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contents ERIE GIVES
August ’15
VOLUME 8
ISSUE 9
home & garden
12
BAY CITY GARDENS
THE LOVELY TOUR SHOWED OFF CITY GARDENS.
Photo by Sue Scholz
bon appetit
16 RIVER OF BEER EVENTS
Burning River Beerfest is among the August beer and wine events to sip into.
arts & entertainment
18 DELIVER MOTIVATION
Andrea Jeffress , M.D., shepherds song about women to iTunes.
20 FURRY FRIENDS FIND HOMES
Matching pets with owners is key to successful bonds.
In Every Issue 10 THINGS TO DO
erie gives
August fun abounds in Buffalo, Pittsburgh, Cleveland and Erie.
28 ONE DAY BRINGS IN $2.2 MILLION What your giving means to local nonprofits.
67
33 COMPLETE NONPROFIT LISTING
Learn more about some of the 320 nonprofits that participate in Erie Gives.
34 -55 WHAT DO NONPROFITS DO?
Find out about the many services that local nonprofits offer.
70 71
escapes
ON SCENE
We caught you at the Erie Art Museum, the Aquatic Hall of Fame and the Bay Swim.
INSIDE PUBLIC BROADCASTING
The beauty of sea creatures comes to “Big Blue Live” airing in August on WQLN.
WQLN PROGRAMMING
Summer TV was never better when you tune into nature, music this month. And don’t forget Vivaldi in the vineyards, road trips and more with WQLN.
24 MYRTLE BEACH MEMORIES
Family finds annual fun in South Carolina vacationland.
business & commerce
26 WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A 501C3
Residents create nonprofits and help them grow. August2015
ONTHE COVER
28 ERIE GIVES DAY
Sister Mary Miller, of Emmaus Soup Kitchen, and Mike Batchelor, of the Erie Community Foundation, toss around fundraising ideas and an acorn — the symbol for the Erie Community Foundation. Cover photo by Mark Fainstein.
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August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 5
from the editor AUGUST 2015 LAKE
WHAT GIVES? This issue of Lake Erie LifeStyle is all about giving. While we devote a lot of pages to how to financially give to local nonprofits on Tuesday, Aug. 11, I like to think of giving as something we can all do — even if we don’t have any money. Sometimes giving can be as simple as sharing a cup of coffee with someone who needs one, or offering a word of encouragement when a person might think no one cares. Sometimes that happens with family, friends and strangers. Recently, I had to clean out a lot of drawers — something my husband has bugged me to do for, well, years. I had saved a lot of cards, and many were from the kids. As parents, we give. We give out love, advice, bushels of money, discipline, encouragement and more. Every once in a while, one of the kids will give back. He or she will remember a moment that was a lifesaver and offer a big thank you.That gives me a smile. Giving praise and giving thanks are the best things we can do in a day’s time.Take time to give this month — whether it’s a monetary gift or a gift of time. It will come back to you and give you a smile.
ERIE
LifeStyle
DIRECTOR OF PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT Marnie Mead marnie.mead@timesnews.com EDITOR Pam Parker pam.parker@timesnews.com PAGE DESIGNER Holly Waychoff
CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER/WEB DESIGN Karen Burchill, Steve Puskar PHOTOGRAPHERS Andy Colwell, Sarah Crosby, Rob Frank, Jack Hanrahan, Matt Kleck, Christopher Millette, Greg Wohlford ADVERTISING MaryBeth Ford, Special Sections Advertising marybeth.ford@timesnews.com 814-878-2201
Pam Parker Managing Editor, Lake Erie LifeStyle pam.parker@timesnews.com Kim and Pam Parker
August2015
CONTACT US pam.parker@timesnews.com 205 W. 12th St., Erie, PA 16534 www.lakeerielifestyle.com All content, including the design, art, photos and editorial content ©2015, Erie Times-News. No portion of this magazine may be copied or reprinted without the express written permission of the publisher.
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August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 7
contributors AUGUST 2015
“You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.” — John Bunyan, www.operationgratitude.com FIONA BRANTON meets pet owners who learned how to choose four-legged friends — it’s not always easy to find the best match. Fiona is the editorial assistant in the newsroom at the Erie Times-News and a volunteer at Because You Care. page 20 PATRICK BROADWATER checks out events in Buffalo. Patrick is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience. page 10 JOHN CHACONA shares the natural beauty of “Big Blue Live,” airing on WQLN in August. John is a copywriter in Gannon University’s marketing department. page 70 MARK FAINSTEIN light ups Lake Erie LifeStyle this month with creative ideas and his fabulous cover photo and inside photos for stories on Erie Gives Day. Mark is an award-winning photographer who has been in business since 1973. page 70 JOLAYNE GREEN reminisces about her many family vacations to Myrtle Beach. She offers tips on everything Myrtle Beach. JoLayne, a former reporter, is a freelance writer living in Meadville with her husband and three children. page 24 LYDIA LAYTHE interviewed a variety of nonprofits for this issue. A graduate of Mercyhurst Preparatory School, she is a senior at the University of Portland. pages 37, 47, 50, 51 EMILY MCCULLOR catches up with local entrepreneurs who started nonprofits. Emily is the marketing and sales coordinator at Tom Ridge Environmental Center. page 26
STEVE ORBANEK introduces readers to a few great brews at the Burning River Festival, and he adds in some fun winery tours. Steve is the marketing communication specialist at Penn State Behrend. page 16 PAM PARKER finds a concert to enjoy at WQLN. She is the editor of Lake Erie LifeStyle, Her Times and House to Home at the Erie Times-News. page 10 SUE SCHOLZ introduces readers to the fabulous gardens of city homeowners, all members of the Bay City Gardeners. Sue writes a gardening column for House to Home every Saturday in the Erie Times-News. page 12 BRIAN. R. SHERIDAN tells readers about Andrea Jeffress’ latest accomplishment — she corroborated with some local folks and a mentor to bring a song to iTunes. Brian is an assistant professor at Mercyhurst University. page 18
coming in September HOME, WINE & GARDEN Toast to our next issue that celebrates home, wine and gardens. Subscribe now by calling 870-1600 or e-mail circulation@timesnews.com.
