteer opportunities: numerous committees and initiatives, including the LEAD Delegates Program, in which chamber member representatives assist staff with membership retention.

How to donate: annual membership investments and sponsorships per specific event or initiative

DENTON CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL Contact information: 940-383-3332 Website: www.dentoncps.org Address: 1114 W. University Drive, Denton 76201 Director: Alicia Blanca Mission statement: To provide early education to at-risk children in the community.

Executive board members: Peggy Widmer, Pat Cheek, Carol Hagen, Gary Wood, Michael Foster, Dan Duhon, Jemimah Young, Nelda Evarts, Gloria Thomas Overview of services: Preschool education for 3- to 5-year olds.

History: Denton Christian Preschool was founded in 1970 by a group of concerned Christian women who realized the need for early education in our community. Concern about the lack of education in the home led them to start DCP and provide services to young children.

Success story: On several occasions, a child was seen hiding food in her backpack from lunch. When asked why, she mentioned her little brother being hungry.

After reporting her case and many phone calls later, we found out that the children were being abused. The children were removed from the home and are now living with their aunt, who adopted them legally, and are happy and healthy.

Major fundraisers: Mexican Supper in March and plant sale in April Volunteer opportunities: in the classroom, riding the bus, and preparing snacks and lunches in the kitchen Donations needed: paper towels, school supplies, cleaning supplies and monetary donations How to donate: mail, in person or by phone

David Minton/DRC file photo

Children tour Denton Christian Preschool’s brand-new bus in February.

DENTON CITY COUNTY DAY SCHOOL Contact information: 940-382-6485 Website: www.dccds.org Address: 1603 Paisley St, Denton 76209 Director: Carolyn Beach Mission statement: Providing quaility preschool educaiton on a sliding-scale fee based on each family’s income.

Executive board members: Bettye Myers, Jack Carlise, Jana Marshall Overview of services: nonprofit preschool program for 2- to 5-year olds History: Denton City County Day School began in 1952, when Kathleen Tobin Henderson brought attention to the community that there was a need for a low-income child care facility in Denton.

Originally named Denton City County Day Nursery, it was operated by volunteers and members of the First United Methodist Church in various locations, including a house on Hickory Street.

When the Hickory Street house was deemed unfit for a child care facility, the First United Methodist Church offered the current facilities to the nursery. The North Texas Conference of the Methodist Church deeded the property to the nursery as long as the property remains a nonprofit child care center. The center has

been at its current location on Paisley Street since 1968.

Success story: Each fall and spring, the preschool teachers complete skill assessments with the children that are age- and developmentally appropriate. These assessments are based on our themebased curriculum and assist the teachers in planning. In fall 2012, 73 children completed the assessments. This spring, 78 children completed the assessments.

Major fundraisers: Jim McNatt raffle tickets, ongoing through April, $2 each; other fundraisers to be planned.

Volunteer opportunities: help with marketing, fundraising ideas, cleaning Donations needed: cleaning and paper products, school and art supplies, office supplies; sponsor a child’s weekly fees for child care to help a needy family How to donate: Call 940-382-6485.

DENTON COMMUNITY CHORUS Contact information: Monty Naylor, 940-368-8034, montynay@gmail.com Website: dentoncommunitychorus.org Address: P.O. Box 1882, Denton 76205 Director: Natalie Reitz Mission statement: Providing qualiity choral music to the community.

Executive board members: Monty

Naylor, president; Sara Hill, treasurer; Tim McGAugh, secretary; Jessica Phillips, librarian Overview of services: Performs a minimum of three concerts per year.

History: Since 1970, the Denton Community Chorus has been striving to present quality choral music to the Denton community.

Major fundraisers: At each concert we conduct a silent auctions and raffle. We made an appeal for financial support in the spring Donations needed: financial How to donate: by mail

DENTON COMMUNITY FOOD CENTER Contact information: 940-382-0807, info@dentoncfc.org Website: www.dentoncfc.org Address: 109 W. Sycamore St., Denton 76201 Director: Tom E. Newell, board chair Mission statement: To provide food from a central community storehouse to needy individuals and families in emergency situations Executive board members: Tom E Newell, chair; Fritz Schwalm, vice chair; Linda Brady, secretary; and Ed Ellis, treasurer.

Denton Record-Chronicle

Overview of services: Groceries (canned and boxed goods, fruits and vegetables, meats, breads and baby foods as available) to prepare meals. ID required on file for each family member; food provided based on family size. Maximum of four visits per calendar year, no more than once per month.

History: Founded in 1974. Today we are still an all volunteer-staffed and run, donor-funded and supported, community-based Charity serving 21 cities, towns and communities in 31 zip codes of northern Denton County. In 2012, we distributed more than 229 tons of food to the local community.

Success story: Periodically we receive “thank you” cards in the mail from people stating the food center was there when they needed it, and now they are back on their feet and they enclose a donation to help others in the future. A pretty powerful message.

Major fundraisers: Annual Postal Carrier Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive (in May each year) collects food communitywide. In 2013 we collected more than 38,000 pounds of food.

Volunteer opportunities: We have a strong group of regular volunteers. As needed we accept additional volunteers.

September 29, 2013 Contact our volunteer coordinator via our website for details. Typically finding volunteers is not our challenge — food and cash donations are our challenge.

Donations needed: basic staple food items such as peanut butter, boxed cereal, canned fruit and juices packaged for home/family use. No glass containers, please.

How to donate: Checks mailed to P.O. Box 2121, Denton, TX 76202. Food donations at our rear dock door, 1 to 3 p.m.

Monday through Friday only. Please see details on our website.

DENTON COMMUNITY HEALTH CLINIC Contact information: 940-600-7527, amasciarelli@dentonchc.org Website: www.dentonchc.org, www.facebook.com/dentonchc Address: 3537 S. Interstate 35E, Suite 203, Denton 76210 Director: Alice Mascairelli Mission statement: To provide comprehensive, affordable and quality health services to all, regardless of ability to pay.

Executive board members: Donald Place, chair; Emma Fowler, first vice chair; Terry Widmer, second vice chair;

Community Guide

Charlene Myers, treasurer; Dianne Holt, secretary Overview of services: health services: acute care, chronic disease management, mental health services, nutrition services, preventive care services to all, primary care medical home employee services History: The organization was founded in November 2011 to fill a gap in health care needs in the community. The clinic started by providing health services at Our Daily Bread at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church and grew into a busy health clinic serving both the uninsured and the insured in our community. We provide services to uninsured on a sliding-scale fee schedule that is based on the federal poverty guidelines. We also accept all insurances, Medicare and Medicaid.

Success story: One of the many success stories is that of a woman who had a huge mass in her neck and who was getting progressively weaker. She could no longer do her job properly and was at risk of losing it. She came to the clinic in tears as no one was willing to see her since she had very little income and could not afford to see a specialist.

Our volunteer health care provider examined her and decided the mass was probably related to her thyroid. Needless

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to say, the lady broke down in tears because she could never afford surgery or to see a specialist. We told her not to worry and that we would look into resources to help her. Our health care provider contacted the thyroid surgeon in Denton, who agreed to see the lady for free and do an ultrasound on her neck to see if the mass was related to the thyroid.

It sure was, and it needed surgery soon.

Since the lady was working, we contacted the Texas Department for Assistive and Rehabilitative Services in Lewisville to see if the lady would qualify for their assistance, which in the end she did. However, the usual processing time for assistance applications was six months. We worked with the workers at DARS to expediate the case by obtaining all the information they needed from the specialist.

Within three months, the lady had her surgery and with thyroid treatment postsurgery is feeling great. She now has a new job that she loves and feels that we saved her life.

Major fundraisers: Annual fundraiser focuses on humor: “Laughter: Denton’s Best Medicine,” a comedic look at health and health care , will be at the Denton Country Club at 6 p.m. Oct. 26.

Volunteer opportunities: Health care

During Times Times of of Sorrow Sorrow During We can help ease your burden by making the necessary arrangements to honor your loved ones’ memories.

Mulkey-Mason FUNERAL HOME

Jack Schmitz & Son 705 N. Locust • Denton • 382-6622

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Community Guide

September 29, 2013

providers have the opportunity to volunteer their services, and anyone can help with answering phones, clerical duties and grant writing.

Donations needed: Financial donations are needed to add providers to the clinic so that we can serve more than the current 900 patients. To date, we grateful to the many individuals who have donated more than $40,000. We have also received $25,000 from the Flow Health Care Foundation. We can always use office supplies, copy paper and computers.

How to donate: Anyone can donate time, money and materials by calling the clinic at 940-600-7527.

directing, lighting, sound, box office, ushering, concessions, cleaning, costuming, set building and painting Donations needed: Ticket sales account for only about 30 percent of the operating capital needed to produce the shows and programs each year. DCT relies on cash donations for memberships and advertising, as well as donations of costumes. Also needed are building materials, paint and labor.

How to donate: Call or e-mail for more information.

Facebook page for more information.

Volunteer opportunities: children’s program friends, crisis line workers, SAT members, office help, board members, thrift store clerks, community education presenters, administrative team helpers Donations needed: financial support, food, diapers, a new van for the shelter, office supplies, gently used items for the thrift store How to donate: Visit www.dcfof.org, mail to P.O. Box 640, Denton, TX 76202, or call 940-387-5131, ext. 104.

DENTON COUNTY FRIENDS OF THE FAMILY

DENTON COMMUNITY THEATRE INC.

Contact information: 940-387-5131, ext. 107; toni@dcfof.org Website: www.dcfof.org, www.face book.com/dcfriendsofthefamily Address: 4845 Interstate 35E, Suite 200, Corinth 76210 Director: Toni Johnson-Simpson Mission statement: Denton County Friends of the Family is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive services to those impacted by rape, sexual abuse and domestic violence, while partnering with our community to promote safety, healing and prevention.

Executive board members: Sheila Schneider, Gene Cherrnay, Devona Simpson, Alice Mankoff, Deborah Cosimo, Linda Marshall, Nancy Howell Overview of services: Direct services to victims of relationship violence and sexual assault, including safe shelter and counseling services, to Denton County residents.

History: Since 1980, Friends of the Family has been providing shelter and outreach services for Denton and Dallas County victims of domestic violence. The agency began with a staff of two, 32 volunteers, a 900-square-foot shelter and a $10,000 budget. Friends of the Family has grown to a staff of 40, hundreds of volunteers, a 4,400-square-foot shelter with a daily capacity of 32 women and children, and an operating budget approaching $2 million. All resources are dedicated to helping the growing number of women and children seeking help and support. The agency estimates that more than 7,500 victims will receive assistance in 2013.

Major fundraisers: For the past six years, “Rhapsody in Blue” featuing Tiffany & Co. has been held in the spring as a major fundraising event for DCFOF. In 2014 a new event will be introduced to the community. Check our website or

DENTON COUNTY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY INC.

Contact information: thedctteam@ campustheatre.com, 940-382-7014 Website: www.dentoncommunity theatre.com Address: 214 W. Hickory St., Denton 76201 Director: Mike Barrow Mission statement: To contribute to the cultural life of the community through theatrical experiences.

Executive board members: Cila Lewis, president; Roni Beasley, president elect; Rudy Menn, treasurer; Kay Lamb, secretary Overview of services: Denton Community Theatre presents 14 to 20 different productions throughout the year including traveling and competition shows, Theatre School classes, special events and fundraisers, showcase productions, Beaujolais and More wine and food tasting, and manages the Campus Theatre for the community and the Greater Denton Arts Council.

History: Denton Community Theatre is one of the oldest arts groups in Denton and has provided more than 40 years of theatrical experiences for the Denton area.

Denton Community Theatre Inc. was charted as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) educational organization in August 1969.

Success story: DCT has many success stories but the most impressive is that we have run continuously since 1969 for 44 seasons Major fundraisers: Encore, held every summer in late June or early July. Encore kicks off with a reception catered by many of Denton’s finest retaurants and beverage suppliers, followed by a performance at the Campus Theatre.

Volunteer opportunities: acting,

Contact information: 940-349-8752 Website: www.genealogydenton texas.org, or find us on Facebook Address: 502 Oakland St. President: Wanda Samek, 940-3201810 Mission statement: To assist the public as well as the membership in the study of genealogy; to support the Denton Public Library with emphasis on its genealogical collection; to locate, preserve and expand information relating to the history of Denton County and its early citizens.

Executive board members: Dayonne Work, vice president; Susan McIntosh, secretary; Linda Tourlaine, treasurer; Mary Brownmiller and Mark Brownmiller, membership co-chairs Overview of services: Membership organization provides genealogical research and educational opportunities through meetings, lectures, workshops and support of the public library.

History: Slogan: “Disturbing the dead and annoying the living since 1979.” The society began in 1979 and has been active ever since. It holds monthly meetings, promotes and helps support the public library as opportunities arise; and conducts research and compiles data of genealogical significance.

Major fundraisers: membership dues of $15 for individuals, $25 for family membership Volunteer opportunities: Attend our meetings on the second Thursday of each month (September through November and January through May), at Emily Fowler Public Library, 502 Oakland St. (meeting at 7 p.m., social networking period at 6:30 p.m.)

Donations needed: funds for the Denton Public Library How to donate: Attend society meet-

Denton Record-Chronicle ings, visit the library, or call an officer.

DENTON COUNTY HISTORICAL COMMISSION Contact information: Beth Stribling, 940-241-2523, bvstribling@gmail.com Website: Denton County Historical Markers, www.dentoncounty.com/ historicalmarkers; Denton County Museums, www.dentonmuseums.com Address: 110 W. Hickory St., Denton 76201, in the Courthouse on the Square Director: Beth Stribling, chairman Mission statement: To preserve, protect and promote the history of Denton County Executive board members: Beth Stribling, chairman, DJ Taylor, first vice chairman; Annell Bradford, second vice chairman; Doboran Boone, corresponding secretary; Don McClure, financial secretary; Connie Baker, member-at-large; Jean Carter, member-at-large.

Overview of services: Assist the Denton County Commissioners Court and the Texas Historical Commission in the preservation of Denton County’s historic and cultural resources. These services are provided through the efforts of the Executive Committee and the following committes and chairs: archaeology, Barry Carr; bylaws and parlimentarian, Jesse Davia; cemetery, Tresa Tatyrek; education, Steve Cure; fire truck, Lee J. Capps; historical research and marker, Beth Stribling; museums, Andy Eads; oral history, Tara Carlisle; publications and communications, DJ Taylor; special events, Lynn Yeargain; Courthouse Watch liasion, Jim Heath. Support services provided by Roslyn Shelton, manager of research and public programs, Denton County Office of History and Culture.

History: The Texas Legislature set up the system of county historical commissions. The duties and responsibilities of a county historical commission are set forth in detail in Texas’ Local Government Code, Chapter 318. The Texas Historical Commission is the state agency for historic preservation. Its mission is to protect and preserve the state’s historic and prehistoric resources for the use, education, enjoyment and economic benefit of present and future generations. THC was established in 1953 as the Texas State Historical Survey Committee out of gubernational and legislative concern for the increasing loss of the state’s history.

Success story: The Denton County Iron/Steel Bridge Project has received

Denton Record-Chronicle

September 29, 2013

statewide recognition by the Texas Historical Commission, which has featured it on its website. Denton County has a large number of historic bridges that, through the efforts of the Commissioners Court, have been relocated throughout the county. Efforts are being made by the DCHC Marker Committee to research and write the history of each of the bridges and eventually obtain historical markers for each of the relocated bridges in the county. About 18 bridges have been identified and historical. Bridges have been adopted by Frisco, The Colony, Denton, Krum, Roanoke and Sanger. Not all have been permanently placed at this time.

Volunteer opportunities: All DCHC regular members are required to serve on at least one commitee; additionally, community volunteers may serve on any committee. The Denton County Museums use a large number of docents in their museums programs both on- and off-site.

Donations needed: potential sponsors for historical markers; awards for winners in youth essay contests; donations for the Denton County Historical Park How to donate: Call Peggy Riddle, director, Office of History and Culture, at 940-349-2850; or Roslyn Shelton, the

office’s manager of research and public programs, at 940-349-2860.

DENTON COUNTY MHMR CENTER Contact information: 940-381-5000 Website: www.dentonmhmr.org Address: 2519 Scripture St., Denton 76201 Director: Pam Guiterrez, CEO Mission statement: To enhance the quality of life of the individuals served and their families.

Executive board members: C. Coby Waddill, chairman; Bettye Myers, vice chair; Judi Swayne, secretary; Rhonda Dick, Patti Dunn, Tiffany Haertling, Peter Lane, Keith Turner Overview of services: Mental health services for individuals with major depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

The center also provides services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities for the priority population of Denton County.

History: In 1971, mental health services were first provided as an outreach from Terrell State Hospital offering counseling and medications to individuals discharged from that facility. Offices were located in

Community Guide

the old Denton City Hall. In 1987, the center became the Mental Health Authority and Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authority for Denton County.

Success story: This year, our center has created two peer specialist positions. Peer specialists are paid staff members who are in mental health recovery and use their lived experience to help the clients we serve and the center as a whole.

Major fundraisers: 5K/1 Mile Walk in honor of Suicide Prevention Week, held in September to benefit the Center’s Holiday Helping Hands Program.

Volunteer opportunities: Several volunteer opportunities available for students seeking internships or experience and for individuals seeking to fulfill court-ordered community service hours. Groups are welcome to assist with Gardening Days or hosting a food drive for the center’s food pantries.

Donations needed: nonperishable food for our food pantries; clothing and household items in the spring, for the center’s annual Rummage Sale; and new toys in November for the center’s Holiday Helping Hands Program; cash donations for food pantry purchases and Holiday Helping Hands gift purchases.

How to donate: Drop off donations at

Partner With Goodwill Earn Up to $1,500 or More!

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2519 Scripture St. in Denton, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

DENTON COUNTY OFFICE OF HISTORY AND CULTURE– DENTON COUNTY MUSEUMS Contact information: 940-349-2850, sherrin.hubert@dentoncounty.com Website: www.dentonmuseums.com, www.dentoncounty.com Address: Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum, 110 W. Hickory St., Denton; and the Historical Park of Denton County, 317 W. Mulberry St., Denton Director: Peggy Riddle Executive board members: Mary Horn, Denton County judge; Peggy Capps, chair, Museums Committee; Beth Stribling, chair, Historical Commission Overview of services: genealogical and historical research, educational programs for all ages, rotating exhibits, traveling exhibits.

History: The museum opened in 1979 as a repository for Denton County history from its earliest beginnings through the present and celebrated its 30th anniversary in April 2009. The Courthouse-onthe-Square Museum is located in the 1896

How?

By hosting a donation drive in partnership with Goodwill Industries of Fort Worth, Inc.

The program is simple:

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• We deliver a donation trailer to your site on the scheduled event date.

• Goodwill attendant(s) will be on-hand for 6 hours to pack the trailer(s) with acceptable donations. Your organization transports all donations to the trailer.

• Your organization will receive $1,500 for 30 bins full of acceptable donations items. A 15bin minimum is required. For each additional bin, your organization will recieve an extra $50.

For more information or to schedule your event, Call (817) 332-7866 x2036 or email

donationdrive @goodwillfw.org

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Community Guide

Denton County Courthouse. The Historical Park of Denton County currently contains the Bayless-Selby House Museum, the Denton County African American Museum and a Welcome Center. Long-range plans for the park include the placement of additional structures such as a windmill, a church, a fourhole outhouse and a log cabin.

Success story: In 2013, we added more than 30 new volunteers who provide information to our visitors.

Volunteer opportunities: education volunteers, research volunteers, exhibit volunteers and special events volunteers Donations needed: Denton County historical artifacts including objects, papers, photographs and books How to donate: Donations are accepted year-round to assist in the preservation of our collections and for exhibitions and educational programs.

DENTON COUNTY RAIDERS SELECT SPORTS ORGANIZATION Contact information: 940-202-9504, dc.raiders@yahoo.com, @dc_raiders on Twitter Website: www.dcraiders.org, www. facebook.com/dcraiders Address: P.O. Box 52003, Denton 76206 Director: Dayton Arkansas, president and co-founder Executive board members: Dana Turner, athletics director and co-founder; Lealand Dean, vice president Overview of services: select coaching and various programs for boys and girls ages 5-12 History: Started in March 2012.

Success story: We have gone from serving around 95 kids to now serving over 215 kids in one year of service.

Volunteer opportunities: several committee positions as well as opportunities to help out at different events.

Donations needed: football equipment How to donate: E-mail dc.raiders@yahoo.com.

DENTON FESTIVAL FOUNDATION INC. Contact information: 970-565-0931, artspatron@aol.com Website: www.dentonjazzfest.com, www.facebook.com/DentonArtsandJazz Address: P.O. Box 2104, Denton 76202 Director: Carol Short

September 29, 2013 Mission statement: The Denton Arts & Jazz Festival is an event for and about the arts. The “arts in the park” is cross-cultural and appeals to all ages and families, affording festivalgoers the opportunity for education and artistic experiences with no admission charge.