MARNIE MEAD talks to nonprofit administrators who share how important Erie Gives Day is to the people they serve, and she suggests some fun in Ohio. Marnie is the director of product development at the Erie Times-News. She writes about adventures in food, sports and more for Her Times, Make It Erie and Lake Erie LifeStyle. pages 10, 28 MARSHA MORGENSTERN shares some fragrant fun in Pittsburgh with news of a garlic festival. Marsha is a freelance writer living in Pittsburgh. page 10 August2015
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August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 9
4
things to do this August PITTSBURGH
AKRON, OHIO Everyone loves their burgers. And the folks at the National Hamburger Festival in downtown Akron are pleased to share the affair with the allPhoto by thinkstock.com beef patty — without ketchup, just onions and mustard, please — on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 8 and 9, at Lock 3 Park.The festival has been featured in Parade magazine and on “Unwrapped” on the Food Network. Here you will get a taste from some of the greatest burger joints — Skyway, Swensons, Bob’s Hamburg, Hamburger Station, Windsor Pub and the Ido. You can test your burger-eating skills or just watch at either the amateur burger-eating contest (Sunday, 3 p.m.) or the pros (Saturday, 6:30 p.m.). Or, just go bobbing for burgers in a vat of ketchup (Saturday, 9:30 p.m.). Cost is $5 per day; free for children 8 and under. Food is purchased with tickets, available for $1 each. A price guide is available when you enter. Cash and food tickets work for beverages (beer and wine is served). Info: 716-565-4141; www.hamburgerfestival.com. — Marnie Mead
Garlic fans will enjoy a relaxing, fun day at the Laurel Highlands Sixth Annual Garlic Festival, where you can try all kinds of garlicinfused food such as pierogis, sausage, wings and even ice cream. Get there early if you Photo courtesy of Laurel Highlands Garlic Festival want to try the ice cream — they ran out in 2014. There will also be cooking demonstrations by local celebrity chefs, live entertainment and lots of vendors. You won’t want to miss the entertaining workshop on garlic, which will cover how to plant it, harvest it, and everything in between, or the session about the history of garlic and its medicinal uses. The festival is Saturday, Aug. 15, and Sunday, Aug. 16, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Faranda’s Farm in Hollsopple. Admission is $5 for adults; $2, children 2-12; free, under age 2. Info: 814-479-7109 or www. farandafarm.net/?event=garlic-festival-2. — Marsha Morgenstern
ERIE
EDEN, N.Y.
The final Sounds around Town concert of the summer season takes place Friday, Aug. 7, at WQLN with Daybreak Radio, featuring Tyler Smilo, Justin Anderson, Ryan Bartosek, Steve Powell and Doug Phillips. Sing along and sip along with great music that brings home some Americana, Southern rock and more.Taste beer coffee and craft root beer samples from Erie Beer Co. and Mill Creek Coffee. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs, and enjoy music by the pond behind WQLN.The concert is free with free parking, and you and your family can enjoy it all at WQLN’s studio, 8425 Peach St., starting at 7 p.m. In 2014, hundreds of area residents enjoyed the free concerts, and more folks have attended this year. The concert is supported in part by a grant from Erie Arts & Culture.The 2015 schedule included the Groove,Tennessee Back Porch, M4 and Tyler Smilo. Free samples from various craft brewers were part of the summer fun. For more information, call 814-864-3001, or visit www.wqln.org. — Pam Parker
What better way to enjoy the summer corn season than to head straight to the source? The Eden Corn Festival kicks off on Thursday, Aug. 6, and runs through Sunday, Aug. 9, in Eden, N.Y., a rural community just south of Buffalo.The festival, celebrating its 52nd year, will serve bushels full of fresh sweet corn on the cob grown by local farmers. But that’s not the only attraction.There will be plenty of other food vendors serving everything from fried green tomatoes to ice cream, and scheduled events include a parade, arts and crafts, an auto show, pet show and festival pageant. Zoologist and television host Jarod Miller — an Eden native — will also appear with some exotic animals. The festival is open from 3 to 11 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 6; noon to midnight on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 7-8; and from noon to 10 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 9. Admission is free. For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit http://edencornfest.com. — Patrick Broadwater
Image courtesy of WQLN
August2015
Photo courtesy of KC Kratt
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August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 11
home & garden
Dig Garden Tour Erie By Sue Scholz Photos by Sue Scholz
MORE THAN 40 GARDENS — outstanding cottage gardens, eclectic gardens, container gardens, ponds, vegetable gardens and garden art — opened to the public during Garden Tour Erie in July. After visiting Garden Walk Buffalo in 2010, Chris DeCrease and Diane Schneider wanted to bring a similar urban garden tour to Erie.The two had started a new garden club within the city limits, Bay City Gardeners, in February 2011.The first Garden Tour Erie was in July 2012, and it has grown every year since. Two garden tour hosts have been on the tour all four years.They have fantastic gardens, and they are glad to show them to people. “I like others to enjoy my garden. I like to share my ideas and hopefully inspire others. I enjoy the interaction of the people who come to my garden. I play music and wear Victorian clothes. I’m very pleased at August2015
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home & garden the compliments I get on my garden,â&#x20AC;? says Schneider, of 518 W. Ninth St. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Being on the tour makes us motivated to try other things. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re driven to new heights, and we added new gardens because of the tour. We have people who return the next year bringing their friends. Many like to sit on our deck and relax. Some ask me if I could go to their homes and give them ideas â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and I do. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a very nice experience. It makes you feel you are accomplishing something; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a very rewarding feeling. Our neighbors have started being on the tour, too. It is very contagious â&#x20AC;&#x201D; more and more people are getting into it,â&#x20AC;? said Kathy Tomczak, of 3514 Sassafras St. The Garden Tour Erie committee consists of Chris DeCrease, Mary Thieman, Mary Jane
in the know:
BAY CITY GARDENERS
facing page top: Kate Nash raises snapdragons and other annuals for her CSA at 402 Beverly Drive.
The club meets on the second Sunday of each month at Blasco Library. â&#x20AC;&#x153;All our meetings are open to the public, and anyone can join Bay City Gardeners. Bay City Gardeners also maintains the willow structure at the L.E.A.F. and the rain garden at City Hall. We strive to be an active group and often have field trips or work parties rather than meeting indoors,â&#x20AC;? says Chris DeCrease.
facing page lower: Mary Moodey hung her poems around the gardens at the home she and Cheryl Bates share at 318 Beverly Drive. above: Tom and Mary Gambleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lily garden at 414 Connecticut St. has an urn passed down from her great-grandmother.
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August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 13
home & garden
Koenig and Phyllis Mashyna. “We had a lot of good feedback from the tour.The tour hosts were wonderful, and they were thrilled to meet the people viewing their gardens. We’ve made so many new friends. We’re proud of the community, and the profits go right back into the community. Last year we donated the profits to the International Flavors Garden, and this year the profits are going to Chris Decrease’s winter garden at L.E.A.F. in memory of her son, Ben,” said Thieman. The gardens are as diverse as the reasons, and reactions, of the people visiting them. “Going on the tour was a nice motherdaughter thing to do — I brought my mom. August2015
The people were very gracious. It was a unique experience. It was amazing to see what people can do on a shoestring budget. There were so much creative ideas that you could incorporate for your own gardens,” says Yavette Miller. “The garden tour was wonderful. I’m top: Kelly Elwell’s garden at 124 W. 37th St. features several kinds of hydrangeas. Admiring the blooms are her children, Ely and Grace. above left: Boyd and Lorena Hecker’s garden at 3908 Cherry St. features many tall ornamental grasses. above right: Bill Williams built this stone pond with two fountains and a waterfall in his garden at 1044 W. Sixth St.
impressed how creative people are with using their spaces.The plants are amazing, the people are so knowledgeable.The hosts are so nice to let us come on their property. Everyone is so friendly and nice.Their creativity is very inspiring,” says Terri Brooks. “I thought it was great. Since I live in the country, it was interesting to see the smaller city lots and what they do with them. I liked the different flowers and landscaping,” says Sue Rupp. Garden Tour Erie will take 2016 off and return in July 2017. You won’t want to miss what the gardeners have in store for tour No. 5. LEL www.lakeerielifestyle.com
bon appétit
Burning River Fest By Steve Orbanek
HOW DOES DRINKING craft beer while also helping preserve our natural water resources sound to you? A winning combination? Adam Ritterspach and Great Lakes Brewing Co. are counting on it. On Aug. 28 and 29, the Cleveland-based craft brewery will host the 14th annual Burning River Fest. Held at Cleveland’s historic Coast Guard Station, the event features live music, fresh food from local Cleveland farms and eateries, chef demos and plenty of Great Lakes beer. All proceeds benefit the Burning River Foundation, which has awarded nearly $400,000 to organizations dedicated to sustaining, restoring, conserving and improving freshwater resources.The annual event, which started in 2001, was created to recognize the 1969 burning of the Cuyahoga River and celebrate how that fire helped create a sense of eco-consciousness for those living in the Great Lakes region. “The Great Lakes and Lake Erie is our Grand Canyon, so it’s something that we take very seriously, so that’s what the festival is all about,” says Ritterspach, community events coordinator for Great Lakes Brewing Co. “With the Great Lakes, you’re talking about 80 percent of the United States’
fresh water supply and 20 percent of the world’s fresh water supply, so this is something that’s very important to us.” It’s a cause that should resonate with Erieites, because Lake Erie remains Erie’s most valuable natural resource. Attendees at the festival will also benefit from gaining access to a beautiful nighttime view of Cleveland’s skyline. Located on Cleveland’s Whiskey Island, the Coast Guard Station provides one of the best — but also most rare — views of the city. “When you get there, you’re going to be seeing a site that many Clevelanders don’t even know exists. It’s one of the unique locations on the water that Cleveland has to offer, and you’re going to be seeing a beautiful shot of the downtown skyline,” says Ritterspach, who is expecting the two-night event to sell out with more than 4,000 attendees. For those planning to attend, Whiskey Island is located just over a mile away from a number of downtown hotels. The area is also nestled between Ohio City and Gordon Square Arts District, two areas rich with culture and night life, so there’s plenty of opportunity available for those interested in staying an extra night and making a weekend out of the trip.
Burning River Fest on Whiskey Island, Ohio. Photo courtesy of Great Lakes Brewing Co.
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August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 15
bon appétit in the know:
OTHER AREA BEER ANDWINE HAPPENINGS
Murder Mystery Dinner On Saturday, Aug. 1, the Winery at Marjim Manor in Appleton, N.Y., will host a special murder mystery dinner. As you enjoy a four-course wine and food pairing dinner, you will interview characters, gather clues and hopefully help solve the murder. The dinner will begin at 7 p.m., and reservations are required. There will also be door prizes, and discounts are available for groups. Info: www.marjimmanor.com. Vintage Ohio On Friday and Saturday, Aug. 7 and 8, from 1 to 10 p.m., the annual Vintage Ohio Festival will be held at Lake Metroparks Farmparks in Kirtland, Ohio. The annual event is one of the Midwest’s premiere wine, food and music festivals and attracts more than 20,000 wine lovers each year. This year’s event will showcase more than 100 award-winning Ohio vintages, including a special dessert wine tent. Various crafters, artisans and corporate vendors will also be in attendance at the festival. Adult sampler tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the gate. To purchase tickets, visit www.visitvintageohio.com or call 800-2276972.