Executive board members: Liz Seibt, president; Jean Stanley, immediate past president; Lisa Miller, Lori McLain, Carrell Ann Simmons, Michael Fraga, Susan Curry-Langston, Terry Nobles Overview of services: Free three-day event featuring live music and art every April.

History: Formed in 1980.

Success story: Second and third generations of attendees bringing their children to the event and exploring the Children’s Art Tent.

Major fundraisers: Sponsor drive begins in late fall for the following year Volunteer opportunities: Top Hands are our backbone — these people run the festival booths during the weekend Donations needed: time and money How to donate: Visit the website or send donations by mail.

DENTON HOLIDAY FESTIVAL ASSOCIATION Contact information: dentonholiday lighting@gmail.com Website: www.dentonholidaylighting. com Address: P.O. Box 2765, Denton 76202 Director: Micah Pazoureck Mission statement: The Denton Holiday Festival Association Inc., established in 1988, is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization governed by a volunteer board of directors. The organization’s primary mission is hosting the Holiday Lighting Festival. This beloved community event, held on the second Friday following Thanksgiving, includes musical and dance presentations, horse-drawn carriage rides, children’s crafts, and visits with Santa. Live entertainment is provided by talented local musicians and the Denton Community Band. DHFA raises funds from the private sector to purchase holiday street banners, festival lights, and decorations for public buildings and the Courthouse on the Square in historic downtown Denton.

Major fundraisers: Holiday Lighting Festival on Dec. 6 Volunteer opportunities: http:// dentonholidaylighting.com/get-involved Donations needed: The event is fund-

ed through the generous support of corporate and individual donations and sponsorships.

How to donate: http://dentonholiday lighting.com/donations

DENTON KIWANIS CLUB CHILDREN’S CLINIC Contact information: 940-387-6323, denton.kiwanis@verizon.net Website: www.dentonkiwanisclub.org Address: 1001 N. Elm St., Denton 76201 Director: Robin Meyer Mission statement: Providing free medical, dental and prescription assistance since 1923.

Overview of services: Free medical, dental and prescription services to children from low-income families who are not covered by Medicaid.

History: The clinic has been in continuous operation since 1923 funded by individuals, fundraisers and grants recieved.

Major fundraisers: Taste of North Texas, usually held in March of each year; Elvis on the Square, held in May; Denton Kiwanis Fourth of July fireworks show.

Volunteer opportunities: Check with the office. Opportunities arise occasionally Donations needed: cash donations, inkind donations such as printing or other services How to donate: Call or e-mail the club office.

DENTON PARKS FOUNDATION Contact information: 940-349-8272, janie.mcleod@cityofdenton.com Website: www.parksfoundation.com Address: 601 E. Hickory St., Suite B, Denton 76205 Director: Tim Crouch, president Mission statement: To enhance the ability of the city of Denton to provide excellent parks andrecreational opportunities for the community.

Executive board members: Marc Culp, vice president; Don Edwards, secretary; Simone Royster, treasurer Overview of services: We are helping the Denton community create and sustain a system of public parks, recreational facilities and leisure opportunities second to none. We encourage individual and corporate investment of time, talent and treasure into this system. We believe that topquality public parks and recreational opportunities are vital to a healthy citizen-

Denton Record-Chronicle ry, and to a vibrant and beautiful city.

History: The Denton Parks Foundation was founded in 1987 and is a 501(c)(3) organization formed to support projects and programs of the Denton Parks and Recreation Department. It has no direct affiliation with the city of Denton and is governed by its own Board of Directors.

While Denton is fortunate to have a wonderful parks system, there are times when tax dollars are simply not enough to meet the needs and expectations of our citizens.

Additional quality programming, activities and facilities are possible through the foundation’s efforts to procure private support for projects that enrich Denton’s park system and recreation programs. The foundation also applies for and accepts grant money from government sources and other foundations.

Success story: As of June, the Parks Foundation has provided over $7,800 in scholarships for various camps and recreational programs.

Major fundraisers: advertisment opportunities at the Water Works Park on Splash Radio Donations needed: Join the Friends of the Parks; provide scholarships for lowincome families for safe child care and recreational programs.

How to donate: Contact Janie McLeod at janie.mcleod@cityofdenton.com.

DENTON PUBLIC LIBRARY Contact information: 940-349-8752 Website: www.dentonlibrary.com Address: 502 Oakland St. Director: Terri Gibbs Mission statement: The Denton Public Library enriches and enhances the community by providing quality materials and services of educational, informational, cultural and leisure value.

Overview of services: Provides information and entertainment resources in a wide variety of formats including books, DVDs, CDs, electronic periodicals, databases and through live classes, among others.

DENTON PUBLIC LIBRARY LITERACY PROGRAM Contact information: 940-349-8774, wylaina.polk@cityofdenton.com, @dentonlibrary on Twitter Website: www.cityofdenton.com/ departments-services/departments-gp/library/classes-events/literacy-program, www.facebook.com/dentonpubliclibrary

Denton Record-Chronicle

Address: 502 Oakland St. Director: Terri Gibbs Mission statement: To serve the literacy needs of adult residents within Denton County.

Overview of services: reading, writing, GED and ESL help for adults History: Started in 2010, the literacy program has helped an average of 17 adult students every year reach literacy goals.

According to the Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy & Learning, 8 percent of Denton County is illiterate.

Surrounding counties show a 13.5 percent illiteracy rate.

Success story: In 2012, 17 students met personal goals. These goals are set by the students and tutors who try to help them meet the goals with personalized teaching sessions. Goals can range from filling out job applications to reading to their children at night. All of the goals met have a personal and profound impact on the students and their lives.

Major fundraisers: donation and grant funded Volunteer opportunities: Tutors are needed for one-on-one tutoring sessions with students. We provide all training and materials needed for the program.

Donations needed: monetary dona-

September 29, 2013 tions for instuctional books, reading kits, office supplies for students and tutors How to donate: Call the Denton Public Library Administration Office at 940349-8754.

DENTON PUBLIC SCHOOL FOUNDATION INC. Contact information: 940-369-0064, jjackson2@dentonisd.org Website: www.dentonisd.org/dpsf Address: 1307 N. Locust St., Denton 76201 Director: Jacqueline Jackson Mission statement: To enrich and maximize the quality of education available in the Denton Independent School District.

Executive board members: Dr. Karen Goff, president; Charlie Parker, vice president for administration; Steve Ciulla, vice president for scholarships and grants; Janet Shelton, vice president for development; Tami Clary, vice president for community relations; Linda Glass, secretary; Sandy Kristoferson, treasurer Overview of services: The foundation raises funds for the benefit of staff and students of Denton ISD, distributed as grants to teachers, staff scholarships and student scholarships. The foundation

Denton Community Health Clinic

Community Guide

encourages contributions for endowment purposes and receives special gifts and donations to enhance the educational experience of Denton ISD’s schools, students, staff and programming. Along with grants and scholarships, DPSF uses other donated funds to sponsor or underwrite unique projects throughout the district that might not otherwise be funded because of district budget constraints. The goals of the foundation are to encourage academic excellence, facilitate innovative educational activities and promote continued community involvement in the schools.

History: Founded in 1994 for the purpose of supporting and enhancing the educational mission of Denton ISD, organizers of DPSF invited key leaders to join the first Board of Directors and the community involvement continues today.

Board members come from diverse areas of the district, local businesses and organizations, as well as community volunteers who desire to further the excellence of public education. In 1995, a founding donor campaign raised the seed money to begin the work of the foundation. From this initial support, the Grants-toTeachers, Staff Scholarships and Student Scholarships programs were established;

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in addition, special programs were set up for funding as designated gifts or endowments.

Since our beginnings in 1994, the foundation has established more than 75 full endowments ($10,000 or more) and more than 35 term endowments ($2,500 or more), all of which generate yearly grants and scholarships for staff and students. To date, the foundation has awarded more than $1.4 million in grants and scholarships to teachers and staff and nearly $500,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors. Currently, the foundation has built endowments valued at more than $1.6 million. The foundation continues to develop new avenues of service and innovation for Denton ISD and its growing student population.

Success story: Partner PE is a physical education class at the high school level matching students with special needs with their peer partners, encouraging physical activity for students with disabilities, creating friendships, building self-esteem and developing leadership skills in peer partners. In May 2013, with support from a DPSF grant, about 150 Partner PE students from Denton, Guyer and Ryan high schools, and their coaches, held Partner PE Field Day at the Guyer track. To watch

Jostens

Serving Denton and Surrounding Areas

940-566-4200

Providing comprehensive, quality and affordable health care for 2 years.

Celebrating 115 years of business, Jostens has been a part of local communities, working with K-12 schools, colleges and universities, teams and affiliation groups. Representatives from Jostens touch thousands of schools and groups every day, working to make a difference with products and services that recognize accomplishments and help people tell their stories.

Join us for our hilarious

“Laughter: Denton’s Best Medicine Celebration” October 26, 2013 at Denton Country Club Tickets $55.00/person

Jostens has been a part of the Denton community for over 40 years and a member of the United Way since 2011.

To Purchase Tickets Call 940-600-7527 or Come By 3537 S. I-35 Suite 203 Denton, TX 76210 I3

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Community Guide

the partners working together to run a race or make a long jump was both touching and inspiring. These students had differing abilities but shared the common experience of respect and acceptance for one another.

Major fundraisers: Groundhog Day Gala on Feb. 1 at UNT Gateway Center, a fun-filled evening of dinner, student entertainment, and silent and live auctions.

Donors are recognized for their contributions of endowments and special funding.

Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers can help with planning and/or setting up the annual gala; work on various other events during the year; serve on grant and scholarship review committees in the fall and spring, or serve on the Board of Directors or Advisory Board.

Donations needed: auction items and gift certificates. Donations of full and term endowments or other monetary contributions go toward special projects and programs.

How to donate: via mail or phone; or online at our website.

EAGLEPOINTE CHURCH Contact information: rnorris@eagle pointechurch.net Website: www.eaglepointechurch.net Address: 1310 Lindsey St., Denton Director: Richard Norris Mission statement: Discover. Connect.

Belong.

Executive board members: Anthony Grizzard, Charity Heimbaugh, Richard Taylor, Lee Baseler, Colten Goll, Dusty Garland Overview of services: Sunday morning worship services, Wednesday student ministries, small groups History: Formerly Lindsey Street Assembly, renamed and currently pastored by Richard Norris since 2007.

Success story: People are coming to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior or recommitting their lives every Sunday.

Major fundraisers: tithes and offerings Volunteer opportunities: Sunday morning and Wednesday night volunteer opportunities

ELM FORK CHAPTER OF THE TEXAS MASTER NATURALIST PROGRAM Contact information: 940-349-2883, efcmn.denton@gmail.com Website: http://txmn.org/elmfork, www.facebook.com/TexasMaster

September 29, 2013 NaturalistElmFork Address: 401 W. Hickory St., Denton 76201 Director: Susan Pohlen, president; Donna Wolfe, Denton County AgriLife administrative assistant Mission statement: To develop a corps of well-informed volunteers to provide education, outreach and service dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas within their communities.

Executive board members: Susan Pohlen, president; Van Elliott, vice president; Jeri Marold, treasurer; Judi Elliott, secretary Overview of services: Outreach, education, conservation and preservation of natural resources with in our ecological region. Many communities and organizations rely on such citizen volunteers for implementing youth education programs; for operating parks, nature centers and natural areas; and for providing leadership in local, natural resource conservation efforts.

History: The Elm Fork Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalist Program was formed in 1999 under the oversight of Denton AgriLife Extension agent John Cooper. Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension service act as advisers to the chapter to help us with issues relevant to our ecological regions. We are a non-political service organization that provides expertise and services to the state and county as needed.

Success story: A group of our volunteers got together to create the “Texas Our Heritage” outdoor learning center for students at Heritage Elementary School in Highland Village. The outdoor garden was created to represent the 10 ecological zones of Texas, with representative plants from each region. The garden became a springboard for study with teachers creating lesson plans to further engage their students.

When it rains, the students can learn indoors from an 80-foot interactive wall display that brings an engaging field triplike experience to the children via a handheld mobile device. Using an augmented reality software platform, Arasma, our volunteers supplied all the teaching assets — currently over 800 trigger images and videos — and made them available in a module format for free to anyone teaching the 10 ecological zones of Texas curriculum.

Students are given a mobile device — phone or iPad — to explore the wall dis-

play. Typically each map featured 40 to 50 artist renditions of nature (such as native plants, birds, animals or butterflies) that, via Aurasma, was linked to a 30- to 60second video. Now, affordable two-dimensional maps — nine in all available from the Texas Parks and Wildlife at a cost of $25 — have become exciting hikes through nature. The “Texas Our Heritage” project demonstrates how teachers can embrace mobile learning devices to effectively engage students and enhance learning cost effectively. This curriculum has been expanded into several other area schools and more students are engaging in nature.

Major fundraisers: Funds are raised through our chapter membership, annual training classes and donations.

Volunteer opportunities: The chapter is involved in 34 approved projects in Denton, Wise and Cooke counties. These projects involve education, preservation and conservation of natural resources and areas. We are active with state, regional and local organizations to provide volunteers and expertise, at no cost, toward accomplishing collaborative nature conservation and educational goals.

Donations needed: Financial donations are appreciated. They will be used to fund equipment purchases and other necessary items for educational programs.

How to donate: Donations can be made in person or by mail to the Denton County AgriLife Extension Office, Joseph A. Carroll Building, 405 W. Hickory St., Denton, TX 76201, Attention: Master Naturalist treasurer.

ENCOUNTER CHURCH Contact information: 940-783-8438 Address: 1500 Dallas Drive at Quality Inn and Suites Director: Pastor Marc Jones Overview of services: Church History: Launched Easter 2013

EXERCISE AND SPORTS NUTRITION CLINIC (INSTITUTE FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH) AT TWU Contact information: 940-898-2799 Website: www.twu.edu/womenshealth/clinic-community.asp Address: Texas Woman’s University Human Development Building Director: Sarah Guenther, clinic coordinator; Nancy DiMarco, director Mission statement: Enhancing the

Denton Record-Chronicle health and well-being of women across the lifespan through research, education and advocacy.

Overview of services: nutrition counseling for weight management, sports nutrition, exercise testing and assesments, DXA scanning History: Opened in 2007.

Success story: We have several success stories of individuals achieving their goal weights and body compositions; as well as athletes who are better able to reach their performance goals after they receive sports nutrition education.

Major fundraisers: Power of a Healthy Woman Symposium, date to be announced. The purpose of the event is to increase knowledge of health risks among women and raise awareness among women about disease prevention and health promotion Volunteer opportunities and how to donate: Call Sarah Guenther at 940-8982799.

Donations needed: office supplies, computers, electronic medical record keeping software

EXPLORIUM DENTON Contact information: 940-595-4001 Website: www.exploriumdenton.org, www.facebook.com/exploriumdenton Address: P.O. Box 52145, Denton 76206 (we do not yet have a brick-andmortar facility) Director: Anyah Martinez Mission statement: To provide opportunities for children to experience the wonder and excitement of science, math and technology through hands-on exhibits, multimedia and content-rich programs that engage the learner, stimulate curiosity, encourage exploration and foster lifelong learning.

Executive board members: Lauren Brewer, Melissa Haas, Zane Santos, Alana Presley, Michelle Abeyta, Sean Abeyta, Tara Mills, Anyah Martinez Overview of services: Our goals are to form partnerships with area educational institutions and other related organizations to promote the importance of science, math and technology; and to provide a fun, education venue in the city of Denton for families to learn and play together.

History: Founded in May 2012, Explorium Denton is the brainchild of Anyah Martinez, a 35-year-old mother of three who is using her career experience and educational background to create a

Denton Record-Chronicle

place for her children and others to learn and play. Her vision for Explorium Denton is filled with numerous activities, rotating exhibits, experiments, challenges, professional demonstrations and speakers, summer camps, homeschool learning opportunities, partnerships with likeminded Denton entities, and much more.

Success story: We recently had our public debut at the Denton Community Market. We are providing a children’s activity once a month showcasing various hands-on, engaging activities to give people a taste of what we will do once we open.

Major fundraisers: Our first big fundraiser was last December. We had another small one in April. While we are not yet approved as a 501(c)3, we are a registered nonprofit entity in the state of Texas, and we will continue hosting smallscale fundraisers until we are able to apply for grants and seek other funding sources.

Volunteer opportunities: monthly market helpers, board member positions, fundraising organizers Donations needed: monetary contributions for simple materials for our public programs; and such things as signage, nametags and nominal operating expenses like business cards, rental fees, profes-

September 29, 2013 sional development and dues, etc.

How to donate: via mail (by check)

FAMILY HEALTH CARE INC. Contact information: 940-381-2313, theclinicloop288@yahoo.com Website: www.familyhealthcare-inc. com Address: 3537 S. Interstate 35E, Suite 210, Denton 76210 Director: Patrice Capan Mission statement: To ensure that Denton County residents have healthy pregnancies and babies that are desired and nurtured by providing accessible, affordable reproductive and prenatal health care.

Executive board members: Suzanne Newcomer, Mindy Mashburn, Randee Ward, Susan Conn, Toni Haddox, Kathryn Duesman, Ellen Painter, Sara Carey, Flavia Galarraga, Rhonda Love Overview of services: Prenatal care with on-site labs and sonogram; social worker for consultations; Class D pharmacy for contraceptive supplies for clients; well woman exams, Pap smears, sexually transmitted infection testing, menopause assessment and hormone replacement therapy, hypertension, dia-

betes and cholesterol assessment and treatment, male physicals History: FHC started in January 1988 with an all-volunteer staff dedicated to providing prenatal care to the uninsured women of Denton County. It now has a staff of 15 serving 1,400 patients a month.

It is a nurse-managed clinic of bilingual advanced practice nurses who provide prenatal care, physical exams and reproductive services to men and women, with a medical director to evaluate the highrisk clients. Methods of payment are private insurance, Medicare, all Medicaids and a sliding-fee scale. Grants allow qualifying clients to receive services at discounted rates. A large network of collaborating agencies allows for access to services that would otherwise be unavailable or cost prohibitive. The social worker serves as the client navigator to ensure that all appointments are kept and the information shared with all providers. The ultimate goal is for the client to participate in their care and take responsibility for maintaining their health.

Volunteer opportunities: preparing client educational handouts and labeling medical supplies provided to clients Donations needed: magazines in English and Spanish for waiting room,

Community Guide

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copy paper, money How to donate: Bring supplies to the clinic; donate on the websitevia PayPal.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF DENTON Contact information: 940.382.5478, mware@fumc-denton.com, @FUMCDenton on Twitter Website: www.fumc-denton.com; search for “First United Methodist Church Denton” on Facebook Address: 201 S Locust St., Denton 76201 Director: Don Lee, lead pastor Mission statement: To make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Overview of services: Worship, several opportunities for growth in study and service.

History: We are a community of believers committed to living out our vision — to shine God’s love into every life. Take time to browse through our various ministries and you will discover talented, creative and imperfect individuals who gather as the people of God, united by the Holy Spirit, living faithfully as disciples of Jesus Christ. The congregation has grown

Loveless & Loveless, Attorneys at Law, L.P. Loveless & Loveless provides over 50 years experience in aggressively litigating divorce, child custody and other family law disputes, with over 40 years experience as Board Certified Attorneys in Family Law*. The firm also practices Collaborative Law, an option for resolving your case without court intervention.

Our mission is always to provide quality legal services in a supportive environment during your family’s transition.

Additional information is available at www.cmloveless.com. *Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization Members: American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers

Texas Board Of Legal Specialization Board Certified Family Law

940-387-3776 I3

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Community Guide

September 29, 2013

from the estimated 30 to 40 members in 1857 to just over 1,750 members in 2009, holding services in the same location for the 150 years of its existence.

Volunteer opportunities: Visit www.fumc-denton.com/servOthers.shtml.

Donations needed: financial How to donate: via mail (check), online or in person

FRED MOORE DAY NURSERY SCHOOL Contact information: 940-387-8214, fredmoorenursery@gmail.com Website: www.fredmooredaynursery. com Address: 821 Cross Timber St. Director: Wendy McGee Mission statement: To provide quality, affordable child care to families in Denton County in a loving and nurturing environment that promotes the healthy growth and development of the whole child.

Executive board members: Margaret Bays, president; Robin Myles, secretary; Freddy Espericueta, treasurer; Jennifer Englebrecht, vice president, operations; Jessica Mason, vice president, fundraising Overview of services: Comprehensive, full-day, year-round early learning program for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old. Child care fees are based on household income and number of persons in the home.

History: Fred Moore Day Nursery School was started in 1954 by the Denton Soroptimist Club and the Business and Professional Women’s Club. The nursery school was founded after three small children were left alone while their parents were at work and perished when the home caught fire. At that time, there was no child care for young African-American children. Fred Moore Day Nursery School helped to fill this void and provided a safe, loving and nurturing environment for these very deserving children. For over 55 years, the school has continued to grow and provide a quality early childhood experience for children and families throughout our community.

Success story: We have children come to us who don’t speak English, and by the time they graduate preschool they are speaking fluent English and are scoring 90 percent or greater on assessment tests for kindergarten.