Eighth annual America’s Grape Country Wine Festival On the weekend of Aug. 7 through 9, join Merritt Estate Winery for the eighth annual America’s Grape Country Wine Festival. On each day, the Forestville, N.Y., winery will feature live music, and there will also be more than 65 vendors, including wineries, agricultural producers, craft artisans and food trucks, in attendance. On Saturday, the festival will feature a classic car show from 1 to 6 p.m., as well as wine and food demonstrations by chef Paul Mach from the PBS cooking show “You’re the Chef.” Info: www. merrittestatewinery.com. Dog Days of Summer & Yappy Hour On Sunday, Aug. 16, Schulze Vineyards and Winery, located in Burt, N.Y., will host a day filled with dog demonstrations and vendors. Attendees are encouraged to bring their four-legged furry friends along as the tasting room will be dog-friendly for the occasion. Attendees’ pets are also invited to compete in a series of fun competitions, including best trick, best tail wagger and best costume. Info: www. schulzewines.com.
Beer connoisseurs will have another reason to make the trek to Cleveland for the weekend. “We’re going to be debuting a new beer, which will be perfect for the night,” Ritterspach says. “I can’t say anything yet, but I will say that we’ve been testing it around the brewery, and it’s going to be perfect for a cool summer night.” A total of 18 bands will perform during the festival, and a special lighting of floating pyres will take place, intended to recognize efforts made to clean up waterways since the burning of the Cuyahoga River. Tickets, which cost $12 per person in advance, are available at www. burningriverfest.org.They will also be available at the door for $15 on the day of the event. “If people are looking for a getaway trip, I can’t think of a better reason than this,” Ritterspach says. “This is a great event for a great cause, and we’d love to have you come down.” LEL
August2015
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August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 17
arts & entertainment
Giving back through music By Brian R. Sheridan
in the know:
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Women’s Global Entrepreneur Competition and World Tour www.wgectour.com Kingdom International Economic Development Corp. www.kiedc.com “Women All Over the World ... It’s Your Time” is for sale at many online music sites, including iTunes and Amazon.com.
August2015
SHE HAS ALWAYS TRIED living by her motto: “Dream big and dream in stereo. Make it LOUD.” Andrea Jeffress, M.D., of OB/GYN Associates of Erie, says she has reached her big dream of becoming a successful obstetriciangynecologist. Now she can say she achieved a dream that is both in stereo — and loud — and can help inspire women all around the world. On June 16, Warner Music Group released a song called “Women all over the World ... It’s Your Time” through the company’s global digital distribution service. Jeffress acted as the song’s shepherd, paying production costs, and finding its arranger Mike Jones, the music teacher at the Community Country Day School. She put so much effort into it because her mentor, Metashar Dillon, the founder of the Women’s Global Entrepreneur Competition and World Tour in Bristol, Conn., wrote the song. Dillon awarded Jeffress her first scholarship to Yale Medical School. “My role was to pay for this to happen,” Jeffress said. “My mentor gave so much away. Here I am, a physician. I have resources now. It is my privilege to sow a seed back into her life. It’s my honor and my privilege to do that for her because of the powerful seed she had sown into my life.” The two met in 1990 when Jeffress applied for Dillon’s Miss Black Connecticut Scholarship Pageant while she managed one of Yale’s medical labs before entering med school at age 19.
She underwent six months of lifeskills training with Dillon and won the contest. It resulted in a lifelong friendship between the two. “We gravitated to each other with our passion for serving humanity,” Dillon said of her protégé. “She is no quitter and produces such excellent work. I knew from first meeting her that she would be a giant in her own right.” They have worked together on another of Dillon’s nonprofit organizations for woman, Kingdom International Economic Development Corp., of which Jeffers is chief executive. About a year ago, though, the idea of an inspirational song began to germinate. The refrain, or “hook” for the song, came to Dillon in a dream. “For months and months, Metashar (Dillon) would just bust out into the hook for this song,” Jeffress said. The song’s creation moved forward when she met Jones, who had placed fifth in a nationwide jingle-writing contest for an auto insurance company, at a church musical performance in Erie. “I told him about my nonprofit and how we needed to get our message out into the world. I wanted to know if (he) could talk to my mentor because she has this little hook and some lyrics, but we don’t have any music for it. She has a
left: Andrea Jeffress, M.D., of Erie, worked as part of a team that created a song on iTunes to motivate women. Photo courtesy of Andrea Jeffress
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arts & entertainment
melody, but we want a song that can be played on the radio,â&#x20AC;? Jeffress recalled. Jones worked with Dillon on polishing the lyrics and turned her catchy refrain into a song. Technology helped the songâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creators and performers who were in different states. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We sent it (the arrangement) off to a musician in Rochester, N.Y., who recorded the music and sent the music and arrangement to Connecticut to (Dillon),â&#x20AC;? Jones said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They went to a studio in New Jersey, where Monique Coward sang the song. Instead of having to fly somewhere, and meet with people, technology made it so much easier.â&#x20AC;? Within months, they had an actual recorded track. It is a soulful and up-tempo dance song, infused with positive energy and uplifting lyrics. Dillon said it made her feel like weeping. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is truly a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Anthem.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; I said to
myself, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;There is a new sound in the earth to cause women to rise up to a new place of leadership in the world.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Little did I know that others would hear the same echo when first listening to the song,â&#x20AC;? Dillon said. The song became an instant hit on Appleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iTunes Store, reaching No. 8 for downloads on its day of release. Jeffress believes she was the first person to click the â&#x20AC;&#x153;$0.99 Buyâ&#x20AC;? button on her computer at 12:01 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When the song popped up, I screamed, scaring my husband half to death. He thought a burglar was in the house. I screamed so loud, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s there! Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really there!â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? Though proud, Jeffress said she feels bittersweet about the accomplishment. Her father had recently passed away after an illness and never heard the completed song. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was a hard time, but he always believed in my dreams to effect change in the world.You