Major fundraisers: Gospel Brunch, first Saturday in December, at the Center for the Visual Arts, an event featuring gospel music and brunch.

David Minton/DRC file photo

Adam Reece helps teach Girl Scouts how to create a business plan as Texas Woman's University student group Enactus hosts a finance conference for area Girl Scouts in February.

Volunteer opportunities: in the classrooms, reading to children, singing or doing music with children, helping teachers attending to children’s needs; helping in the kitchen, improving grounds and rehabbing classroom furniture, deep cleaning, teacher trainings, grant writing, marketing, graphic design and IT assistance.

Donations needed: paper products, diapers of all sizes, baby wipes, pens, markers, permanent markers, adult scissors, construction paper, playground toys, crayons, small plastic containers with lids, gently used clothing sizes infant to 6.

How to donate: Via mail, drop off or we can pick up.

FRIENDS OF THE DENTON PUBLIC LIBRARIES Website: www.cityofdenton.com/ ?navid=489 Address: 502 Oakland St. Director: William Kamman, board president Mission statement: To maintain an association of persons interested in promoting the programs of the Denton Public Libraries as a cultural and educational asset to this area, and to emphasize to the community the importance of public library service both now and in future development of Denton and Denton County.

Executive board members: Philip Baker, Raquel Bryson, Linda Burke, Robert Desiderato, Dieter Gaupp, Teri Gibbs (ex officio), William Kamman, Stephen Lingrell, Teri Lupo (bookstore),

Carol Nance, Tom Reedy (communications), Ron Rose, Keith Shelton (secretary), Ray Stephens (membership), Martha Tarlton and Linda Touraine (treasurer) Overview of services: The Friends of the Denton Pubic Libraries assists, primarily financially, the local public libraries in serving the public. The Friends’ money may be used to buy books, sometimes special books such as large print; it may be used to support a variety of programs such as the summer reading program or the Denton Writes program; it might be used for equipment or a “face-lift” of a particular area of the library such a an area for children.

History: Strong evidence suggests the founding of the Friends of the Library Organization was in the late 1960s. In 1987, the name became Friends of the Emily Fowler Public Library and, in 1996, the Friends of the Denton Public Libraries. Despite name changes and the growing Denton library system, the major goal of the Friends has remained fundraising for books, material, equipment and programs that support the system in serving the public.

Success story: In the summer of 2013, there were 5,000 participants in the Summer Reading Program, a 15 percent increase over the previous year. The Friends contributed $9,000 for this program. In 2011, the Friends organization raised sufficient funds to contribute $30,000 to support library services in 2012.

Major fundraisers: Second Hand Prose used bookstore at North Banch

Denton Record-Chronicle Library. Hours are Mondays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Sundays, 1 to 4 p.m. It is closed on holidays and Friends book sale Saturdays. The organization conducts four book sales a year in the meeting room at North Branch Library. Upcoming sales are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 9, Feb. 15, May 17, Aug. 9 and Nov. 8, 2014. Members enter free and non-members pay $1.

Volunteer opportunities: Become a member. Membership forms are available at the Second Hand Prose Bookstore and at the book sales. Members may volunteer to help with book sales, and they may, after training and as needed, work in the bookstore. The membership form also lists volunteer opportunities to help with computer classes, adult literacy instruction, children’s programs, teen programs and adult programs.

Donations needed: Standard membership fees are $5 for students and senior citizens, $10 for individuals and $25 for a family. Or, an individual may join as a contributing member ($35), sustaining member ($50), patron ($100) or benefactor ($500 and up).

How to donate: If membership is not desired, contributions may be sent by mail, attention: treasurer.

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY (SANGER) Contact information: 940-458-3257 Address: 501 Bolivar St., Sanger 76266 President: Nancy C. Smith Mission statement: To promote Sanger Public Library to the community.

Officers: Nancy Smith, Melissa Sneed, Bob Chauncey, Diane Reed, Kay Murdock Overview of services: To raise funds to purchase needed supplies for the library.

History: Officially organized in 1995.

Success story: Book sale raised almost $1,500 last year.

Major fundraisers: Annual used book sale during the Sanger Sellabration, second Saturday of September.

Volunteer opportunities: help with book sale, assist library staff Donations needed: time and money How to donate: Call the library for information.

GIRL SCOUTS OF NORTHEAST TEXAS Contact information: media@gsnetx.org Website: www.gsnetx.org

Denton Record-Chronicle

September 29, 2013

Address: 6001 Summerside Drive, Dallas 75252 Director: Colleen Walker, CEO Mission statement: Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place.

Executive board members: Millie Bradley, board chair Overview of services: leadership skills, outdoor leadership, science, technology, engineering and math, financial literacy History: On March 12, 1912, Juliette Gordon Low assembled 18 girls from Savannah, Ga., for the first Girl Scout meeting.

Major fundraisers: Women of Distinction Luncheon, Oct. 24 at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, honoring women leaders and two amazing Girl Scouts.

Volunteer opportunities: troop leaders, adminstrative volunteers How to donate: Visit www.gsnetx.org.

Alford, president; Joyce Wood, Craig Tullus, Jane Ray, Ruby Ray, Dan Flagg, Steve Newman Overview of services: food, utilities, rent, medical, lodging.

History: Started over 50 years ago.

Success story: A young father of three children had no work and no lodging. We were able to get him lodging, food and a job.

Major fundraisers: local solicitation after UNW fundraiser Volunteer opportunities: Anyone wishing to help. We are open from 8:30 a.m. to noon Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Donations needed: money, food, clothing How to donate: Call 940-686-3014, mail, or stop by our location.

GOODFELLOWS OF PILOT POINT

Contact information: 940-383-2651 Website: www.good-sam.com/denton village Address: 2500 Hinkle Drive, Denton 76201 Director: Michael Larson, administrator Mission statement: To share God’s love in word and deed by providing shelter and supportive services to older persons and others in need, believing that “In Christ’s

Contact information: 940-686-3014 Address: 1189 S. U.S. Highway 377, Pilot Point Director: Luther Slay Mission statement: To meet the physical needs of those in our area of service as funds allow.

Executive board members: Jerry

GOOD SAMARITAN SOCIETY–DENTON VILLAGE

Community Guide

Love, Everyone Is Someone.”

Executive board members: Patricia Haugen, chairperson; Neil Gulsvig, first vice chairperson; David J. Horazdovsky, board member, president and CEO; Christopher Johnson, board member, executive committee; the Rev. John Holt, board member, executive committee Overview of services: Good Samaritan Society–Denton Village is located in northwest Denton on a beautifully landscaped 27-acre campus. Denton Village has grown from its inception in 1976 to include 93 apartments, 60 twin home/triplex units, a modern health care center and a 14-unit assisted living center. Denton Village is a continuum of care campus offering skilled nursing care, senior living, assisted living, and in-patient and outpatient therapy.

Denton Village provides a holistic activities program for residents. These programs are led by qualified activity directors and operate within the broader context of life enrichment for every resident. Awarded Best of Denton honors for senior care facility in 2012 and 2013, Denton Village has achieved a reputation for excellence in long-term care and its senior living community by providing an environment that offers compassion, comfort and loving support to all our residents.

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History: The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society, founded in 1922, is the nation’s largest not-for-profit provider of senior care and services. It is headquartered in Sioux Falls, S.D., and serves more than 27,000 people in 240 locations nationwide.

Success story: At Good Samaritan Society–Denton Village, we take an approach to care that promotes quality of life, and we don’t seek health simply in body but also in mind and spirit. We offer activities, events and classes to simulate physical activity, socialization and learning. There is also a strong emphasis on resident-led activities.

Our senior living fitness program allows residents to boost their physical health while having fun together. There are many class options to choose from. Our newest offering is “Zumba Gold” led by certified instructor Tanya Hickman, the campus wellness coordinator.

Marcia Keough, life enrichment coordinator, seeks input from residents as she plans activities each month. On-campus and off-campus events are offered to meet the social, spiritual, cultural and recreational needs of residents. Marcia leads group visits to museums, theaters, art galleries, and various shopping and restau-

Denton County MHMR Center Enhances the Quality of Life of the Individuals Served and Their Family Members Providing Services to Individuals with Mental Health and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Therapeutic Riding Program

We Change Lives – One Ride At A Time!

Denton County MHMR Center 940-381-5000 Crisis Hotline: (800) 762-0157 2519 Scripture, Denton, TX www.dentonmhmr.org

Riding Unlimited improves the lives of individuals with physical, educational, intellectual and emotional disabilities through the power of the horse.

I3

As the only PATH International Premier Accredited Center in Denton County, we are authorized to work with the Wounded Warrior Project by offering Equine Assisted Therapy for our military veterans.

Riding Unlimited also participates in State Special Olympics games and Chisholm Challenge. Volunteer opportunities available.

501(c)(3)

Fitness through Exercise and Wellness through Education

111 Industrial, Denton 940.566.5291 Hours By Appointment!!

• Mon-Fri: 7am-7pm • Sat: 8am-12pm • Sun: Closed

Learn more: www.RidingUnlimited.org I3

9168 T N Skiles Rd, Ponder * 940-479-2016 I3

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Community Guide

rant venues. Recently, Texas Woman’s University fashion design students came to Denton Village to help residents design spring hats.

Major fundraisers: North Texas Giving Day in September, www.donorbridgetx.org.

Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers of any age can schedule to visit the center on a regular basis, or they can visit for a single afternoon. Whether it’s providing music, assisting with special programs and activities, or helping residents with daily needs, each volunteer helps enhance the lives of residents. Come, sit with a resident and reminisce about years gone by. Take a walk outside. Play a game. Call bingo numbers.

To become part of our volunteer group, contact Debra Argumaniz at 940-3832651 or darguman@good-sam.com.

Donations needed: Donations are needed for Denton Village’s Partners in Well-Being campaign to build a Community Life Enrichment and Wellness Center for Denton’s 55-and-older community.

How to donate: Visit www.good-sam. com/dentonvillage or mail to Good Samaritan Society-Denton Village, Attn: Anita Ray, 2500 Hinkle Drive, Denton, TX 76201.

GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF FORT WORTH Contact information: 817-332-7866, kbostick@goodwillfw.org Website: www.goodwillfortworth.org, www.facebook.com/goodwillguyfw Address: 4005 Campus Drive, Fort Worth, TX 76119 Director: David Cox Mission statement: To empower people with disabilities, disadvantages and other barriers to employment so that they may achieve maximum independence.

Executive board members: David Goodroe, Kip Adams, Frank Shiels, Roger Yandell, John Boswell, Jeff Bland, Will Courtney,Patrick Gotcher, Charla Wise, Mike Griffin, Mary Anna Martinez, Gilbert Zepeda, Pam Voight, J.R. Labbe, Mike Parish, Dr. Darron Turner and Frank Cain.

Overview of services: Goodwill of Fort Worth offers various programs and services to the public. In nine of our 20 stores, Goodwill operates free career centers staff with an employment specialist who help the public with resume preparation, interview skills and job searches. In addition, Goodwill offers on-the-job training in the fields of janitorial, maintenance and dock work. Goodwill of Fort Worth also oper-

September 29, 2013 ates a vocational training school, the North Texas Institute.

History: Goodwill Industries of Fort Worth opened its doors to the public in 1949 and has since expanded its operation to serve 16 counties and operate 20 retail stores. Last year Goodwill of Fort Worth served nearly 40,000 individuals.

Success story: Jerry Gregory has been with Goodwill Industries of Fort Worth for 53 years. He has held many positions within the agency and he dedication to his work is inspiring to everyone. Jerry credits Goodwill as being the only place willing to hiring him and give him a chance 53 years ago.

Major fundraisers: Goodwill Golf Classic, 10 a.m. Nov. 4 at Ridglea Country Club in Fort Worth, raising money for our North Texas Institute Vocational Training School Scholarship Fund.

Volunteer opportunities: in stores and our corporate office. For more information, contact volunteer coordinator Brian Williams at bwilliams@goodwillfw.org Donations needed: clothing, household items and furniture How to donate: Bring donations to any of our store locations or standalone donation sites. To find one near you, visit www.goodwillfortworth.org.

GREATER DENTON ARTS COUNCIL Contact information: 940-382-2787, admin@dentonarts.com, @DentonArts on Twitter Website: www.dentonarts.com, www.facebook.com/DentonArts Address: 400 E. Hickory St., Denton 76201 Director: Margaret Chalfant Mission statement: To provide leadership to support, promote and encourage the arts in the greater Denton area.

Executive board members: Kristin Johnson, president; Rita Burleson, past president; Roni Beasley, vice president of membership; Don Edwards, vice president of exhibitions and education; Jan Hillman, vice president of finance; Cathy Kerley, secretary; Judy Willis, treasurer Overview of services: The Greater Denton Arts Council presents about 15 visual arts exhibits in three different galleries in Denton (two at the Center for Visual Arts, and one in the lobby of the Murchison Performing Arts Center at the University of North Texas). GDAC also has a grant program that assists about 20 local arts organizations, giving out a total

of over $30,000 annually. Educational programs presented by the council include Getting Started With the Arts, Summer Art Camp, docent tours of our exhibits, and meet-and-greets with artists. GDAC manages the Center for Visual Arts and owns the Campus Theatre.

History: The arts council began in 1968 as the Fine Arts and Cultural Affairs Committee through the Denton Chamber of Commerce. The organization was renamed the Greater Denton Arts Council and separately incorporated in 1970. In 1985 the GDAC moved into its home at the Center for Visual Arts, which contains a large multipurpose meeting space, two art galleries, a dance studio and an art studio. In 1990, GDAC purchased the Campus Theatre downtown and renovated the facility, and it is home to several local performing arts organizations.

Success story: The GDAC is proud of the thousands of children who are reached each year through its educational programs, the largest of which is Getting Started With the Arts. Each year, GDAC capitalizes on the resources of our local universities to offer this program to elementary students in the Denton school district. The TWU Dance Department, UNT College of Music, Festival Ballet of North Central Texas and GDAC provide introductions to dance, music, theater and visual arts for elementary students. In 2012, the program set a record, reaching more than 12,000 Denton ISD students.

Major fundraisers: Wild Beast Feast, 6 p.m. Sept. 28, $20 per person, exotic cuisine cook-off with drinks, entertainment and a silent and live auction; It’s in the Bag, each May, auction of purses created by local artists.

Volunteer opportunities: assistance with fundraising events, gallery docent for educational programs, and general office help. Call director of development Michael Schwerin at 940-382-2787.

Donations needed: monetary. To donate stock or include GDAC in estate plans, contact director of development Michael Schwerin. To make special donations, including artwork, contact executive director Margaret Chalfant.

How to donate: online at www.denton arts.com/subsite2/donate.html, by phone at 940-382-2787, or by mail

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF DENTON COUNTY Contact information: 940-484-5006, info@hfhdc.com

Denton Record-Chronicle Website: www.habitatdentoncounty.org Address: 1721 N. Carroll Blvd.

Director: Sandra Monclova, executive director Mission statement: Habitat for Humanity of Denton County is a Christian ministry in partnership with the community that builds affordable housing for economically disadvantaged families.

We focus on families needing a hand up, rather than a handout. We believe decent shelter is a matter of conscience and action. Our goal is to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness.

Executive board members: Christine Thomason, president; Harold Reed, vice president; Bob Pierry, treasurer Overview of services: Habitat works in partnership with low-income working families, funding partners and communities to build and renovate decent, affordable housing. Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Habitat builds and rehabilitates simple, decent houses with the help of the Habitat Partner Families. Habitat houses are sold to Partner Families at no profit, financed with affordable, no-interest loans. In addition to a down payment and the monthly mortgage payments, homeowners invest hundreds of hours of their own labor — sweat equity — into building Habitat houses and working in various support areas.

History: Habitat for Humanity of Denton County was formed in July 2003 when Habitat for Humanity of Denton (established in 1994) and Greater Lewisville Habitat for Humanity merged. Since 1994, HFHDC has built 87 homes in Denton County. The cost for a home in Denton County averages at about $72,500.

Volunteer opportunities: working at the Habitat Restore Donations needed: good, used appliances or any home improvement items for the ReStore How to donate: Call the ReStore at 940-482-8487 to donate items or the Habitat Administrative Office at 940484-5006 to sponsor a house.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY RESTORE Contact information: 940-382-8487, restore@hfhdc.com Website: www.hfhdentoncounty.org/ restore; find Habitat for Humanity of Denton County ReStore on Facebook Address: 1805 Cornell Lane, Denton

Denton Record-Chronicle

September 29, 2013

Community Guide

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Community Guide

76227 Director: Sandra Monclova Mission statement: The ReStore operates to assist Habitat for Humanity of Denton County to build more affordable housing for families in need.

Executive board members: president, Christine Thomason; vice president, Hal Reed; treasurer, Bob Pierry; Melvin Achterberg, John Carpenter, Mike Feist, Reid Ferring, Kenneth Green, Tony Hager, Lance Haynie, Jack Taylor, George Stepp, Jeff Howell, David Isbell, Tom Phillips, Kyle Shipp, Greg Studer Overview of services: The ReStore sells recycled building materials at 25 to 75 percent off retail.

History: The Habitat for Humanity ReStore was started as Bart’s Barn in 2005 by Bunny Hodges of Ruth’s Room and later became the ReStore as part of the Denton County Habitat for Humanity affiliate, created in 2003.

Volunteer opportunities: picking up donations, assisting customers in the store and helping make donations ready for sale Donations needed: working appliances, lawn equipment, building materials, lighting, etc.

How to donate: To donate, call 940382-8487 or e-mail restore@hfhdc.com.

HEALTH SERVICES OF NORTH TEXAS Contact information: Teri Johnson, 940-381-1501, ext. 3009, tjohnson@ healthntx.org, @HealthServices on Twitter Website: www.healthntx.org; www.facebook.com/HealthNTX Address: 4210 Mesa Drive, Denton 76208 Director: Doreen Rue Mission statement: Improving the quality of life for all North Texans through medical care, support services and advocacy.

Executive board members: president, Robert C. Rameriz III; vice president, Jacqueline Jackson; secretary, Joe McCarley; treasurer, Todd Gibson Overview of services: Health Services of North Texas provides medical care to the entire family by offering comprehensive medical services, behavioral health, guardianship and infectious disease care.

Some of the comprehensive services include well visits for the entire family, immunizations, diabetes care, heart disease, COPD, high cholesterol care and asthma care. We accept Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, most major medical

September 29, 2013

Denton Record-Chronicle

A crew from Denton Freedom House puts siding on a Habitat for Humanity house on Bailey Street in July 2012.

David Minton/ DRC file photo

insurance and offer a sliding-fee scale for those who qualify.

History: Health Services of North Texas began in 1988 as AIDenton by volunteers seeking to meet the needs of HIVpositive individuals and their families through support services. In 1997 services expanded into four surrounding counties and primary medical care was established for individuals living with HIV/AIDS who did not have insurance, and the organization was renamed AIDS Services of North Texas. A formal name change to Health Services of North Texas Inc. in 1997 dedicated the agency to a wider scope of services and mission. HSNT acquired the assets of a full-service outpatient health care clinic to provide medical services on an affordable, sliding-scale fee. In June 2012, HSNT’s Denton Medical Center was designated as a Federally Qualified Health Center, which allows HSNT to target its overall goal of providing health care for all, regardless of ability to pay.

Success story: Health Services of North Texas strives to be a resource for local emergency rooms to refer patients for primary care and follow-up. At a recent meeting of medical professionals in the Denton area, a story was shared about a patient referred to HSNT who was able to get an appointment the next day and receive the care necessary to get well. These are the types of stories going on every day at HSNT. Learn more by watching our video

at www.healthntx.org/#!mission/c8tl.

Major fundraisers: Hearts & Heroes Gala is an annual gala honoring outstanding citizens and organizations dedicated to leadership, philanthropy and community service, including a reception with full dinner, silent and live auctions, live music and awards. The 2013 gala is from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Oct. 5 at UNT Gateway Center; tickets can be purchased on our website.

Rockin’ Roundup in early April is an allfamily Western-themed fundraiser including music, games and activities for children, and barrel racing. Cuisine for a Cure, at the end of February, is a progressive dinner with entertainment through the Shops at Legacy in Plano.

Volunteer opportunities: greeter, food pantry, switchboard, maintenance, housekeeping and event volunteers Donations needed: monetary; food and hygiene products for our food pantry How to donate: online through the website, or by check or cash.

HEARTS FOR HOMES Contact information: 940-891-0947, info@heartsforhomes.org Website: www.heartsforhomes.org, www.facebook.com/HeartsforHomes Address: 1012B N. Masch Branch Road, Denton 76207 Director: Susan Frank Mission statement: To provide assis-

tance to the aging population in the areas of housing repair, housing rehabilitation and construction, as well as meeting the needs of their everyday existence. Our goal is for the aging population to enjoy their latter years in a home that is well-functioning and comfortable.

Executive board members: Susan Frank; Carolyn Ganzer; Butch Honse; Wade Moran; Jerry Morgan; Bettye Myers; Don Pooley Overview of services: No-cost home repairs for very low-income seniors.

History: Hearts for Homes was launched in 2006, nearly 20 years after founder Susan Frank had a vision for starting an outreach to assist people with home repairs. Hearts for Homes is an all-volunteer organization with no salaried staff members. To date, we have assisted about 164 homeowners, with 740 work days, amassing over 35,495 volunteer hours.

Major fundraisers: Golf Tournament, Oct. 14 at Robson Ranch; Heartbeat Testimonial Dinner, June 22, location to be announced Volunteer opportunities: onsite project volunteers, including home repairs and warehouse work; homeowner relations; finance committee; volunteer coordination and human relations; marketing, fundraising and public relations Donations needed: monetary; new building materials; meals for workdays How to donate: online or by mail

Denton Record-Chronicle

HOPE INC.

Contact information: 940-382-0609, alonzo.peterson@hopeincdenton.com Website: www.hopeincdenton.com Address: 117 W. Sycamore St. Director: Dr. Alonzo Peterson Mission statement: We serve the homeless and those who are in danger of being homeless in Denton County.

Executive board members: president, Robbie Torrey; vice president, Shari Brand; treasurer, Janet Shelton; secretary, Dianne Randolph Overview of services: We provide short-term rental assistance, emergency housing assistance, transitional housing and housing counseling.

History: HOPE Inc. is a Denton-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation and a United Way partner agency. Created in 1986 as a collaborative mission project of area churches, HOPE quickly began applying for and administering federal, state, and local grants.

Success story: This spring we had a homeless father with two kids sleeping in his truck. They had moved from another state and the kids had missed some time from school. He went to one of our local partner agencies for help and was referred to HOPE. He was placed in one of our transitional housing units, which are below market rate to allow families who are formerly homeless to re-establish themselves in an income-sensitive apartment so they can save money. This father spent some of those savings on tutoring for his kids this summer to get them back on grade level in school. In just a few months, he has found a job and the kids are thriving in their classes here in Denton ISD and are on grade level.

Major fundraisers: Celebrity Waiter Night each spring; Lazy Fundraiser each summer; Poinsetta Sale, fall/winter Volunteer opportunities: administrative volunteers Donations needed: monetary How to donate: in person at the office, by mail at P.O. Box 50946, Denton, TX 76206, or by PayPal on website

INTERFAITH MINISTRIES OF DENTON INC.

Contact information: 940-566-5927 (administrative line), 940-565-5479 (client line), @IFMDenton on Twitter Website: www.ifmdenton.org, www.facebook.com/InterfaithMinistriesof Denton

September 29, 2013 Address: 1109 N. Elm St. Director: Condell Garden Mission statement: To provide emergency assistance to the people of northern Denton County with the goal of helping those people to become self-sufficient.

Executive board members: Ramsey Darhyl, board chair; Laynette Barnard, vice chair; James W. “Jim” White, secretary; Dale Tampke, treasurer; Stacey Brown, Sidd Foster, Jacqueline King, David Strutton, Regina Voorhees, Joseph F. Zellmer, Vicki Watson, Katrina McPherson Overview of services: Emergency financial assistance programs for emergency utility assistance, medical needs for adults, rent/shelter and public transportation; ID and legal document assistance; eyeglasses for adults and children; personal care and hygiene supplies. Seasonal programs include the Apple Tree Project, school supplies, clothing, backpacks and shoes for Denton ISD children; Diaper Depot: diapering supplies for infants and adults; Shop with a Cop, Christmas assistance program provided by the Denton Police Association; Coats for Kids, new and gently used outerwear for children under 18 years; Toys for Tots, gifts and toys for children under 12 years; summer fan distribution.

History: Beginning in 1991, several area churches came together to provide multiple services under one roof, preferably in a central (downtown) location.

These churches pooled resources, freeing their own church ministers and staff from providing fragmented services. Interfaith was officially chartered by the state of Texas in October 1992 as the Social Action Committee, and the name was changed in 1993 to Interfaith Ministries of Denton Inc. Success story: One client, K.S., says: “Interfaith provided me with a bus pass to make my job interview. After I landed the job, they helped me with work shoes and funding to fix the flat tires on my bike to make it to work on time. Without their help, I couldn’t have made any of this happen.”

Major fundraisers: “No-Show Gala” — Purchase tickets to NOT come to our “NoShow Gala” and support our mission without bothering with dressing up and finding a sitter; Apple Tree Project, April through August — Donate money or “adopt” an apple from one of our host sites in the community and help provide a backpack, school supplies, shoes and clothing for a child in Denton ISD.

Volunteer opportunities: There are always opportunities to volunteer. Give us a call at 940-566-5927 to find out more.

Donations needed: monetary donations, box fans, hygiene supplies How to donate: Donate via PayPal on www.ifmdenton.org or send a check to P.O. Box 1744, Denton, TX 76202.

KEEP AUBREY BEAUTIFUL Contact information: 940-343-1313, kab@keepaubreybeautiful.org Website: www.keepaubreybeautiful.org Address: P.O. Box 224, Aubrey 76227 Director: Deborah Goin Mission statement: To inspire individuals to take greater responsibility for creating a clean and beautiful city through litter prevention, reduction of waste and community beautification.

Executive board members: president, Deborah Goin; vice president, D’Lynne Shelton; secretary, Rhiannon Ott; treasurer, Bonnie Owens; Traci Goin; Linda Hammett; Joe Hernandez; Lavonda Lancaster; Mark Ott Overview of services: Keep Aubrey Beautiful is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization that focuses on litter reduction strategies, beautification and community improvement activities, and “reduce, reuse, recycle” practices History: Keep America Beautiful was organized in 2010 and is an affiliate of Keep Texas Beautiful and Keep America Beautiful.

Major fundraisers: Aubrey Peanut Festival, first Saturday in October in downtown Aubrey. The festival begins at 10 a.m. with a parade, and the day is filled with entertainment, games, arts and crafts booths, food, and activities for all ages.

Volunteer opportunities: volunteers who can participate in local community events, and enhance our community by beautification and litter reduction.

Donations needed: time and event sponsorships How to donate: Call 940-343-1313 or e-mail kab@keepaubreybeautiful.org.

KEEP DENTON BEAUTIFUL Contact information: 940-349-8737 Website: www.kdb.org, www.facebook.com/keepdentonbeautiful Address: 1117 Riney Road Director: Lauren Barker Mission statement: To inspire individuals to take greater responsibility for creating a clean and beautiful city through

Community Guide

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litter prevention, reduction of waste and community beautification.

Executive board members: Lancine Bentley, president; Jean Greenlaw, vice president; Lindsay Satterwhite-Preston, secretary; Christa Crowe, treasurer Overview of services: Keep Denton Beautiful works to facilitate community efforts toward making Denton cleaner and more beautiful. KDB offers resources to neighborhoods, civic groups, business owners, families and others looking to make a visible difference in the community. Programs offered by KDB include community improvement and education grants; tree planting programs such as the Tree Giveaway and NeighborWoods; litter prevention efforts through the Adopt-aSpot and Cigarette Litter Prevention programs, and more.

History: Keep Denton Beautiful began in 1987 as a Blue Ribbon Citizens’ Task Force, established by the Denton City Council to make recommendations regarding beautification of city entryways.

It quickly became clear that this group could serve a vital ongoing role by continuing to make recommendations to city leadership about issues and ordinances affecting the appearance and environment of the city. In 1991, the Citizens’ Task Force became the more permanent Keep Denton Beautiful Board, and by 1992 the group had received its articles of incorporation and 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, allowing it to exist as a distinct charitable organization, separate from the city.

Today, KDB maintains a close partnership with the city, and is fortunate to receive support from the city for operating expenses such as office space and supplies.

This allows KDB the unique opportunity to dedicate 100 percent of grants, memberships and donor-contributed funds directly to the agency’s separate nonprofit program budget.

Success story: For the past several years, KDB has been working closely with the city and local merchants to initiate improvement efforts in the Fry Street/Avenue A area. This summer, work began to relocate a set of unsightly Dumpsters — replacing them with bike racks, bench seating and landscaping.

KDB also collaborated with the city’s Solid Waste Department to install a total of six BigBelly solar-powered trash and recycling receptacles in the area, increasing recycling opportunities for area patrons and pedestrians.

In tandem with these efforts, KDB recently launched a cigarette litter preven-

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Community Guide

tion campaign using $2,000 in funds awarded through a Keep America Beautiful grant.

Major fundraisers: Keep Denton Beautiful hosts three major annual events, including the Great American Cleanup in March, a citywide cleanup with more than 1,200 volunteers removing thousands of pounds of litter from Denton streets, waterways and public spaces.

Volunteer opportunities: major annual events, community cleanups and ongoing programs such as Adopt-a-Spot.

Families and volunteers of all ages are welcome.

Donations needed: program support in the form of membership contributions, individual donations and corporate sponsorships.

How to donate: Make your membership contribution or donate online at www.kdb.org. To learn more about corporate sponsorship opportunities, call program manager Lauren Barker at 940349-8739.

KEEP LEWISVILLE BEAUTIFUL Contact information: 972-538-5949, info@keeplewisvillebeautiful.org Website: www.keeplewisvillebeautiful. org Address: 101 W Main St., Suite 102, Lewisville 75057 Director: Amy Wells Mission statement: To engage the citizens of Lewisville through service and education to enhance their community environment.

Executive board members: Christina Lancaster, Jennifer Southwell, Sarah McLain, Jennifer Gingrich, Brian Hayduk, Dan Carter, Kyle Shackelton, Carlos Estrada, Brent Daniels Overview of services: Citywide cleanups, beautification and community improvement projects, environmental education, waste reduction, litter abatement, resource conservation, volunteer opportunities, environment awareness.

History: KLB was founded by volunteers in 1986, and became an affiliate of Keep Texas Beautiful and Keep America Beautiful in 1988. Since then, KLB, its board of directors and staff have been hosting citywide cleanups and community improvement projects to help make Lewisville a cleaner, greener and more beautiful place to live, work and play.

Success story: In 2012, KLB was awarded a $5,000 grant to help plant Texas native wildflowers in Lewisville

September 29, 2013 parks. With the help of hundreds of volunteers, 1.5 acres of wildflowers were planted at Lake Park in just 2.5 hours. The project was so successful that KLB applied for and received another grant from Lowes that will be used to plant another 1.5 acres of bluebonnets on Oct. 26.

Major fundraisers: Studio Movie Ticket sale at the KLB office, Sept.

1through Dec. 1, tickets $9 each, 50 percent of proceeds will be donated to KLB. Buffalo Wild Wings benefit night on Nov. 6 (fliers can be found at website).

Volunteer opportunities: Wildflower planting on Oct. 26 at Lake Park; Trinity Trash Bash waterway cleanup and environmental expo on Nov. 16; Spring Cleanup event on April 19; opportunities offered throughout the year with Adopt-aSpot and Clean Stream Team programs.

Contact the office today to learn more.

Donations needed: trash bags, gloves, cases of water, litter grabbers for cleanups, monetary donations to help fund educational programming, goody bag items for events, food sponsors for events, etc.

How to donate: Become a KLB member, through PayPal on the website, or by calling 972-538-5949. Volunteers can also donate onsite at KLB events

LAKE SHORE BAPTIST CHURCH Contact information: ed@lakeshore baptistchurch.net Website: www.lakeshorebaptist church.net Address: 276 E. Hundley Drive, Lake Dallas, 75065 Pastor: Homer Walkup Mission statement: Engaging people for a transforming relationship with Jesus Christ.

Overview of services: Graded ministries for all ages, blended worship.

History: Serving the Lake Cities since 1969.

LANTANA LADIES LEAGUE Contact information: president@ lantanaladiesleague, @lantanaladies on Twitter Website: www.lantanaladiesleague.com, www.facebook.com/Lantana.Ladies.

League Address: 1011 Fannin Drive, Lantana 76226 Director: Reanna L. Wallace, president Mission statement: To provide community support and involvement through par-

ticipation, service, charitable contributions and special events, and to form friendships with women of mutual interests.

Executive board members: Joni Carlton, vice president; Kay Lewis and Allison Thomas, secretaries; Michi Joseff, treasurer Overview of services: The Lantana Ladies League has more than 100 members who are committed to improving the lives of women, children and families in our community. We take great pride in our continuous involvement in a wide variety of organizations that improve the lives of all members of our community and beyond. During our past membership year, we contributed over $10,000 and countless volunteer hours to the community.

History: One evening in 2005, recognizing a need for organized volunteer services in their growing community, Lantana residents Marla Schirra and Joni Carlton began talking about getting a group of ladies together to form lasting friendships and raise money for local charities. They contacted eight other Lantana ladies whom they felt could help organize such a group. Within three months, they had a good foundation for the mission of the group and how they would set the plan for the Lantana Ladies League (LLL) into motion.

Success story: Funds raised in 2012 for Rally for the Cure: $3,000 Major fundraisers: Black and Bling Event benefiting Rally for the Cure, held in mid-September; Quarter Auction benefiting Lantana Schools PTA Organizations, 7 to 10 p.m. Nov. 19 at the Lantana Golf Club.

Volunteer opportunities: Visit http:// lantanaladiesleague.com/community/ volunteer/ or e-mail volunteers@lantana ladiesleague.com.

Donations needed: Varies: We sponsor a different local charity at each of our monthly meetings.

How to donate: E-mail donations@lantanaladiesleague.com.

LEWISVILLE LAKE SYMPHONY Contact information: 972-874-9087, question@lewisvillesymphony.org Website: http://lewisvillesymphony.org, www.facebook.com/LewisvilleLake Symphony Address: 1278 FM407, Suite 109, PMB B30, Lewisville 75077 Director: R. Neil Ferguson, chair

Denton Record-Chronicle Mission statement: Dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people of all ages in North Texas through live and inspiring classical music. The symphony is committed to educating and supporting rising young talent.

Executive board members: R Neil Ferguson, chair; Grace Lawrence, vice chair; Martha Whitescarver, treasurer; Patti McCoy, secretary; Kirsten Brown, Bill Collins, Jennifer Griffin, Vernell Gregg, Sean Kirk, Diana McMillin, Margaret Metcalf, Pamela Paul, Ruth Ann Ritchie, Margaret Wells, Fran Whittington, Nancy Wright Overview of services: Live performances of great orchestral and chamber music presented by professional musicians.

History: Established in 1983, now celebrating our 30th year of fine concerts as an all-professional musician symphony orchestra.

Success story: The Texas Senate commended the symphony on its 20th anniversary for professionalism and artistic excellence. The Texas House has recognized the symphony’s outstanding contributions to the cultural vitality of the region. On April 30, 2010, Adron Ming conducted the 261 voices of the combined choirs of all five Lewisville ISD high schools and the string section of the Lewisville Lake Symphony before an audience of around 1,000. They performed Timothy Brown’s There Are Stars Whose Radiance Is Visible on Earth, the Texas premiere of a work for chorus, strings and piano commissioned by the Daniel Pearl Foundation. The concert was attended by Dr. Judea Pearl, who spoke to the audience.

Major fundraisers: Annual Gala on Oct. 27 at Royal Affairs Ballroom in Lewisville. For more information, visit http://lewisvillesymphony.org/Gala.html.

Volunteer opportunities: assistance with sales of program advertising; sales of program and event sponsorships; concert house management; gala planning and logistics; solicitation of gala donation items; marketing, publicity and media materials; audience awareness and generation; website and social media support; concert program art; financial oversight and management; and revenue generation. We are also in great need of someone who can seek out grant opportunities and write grant proposals on an ongoing basis.

Donations needed: new auction items, including gift cards and certificates, jewelry, art, accessories and decor; cash donations

Denton Record-Chronicle

How to donate: Contact us by e-mail or mail; pickup available if needed.

LITTLE ELM EDUCATION CENTER

Contact information: 972-292-3562 Website: www.texaseducationcenters. com Address: 5901 Crestwood Place, Little Elm 75068 Director: Clarissa Figueroa Mission statement: The vision of Texas Education Centers is to develop a partnership with parents and the community to provide a nurturing environment in which students master college preparatory and vocational skills while cultivating their unique talents in a character-based atmosphere.

Overview of services: Tuition-free public charter school serving students in grades K-12

THE LITTLE LIGHT HOUSEDENTON INC.

Contact information: 940-808-0835, info@llhdenton.org Website: www.llhdenton.org Address: 3000 E. McKinney St., Denton 76209 Director: Mary Borges Mission statement: To glorify God by improving the quality of life for children with special needs, their families, and communities.

Executive board members: Mitchell Borges, James Earp, Carol Herrin, Brad McCamy and advisers Dale Kimble and Jim Markle Overview of services: The Little Light House serves children with special needs through the age of 6 years. Students have been diagnosed with developmental delays resulting from physically or mentally challenging conditions. Little Light House provides highly individualized special education and therapy services.

Children are taught in a loving, Christian environment, and all services are provided tuition-free.

History: The Little Light HouseDenton opened its doors to the first class of students in January 2010 as an affiliate of The Little Light House National Headquarters in Tulsa, Okla. Mitchell and Mary Borges were burdened with the need for quality early intervention services for children like their son, Nathan, who was diagnosed with autism at age 2.

Believing that God would have them start

September 29, 2013 a ministry for children with special needs, they contacted The Little Light House for their counsel, and they learned The Little Light House was preparing to embark on replicating the ministry across the nation through the establishment of satellite affiliates. The Denton Affiliate is the second national affiliate in the country and the first in the state of Texas.

Success story: In our second year of operation, a handsome, blue-eyed little boy with curly blonde hair came with his mother to Little Light House for his initial interview. Owen was all smiles. His family had been referred to us through Ready Start, our state’s early intervention program. We listened as Owen’s mom shared about his diagnosis of cerebral palsy. At the time Owen was able to sit only for brief periods and needed support. He was not speaking, but he showed interest in books.

Owen loved his time at Little Light House. He began receiving comprehensive interventions in all areas of development. Our occupational therapist worked carefully and creatively to adapt equipment for Owen. He sat in circle time with his special chair. Utensils and crayons got new grips for Owen. His speech therapist tirelessly worked to plan activities to encourage Owen’s language development.

Owen loved tools, and he would sit longer on his own to play with tools and trains.

Eventually Owen began to bear weight on his legs. He could stand briefly at a table with the support of a volunteer. Staff and volunteers poured their ideas, enthusiasm, and heart for service into Owen’s life. He received a gait trainer while attending Little Light House. At first he would stand only briefly or perhaps take a few steps supported with a seat. Over time he was able move a few steps through the building.

Owen participated in Laps for Little Ones two years in a row — first as a lion and then as a clownfish. The overjoyed crowd cheered his accomplishments!

The time finally came when Owen would transition to other programming.

On his last day at The Little Light House, he confidently walked out the door with his gait trainer saying, “Goodbye, Mrs. Mary!” The special boy we met two years prior who could neither walk nor talk was headed off with a newfound independence. We rejoice in his accomplishments and thank the dedicated staff and volunteers for making a difference in the life of Owen and many others.

Major fundraisers: Laps for Little

Ones on Oct. 5 at the Ryan High School track , a one-hour community fun run.

Following the community run, Little Light House students take “Mini laps” to celebrate their achievements. Support is raised through corporate sponsorship and donors. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.

Mini Laps begin at 10:30 a.m. and will be followed by a carnival celebration. Our second annual fundraiser is “The Garden Party,” an annual gala event for the ladies with brunch and a silent auction.

Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers serve in many capacities ranging from direct hands-on work with students in the classroom to office work and fundraising planning. Call The Little Light House for more information.

Donations needed: iPads, a digital camera, ink cartridges, envelopes, cleaning supplies, paper towels, vinyl gloves, copy paper, and adaptive cause-and-effect toys How to donate: Mail to P.O. Box 534, Denton, TX 76202, or drop off at The Little Light House, housed in GracePointe Church’s children’s building.

MARINE CORPS LEAGUE Contact information: Jeff Perry, 940453-1847 or jeffperry0811@yahoo.com Website: Find Marine Corps League Detachment 1300 on Facebook Address: P.O. Box 452, Aubrey 76227 Director: Commandant Mark Roy Executive board members: Commandant Mark Roy, Sr. Vice Cmdt. Nathan Hanson, Adj/Paymaster Mike Amtower Jr., Past Cmdt. Don Carlile, Chaplain Tom Pugh, Sgt. at Arms Jeff Perry Overview of services: Provide services to fellow veterans.

Major fundraisers: Marine Corps Birthday Ball, Nov. 9 in Denton Volunteer opportunities: Toys for Tots, collecting and counting toys.

Donations needed: new and unwrapped toys for the Toys for Tots program.

How to donate: Contact Sgt. at Arms Jeff Perry at 940-453-1847 or jeffperry0811@yahoo.com.

MSGR. KING EMERGENCY OUTREACH CENTER Contact information: Emilio Gonzalez, 817-382-4496; Betty Kay, 940-391-1919; volunteer_for_icc@live.com Website: www.facebook.com/ volunteer.for.icc

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Address: 2255 N. Bonnie Brae St., Denton 76207 Director: Betty Kay Mission statement: To provide a centralized location for emergency, short-term shelter to those who are homeless during extreme weather in the Denton area. The primary function will be to provide a nourishing meal from local restaurants or organizations, a comfortable place to sleep for the night, guidance to local organizations, as well as hospitality and fellowship on behalf of several local churches.