want to take the time to grieve, but you also want to honor what he believed in you,â&#x20AC;?Jeffress said. Jones also believes the song can effect change. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People say they are not only inspired but motivated by the song.This particular song is speaking to women (letting them) know they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to sit in the background. ... It really is their time to do what they need to do,â&#x20AC;? Jones said. After a CD launch party in May in Erie, Dillon is taking the song, and its message and that of her two nonprofit organizations, on a worldwide â&#x20AC;&#x153;Good Successâ&#x20AC;? tour. She wants to recruit the best and the brightest young women and infuse them with an entrepreneurial and self-empowerment spirit.The competition ends in Dubai with the awarding of a $1 million business grant to the competitionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winner in 2015. LEL
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August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 19
arts & entertainment
Four-legged friends By Fiona Branton
Denise and Randy Work and their three children were looking to adopt a dog companion for their 109-pound lab, Chico.The family visited Because You Care’s adoption center in McKean on a Sunday afternoon and talked to a volunteer about what they were looking for. A few days later, they were contacted by BYC’s director, Kris Steiner, to let them know the group had a St. Bernard/Rottweiler mix that might be exactly what they were looking for.The family went back that day and met Hooch.The next day, they took Chico in to meet him.The two dogs hit it off, so they decided to bring Hooch home for a trial run. Right away, the Works knew that Hooch — who tips the scales at more than 110 pounds — would become part of their family. “He fit in almost immediately,” says Denise Work. The two dogs get along great, and Hooch is wonderful with the kids. He is a big baby ... a gentle giant. He loves to give kisses and will try to sit in your lap if you sit on the floor with him. We finalized the adoption on Mother’s Day.” Steiner says this is just one of many successful matches the group has made over the years. “We take the time to really listen to what people are looking for. But most importantly, we know our animals and their personalities and particular needs and what kind of home environment would be best for them.” Any reputable rescue group asks for extensive information and left: Laura Zirkle was looking for a large dog as a companion for her Scottish terrier, Maizy. She found Huckleberry at Because You Care. Photo courtesy of Rylie Steiner
August2015
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arts & entertainment
performs thorough checks before approving an adoption, but there’s more to making the right match than just ensuring the applicant meets the organization’s criteria. Local rescue groups want to make sure the pet and the adopting family will mesh so well that the new relationship will be a permanent one. Certain breeds of dogs have particular characteristics that create special considerations. For instance, Steiner points out, “We wouldn’t put a basset hound in a home that wants a jogging partner. Nor would we send an active dog like a border collie to a home where the people aren’t going to be able to give it enough stimulation.” But many rescue dogs are mixed breeds, and it’s often impossible to tell what type of behavior to expect based on the dog’s www.lakeerielifestyle.com
appearance. “This is why it’s so crucial for us to really get to know each animal that comes through our system,” says Steiner. “Each of our dogs and cats spends time in a foster home before they come to the adoption center, and the foster parent becomes very familiar with the pet’s personality and its needs, such as how much and what type of exercise it requires, how much attention it needs, how well it handles being left alone, and whether it gets along with other dogs, cats and children.” That level of observation continues at the adoption center. “We have a team of dedicated volunteers who know each animal’s habits, needs and personalities,” Steiner continues. “Our goal is that every dog and cat that is adopted is going to its last home — there won’t be any reason for it to come back to us.”
It’s not an exact science. Successful matches depend on the adopting party volunteering information about the size of their house (and yard, in the case of dogs), age and interests of their family members and their desire for a pet, their lifestyles, their employment and other time commitments, their plans for the future, their activity levels — both actual and desired — and any other information that could potentially affect a long-term relationship with a pet. The staff at local animal rescue facilities are above: Laura Kast, of Fairview, and her 6-month-old daughter, Norah Covert, play with Harriet, a 1-year-old calico cat. Harriet was adopted from Because You Care in March. Kast wanted to adopt a cat that was good with a baby. Photo courtesy of Rylie Steiner
August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 21
arts & entertainment
trained to ask a lot of questions.They know their animals, but to make a match, they need to know you. “We rely on talking with people and getting a feel for what they’re looking for,” says Becky Bogle, community outreach manager for the A.N.N.A. Shelter in Erie, which is committed to adopting based on the best possible fit for the new owner and the animal. “Our volunteers put a lot of time in with the dogs and know what the dogs are like, so we can make sure the dog fits the person’s lifestyle. “It’s especially important to find out how active the adopting family is and how much space they have, especially outdoors. Some dogs require a lot of room to run, or regular long walks. Also, some dogs are not compatible with small children, and we will try to point families with children to another dog in those cases,” says Bogle. With dogs, size and activity level seem to be two of the top factors. “If we have a dog that we know likes to play with children, we August2015
try to match it with a family that has kids that will interact with the dog,” says Steiner. “On the other hand, we try to avoid matching very large dogs with families that have very young children, because the dogs could easily knock a child down.” Many dogs, large and small, require a great deal of exercise to be calm, while others are laid back and quite content to lie on a couch all day. Some dogs walk well on leashes, but others prefer to run around a yard or swim in the lake. Rescue center volunteers and staff members know exactly what kind of exercise their charges prefer — or need. “Some dogs can get the exercise they need from walks on a leash, but others do better with a fenced-in yard where they can run at above: Denise Work and her son, Tyler, adopted Hooch, a St. Bernard/Rottweiler mix, from Because You Care in May. The Work family had been looking for a large dog to be a companion to their other dog. Photo courtesy of Kris Steiner