Executive board members: Emilio Gonzalez, Roy Metzler, Caroline Sherburne, Gloria Mendoza, Mary Garcia, Sara Ceary Overview of services: temporary shelter, meals, referrals and fellowship in inclement weather History: In 2009, Msgr. Charles King first opened the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church narthex to people who were homeless in our community. The weather was extremely cold, and having a heart for their suffering, he made the decision to allow our homeless friends to stay in a safe, warm place. Since then, it has evolved into opening during the summer in extreme heat and each winter since.

The “shelter” has been coordinated by volunteers of ICC and includes providing meals and fellowship as well as a safe place to sleep.

Since then, the project has caught the attention of several churches and organizations and has grown to be an ecumenical project involving our entire Christian community. Unfortunately, the number of people needing shelter has grown over the years and the space we have available is inadequate. This past summer, we averaged 45 people each night we were open.

The Serve Denton Project wanted to provide a space for the shelter at the Wheeler Building but again, the space was proven to be too small to meet our needs. As a temporary solution, DBC has offered the use of the Hangar Building for the Msgr.

King Emergency Outreach Center, but we are searching for a permanent building.

Major fundraisers: Annual Msgr. King Golf Tournament in May Volunteer opportunities: provide meals, volunteer shifts during open hours Donations needed: hygiene items, individual snacks, individual drinks (water, Gatorade, etc), sheets, pillowcases, money How to donate: Donations can be dropped off at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.

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September 29, 2013

Denton Record-Chronicle

MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY ASSOCIATION – GREATER FORT WORTH Contact information: 817-338-1024 Website: www.mda.org, www. facebook.com/mdafortworth Address: 701 E. Bluff St. #204 Fort Worth 76102 Director: Katie Wharry Mission statement: The Muscular Dystrophy Association is the world’s leading nonprofit health agency dedicated to finding treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neuromuscular diseases. It does so by funding worldwide research, by providing comprehensive health care services and support to MDA families nationwide and by rallying communities to fight back through advocacy, fundraising and local engagement.

Executive board members: R. Rodney Howell, M.D., Olin F. Morris, Lois R. West, Timmi Masters, Charles Schoor, Esq., Gail Schmertz Kerner, Esq, Judith Laurel, Stephen Evans, CPA, Stanley H. Appel, M.D., *Robert M. Bennett , Bart Conner, Harold C. Crump, Benjamin F. Cumbo III, Steve Farella, Daniel G. Fries, The Honorable Brad Henry, Overview of services: Equipment Assistance and Repairs: MDA funds a program that provides good-condition, gently used wheelchairs and other medical equipment, such as shower chairs, hospital beds, walkers and canes, communication devices and similar items to clients in need. Summer Camp: MDA funds a local summer camp for about 100 kids with neuromuscular disease each year. The camp is located in Meridian at Camp Jon Marc. Flu Shots: MDA provides flu shots for our local clients. Clinic: MDA funds five clinics in the Dallas-Fort Worth area where our clients can go for specialized medical care.

History: As late as 1950, very little was being done to combat neuromuscular disease. In that year, a small group of parents whose youngsters had muscular dystrophy decided to do something about this and MDA was born. Those parents firmly believed that there are no incurable diseases, only diseases for which no treatments have yet been found. That basic philosophy has animated MDA ever since.

Success story: Acid maltase deficiency, or Pompe Disease, is a genetic meta-

David Minton/DRC file photo

Music Theatre of Denton staged “Gypsy,” a musical about fame and family dysfunction, at the Campus Theatre in Denton this past February. bolic muscle disorder, a group of diseases that interfere with the processing of food — in this case, carbohydrates — for energy production. This disease causes slow progressive weakness, especially of the respiratory muscles and those of the hips, upper legs, shoulders and upper arms. Enlargement of the tongue and liver and cardiac involvement and impairment occur in the infantile form but rarely or less common in the olderonset forms.

Major fundraisers: Muscle Walk: The DFW Muscle Walk is an event for clients and their supporters to come together every year. Families and supporters create Muscle Walk teams and help to raise money for MDA and then we hold a big celebration at Cowboys Stadium. This year, Muscle Walk raised over $300,000.

Volunteer opportunities: Summer Camp: Camp counselors are always needed for MDA Summer Camp at

Camp Jon Marc in June. Volunteers must be over 18 years of age.

Donations needed: Gently used durable medical equipment and financial donations used to fund the services listed above.

How to donate: Please contact the Fort Worth office at 817-320-5094 or send donations to 101 Summit Ave. #204 Fort Worth 76102

MUSIC THEATRE OF DENTON Contact information: 940-381-3562, mtd@musictheatreofdenton.com, Website: www.musictheatreofdenton. com, https://www.facebook.com/MTD Shows Address: 214 W. Hickory St. Director: David K. Pierce, Managing Director Mission statement: Music Theatre of

Denton is a volunteer, 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization dedicated to producing top quality musical theatre productions. We are also dedicated to giving those involved in our productions a rewarding and enjoyable experience. We invite you to come along as volunteers, members, season subscribers, patrons and advertisers.

Executive board members: Adam R. Reese, president; Terry Nobles, VP of membership; Vicki Kirkley, VP of public relations; Darhyl Ramsey, VP of outreach; Larry Bisno, VP of devolpment; Jim Laney, secretary; Karen Sandlin, treasurer Overview of services: 29 Years of great Musical Theatre in the Denton Community. We are always looking for dedicated people to work on our productions. Tasks range from set construction to costume and props. No experience necessary, all you need is a good attitude

Denton Record-Chronicle

September 29, 2013

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Community Guide

and a passion for the arts!

History: Beginning 29 years ago as Denton Light Opera Company, Music Theatre of Denton was established to provide quality Musical Theatre to the Denton and surrounding communities.

We are an all volunteer company with performances primarily in the Campus Theatre. MTD historically brings to the stage the edgier musical theatre productions and provides a show quality second to none.

Success story: Winner of the 2012 Best of Denton Entertainers Award.

Regional premier for Avenue Q; best of show awards and various volunteer production awards through the Dallas Column Awards, A DFW Theatre Review board.

Major fundraisers: Feb. 14, 2014: Musical Moments, NOT another GALA preview night midwinter fundraiser.

Community Musical each summer.

Annual membership drive each November.

Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers are always welcome. Tasks range from set construction to costume and props.

No experience necessary, all you need is a good attitude and a passion for the arts!

Donations needed: Become a Supporting Member, all donations are tax deductible: Understudy, Supporting Role, Starring Role, Diva, Conductor, Director, Producer, $15 - 49, $50 - 149, $150 - 199, $200 - 299, $300 - 499, $500 - 999, $1,000 + How to donate: For more information, call the MTD Office (940-3813562) or send an e-mail

NORTH TEXAS BOOK FESTIVAL INC. Contact information: Crystal Wood or Katherine Boyer at ntbf1@verizon. net, 940-387-5605 Website: www.ntbf.org, https://www. facebook.com/groups/371099773686/ Director: Crystal Wood, President Mission statement: The purpose of this organization shall be to raise funds, to promote literacy and to encourage family interaction that will foster reading and the love of books.

Executive board members: Crystal Wood, president; Katherine Boyer, treasurer; Tina Hager, secretary; Gary Johnson, Grant Award Chair Overview of services: Raise funds to provide competitive grants to public and school libraries and literacy programs.

September 29, 2013 History: The North Texas Book Festival, Inc. was organized in 2000 to help school and public libraries and literacy programs in the North Texas area.

Since its beginning, more than $50,000 in grants has been awarded to deserving programs. Organizations such as school or public libraries, or literacy programs for children or adults may apply for grants of up to $1,000. Authors from all over the area bring their books for a “Meet the Author” style event. Attendees can talk to the authors’, one on one, and buy autographed copies of their books.

Besides the great food provided, we welcome featured authors who come to talk about literacy and libraries. We also have the NTBF Awards for the authors to enter their books. On the day of the event we have authors and others make presentations for the public and the authors.

Success story: In the light of budget cuts for libraries and literacy, the money we can award to successful grant applicants helps them provide materials and programming that would not be possible.

For example, we awarded a grant to a library for a children’s program. They were able to buy books and schedule a storyteller for their Summer Reading Program, one of the greatest programs that Texas libraries do to help children retain what they had learned during the school year.

Major fundraisers: The first or second week in April each year (Next one is April 4 - 5, 2014) we hold a book festival with authors who come and sell their books to attendees. We also have a dinner (Book Trails Dinner) the night before the festival for the authors and public to get to know each other in a more informal setting. We also present the grants and NTBF Book Awards at this dinner and one or two featured authors who speak.

Volunteer opportunities: There are several opportunities for volunteers: Examples include, setting up and taking down the tables and chairs on the day of the event, soliciting sponsorship from local businesses and individuals and collecting goodies for goodie bags for the authors (water, coupons, pens, pencils, bookmarks, etc.) that will exemplify the North Texas area.

Donations needed: We need donations to underwrite the expenses of the event, such as, rent on the venue, payment for the food and decorations for the Book Trails Dinner. Donations that

exemplify the North Texas area, libraries and literacy programs for goodie bags to share with the authors.

How to donate: Donations can be made by contacting us at ntbf1@verizon.net or mailing it to NTBF, 624 University Drive #274, Denton 76201.

Contact us at the same e-mail or snail mail for suggested sponsorship’s.

NORTH TEXAS HOUSING COALTION Contact information: 214-946-3500, info@nthcinc.org Website: www.nthcinc.org Address: 2900 Live Oak St., 2nd Floor, Dallas 75204 Director: Albert M. Martin Mission statement: To promote safe, quality, and affordable working class housing in North Texas.

Executive board members: Gilbert Gerst, chairman of the Board Overview of services: 501(c) (3) HUD-certified counseling agency and a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). We are also a preferred educator with the City of Dallas Mortgage Assistance Program (MAP). We are committed to helping our clients with foreclosure help, budgeting and credit counseling and homebuying counseling. Our certified counselors continue to help families in North Texas with many of their mortgage questions.

The NTHC is a non-profit alliance of comprised of groups and individuals dedicated to increasing and improving affordable places to live within North Texas. The NTHC encompasses a 16 county region. We work to educate North Texas homebuyers through the Homeownership Center of North Texas (THC). THC is a FREE community resource, providing homeownership preparation through one-on-one home ownership counseling, foreclosure prevention workshops, counseling and homebuyer education classes. For more than 20 years, the NTHC has provided our communities with leadership, guidance and education on how housing affects issues such as healthcare, transportation, education and crime.

History: The North Texas Housing Coalition is a 501 (c)(3) HUD-certified counseling agency dedicated to developing and implementing a strategic plan for an adequate supply of affordable, working class housing in North Texas. In 1992, the agency was originally founded

Denton Record-Chronicle as the Dallas Affordable Housing Coalition and expanded its focus area and changed its name in 2004 to reflect inclusion of the cities and counties in North Texas. Accomplishments of the Coalition include: Lead organization for the regional housing strategy Launched The Homeownership Center (THC) to increase the level of successful homeownership among households in North Texas by providing effective and comprehensive preparation through counseling, training and education. Developed the Financial Education Coaching (FEC) program to work with potential homebuyers and homeowners in danger of foreclosure.

Success story: Mr. Smith (not his real name) came to the NTHC offices not long after his niece passed away from brain cancer. Shortly after his niece had been diagnosed, he had begun assisting her with her medical costs, which caused him to become four months behind on his mortgage loan.

He received a modification with a fixed interest rate of 5.5% for the life of the loan. His original interest rate was 7% at the time of intake and he was showing to be four months behind with a pending sale date for foreclosure auction. Once he came in for help with his foreclosure, NTHC assisted him by gathering all of his documents in order so that he could apply for a loan modification.

He was put on a trial modification for three months. After he completed the three months the servicer reviewed all of the documents for the final decision, which was a denial. The final modification was denied after a Title search was performed which showed several judgments against Mr. Smith. Upon further review of his credit report, it was determined that these judgments were an error. NTHC contacted one of its partners at Republic Title who was able to perform a search of liens within the court system which provided the actual social security number linked to the correct defendant.

The title company provided NTHC staff with the appropriate form known as a “not the same person affidavit” and this allowed the mortgage company to proceed with the final modification. Mr. Smith’s loan modification was then approved so that he was able to keep his house.

Major fundraisers: Annual Housing Summit in June.

Denton Record-Chronicle

NORTH TEXAS METROPLEX CHILDREN’S CHOIRS INC.

Contact information: 940-453-7424, annsmithntcc@me.com Website: ntchoirs.com; also ntcchoir.com, texasyouthchorale.com, www.facebook.com/ntchoirs Address: 2013 Cindy Lane, Denton 76207 Director: Ann Smith, founder and artistic director Mission statement: Sharing the language of the heart through musicianship, fellowship, relationship and leadership.

Executive board members: Kay Anderson, Doug Mainous, David Martin, Jean Waters Overview of services: The North Texas Metroplex Children’s Choirs, Inc. is a non-profit organization that was formed to help children express their passion and joy for choral music, while developing the child not only as an extraordinary singer, but also as a leader in our schools and communities. Charity and good works are a constant focus of NTMCC, Inc. and with the children’s help, NTMCC, Inc. proudly donates to the Denton Christian Pre-School and many others. The North Texas Metroplex Children’s Choirs, Inc. is 501 c 3 non profit company comprised of three DFW area choirs: the North Texas Children’s Choir (made up of 250 children from 20 schools throughout the North Texas area with a yearly performance at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center in Dallas, TX), the Texas Youth Chorale (30 or fewer 9-15 year olds audition for this special treble choir and will be able to tour internationally/nationally, once a year each June), and the International Youth Choral Festival (an invitational Festival made up of two International choirs and two National choirs who perform at a Festival to be held every third year with a final performance at the Bass Performance Hall in Fort Worth, Texas).

In coming together as ‘one voice,’ the children of NTMCC, Inc. learn team work, integrity and what it is to feel real accomplishment. The North Texas Metroplex Children’s Choirs, Inc. works to, through donations and fundraisers, provide scholarships to those North Texas Children’s Choir students pursuing a college music degree. Scholarships are also available for those members of NTCC wanting to attend a Texas Summer choir music camp.

September 29, 2013 History: The North Texas Metroplex Children’s Choirs, Inc. was formed in 2012, fulfilling a lifelong dream of Founder and Artistic Director, Ann Smith... It was Ann’s dream that first led to the formation of the North Texas Children’s Choir in 1995. The North Texas Children’s Choir was formed so that elementary aged children could have an enriching experience outside the traditional choral music classroom. And with 20 different schools and over 250 children singing annually at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center in Dallas, Ann’s dream for what the NTCC could be, came alive. Now, 18 years later, the choir has expanded to include not only NTCC (our anchor choir), but also the Texas Youth Chorale and the International Youth Choral Festival. The North Texas Metroplex Children’s Choirs, Inc. houses these three choirs, with each choir’s focus being one of fellowship, friendship and choral music.

Success story: “I got to sing at the Meyerson!” was the happy exclamation of NTCC’s David Moon when asked of his experience at NTCC this past year.

David went on to talk of making new friends as well how he felt braver by singing through the “butterflies in [his] stomach.” Keylan Johnson, when asked why he wanted to be a member of the Texas Youth Chorale, said that along with a love of music, he wants to “show people what [he is] made of.” Keylan and David are but two examples of NTMCC members. And each NTMCC member, has his or her own success story. Along with a love of music, each student takes away a renewed sense of self and a pride and strength based upon his or her accomplishments circling around a love of music and the arts.

Our 18th Annual North Texas Children’s Choir Concert at the Meyerson Symphony Center in Dallas is on January 25 at 2:00 p.m. You can purchase tickets at www.ntcchoir.com or call Ann Smith. Don’t miss it! The Texas Youth Chorale will also have several local concerts in November, March and June.

Please visit texasyouthchorale.com or ntchoirs.com for more details/tickets.

Also, don’t miss our first Annual Texas International Choral Festival in June of 2016! During four days of music, fellowship and fun, over 250 students will be staying at Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine while rehearsing and performing informal concerts daily. A final, formal concert will be performed at the

Meyerson in Dallas. Friend NTMCC on Facebook for updates on new choir concerts and fundraisers.

Volunteer opportunities: E-mail Ann Smith at annsmithntcc@me.com to learn about event and administrative volunteer opportunities available with NTMCC, Inc. Donations needed: Any and all donations are appreciated. Those “angel investors” donating upwards of $10,000 will receive special recognition from NTMCC. How to donate: Online at http:// www.ntcchoir.com/donate. Mail any checks to NTMCC, Inc, 2013 Cindy Lane, Denton 76207

NORTH TEXAS STOCKINGS FOR SOLDIERS CAMPAIGN Contact information: 940-453-0511. bobby.travis60@gmail.com Website: North Texas Stockings for Soldiers Campaign on facebook is our main page Address: 211 Belmont Park Drive Ponder 76259 Director: Bobby Travis Mission statement: To add a smile to as many soldiers as possible.

Executive board members: Jen Travis, Robbie lane, Joann Lane Overview of services: Christmas stockings full of goodies for our soldiers and former soldiers History: In 2011 we sent 660 stocking to a Army base in Kuwait. In 2012 we sent 1,016 stockings to a Marine base in Afghanistan. This year we are pleased to announce not only will we be sending stockings to a deployed military base but we are also going to be personally distributing stocking to inpatients at the Dallas VA hospital.

Major fundraisers: Our collection process starts in late September and runs through the first of December.

Volunteer opportunities: We are always grateful for any and all help.

Donations needed: stockings, cookies, crackers, candy, puzzle books, tooth brushes and paste, sun screen, etc.

How to donate: Contact Bobby Travis at 940-453-0511

OPERA ON TAP NORTH TEXAS Website: www.operaontap.org/ northtexas, www.facebook.com/ operaontap.dfw

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Address: 505 West Parkway, Denton 76201 Director: Jeffrey Snider Mission statement: Opera on Tap is a non-profit organization whose mission is to break down the stereotype that opera is a stuffy or elitist art form by bringing it to bars. Local singers let their hair down and bring you into what feels like an after hours back stage party, singing some of opera’s best known and little known pieces in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Executive board members: Kyle Hancock Overview of services: Performance of opera excerpts in bars, restaurants, and other non-traditional environments.

History: The New York chapter began in 2006, and now boasts chapters around the country.

Success story: The “Halloween” show at The Abbey Underground had a packed house! See a picture at http:// www.operaontap.org/picture/22795_ 10151096873982344_1963059988_n. jpg?pictureId=16693707 Volunteer opportunities: We are always looking for singers and people to help with the shows!

Donations needed: We always appreciate money to help offer our expenses.

How to donate: http://www.operaontap.org/donate

ORANGE OUT FOUNDATION Contact information: rbrown@ orangeout.org Website: www.orangeout.org Address: 12650 N. Beach St. Keller 76247 Director: Rhonda Brown Mission statement: Sharing our heart and vision by widening our family to those afflicted by childhood cancer.

Executive board members: Marita Morrow, Kristy Slate, Marcey Martin, Eddie Brown, Anthony Slate and Marcie Yoder Overview of services: We have a hospital outreach where we take bags of food to the families each week. We are also a support team with prayer and emotional help. We also help financially with groceries, water bill, electric bill, partial rent or mortgage payments.

History: We started in October 2011 after the president’s daughter went into remission after her second fight with leukemia.

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Community Guide

medication and razors and shaving cream. In our kitchen, we always welcome any type of food product, coffee, juice, canned vegetables, canned fruit and meat, chicken noodle soup, cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups, fresh fruits and vegetables, mayonnaise, mustard, and ketchup, fruit cups, granola bars, protein bars, and vienna sausages.

How to donate: For credit card donations, you can go to our website www.ourdailybreaddenton.org and click on the “Make a Donation” button. Cash or checks can be mailed to us or dropped off at Our Daily Bread, 300 W. Oak St., Ste. 100, Denton 76201. Food or nonfood donations can be dropped off at this address as well, between 9:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday

PILOT POINT COMMUNITY OPERA HOUSE Website: www.pilotpointcoh.org, https://www.facebook.com/pages/ Pilot-Point-Community-Opera-House/ 378435062229898 Address: 110 S. Washington St. Pilot Point 76258 Director: Rowland Funk, president Mission statement: To rebuild and restore the second floor facade and walls of the original 1894 Opera House as part of the 19th century Pilot Point historic square preservation and to provide a complete facility that will operate as an Opera House to the North Texas area.

Executive board members: Rowland Funk, Lyn Rodgers, Howard Kimble, Shannon Sims, Charlotte Petermeier, Joyce Wood, Lucas Thompson and Christopher Bott Overview of services: A fine-arts facility for all age groups: Theater arts, talents and interests of all kinds. Rental facility.

History: http://pilotpointcoh.org/ History_of_Opera_House.html Success story: Nine months after opening our doors in 2007, PPCOH was able to produce our first play in over 100 years!

Major fundraisers: PPCOH has been home to numerous theatrical performances including comedies, melodramas and dinner theatres. It is home to the Annual Songwriters Festival.