their own leisure,” says Steiner. “If we know a dog needs to get out and run in a yard, we’d discourage a family that lives in an apartment from adopting it.” Both BYC and A.N.N.A. require meet-andgreets with dogs already in the household and the new dogs being considered for adoption. “We’ve learned from experience that meeting in the adoption center environment isn’t necessarily enough to guarantee a happy match, so we also have trial home visits,” says Steiner. “We recently had a situation where a couple brought their older dog to the center to meet a puppy, and the two got along fine at the center. But when the puppy went home with them for a trial, it turned out that the older dog didn’t like the way the puppy played with him, and the couple decided to adopt an older, more laid-back dog instead.” Eileen Harrington, director of Orphan Angels Cat Sanctuary in Millcreek Township, says it’s just as important to make the right match with cats and their new families. She says that she and the volunteer staff at Orphan Angels know their cats’ personalities inside and out, and can predict whether a particular cat will be a good fit for a potential adopter. “We know which ones are mellow, which ones like to be around people, which ones are active, which ones would do best with another cat in the household for company and which ones would prefer to be the only cat.” Kittens have a lot of energy and have a tendency to get into anything and everything. “We encourage people adopting kittens to adopt two together so they’ll keep each other occupied,” says Harrington. “We’ve found it’s usually much better for both the people and the cats. “Sometimes, we do have to say, ‘No, this is not the cat for you,’” says Harrington. “It’s a mix of art and science, but it’s all aimed at making sure it’s going to be a relationship that lasts as long as the cat lives. “Many people come in with an idea in their head of the specific cat they want,” Harrington continues. “They might think they want a young orange male or an older female gray tabby. But in the end, most times the cat picks you.” Adopting a rescue pet is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have, for both you and your pet.Treat it like you’re adding a permanent member of your family, listen to the advice from the staff at the rescue groups, and you’ll live happily ever after. LEL www.lakeerielifestyle.com
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August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 23
escapes
Myrtle Beach makes each visit a new one Story and photos by JoLayne Green
VACATIONERS SEEM TO fall iinto two camps — people who visit the same spot every year and those who want to see some new place. For our family, Myrtle Beach, S.C., lets us be both. A decade ago, we wanted an affordable beach vacation for our family — then with two young children — but we were having trouble finding locations within our budget during summer peak season. That year, we stayed in a mom-and-pop, three-story, no-frills motel and loved every minute on the beach. In the years since, we have considered going to other places, even doing so once, but we found ourselves coming back to Myrtle Beach year after year. Even now, with two teenagers and a preschooler, it still has something for everyone, in the water and out. Whether it is peace and quiet, good food, thrills and adventure, or retail therapy, Myrtle Beach seems to have it — and more. We’re not the only ones from the surrounding area to August2015
think so. We routinely ti ly meet people le ffrom the th region, once even running into old friends from Pittsburgh whom we hadn’t seen in years. While the Myrtle Beach Visitors and Convention Bureau does not have statistics from this region, the area is supported by nonstop air service from Pittsburgh, which makes it easier for people to get to Myrtle Beach, says spokeswoman Kimberly Miles, a public relations representative for the area. It also is a shorter drive to a subtropical beach than other southeast destinations. “Myrtle Beach has always been known as an affordable family beach with many amenities for a variety of travelers and tastes.That variety, convenience and affordability has made it a popular destination for many,” Miles says. In 2014, 38 percent of visitors were firsttimers, meaning the majority were repeat above: Springmaid Pier offers strolling, fishing, and casual dining and refreshments.
visitors. Wh Whether either category, visi he you fit iin eith here is how to make the most of your beach vacation. When to go can play a big part in your budget. Before having school-age kids, we took advantage of East Coast beaches being cheaper after Labor Day. In Myrtle Beach, we discovered many hotels drop prices earlier than Labor Day. If you can wait until mid to late August, you can save hundreds on accommodations. For those not tied to school calendars, any time other than summer can mean great deals on accommodations. Even if it isn’t beach weather, there are enough shows, attractions, restaurants and shopping to make a trip worth your while. Golfers already know it is a paradise. We have stayed in everything from a small motel to a mid-rise to high-rise condos. Several resorts even have small water parks. With 425 hotels in the area, there’s something for nearly everyone. One way we’ve kept the area fresh is www.lakeerielifestyle.com
escapes trying out different sections of the beach. Lodging Searching on www.visitmyrtlebeach.com and ordering a visitors guide is a good place to start, Miles says. “The region is made up of 60 miles of coastline and 12 different towns and communities, so it is important to narrow down what stretch of the beach you might like to stay. For example, if you want to stay in a beach house then you would be looking at towns like Surfside Beach, Garden City Beach or North Myrtle Beach. But if you want to be in the center of the action and attractions and would like a hotel or condo-style unit, then look at locations in the City of Myrtle Beach,”Miles says. Another option is to camp at several campgrounds in the area.The Mullen family, of Meadville, has taken their RV a few times. “Our favorite place to stay in the RV is the KOA on Fifth Avenue South. It is only two blocks from the ocean and has large shaded lots for the campers. It’s very clean, and we have always been happy with the accommodations there,” says Pam Mullen. Dining For those who don’t want to cook, Myrtle Beach is a restaurant haven. Ask people where to go, and everyone has a different favorite. “We especially love Drunken Jack’s at Murrell’s Inlet, Second Avenue Pier and Rio’s Brazilian Steakhouse,” Mullen says. The Deissler family, of Meadville, is planning a repeat trip.Their top restaurants are the always-fun Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville, the LandShark and Calabash buffets.
“We liked North Myrtle Beach as it was quieter but an easy drive to everything else. This year we’re doing Murrell’s Inlet, which is south of Myrtle Beach and hopefully quieter as well,” Dana Deissler says.They also plan to visit nearby Charleston and Fort Sumter. Fun Myrtle Beach has three water parks, 30 miniature golf courses, 100 championship golf courses, Family Kingdom Amusement Park, Ripley’s Aquarium, WonderWorks science center, zip lines, a Sky Wheel, the Boardwalk, eight live theaters, two major shopping and restaurant complexes, and 300 outlet stores. Make sure to stop at a welcome center or hotel lobby to pick up coupon books. “We also love walking on the beach and looking for fossilized sharks’ teeth in the surf. While we have never found any huge ones, we always find a lot of medium to very small ones,” Mullen says. The best attractions may be the free ones that create lasting family memories. For us, capping off an afternoon at the beach with one of the free fireworks displays is a perfect day. Follow it with a nighttime stroll under the moonlight or just listening to the waves crash from our balcony is priceless and always leaves us wanting to come back for more next year. LEL
right top: Sea Captain’s House is a popular restaurant choice. right center: Myrtle Beach is an affordable beach destination for all kinds of travelers. right bottom: Springmaid Pier offers strolling, fishing, and casual dining and refreshments.
in the know:
OUR FAMILY FAVORITES
Best breakfast: Ray’s omelets at Springmaid Beach Resort. Our second favorite is stopping at a good old Waffle House on the drive down. Best burgers: River City Cafe — various locations but we like the one in Myrtle Beach. Leave your name on a license plate, throw peanuts on the floor and try a variety of burgers, including the S’mores burger. Best “fancy” dinner: Sea Captain’s House. We traditionally end our trip with a nicer dinner. Waiting for a table is even nice here with the backyard swings looking out onto the surf. Also serves breakfast and lunch. www.lakeerielifestyle.com
Best steak: Angelo’s Steakhouse, 2801 S. King’s Highway. Owner hails from Steubenville, Ohio. Also a good buffet option. Kids pick best nonbeach attraction: MagiQuest at Broadway at the Beach, an interactive, live-gaming experience where visitors take on fantasy characters and go on adventures and quests with“magic”wands. Our boys have loved it for years. Great for all ages but especially elementary to young teens. Best amusements: Family Kingdom Amusement Park, followed by either Myrtle Waves or Wild Water and Wheels water parks.
Best miniature golf: Dragon’s Lair at Broadway at the Beach. Can choose Viking or Dragon side. We like Dragon best. Mom’s Pick: Brookgreen Gardens. Sculpture garden and wildlife preserve. Beautiful, but not my kids’ favorite, although they enjoyed the wildlife zoo there. Best shopping and restaurant complex: Broadway at the Beach. Great night life for those looking for that option. Best walk along the waterfront: Murrell’s Inlet with a lot of dining options. Best rainy day activity: WonderWorks Broadway at the Beach. August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 25
business & commerce
How to succeed as a nonprofit By Emily McCullor
STARTING A NONPROFIT requires more than just passion.They are like running a small business, in need of both vision and a financial plan. “Some groups get their start and exist on paper, but they don’t exist as a viable enterprise,” explains Robert Wooler, director of the Nonprofit Partnership, which offers training and technical assistance to nonprofits. “Having a solid business plan and financial structure is imperative.That’s the part that is hard for some of these groups; passion isn’t lacking, but the business side needs work.” Typically, an organization starts by raising money through events, merchandise sales, annual appeals and a small circle of supporters. To get to the next level — and survival past the third year — organizations need to have visionary leaders with grant-writing skills. “Having the ability to write well and articulate your cause is a huge advantage for securing supplementary funding,”Wooler said. Lake Erie LifeStyle, with Wooler’s help, caught up with newer nonprofits. Character: Be About It Founded by Matt Harris, who worked August2015
as a Pennsylvania State Police trooper for two decades, Character: Be About It is his mission to create a program for students that surrounded 12 particular character traits.The result is qualified Pennsylvania State Police troopers and law enforcement officials working directly with students in the classroom. “Twenty years as a Pennsylvania state trooper is what motivated me to move into the preventive vs. staying-in-the-reactionary profession. I have a true passion of providing this target audience with hope, as does my board of directors,” Harris says. It became an official nonprofit in 2013, and Harris’ goal is to expand into schools throughout Pennsylvania. Contact: Matt Harris, matt@ characterbeaboutit.org Box of Light Studio Co-directed by Jude Shingle and Annie Schmitt, Box of Light Studio’s mission is to create an environment for kids ages 5 to 14. Learners engage and imagine in the areas of science, technology, engineering, art and math or S.T.E.A.M. It was awarded nonprofit status in June.
“Topics we teach include Lego animation, robotics, computer programming, film production, Minecraft, comic drawing and more,” Shingle says. “We create educational spaces in a variety of arenas, including in our studio classes, the school classroom, in afterschool programs, and in field trips and events for groups.” We want kids to feel safe to take risks, collaborate to solve problems, and imagine knowledge in new ways,” Shingle says. Plans include moving to a larger studio space that acts as a model of what 21st century learning can look like. Contact: erie@boxoflight.org Emma’s Footprints Emma’s Footprints supports families who have experienced the loss of a child either during pregnancy or infancy. Tracy Dailey and her husband, Bryan, lost their daughter, Emma, on May 30, 2007, when Dailey was eight months pregnant and a sonogram showed no fetal heartbeat. Now the mother of three boys, Dailey says she misses her daughter every day and founded the organization with her friend Kristen www.lakeerielifestyle.com
business & commerce
Banocy in memory of Emma.Together they offer everything from replies to e-mails, financial assistance with burials and referrals for counseling. “To directly serve families and get in the trenches with them as they started on this journey means a lot. It is such a taboo topic, and so it is such a lonely thing to have to go through. We are here to offer hope and shine a light in their time of darkness,” Dailey says. Emma’s Footprints received nonprofit status on May 30, 2014. Info: www.emmasfootprints.com Grady’s Decision The mission of Grady’s Decision is to provide emotional, spiritual and financial support to families experiencing a premature birth or a baby with a special medical need.“We have a love team who get to know the families and walks them through their journey,”says Ryan Smith, co-founder.“We have a Facebook page to provide support. We pray for our babies and families. We provide financial assistance including parking passes, gas cards and gift cards to restaurants while the baby is in the hospital.”