Volunteer opportunities: You can volunteer by ushering, set building and designing, costumes, make-up, lighting, stage properties, acting and directing.

September 29, 2013 Donations needed: We are currently in need of donations for facade and roof repair.

RANCH HAND RESCUE Contact information: 940-464-0985, bob@ranchhandrescue.org Website: www.ranchhandrescue.org, www.facebook.com/ranchhandrescue Address: 8827 S. Highway 377, Argyle 76226 Director: Robert F. Williams Mission statement: Ranch Hand Rescue’s mission is to save abused and neglected farm animals with accountability by working with law enforcement authorities in Texas, adopt out rehabilitated animals and provide a caring sanctuary for the animals that having ongoing needs and to help people with personal, mental and psychological challenges to change and better their lives through Equine/Animal Assisted Therapy.

Executive board members: Robert F. Williams, founder/CEO/board president; Martin Polasko, vice president; Robert Bollas, secretary and Kim Thomas, treasurer Overview of services: Provide psychological and emotional therapy services to people using Equine/Animal Assisted Therapy.

History: Bob Williams started Ranch Hand Rescue (RHR) in 2008. RHR specializes in taking in the “worst of the worst” cases; ones that no one wants to deal with or would rather have euthanized. What sets RHR apart from other animal rescue organizations is that it works to break the cycle of animal abuse by working with law enforcement and the courts to prosecute the offenders.

RHR became a 501(c)(3) organization 2009.

In late 2010, the EAAT program was started at RHR. EAAT uses animals with the assistance of a licensed therapist to help people understand and overcome psychological and emotional issues. The people helped by EAAT include individuals with mental illness, substance abuse, rape, physical abuse, domestic violence, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, loss, relationship problems, veterans returning from combat with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), troubled youth and other behavioral issues.

The worst of the worst animal cases are particularly effective in helping people in that the clients can relate to the trauma and challenges that the animal

has faced and apply it to their own situation. In 2011, RHR partnered with Denton County to provide a place for adults to complete court ordered community service.

Late 2012, RHR added juveniles to the community service program. This program provides a positive environment with good role models for these individuals and also provides an entryway to get additional help through EAAT. Success story: 1. RHR was the first to save a horse, Midnite, from euthanasia by fitting the animal with a prosthetic leg without having to amputate the leg. The horse can now run, buck, roll and do everything a normal horse can do.

2. RHR was the first to save a horse, Phoenix, from euthanasia by using nanofiber technology to regrow a cut tendon.

The horse can now move around freely in a paddock and is ready for training to be a therapy horse. This procedure made veterinary medical history.

3. RHR received a horse, Spirit, from another rescue center that had a broken leg. Before the animal could be seized, the leg healed at a 20-degree angle.

Work is currently underway to save the horse by fitting him with a custom leg brace. The leg brace is designed to shift weight into his shoulder to protect his knee. Prior to getting the brace, the horse could lay down only on one side causing a large bedsore. Since getting the leg brace, the horse can now lay down on either side. His bedsores have healed and he is living pain free. Work is still in progress to help this special animal. This horse has also become a particularly effective and loved therapy animal for EAAT clients.

Major fundraisers: Doris Roberts and Jack Betts celebrity entertainment fundraising gala Nov. 2 at 6 p.m. at Le Beaux Château 2701 Corporate Circle, Flower Mound 75028 Volunteer opportunities: Yes, go to www.ranchhandrescue.org for volunteer application form and process.

Donations needed: Cash and good quality hay.

READING & RADIO RESOURCE Contact information: teri.walker@ readingresource.org Address: 2007 Randall St. Director: Teri Walker Mission statement: To enrich the lives of children and adults who because

Denton Record-Chronicle of physical, learning, or vision limitations cannot read for themselves.

Executive board members: Darren Hart, board president Overview of services: Audio books, 24/7 radio programming on Station NTRB, and audio description services History: Reading & Radio Resource started in 1969 Success story: A grandmother who was an avid listener to RRR’s NTRB radio, fell and broke her hip. She was hospitalized and when she awoke, the first thing she asked for was her radio.

Our radio station served as a friend and companion to her each day and she wanted that sense of normalcy returned.

RRR’s voices on NTRB enjoy keeping her entertained and informed each and every day!

Major fundraisers: Prom: Sept. 28 from 7 p.m. - 11 p.m.at Starlight Room in Dallas Website: www.readingresource.org Volunteer opportunities: Both reading and non-reading positions are available. Reading positions require an audition.

Donations needed: In addition to monetary donations, RRR accepts drop off donations of books, music CDS and movies.

How to donate: Through the RRR website or call 214-871-7668

RIDING UNLIMITED INC. Contact information: 940-479-2016, director@ridingunlimited.org Website: www.ridingunlimited.org, www.facebook.com/ridingunlimited Address: 9168 T N Skiles Road, Ponder 76259 Director: Robin Gregory Mission statement: Riding Unlimited provides safe and affordable therapeutic horseback riding and is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with physical, educational, intellectual and emotional disabilities through the power of the horse.

Executive board members: Jeff Davis, June Splain, Tamara Cohen, Karla Fapiano and Holli Lambert Overview of services: Therapeutic horsemanship for individuals with disabilities History: Riding Unlimited was founded in 1990 by Jim Barton, who was born with athetoid cerebral palsy. His love for horses and the freedom he felt while riding spurred him to provide a means for

Denton Record-Chronicle others to experience that same freedom.

His motto was â&#x20AC;&#x153;Teaching life skills through horsemanship.â&#x20AC;? Today, we still believe in his goals for others. In 1995, Riding Unlimited purchased 49 acres in Ponder where we still operate our program. With a herd of 20 specialized horses, we serve riders from Denton, Tarrant, Wise, Collin, and Dallas counties.

Success story: During the year our riders participate in horse shows such as the Area Special Olympics Equestrian Games and the Chisholm Challenge, which is held in conjunction with the Fort Worth Stock Show. This year our rider, Dee Hernandez, show suffered a traumatic brain injury and lost his sight completely, rode his 25 year old AQHA gelding, Cisco at Chisholm in the Trail Class. Not only did Dee win his class, but also his division with a near perfect score. Two belt buckles later, the smile and sense of accomplishment Dee felt was evident to all around him. In the Area Special Olympics Equestrian Games, Tanner Lowery, rode his Fjord gelding Peke to Gold in English Equitation and Trail Class. While our riders love the ribbons and medals, the real accomplishments are seen in the dif-

September 29, 2013 ference in our ridersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lives. Our stories and successes are endless, the rewards priceless!

Major fundraisers: No Show Horse Show direct mail campaign, ongoing Volunteer opportunities: Horse handlers, sidewalkers, handyman, mowing, fundraising committee, treasury work, barn buddies Donations needed: office supplies, stamps, printing services, large western saddles, bareback pads, surcingles, hay, feed, boards for stalls, web gates, nibble nets for large round bales, fly masks with ears, rider scholarships and horse supplies for grooming How to donate: Through paypal, IGive, Give Direct listed on website, check or credit card

RSVP: SERVING DENTON COUNTY Contact information: 940-383-1508, 972-221-9663, dmcorona@rsvpserves. org Website: www.rsvpserves.org Address: 1316 E. McKinney St. Denton 76209 Director: Diana Corona Mission statement: The Retired and

Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) identifies and addresses issues impacting communities of Denton County and, through volunteer service, enhances the lives of older adult volunteers as well as those they serve.

Executive board members: Pamela Milam, Rachel Babb, Amber Haig and Glenna Krueger Overview of services: The ultimate intent of RSVP: Serving Denton County is to address and solve community problems by developing and implementing volunteer assignments directly driven by volunteers 55 and up that will utilize their talents and experience. RSVP also fields requests from RSVP partner agencies and recruits volunteers to meet their needs.

History: RSVP: Serving Denton County is part of a national network of 750 organizations managing 450,000 volunteers over the age of 55. Established in 1971, RSVP is the largest of three programs administered by the National Senior Service Corps, itself a part of the Corporation for National and Community Service (www.cns.gov).

RSVP: Serving Denton County began in 1973 as Chisholm Trail RSVP funded through a federal grant of ACTION (fed-

Community Guide

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eral volunteer agency). In 1983, RSVP bravely departed from the norm of having a local sponsor and became incorporated as a tax-exempt, non-profit agency.

The central office recently moved to a county owned building at 1316 E. McKinney. The name RSVP: Serving Denton County was officially adopted by the Board in 2000 to better reflect the scope of RSVPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s county wide effort to provide services.

Success story: Rockinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Readers A reading enrichment program for elementary school students, Rockinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Readers was inspired by the donation of a rocking chair to a Denton elementary school.

RSVP volunteers read to classes Kindergarten and first grade on a regularly scheduled basis. This program is currently offered in Denton ISD, Lewisville ISD, Little Elm ISD and continues to grow each school year. In 201213, the program will be offered in the Northwest Independent School District as well.

Major fundraisers: RSVP Golf Classic on May 7 at Champions Circle Golf Club Volunteer opportunities: RSVP brokers agency requests for volunteers.

Donations needed: Reception area furniture, giveaways for volunteer recog-

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Community Guide

September 29, 2013

Denton Record-Chronicle

nition How to donate: Contact Diana Corona, executive director

RYAN HIGH SCHOOL GRAD NIGHT Contact information: ryangradnight @gmail.com Website: http://www.dentonisd.org// Domain/1294 Address: 5101 E. McKinney St. Denton 76208 Director: Sheila Finn Executive board members: Teresa Thomas, Mary Bielefeld and Cathy Smith Overview of services: Project Graduation is a program designed to keep our seniors off the roads on their graduation night by hosting a drug and alcohol free overnight lock-in event for our graduating seniors. This annual event is funded by donations from parents and members of local businesses and civic organizations.

History: Project Grad Night began in Maine in 1978 in response to deaths of 7 teens the year before on graduation night. The program grew and evolved and as new Project Sites were added there were fewer fatalities. By 1983, there were zero grad night fatalities in Maine. The program evolved and spread nationwide providing seniors with a fun and safe last Hoorah before they begin their next journey.

Major fundraisers: Silent auction during the Strutter’s Spring Show. Yard Flocking: People pay to have flock of Ryan Flamingos placed in their friend’s yards and after a certain amount of time the flock flies away. Insurance can be purchased as well.

Volunteer opportunities: We will need help with yard flocking and many more events as the year and plans evolve.

Please contact us for further information at ryangradnight@gmail.com Donations needed: Items for the silent auction, raffle prizes for seniors (electronics, luggage, games), goody bag prizes for each senior, and cash How to donate: Please e-mail ryangradnight@gmail.com or send to Ryan High School C/O Grad Night 5101 E. McKinney St. Denton 76208

THE SALVATION ARMY DENTON Contact information: Brenda

Al Key/DRC file photo

Salvation Army Social Services Program Coordinator Brenda Jackson pours ice into the water cooler at the “Cooling Station” at their facility on East McKinney Street on June 20 in Denton.

Jackson Website: www.salvationarmydfw.org Address: 1508 E. McKinney St. Denton Director: Sergeant Carol Hernandez Mission statement: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Executive board members: Greg Ankeney, Mary Behrens, John Beasley, Melvin Bell, Billy Cheek, Pat Cheek and Hank Dickenson Overview of services: The Salvation Army Denton offers programs to address the needs of the community. Our K.A.R.E. Kitchen offers breakfast and dinner daily to anyone that desires a meal. Our food pantry offers food to needy families and individuals who cannot meet their food needs due to income, unforeseen emergencies or something that affects their ability to get food. In the Shelter we offer five nights of emergency shelter every thirty days to homeless individual and families. For clients who have an income they can apply for our extended program which allows them to save money toward an apartment. During extreme hot or cold weather we offer shelter regardless of your last time here. For the shelter clients they must be drug and alcohol when tested and negative on sex offender screenings.

We offer an afternoon program where anyone can come for referrals, resumes and basic skills classes. During the Christmas season we provide Angel Tree gifts to children in families with a documented need and to several seniors.

History: The Salvation Army Denton Shelter and Social Service began in 1999 Success story: John D. came to The Salvation Army Denton requesting shelter for himself and his two children. John D. had custody due to his wife’s negligence and incarceration. We provided John D. with shelter and encouraged him to look for work. Within the first week John D. had gotten a job as a truck driver. The Salvation Denton partnered with another local service provider and by week two John D. and his two children were in an apartment. John D. has maintained his job and apartment for the last six months. The family has a home and is happy.

Major fundraisers: Annual Luncheon in May and Red Kettle Program during the Christmas Season Volunteer opportunities: For Volunteer Opportunities contact Olivia Vimba at 940-566-3800 Donations needed: Non-Perishable food items, toiletry items, and monetary gifts How to donate: These donations are accepted at 1508 E. McKinney St. during business hours or mail to PO Box 1945 Denton 76205

SCRAP DENTON Contact information: 940 808 1611,

donna@scrapdenton.org, Website: scrapdenton.org, Facebook: SCRAP Denton Address: 215 W. Oak St., Denton 76201 Director: Donna Gregory Mission statement: To promote creative reuse and environmentally sustainable behaviors through educational programs and affordable materials to the community.

Executive board members: Advisory Board: Donna Gregory, Martha Coburn, Heather Gregory, Alana Presley, Shelley Christner, Stacy Bzdok and Nicole Cocco Overview of services: Retail store with donated creative reuse items for sale, RE:Boutique with gift items using 75 percent reused materials, RE:Vision Gallery featuring local reuse artists, creative reuse classes for adults and children, community outreach, field trips, SCRAP in Schools program History: SCRAP Denton is a project of SCRAP PDX (Portland) which was begun in 1999 by teachers. SCRAP Denton opened its doors on Jan. 5, 2012 just one block off the historic Denton Square. SCRAP was 100 percent volunteer led and run during 2012. In 2013 we hired a community engagement coordinator increase the outreach in the community, universities, and ability to partner with local community groups and/or non profits.

Success story: SCRAP Denton has received over 35,000 pounds of wonderful donated arts, crafts, sewing, office and school supplies donated by the community — saving them from the waste stream, giving them a home and making them available to the Denton community to do their creative work. We often overhear folks saying , “I love this store — the concept is great!” and “this is my new favorite store!”

Major fundraisers: Our two previous fundraisers have been in December.

However, this year our big FUNdraiser will be Oct. 12 in a place and time to be announced. There will be food, beverage, silent auction and raffle of great gift and other items. We also have a sidewalk sale fundraiser in the spring — April — where money raised goes to support scholarships for our kids camp and education programs.

Volunteer opportunities: SCRAP Denton has a monthly 2 hour volunteer training where volunteers learn SCRAP’s history, organization, and needs.

Volunteers help to intake and process

Denton Record-Chronicle

September 29, 2013

Project readies board members

B

oard performance is crucial for a nonprofit organization to make the impact thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intended.

United Way of Denton County founded a successful leadership program a few years ago after an expressed need from local nonprofits for more effective board members as leaders on their committees. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The strength of a nonprofit board of directors is its most important aspect,â&#x20AC;?

Gary Henderson, president and CEO of United Way of Denton County, said.

The program covers five core areas: governance, board and agency regulations, operations of the board, finance and fundraising, and marketing. It has recently added new topics to help further shape future and existing board members.

The name, Project Blueprint, stems from â&#x20AC;&#x153;the same reason you would create a blueprint â&#x20AC;&#x201D; in our case, as a basic design of what a good board member would look like,â&#x20AC;? said Leah Jordan, community impact director of United Way.

We

The class takes about 16 to 20 people who are passionate and care about improving the lives of people in Denton County. Its effectiveness is proven when a class fills up with a rich diversity of people who graduate with the desire to impact through leadership.

What makes Project Blueprint so successful is those teaching the program, Jordan said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our instructors are local experts in the field,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Many are executive directors and CEOs, all who donate their time and expertise to the program and do an incredible job of teaching and engaging.â&#x20AC;?

The class costs $100 and consists of evening classes on eight Wednesday nights, with the current session running from mid-September through October, plus classes on Nov. 13 and Dec. 5.

Graduates will receive their certificates during the Dec. 6 United Way board meeting.

Project Blueprint has and will continue to help strengthen the number of local nonprofits for the better.

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211: Three digits offer route to help

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bout a year ago, finding food was the No. 1 request exceeding rent or utility, which is not hard to believe since over 90,000 food-insecure individuals live in Denton County,â&#x20AC;? United Way CEO Gary Henderson said.

Dialing 211 directs you to a statewide information and referral service if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for different types of assistance. Once called, the referral service tailors to the needs of the caller by transferring their call or providing information on how to receive help.

The service provides information on

employment, health care, food stamps, abuse and financial needs.

Interns are hired to maintain the everchanging database for Denton County, so accurate and updated information is acquired. â&#x20AC;&#x153;211 runs the gamut when looking for anyone who finds themselves in crisis or an unfamiliar situation,â&#x20AC;? Henderson said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more of a connection than an alleviator of problems.â&#x20AC;?

Through recognition of the main issues affecting Denton County, we can work harder to provide help to those in need as well as get the word out about current organizations that are already offering the help desired.

Referrals!!

And would appreciate the opportunity to serve you!

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Let us put our exper se to work for you!

Serving Denton for over 30 years!

940.293.3117 Pam Rainey, REALTORÂŽ

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Denton Record-Chronicle pants. Slowly I was able to increase my strength and flexibility, and I found ways to deal with those problems that could not be eliminated. I truly do believe Seniors in Motion not only saved my life, but allowed me to pursue many different interests and activities as I cope with the inevitable constraints of life in my â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;80â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Euline Brock Muscle weakness from Post Polio Syndrome in October, 2004 prompted me to explore Seniors In Motion. With my doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blessing I was evaluated by a physical therapist, given a series of exercises and have been attending ever since. PPS is a degenerative disease but my exercises have helped me maintain an active lifestyle. The core exercises improve posture, lung capacity, stamina, balance and strength. After 50 years of doing nothing wearing a pants leg and shoe, my paralyzed left legâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quadriceps muscles began to tingle, fire, and contract. It still is not a strong leg, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a sign of hope. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve witnessed stroke victims shuffle in and walk out stronger, people who just want to keep up with their grandchildren, people following doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s orders to get exercises, people with back problems begin to move easier and feel younger. The staff is knowledgeable, caring and fun and the atmosphere is warm and friendly. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve made some terrific friends and after nine

September 29, 2013 years I still look forward to Tuesday and Thursday mornings. -Peg Rezac â&#x20AC;&#x153;Disability does not mean Inability but adaptabilityâ&#x20AC;?

Volunteer opportunities: Internship Opportunities for Students in the Allied Health Field TWU/UNT. Senior Fitness Test and Healthy Aging Fair, biannual event. Seniors In Motion To Go: group exercise class program provided to the Denton community. Annual Health Fairs including the City of Denton Benefits & Health Fair. Parkinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Care Givers Together: Support group for individuals with Parkinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and their family. Age Well-Live Well Program Texercise Champions Program Day of the Dead Festival on Industrial Street.

Donations needed: Good Quality Exercise Equipment (Hand Weights, Treadmills, Ect.) Hand Towels Pillow Cases How to donate: You can come to our facility to donate and pick up your tax deductible receipt, or you can mail your check directly to Seniors in Motion.

Please make sure to put down â&#x20AC;&#x153;Donationâ&#x20AC;? at the note section if you are writing a check. Our mailing address is; Seniors in Motion, Inc. 111 Industrial St. Denton 76201

SERVE DENTON Contact information: 949-294-4510, info@servedenton.org Website: http://servedenton.org/, https://www.facebook.com/servedenton Twitter: https://twitter.com/servedenton Address: 821 N. Elm St., Denton 76201 Director: Joe Ader Mission statement: Serve Denton exists to help nonprofits fulfill their missions in advancing the common good of Denton County.

Executive board members: Dale Kimble, chairman; Stan Morton, first vice chairman; Tim Crouch, second vice chairman; Priscilla Sanders, past chairman; Michele Barber, treasurer; Pat Smith, secretary Overview of services: We provide opportunities for co-location, communication and collaboration to Denton County nonprofits. Our vision is to open a nonprofit center with many services in one location for those in need.

History: The idea for many services in one location began with Mayor Elinor Hughes in the 1970s, but gained strong local support in the early 2000s when

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43

the Denton Assistance Center group was formed. Not having land or buildings kept the project from becoming a reality.

In the early 2010s, Denton Bible Church chose to dedicate 16 acres of land and multiple buildings to the community.

Serve Denton was begun to match the dream of the Denton Assistance Center and the offer of property from Denton Bible, with the mission to help nonprofits fulfill their missions in advancing the common good of Denton County. Serve Denton is a community-based, 501(c)(3) working to help nonprofits co-locate, collaborate, and communicate to offer many services in one location.

Success story: Serve Denton helps nonprofits work together to accomplish more. By bringing multiple nonprofits together at our second annual Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day of Concern for the Hungry, we saw a 550 percent increase in food for local food nonprofits over the first year. Great things happen when many agencies collaborate together.

Major fundraisers: Date: April 12 Time: 6:30 p.m. Location: 2200 Nottingham Road, Denton 76205 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Our annual Celebration Gala and Silent Auction, with special guest Dave

Keep Aubrey Beautiful is a Keep Texas Beautiful and Keep America Beautiful afďŹ liate.

Volunteers are needed for Annual Clean-up Events, Music in the Park (free concerts in the summer), Aubrey Peanut Festival, Annual Halloween Carnival, and Hometown Christmas Celebration. Call 940-343-1313. kab@KeepAubreyBeautiful.org

www.KeepAubreyBeautiful.org I3

The Clinic Family Health Care, Inc.

Doing Family Planning & Prenatal Care Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 8am - 6 pm Wednesday 8am - 8pm Ins Walkme Welco

940-381-2313

www.familyhealthcare-inc.com 3537 S. I-35 E. Suite 210 Denton, TX 76210 I3

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Community Guide

share in the joys and successes of their child. In doing so, the SpiritHorse program strengthens family bonds and ensures crossover of therapeutic benefit from our facility into the home. Our program is highly unique in the equine therapy world: Success story: Andrew’s Story Andrew started riding at SpiritHorse one month after his third birthday. At that time, he had extreme social anxiety, separation anxiety, selective social mutism and sensory issues. Later, his Doctor diagnosed him with Autism. He was enrolled in a mainstream private preschool, and after months of trying to ‘assist’ him in adjusting to staying there the whole day, he would cry so hard, that he would hyperventilate. His parents were about to pull him out of school, when they heard about SpiritHorse Therapeutic Riding Center, and how the center works in depth with children with Autism. Miraculously, within two lessons at SpiritHorse, he was able to stay the whole day at school from 9-2. Everyone was shocked! Within 6 lessons at SpiritHorse, he began to give “front hugs.” Prior to that, he used to back into people, and he would not hug them head-on. Andrew still rides at SpiritHorse and continues to makes leaps and strides in therapy. “Overall, we noticed that SpiritHorse greatly improved his confidence, reduced his social anxiety and improved his self esteem. It has made a huge difference in his daily life functions. It has allowed him to be main streamed and helped him gain the confidence he needs to participate in activities with his neuro-typical peers. The progress he has made is phenomenal, these are all lessons and skills he will continue to use as he goes through life! We cannot thank SpiritHorse enough for the opportunities and growth that it has provided Andrew!” - Mary Catherine, Andrew’s mother Major fundraisers: SpiritFest 2013 on Oct. 19. For more information, please contact us. Dine and Donate opportunities at some of your favorite restaurants around DFW. Check out our Facebook for upcoming dates and locations. Raffles and other events as noted on our website and/or Facebook.

Volunteer opportunities: Volunteer instructor, volunteer sidewalker, care and maintenance of equipment, facility and grounds, volunteer administrative assistant duties, special event volunteer, other

September 29, 2013

Denton Record-Chronicle is also active on the Stepping Stones Board of Directors. Stepping Stones will always remember their courage in facing the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease.

Volunteer opportunities: Direct community volunteers and RSVP volunteers to assist clients during the activity program.

Donations needed: Art products, paper goods and snacks How to donate: E-mail: DBrown@ mail.twu.edu

ST. PAUL CHRISTIAN LEARNING CENTER Courtesy photo

Kela Teague, left, of Sanger, was diagnosed with autism in 2009. Here, Teague rides a horse with the help of SpiritHorse instructor Bailey Gramling, right.

Kela's mom said Kela spoke her first word, "go," at age 3 while riding. duties as noted Donations needed: Office supplies, tack and equine equipment, ground maintenance equipment, carrots and apples for our SuperHeroes,j supplies, and as always... monetary donations to assist in the progression of our organization.

How to donate: There are many ways to be a part of SpiritHorse International.

There are varying levels at which you can be a donor or sponsor. For more information, please contact Jennifer Batchelder at 940-368-7538, or at Jbatchelder.spirithorse@gmail.com.

STEPPING STONES Contact information: 940-566-0902 Website: Find us on Facebook: SteppingStonesDenton Address: TWU School of Occupational Therapy, MCL 6th floor Director: Diane Brown, Ph.D., OTR Mission statement: Setting a pathway to support, educate, and engage those with dementia and their caregivers.

Executive board members: Diane Brown, Geri Sams, Eileen Short, Sher Harnish, Gerry Baines, Kerry Buscher, Dot Thompson, Charline Rodgers and Judy Watkins Overview of services: We provide a socialization and activity program on a weekly basis for persons with dementia and a simultaneous support and education group for their family members.

History: Diane Brown Ph.D., OTR

and Geri Sams, LCSW, CMC began the program in 2005 for persons at an early stage of dementia prompted by the lack of services available in the Denton community. Supported by a strong board of directors, community volunteers and the TWU School of Occupational Therapy, we are entering our eighth year of services.

Success story: A 52-year-old woman diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s disease joined Stepping Stones in our initial year. Leigh had been isolated and scared about her future. Her mother was her principal support and advocate.

As Leigh engaged in the activities with the help of a community volunteer, she eagerly and actively enjoyed the increased socialization and sense of accomplishment. She even spoke to a group of students at a conference sharing her experiences of living with Alzheimer’s. Her mother not only became an active participant in the family group, sharing her sadness and fears about her daughter’s future but also became a support to other family members urging them to share their stories and feelings. As the disease progressed, her mother consulted with the family group leader about alternate living options in a residential care home followed by placement in a licensed memory care residence. Her mother continued to remain involved in Stepping Stones and to this day attends the family group to help others in spite of the loss of her precious daughter. She

Contact information: 940-3876651, www.splcdenton.org Website: www.splcdenton.org Address: 703 N. Elm S. Denton 76201 Director: Janice Taylor Mission statement: St. Paul Christian Learning Center exists as a childcare/ preschool and after school care providing the community with a nurturing environment where children learn of God’s love for them and come to know Jesus as their Savior through age appropriate experiences and activities.

Executive board members: Lisa De Los Santos, Myrna Orozco, Martin Noto, Bruce Davis, Anna Peterson, Bill Nielsen Overview of services: Preschool for 2, 3 and 4 year olds. We provide a program of Christian learning that will stimulate the physical, intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual growth of the children enrolled. The 4 year olds that will be entering Kindergarten the next school year participate in a preschool program.

History: St. Paul Christian Learning Center was incorporated Feb. 27, 1986 as a non-profit corporation and operates under the auspices of St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church. We are accredited by the Texas Baptist Church Weekday Education Association and licensed by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, the Child Care Licensing Division.

Success story: The students that graduate from our center are ready for Kindergarten. They have a sense of belonging and have gained the necessary pre-requisite skills needed to have a successful start to their public education.

Denton Record-Chronicle

Major fundraisers: Our two big fund raisers for the year are selling World’s Finest Chocolate which will begin in September or October and the Italian Dinner and Auction which will be held Feb. 8. The dinner and auction proceeds this year will be used to purchase instructional materials that are a part of the curriculum used at the Learning Center Volunteer opportunities: Please contact Janice Taylor for volunteer opportunities and requirements.

Donations needed: We accept any new school materials that teachers can utilize in their classrooms. Because we are a nonprofit organization supported solely by tuition, any donations are welcome!

How to donate: Donations, both material and monetary, will be accepted at St. Paul Christian Learning Center, 703 N. Elm St. The hours of operation are 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

STUCK IN THE MIDDLE CHARITY

Contact information: stuckinthe middlecharity@gmail.com

September 29, 2013 Address: 1408 Mistywood Lane, Denton 76209 Director: Karen Crozier Mission statement: To help middle school students and their families who are suffering financially Executive board members: Mike Vance, Paul Silvernale, Steve McClanahan, Darlene Kent, Gloria Smith and Rebecca Brooks Overview of services: Providing middle school students with school supplies, Christmas gifts, back to school clothes and shoes.

History: Stuck in the Middle Charity was started by Karen Crozier in July of this year shortly after she retired from 29 years in education, with 28 of them at the middle school level. Stuck in the Middle is still in the beginning stages, but has plans to make major impacts with middle school students in the near future.

Success story: Since we are just beginning, we have no success stories... yet. But just wait!!!

Major fundraisers: Our first fundraiser will be sales of smoked briskets to be delivered for Labor Day weekend.

Volunteer opportunities: As the organization develops, we will need vol-

unteers to help at our fundraising events.

We also will need help with shopping for school supplies and delivering them to the middle schools.

Donations needed: School supplies or funds to purchase them are needed at this time. We will also begin planning for Christmas shopping at which time funds to purchase clothing and shoes will be needed.

How to donate: Contact Karen Crozier at stuckinthemiddlecharity@ gmail.com or call her at 940-387-7179.

SUSAN G. KOMEN NORTH TEXAS Contact information: info@komen northtexas.org, 972-378-4808, https;//twitter.com/KomenNorthTexas Website: www.komennorthtexas.org, www.facebook.com/KomenNTX Address: 6130 W. Parker Road, Ste. 312, Plano 75026 Director: Mary Frances Hoover Mission statement: Our promise: To save lives and end breast cancer forever by empowering people, ensuring quality of care for all and energizing science to find the cures.

Executive board members: komen

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northtexas.org/about-us/contact-us/ board-of-directors/ Overview of services: Susan G. Komen North Texas is dedicated to combating breast cancer on every front. Up to 75 percent of the Affiliate’s net income stays in North Texas to fund breast health education, screening, treatment, and patient services for medically underserved men and women of the North Texas service area: Collin, Cooke, Denton, Fannin, Grayson, Hunt, Montague, and Wise counties. The remaining 25 percent supports the national Komen Research Grants Program, which funds groundbreaking breast cancer research, meritorious awards and educational and scientific programs around the world.

History: Our organization started in 1992 as an extension of the national Komen organization. We started serving just Plano, expanded to Collin, then to Denton and Grayson and most recently, to Wise Montague, Cooke, Fannin and Hunt.

Success story: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=ijRyXVRbBKY, komennorth texas.org/north-texas-events/eventphotos/ Major fundraisers: Celebration of

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Community Guide

Hope: fashion show, brunch and grantee presentation on the second Saturday in April. Plano Race for the Cure: Competitive 5k, Casual Walk Run 5K, 1 Mile Family Fun Run on the second Saturday in June. Denton Race for the Cure (same as Plano) on the last Saturday in September. Ride for the Cure: horse trail ride on the last Saturday in October Volunteer opportunities: Event volunteers, office volunteers, education committee, speakers bureau, Voices of Hope - Survivor Choir, Teens for the Cure Donations needed: We raise money to fund organizations that provide breast health education, screening and treatment services to under or uninsured women and men in our North Texas communities.

How to donate: You can participate in an event, donate to a participant, donate your time — all are welcome!

TEXAS COWBOYS AGAINST CANCER Contact information: 817-658-7999, info@texascowboysagainstcancer.org/ Website: www.texascowboysagainst cancer.org, https://www.facebook.com/ pages/Texas-Cowboys-Against-Cancer/ 106799462682517 Address: P.O. Box 132 Ponder 76259 Director: Joe Powell, president Mission statement: Texas Cowboys Against Cancer is a non-profit organization that provides financial support to recipient(s) each year with cancer in the Western heritage community who is uninsured or under-insured.

Executive board members: Joe Powell, Cindy Schiller, Elise Shelton, Robert Holley, Fran Fritz, Jo Hatchell, Amy Gatlin and Janet Settle Overview of services: We provide financial assistance to recipients who submit applications to help them with the financial costs of dealing with cancer.

History: Texas Cowboys Against Cancer (TCAC) is the direct outgrowth of the successful benefits held for Johnnie Neely in 2009 and Jim Saunders in 2010 to help defray the costs associated with their treatment for cancer. Our organization was formed to assist others who find themselves in similar circumstances.

TCAC strives to lessen the burden for cancer patient(s) each year by providing financial support so our recipient and their family can focus on winning the

September 29, 2013 fight against cancer. Sadly, some of our awards have been given posthumously. In that case, the money is given directly to the family to help cover remaining medical bills and funeral expenses.

Success story: In 2012 we were able to give our three recipients a total of $46,000.

Major fundraisers: Oct. 4 and 5 at Diamond T Arena, 6900 E. Sherman Drive Denton 76208, our annual fundraiser which includes a team roping (10/4), mutton bustin’ (10/4), barrel race (10/5), dinner, auction and dance (10/5/13-evening).

Volunteer opportunities: Please email volunteer@texascowboysagainst cancer.org Donations needed: Sponsorship opportunities are available, monetary donations are accepted and we do accept items for our live and silent auctions Please e-mail: info@texascowboysagainstcancer.org How to donate: Please contact us at info@texascowboysagainstcancer.org or via our website

TEXAS SPORTING BREED RESCUE INC. Contact information: (940) 4536894, info@retrieveafriend.org, Website: http://www.retrieveafriend. org, facebook.com/TexasSporting BreedRescue/@retrieveafriend Address: 415 E. Sherman St., Ste. A-1, Denton 76209 Director: Jenifer Batchelder Mission statement: The mission of Texas Sporting Breed Rescue, Inc. (TSBR) is to provide for the welfare, shelter and adoption of lost, abandoned, neglected, or homeless dogs and puppies, specifically; The American Kennel Club (AKC) 28 defined sporting group breeds Retrievers, Setters, Pointers, Spaniels, Vizlas, Weimaraners, and Spinone Italianos; to promote the responsible care of companion animals, to actively promote spaying and neutering as the most humane means of animal control; to support heartworm education and treatment; and to provide training and education to the public related to topics such as: animal welfare, responsible dog ownership and breed information.

Executive board members: Marisha Teagardin, Jenifer Batchelder, Scott Kimball, Jean Mankoff, Bree Kimball and Brooke Rossen Overview of services: animal rescue

and adoption.

History: It all started with a dream that we could see a no kill society in our lifetime, and that one of the biggest hunting and outdoor enthusiasts states in the US would embrace its Sporting Breeds and support our efforts in saving them. Driven by these hopes and founded by a group of dedicated volunteers we set out on the “Mission” of Texas Sporting Breed Rescue.

Success story: Major fundraisers: TSBR holds events each month for the public and potential adopters to meet dogs in our program. Please visit our website for a list of events.

Volunteer opportunities: Foster homes desperately needed!

Donations needed: Nearly every day we receive a call from someone wishing to surrender their dog or from the overcrowded animal shelters in our service area. The person at the shelter informs our rep that a sporting breed is on death row and is facing the prospect of euthanasia very soon. TSBR rescues and places all we can each year and of course, our volunteers would like to save them all but can’t save more without your help. Many of the dogs that enter our rescue program are victims of neglect and/or abuse. Often their medical costs exceed our adoption fee. We depend on donations to make up the difference. If you would like to help save a wonderful sporting breed, please send a tax-deductible donation — every dollar helps. Your money will go to dog expenses such as shelter fees and medical care (shots, micro-chipping, spay/neuter and and other vet care often needed by abandoned dogs). We are an all-volunteer organization so your donations go directly to helping dogs in need. TSBR receives discounted rates (many thanks to those generous service providers) to ensure our funds help as many dogs as possible.

How to donate: http://www.retrievea friend.org/donate

THIN LINE FILM FEST Contact information: 888-893-4560, info@thinlinefilmfest.com, https:// twitter.com/thinlinedocs Website: www.thinlinefilmfest.com, facebook.com/thinlinefilmfest Director: Joshua Butler Mission statement: Our mission is to educate and entertain our audiences by presenting a diverse program of high quality, relevant documentary films.

Executive board members: Paul Meltzer, Kathy Orr, Pat Reinke, Susan

Denton Record-Chronicle Seaborn, Andrew Welch, Alex Payne, Pauline Raffestin, Terri Parker, Ken Leathers and Tania Khalaf Overview of services: Producers of an annual documentary film festival as well as ongoing screenings and other film related activities.

History: Began in 2004 as a student org dedicated to providing production resources to student filmmakers. Quickly grew to become a community media non-profit with a variety of programs and services. Today, the organization focuses most its resources on the film festival while also offering some yearround programming.

Success story: at Thin Line 2013, we opened with the Texas Premiere of Blood Brother to a sold-out audience. Blood Brother had won the top two awards at the Sundance Film Festival only two weeks earlier.

Major fundraisers: The 2014 festival will be held Feb. 12-16.

Volunteer opportunities: Abound... we use over 100 volunteers during the festival. Sign up today at thinlinefilmfest.com.

Donations needed: Cash. We put on a world-class festival — the only one of its kind in Texas — and we do it with the smallest of budgets. Help Denton become THE destination for documentary films each February.

How to donate: Donate at www.thin linefilmfest.com

UNITED THROUGH H.O.P.E. Contact information: dorman@ unitedthroughhope.org Website: www.unitedthroughhope.org Address: 503 Bolivar St. Director: Dr. Laurie Harrier Mission statement: Through various naturalistic programs, United Through H.O.P.E. assists children and adults with social challenges, including, but not limited to persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disabilities, Physical and Emotional Disabilities, Anxiety, and ADHD. Our programs are designed to foster self-confidence, selfesteem, and a sense of belonging and empowerment.

Executive board members: Rodney Dorman, Kevin Bryan, Jennifer Parker, Rebekah Armstrong and Louanne Parker Overview of services: Social programs, League of Friends for Adults and Teens, Allstars

Denton Record-Chronicle

September 29, 2013

Community Guide

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BILL UTTER FORD

Pictured: (Left to Right) Jana Marshall, Treasurer, Brenda Hurlbut, Vice President, Kelly Rennspies, President and Carol Turner, Band Director, Carl Anderson, Bill Utter Ford.

Bill Utter Ford Drives It Home For Krum High Band Bill Utter Ford recently presented the Krum High School Band program with a check for $2,940.00 as part of the Drive 4UR School promotion. The Krum band boosters test drove 147 new Ford vehicles in June. The promotion was held at Krum High School and each test drive earned the band $20.00.

Each participant was asked to ďŹ ll out a brief survey following the test drive. This was the 6th time that Bill Utter Ford has conducted the fund raiser for local high schools.

In total Bill Utter Ford has now given away $13,360.00 over the last three years to area high schools.

Just Another Way Bill Utter Ford Keep Giving to the Community Year After Year... www.utterford.com 940.321.740 800.611.3538 4901 S. I-35E Denton, TX 76210 I3

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Community Guide

September 29, 2013

Denton Record-Chronicle

History: United Through H.O.P.E. Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which was established in 2011. The mission of our organization is providing social programs for all children and adults to become strong leaders within the community.

Major fundraisers: Golf Tournament on April 5 Volunteer opportunities: Mentoring kids, being a helper during group and helping with fundraisers Donations needed: Video games, 15 passenger van, outdoor sport equipment, nerf swords, art supplies, items that interest teens How to donate: Contact Becky Dorman at 866-857-7751

UNITED WAY OF DENTON COUNTY Contact information: 940-566-5851, gary@unitedwaydenton.org, @unitedwaydenton on Twitter Website: www.unitedwaydenton.org, facebook.com/unitedwaydentoncounty Address: 625 Dallas Drive, Suite 525, Denton 76205 Director: Gary Henderson Mission statement: The mission of United Way of Denton County is to improve lives in Denton County.

Executive board members: Dawn Cobb, Dr. Sheri Dragoo, Mark Merki, Sherri McDade, Rob Seay, Greg Sawko, Lyle Dresher, Brandon McCleskey, Dr. Bettye Myers and John Cabrales Overview of services: United Way of Denton County focuses on three key areas: Education, Income, and Health.

Through community initiatives and investments, United Way of Denton County board, staff, volunteers, and donors work alongside our partner agencies and community impact partners to improve lives in Denton County.

History: United Way of Denton County is a locally governed, autonomous, 501(c)(3) organization that has been efficiently mobilizing resources to advance the common good in our community since 1951.

Success story: United Way of Denton County’s (UWDC) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program returned $1,037,382 in federal refund dollars back into Denton County and into the pockets of low to moderately low income families. In its sixth year of operation, the VITA program operated free tax preparation sites in four northern Denton

David Minton/DRC file photo

Jupiter House Coffee owner Joey Hawkins holds his dance partner Rosalyn Rodriguez at the end of Round 2 at the United Way of Denton County inaugural United TRIBUTE event “An Evening with our Stars!” on Jan. 26, at the Dallas/Fort Worth Marriott Hotel & Golf Club at Champions Circle in Fort Worth.

County locations: City of Denton North Branch Library, Sanger Public Library, Little Elm Independent School District, and Vision Ministries (Denton). Under the direction of UWDC staff, 43 local volunteers achieved IRS-certification and served 593 families by the April 15th tax deadline. The four UWDC VITA sites operated a total of 225 hours and served 593 low to moderately low income families. The IRS estimates that the average out-of-pocket cost incurred by taxpayers to prepare and submit a simple return starts at $225. Based on this calculation, the United Way VITA program saved residents at least $133,425 in tax preparation this year. In addition, volunteer tax preparers found over $356,769 in Earned Income Tax Credits, $76,865 in Child Tax Credits and had over $1,037,382 in Federal refunds issued.

This is a 78 percent increase over last year.

Major fundraisers: United TRIBUTE: Jan. 18, A celebration of our 2013 campaign; People Helping People Golf Tournament: June 2014, Annual community golf tournament held at Denton Country Club. Workplace Campaigns: Ongoing throughout the year Volunteer opportunities: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program: Volunteer tax preparers, intake proces-

sors, and translators. Bank On Denton County: Financial education instructors; Mentor Denton: Spend one hour per week as a mentor or tutor for at-risk children.

Donations needed: United Way of Denton County accepts monetary donations as well as volunteer time.

How to donate: To donate or view volunteer opportunities visit us online at www.unitedwaydenton.org or contact 940-566-5851 for more information.

VAL’S HOUSE INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES Contact information: 940-536-7499, vals_house@yahoo.com Website: www.valshouse.org Address: 1301 Old Orchard Road, Lewisville 75067 Director: LaNette Hendrix Mission statement: To put God’s Love into action by helping women find value, acceptance, and love through their identity in Christ. Women experience personal healing and freedom through relationships built in safe, transparent, and nonjudgmental community.

Executive board members: LaNette Hendrix, Sheila Richards, Diane Richmond, Deborah Harper and Angela

Garcia Overview of services: Weekly support groups for women of all walks of life to find community and support through vibrant relationships with other women.

We are currently seeking to purchase “safe” homes where survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence can experience hope and rebuild their lives History: Founded Sept. 18, 2008, Val’s House holds weekly get-togethers to encourage, edify, and comfort women to bring hope and healing to women of all walks of life.

Success story: Becky G was introduced to Val’s House when her church hosted a Val’s House women’s conference. After the wards, she spoke to one of the speakers to inquire about the weekly meetings. She began attending the following week. Becky was excruciatingly shy, having no self-worth or confidence.

For the first year, she rarely spoke a word. Through the Bible based studies, she began to see herself as valued and accepted and in time, began to love and accept herself. Now, 3 years later, Becky is healed and has become one of the most compassionate and influential leaders, making a huge impact on other women that come to Val’s House looking for hope!

Major fundraisers: Nov 9 9 a.m.-1

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VOLUNTEER SERVICES COUNCIL FOR DENTON STATE SUPPORTED LIVING CENTER Contact information: 940-591-3630, jeanie.rogers@dads.state.tx.us Website: www.dads.state.tx.us/ volunteer/stateschools Address: 3980 State School Road, Denton 76202 Director: Susan Dean Mission statement: To seek and accept in-kind goods, services, and monies on behalf of Denton State Supported Living Center, for the benefit of the people who live there and to enhance their quality of life.

Executive board members: Stephen Gersuk, chairman; Dennis Jaglinski, vice chairman; Stephanie Kitas, secretary; Tom Elliott, treasurer; Bill Patterson, Bill Olsen, Carl Parker, Dan o’Connor, Jeff Landsberg, Randy Sudderth, Rick O’Connor, Stephen Dubner and Ulis Whitecotton Overview of services: Denton State Supported Living Center DSSLC provides services and care for individuals with intellectual disabilities, most with physical and behavioral/psychiatric needs. The Volunteer Services Council for DSSLC provides improvements, services and items that the state cannot provide or supply by law or where it faces limitations of funds for the benefit of the people served. We educate the general public about developmental disabilities through speaking engagements. We raise funds and also facilitate a volunteer internship program for the benefit of the individuals at DSSLC. History: In the late 1950’s, the Denton Chamber of Commerce learned a facility for the developmentally disabled was going to be built in the metroplex.

Immediately the Denton community recognized the advantages of having the facility placed in Denton. After a meeting in Austin, community officials and chamber members appealed to the citizens of Denton County to donate money for the purchase of 200 rolling acres on which the facility was to be placed. In 1960 Denton State Supported Living Center (DSSLC) was opened with 1,700 residents. Today DSSLC serves 18 counties, has approximately 500 residents and 1700 staff.

Individuals live in homes that provide dignity and a caring staff. On-campus workshops and a number of Denton

Courtesy photo/Visual Arts Society of Texas

“Blue Escape,” photograph.13.5 inches by18 inches. By Thomas Judd. The piece won the second place Kevin and Lynne Cox Award in the 45th annual Visual Arts Exhibition at the Meadows Gallery. businesses provide residents the opportunity to earn their own money.

Individuals can participate in leisure activities, community outings, go to the gym and chapel. Many services are provided such as medical, dental, the making of customized wheelchairs, and numerous therapies.

Success story: In late spring of this year the Volunteer Services Council and the Texas Woman’s University Department of Music & Drama teamed up to provide 170 non-ambulatory individuals the joy of watching and hearing live performances of beautiful music.

Now this might not be such a big thing to most of us, but to these individuals, who have numerous difficulties, it has been nothing less than what you and I have experienced at top-notch concerts.

The expressions on the residents’ faces can only be described as heart-warming. TWU students have been wonderful as they walk around the room making sure that each individual is included in a special way. This collaboration has been a tremendous success!

Major fundraisers: KRLD Christmas Is for Caring, Dec. 9-13 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Volunteers participate by going to the KRLD studios in Dallas and answering phone calls from donors across DFW. DJs mingle with volunteers as we all work toward our goal of providing a wonderful Christmas for our residents. Call 940-591-3630 to sign up your group or family.

Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers are always needed and appreciated.

Opportunities include clerical, warehouse, weeding, being a friend or advocate to an individual, crafts, providing entertainment, wrapping Christmas presents, sorting, organizing, and more.

Donations needed: Donations of personal care and grooming items, sweat shirts, pants and sets, sleepwear and slippers, knit caps and gloves, sunglasses, wallets, backpacks, fannypacks and purses, twin comforters and sheets, thermal cups and mugs, adult craft kits, board games, puzzles, cd’s, cd players, dvd’s, portable radios, and more. We are always grateful for cash donations for purchases of specialty items.

How to donate: People can donate by going to our website or by calling 940-591-3630.

WOMAN TO WOMAN PREGNANCY RESOURCE Contact information: 940-383-4494 Website: dentonprc.org Address: 521 N. Locust St., Denton Director: Ramona Davis Mission statement: We provide practical assistance, encouragement and unconditional love to women facing unintended pregnancy.

Executive board members: Tim Beaty, Amy Bruton, David Caswell, Dr. Terrence Moore, Dr. Jimmy Harris, Warren Richards, April Kuykendall and Nan Anderson

Denton Record-Chronicle Overview of services: Pregnancy testing and verification; education classes; Embracing Grace Abortion Recovery; Living Choices Relationship Education Program; and Twice as Nice Resale History: Woman to Woman Pregnancy Resource Center began its outreach in 1986 when a small group of individuals recognized the need for a facility to minister to the needs of women in unplanned pregnancy situations.

Success story: Shannon was expecting her first child. When she contacted Woman to Woman, Shannon was simply looking for birthing classes. Upon completing the intake process she would be able to take part in the Client Education Class.

Major fundraisers: Dr. Walt Larimore Banquet Speaker on Oct. 24 at 7 p.m.

Volunteer opportunities: Serving at Twice as Nice Resale Donations needed: new and gently used furniture, household items, and clothing for the family; diapers, wipes, formula, and baby items.

How to donate: Drop off MondaySaturday between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. at Twice as Nice or contact Tammy 940383-3150

WOMEN STARTING OVER Contact information: 940-395-8534, loreacy@womenstartover.com Website: www.womenstartover.com, facebook.com/womenstartingover Director: LoReacy Moses MHR,LCDC Mission statement: Life Skills and Empowerment classes and supports groups for women who are starting over in life due to major loss, homelessness, addiction, grief, unemployment etc..

Executive board members: Karen Ray and Dayma Michel Overview of services: Classes and support groups for Life Skills and Empowerment History: WSO became a nonprofit in 2012 and began classes at Vision Ministry in April 2013.

Success story: Two of the women in our first class became employed, one member volunteered to help another member following surgery.

Volunteer opportunities: speakers bureau, fundraising Donations needed: Financial donations for books and the cost of starting up a nonprofit.

How to donate: Contact LoReacy Moses by phone or e-mail

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2013/2014 NONPROFIT CALENDAR OCTOBER Texas Cowboys Against Cancer — Oct. 4-5 at Diamond T. Arena Keep Aubrey Beautiful — Annual Peanut Festival, Oct. 5 at Aubrey Downtown Our Daily Bread Community Soup Kitchen — Robson Ranch Women’s Association, Oct. 5 Health Services of North Texas — Hearts and Heroes Gala, Oct. 5, 6-9:30 p.m.

The Little Light House — Laps for Little Ones, Oct. 5 at Ryan High School Pilot Point Community Opera House — Melodrama performance during Bonnie and Clyde Festival, Oct. 12 SCRAP Denton — Masquerade Fundraiser, Oct. 12, 7-10 p.m.

Hearts for Homes — Golf Tournament, October 14 at Robson Ranch Denton Area Young Life — Greater Denton Young Life Alumni and Friends Homecoming Celebration at Apogee Stadium, Oct. 17 Pilot Point Community Opera House — Ryan Ready concert, Oct. 18 SpiritHouse International Therapeutic Riding Center — SpiritFest, Oct. 19 Denton Animal Shelter Foundation, Inc. — Tails and Trails (10K/5K/Pet Walk), Oct. 19 at North Texas Fair Grounds Christian Community Action — Season of Hope Gala, Oct. 19 at Gaylord Texan in Grapevine Court Appointed Special Advocates of Denton County — Evening of Elegance Dinner and Live Auction, Oct. 20 at The Grotto in Highland Village Woman to Woman Pregnancy Resource — Dr. Walt Latimore Banquet Speaker, Oct. 24, 7 p.m.

Girl Scouts of North Texas — Women of Distinction Luncheon, Oct. 24 at Hilton Anatole American Heart Association — Denton Heart Walk, Oct. 26 Denton Community Health Center — LAUGHTER: Denton’s Best Medicine Celebration, Oct. 26 Lewisville Lake Symphony — Gala, Oct. 27 at Royal Affairs Ballroom in Lewisville Keep Aubrey Beautiful — Halloween Carnival, Oct. 31, 5:30 p.m. at Aubrey Downtown

NOVEMBER Children’s Advocacy Center for Denton County — Darkness to Light Prevention Training, Nov. 2, 9 a.m.-noon. at Friendship Baptist Church of the Colony in Colony Ranch Hand Rescue — Le Beaux Chateau, Nov. 2, 6 p.m. at Flower Mound Communities in Schools of North Texas — “Link to Kids” Golf Tournament, Nov. 4, noon at Lantana Golf Club Val’s House International Ministries — Color Me Victorious Fun Run 5K, Nov. 9, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at North Lakes Park Marine Corps League — Marine Corps Birthday Ball, Nov. 9 Lantana Ladies League — Quarter Auction, Nov. 19, 7-10 p.m. at Lantana Golf Club

DECEMBER Denton Holiday Festival Association — Denton Holiday Lighting Festival, Dec. 6 Fred Moore Day Nursery School — Gospel

www.dentonrc.com

Brunch, Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at City of Denton Civic Center Volunteer Services Council for Denton State Supported Living Center — KRLD Christmas is for Caring, Dec. 9-13 Denton Benefit League — Tea and Trumpets, Dec. 15

JANUARY United Way of Denton County — United Tribute, Jan. 18 North Texas Metroplex Children’s Choir Concert Inc. — Annual North Texas Children’s Choir Concert, Jan. 25, 2 p.m. at Meyerson Symphony Center in Dallas Solutions of North Texas — Solutions Banquet, Jan. 25, 6 p.m.

FEBRUARY Denton Public School Foundation, Inc. — The Groundhog Day Gala, Feb. 1 St. Paul Christian Learning Center — Italian Dinner and Auction, Feb. 8 Our Daily Bread Community Soup Kitchen — Dinner and Dance, Feb. 8 American Heart Association — Denton Go Red for Women Luncheon, Feb. 14 Music Theatre of Denton — Musical Moments, NOT Another Gala, Feb. 14 at Center for Visual Arts

MARCH Cornerstone Cooperative Preschool — Pancake Supper and Silent Auction, March 1, 5 p.m. at First United Methodist Denton Benefit League — Annual Charity Ball, March 29

APRIL North Texas Book Festival, Inc. — Book Trails Dinner/North Texas Book Festival, April 4-5 Children’s Advocacy Center for Denton County — North Texas Harley Davidson Champions for Children Gala, April 5 at Circle R Ranch in Flower Mound Serve Denton — Celebration Gala and Silent Auction, April 12, 6:30pm American Cancer Society — Relay for Life 2014, April 19 Boys and Girls Clubs of North Central Texas — Annual Benefit Golf Tournament, April 24

MAY RSVP: Serving Denton County — RSVP Golf Classic, May 7 at Champions Circle Golf Club

JUNE Susan G. Komen North Texas — Plano Race for the Cure 5K/Mile Fun Run, June 14 Hearts for Homes — Heartbeat Testimonial Dinner, June 22 Denton Community Theatre — Encore: Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, June 27-July 6, 8 p.m.

www.dentonrc.com

Denton Record-Chronicle

Report shows mental health needs unmet

By Peggy Heinkel-Wolfe Staff Writer

A new report from the United Way of Denton County confirms what the mental health community has long recognized: The gap between community needs and resources is deep and wide.

Meeting those needs may prove a far bigger challenge than assessing the gap, according to Gary Henderson, president and CEO. When United Way volunteers began their most recent assessment of community health needs, it became clear they would need to tackle mental health separately, Henderson said, hence the special assessment and report.

In the U.S., Texas spends the least per capita on mental health. In 2010, Texas spent less than $39 per capita on mental health services. That figure dropped to $16.25 in 2012. The national average is about $126 per capita.

Denton County, in turn, receives the lowest per capita funding of all Texas counties, with just $11.11 allocated per person in 2012, the United Way found.

State health officials estimate that 13,408 adults in Denton County have severe and persistent mental illness.

Denton County MHMR was able to serve 13 percent of them last year.

Even fewer children with severe emotional disturbances were served last year. Just 8 percent, or 410 of the estimated 4,976 children who needed help, got it.

Esther Fidler, Lewisville resident and head of the Denton County chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, which provides support to people with mental illness and their families, said the dearth of resources is costly not only for individuals and their families but also the community.

State health officials require Denton County MHMR and similar service providers to allocate their meager resources first to those with major depression, schizophrenia and bi-polar disorders.

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“Their whole attitude is that people with mental illness have chosen the behavior themselves.”

— Esther Fidler, head of the Denton County chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness

“Unless you are suicidal or homicidal, you are put on a list,” Fidler said.

People need quality care, reliable access to medication and cognitive behavioral treatment to keep their mental illness in check, but the rationing of mental health care makes that impossible, she said.

As a result, many people who need mental health services end up in the criminal justice system, such as one Denton County man who recently became suicidal, lay down in traffic in hopes of being hit, and ended up being arrested by a police officer for obstructing traffic, Fidler said.

The man was incarcerated for eight months, even though providing the mental health services he needed would have cost much less, she said.

Poor quality of care also means that many people with mental illness are robbed of their most productive years, keeping them from meaningful work and paying taxes themselves, she said.

In the case of Fidler’s son, who has a degree in robotics, one breakdown was so profound that when he was finally stabilized he could no longer function as he did before, she said. She had to teach him to read a newspaper and balance his checkbook.

The stigma that comes with mental illness keeps the community from treating the person with the same care and dignity afforded to another person who might be suffering from heart disease or diabetes, she said.

See REPORT on 56

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Denton Record-Chronicle

Volunteers find $1 million in tax refunds

By Peggy Heinkel-Wolfe Staff Writer

Volunteers with a United Way of Denton County program that helps local residents prepare their tax returns brought more than $1 million in refunds this year.

The amount nearly doubled what volunteers were able to do last year, going from $582,600 to $1,037,382 in total refunds.

This is the sixth year that the local United Way has trained volunteers to help individuals and families avoid the high cost of tax preparation with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, or VITA, program.

This year, 43 volunteers helped 593 families file by preparing their returns for free and filing them by the April 15 deadline.

Part of the agency’s Financial Stability Initiative, VITA helps low- and moderately low-income residents file for and

From Page 54

Report She thinks legislators and policymakers don’t quite believe the testimony of the mentally ill and their families when they outline the community’s needs.

“Their whole attitude is that people with mental illness have chosen the behavior themselves,” Fidler said. “It is not wickedness.”

Initial reaction to the United Way’s report has community leaders asking what’s next, “and that’s being discussed,” Henderson said.

Advocacy with elected officials and policymakers will be in the mix, Henderson said. Some campaign funds could be directed toward a community impact grant or money for a current provider that has infrastructure and a well-regarded staff.

However, the gap between mental health needs and resources available is so large that the United Way may need to help the community create and develop additional programs, he said.

“The needs are great,” Henderson said.

PEGGY HEINKEL-WOLFE can be reached at 940-566-6881 and via Twitter at @phwolfeDRC.

“We figured it takes between 20 and 40 hours for our volunteers to study and take the classes and take the tests — all time spent before they ever spend a moment of time with a client,” — Gary Henderson, President and CEO of United Way of Denton Coutny

keep more of their tax credits.

According to Gary Henderson, president and CEO of United Way of Denton County, one client this year was a single mother of three who works at a grocery store.

Last year, she gave up about $1,000 of her tax refund to an income tax service that charged her a portion of her refund to cover the preparation fee. But this year, VITA volunteers helped her with her return and she was able to put all of her $7,000 refund toward her family’s needs.

Some of her refund included tax cred-

its for child care and earned income, Henderson said. In all, volunteers found $76,865 in child tax credits and $356,769 in earned income tax credits for VITA clients.

While the program grew fast this year, VITA is limited in how many clients it can serve by the number of people who become volunteers, Henderson said.

Volunteers don’t have to be trained as accountants, but the program does take time and training, Henderson said.

Participants must be certified as a volunteer tax preparer by the Internal Revenue Service.

“We figured it takes between 20 and 40 hours for our volunteers to study and take the classes and take the tests — all time spent before they ever spend a moment of time with a client,” Henderson said.

But the program’s impact on the community is large, Henderson said, especially considering that much of the money refunded goes back into the local economy as it’s spent on basic household needs. .

“That’s half of our campaign total,” Henderson said, referring to the more than $2 million United Way raised last year to meet community needs.

Traci Williamson, head of the local VITA program, said she is looking ahead at changes to the tax code related to health care and how those may affect VITA clients’ returns next year.

PEGGY HEINKEL-WOLFE can be reached at 940-566-6881 and via Twitter at @phwolfeDRC.

Banking program may save money

By Peggy Heinkel-Wolfe Staff Writer

Beginning this fall, area bankers hope to open 1,000 new accounts through a community outreach program aimed at reaching new residents and others who are “underbanked.”

Bob Dickson, executive vice president of Northstar Bank, is heading the local launch of BankOn, a new United Way of Denton County program that seeks to work with residents who don’t have a bank account.

New residents, in particular, often use more expensive services to manage their financial affairs, such as purchasing money orders, paying wire fees and using check-cashing services, because they aren’t comfortable with the banking system, Dickson said.

Most area banks are participating in Denton’s new program, and some of those have branches participating in the program in other cities and states.

BankOn was championed by former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and adopted by several major California cities that saw more than 110,000

accounts opened in 2009, according to Eloy Villafranca of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation in Dallas, who helped with the program in California.

In Denton, the program started partly in response to a proliferation of payday and title lenders in the city. Some local charities had found they were helping increasing numbers of people in a financial crisis that was triggered in part by a high-cost, short-term loan.

Local bankers cataloged the products they had available and learned that all of them had the needed low-cost banking services already available, Dickson said.

However, they could do more to find the customers most likely to use them.

Banks are required by the Community Reinvestment Act to meet borrowing needs throughout a community, including the middle- and low-income populations. When banks are reviewed by banking regulators, they receive a compliance score under the act.

Dickson said that the requirements of the act play a role in programs such as BankOn but that it’s also good business.

“There is an aspect of the community

that has been good to the bank, and we haven’t been serving them that well,” he said.BankOn Denton has set a goal of 1,000 new accounts each year for the next five years, Dickson said.

Each one of those new accounts can represent a lot of savings for individuals and families who make the change, Villafranca said.

For example, a wage earner who pays $5 to cash a weekly paycheck spends approximately $240 a year on the service. Some BankOn programs have estimated that in that scenario alone they have been able to save a customer more than $160 a year, since they would pay less than $80 in banking fees for the same level of service, according to Villafranca.

If that wage earner pays $10 to $15 per money order to pay bills, the person’s spending on alternative financial services can increase quickly, Dickson said.

Banks aren’t targeting that sector, Dickson said, but he was confident that their services cost less and could help Denton consumers save a significant amount of money.

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Kiwanis Club Denton Rotary Denton Holiday Festival Association Denton Main Street Association Dog Days of Denton Elvis on the Square Greater Denton Arts Council Greater Denton Sports Commission Juneteenth Keep Denton Beautiful Little Light House Denton North Texas Book Festival North Texas Fair and Rodeo RSVP Susan G. Komen Texas Storytelling Festival Thin Line Film Fest TWU Athletics TWU Foundation United Way of Denton County UNT Athletics Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #920 The Arts Guild of Denton UNT Murphy Center for Entrepreneurship Denton African

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