Smith’s wife, Katrina, gave birth at 27 weeks to their twins, Grady and Gianna, in 2008 in Erie. Grady died days after birth in Pittsburgh, but his sister survived after 71 days in the NICU, 35 of them in Pittsburgh. The couple created Grady’s Decision after seeing another family forced to return to work while their twins were still in the hospital. “Both their babies died, and we were heartbroken for them,” Smith says. “We were overwhelmed with love and support while we were in the hospital, and we felt we need to bless others like we were blessed.” Grady’s Decision has helped more than 600 families since 2011.The organization is run by volunteers. “We hope to continue to bless families one miracle at a time for as long as we can,” says Smith.The couple has a son, Gunnar, who was born a year after Grady’s death. Info: www.gradysdecision.com Dramashop Dramashop has been providing entertaining and provocative theatrical experiences since 2011, but it was officially awarded nonprofit status in 2013.
far left: Matt Harris is the founder of Character: Be About It, a nonprofit that reaches out into schools. center left: Eric Xu tests a bubble flute triggered by the sound of his voice. From left are Kelly Cass, Anthony Merlino, Alex Xu and Eric. center: After the loss of daughter Emma in 2007, Tracy Dailey and her husband, Bryan, were blessed with three sons. With them, from left, are Jackson, 9; Caleb, 6; and Bennett, 3. center right: Grady’s Decision co-founders Katrina and Ryan Smith savor a moment with their son Grady. Their organization is named in his honor. far right: The Partnership for Erie Public Schools accepts a check for the district’s Blue Coats project from the Erie Community Foundation. From left are John Dahlstrand, director of federal programs, Erie School District; Frank Petrunger Jr., Erie School Board; Andre Horton, county councilman and Blue Coats member; Jay Badams, superintendent of Erie’s public schools; Curtis Jones, city councilman and Blue Coats member; Darryl“Brother D”Craig, director of the Blue Coats; Daria Devlin, executive director of PEPS; George Espy, vice president of community impact, Erie Community Foundation.
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Dramashop provides free staged readings, low-cost studio productions and main stage productions throughout the year. It also provides open workshops throughout the year. “We created Dramashop because we saw a need in the community,” says Zach Flock. “We’re fortunate to live in a region with a very robust theater community, anchored by the Erie Playhouse for almost 100 years. But there was a gap in the theater community. A lot of newer works, progressive pieces of contemporary theater, weren’t being staged in Erie because to do so wasn’t financially viable.” Dramashop is pursuing growth. Info: www.dramashop.org Partnership for Erie’s Public Schools The Partnership for Erie’s Public Schools works to strengthen Erie’s public schools by providing community and financial support in arts, athletics, academics, assistance and advocacy. “I came from a nonprofit background in grants and development, so when I watched our district go through the painful budget crisis of 2010, I wondered whether a nonprofit model could be applied to public schools,” says Daria Devlin, the executive director and a graduate of Central High School. Devlin is the mother of three sons, who also attend Erie public schools. PEPS is a local education foundation similar to a parent teacher organization. “Ultimately, we believe that strong public schools will make a difference in our city by breaking the cycle of poverty and violence that so many of our students now find themselves in.” Info: www.partnershipeps.org LEL August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 27
cover story
The day that Erie Gives By Marnie Mead, Photos by Mark Fainstein
THE ERIE COMMUNITY donated more than $2.2 million during a 12-hour period in 2014 on Erie Gives Day.That included matches from The Erie Community Foundation, GE Transportation, Erie Insurance and Presque Isle Downs & Casino. “Last year, Erie Gives raised over $2.2 million dollars in one day for our local charitable organizations. Look what we can do when we all act together,” said Russ Warner, chairman of the Erie Community Foundation’s board of directors. Erie Gives was started by the Erie Community Foundation in 2011 in honor of the Foundation’s 75th anniversary.That year, a total of $774,443 was donated to 212 charities from 2,770 donors giving 4,935 gifts, according to Mike Batchelor, president of the Erie Community Foundation. Donors can make multiple donations on Erie Gives Day. Donors nearly doubled to 5,465 in 2014, and the number of gifts grew to nearly 12,000.The number of benefiting charities was 311. When asked what Erie Gives means to him, Warner responded: “Inclusiveness. Community. ‘Crowdfunding’ philanthropy. And the truly amazing generosity of the people in Erie — August2015
from all economic and social backgrounds.” On Tuesday, Aug. 11, donors will qualify for a prorated match from The Erie Community Foundation with each gift of $25 or more to their favorite nonprofit(s).The Foundation will accept online contributions between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. at www.eriegives.org.This year, Eriez Magnetics and an anonymous donor have made additional contributions to the prorated match pool for a total of $220,000, giving Erie Gives donors the opportunity to really make an impact to over 300 registered nonprofits. In 2014, the Foundation for Free Enterprise Education received the largest total contribution, at $171,161, followed by Erie Day School at $78,450.The Erie City Mission received the largest number of contributions at 368, followed by WQLN Public Media with 322. Only Visa, MasterCard and Discover credit and debit cards will be accepted. Lake Erie LifeStyle asked nonprofits to talk about what Erie Gives means to them.The dollar amount listed after each organization’s name reflects what was contributed to it during the 12 hours of giving in 2014 and does not include the prorated match.
Emmaus Ministries, $21,592.20 345 E. Ninth St., Erie Emmaus Ministries, a ministry of the Benedictine Sisters of Erie, provides a Christian presence and outreach to the poor through the Emmaus Soup Kitchen and Food Pantry and Sister Gus’ Kids Cafe. “Emmaus Ministries is grateful to be part of Erie Gives, this unique and creative appeal that enables so many good works in the area to benefit. “It is the loyal generosity of the Erie community that makes it possible for Emmaus to continue its 40-year outreach to the poor through our Soup Kitchen, Kids Cafe and Food Pantry. Being part of Erie Gives helps Emmaus reach out to a much larger and more diverse group of good-willed people. It is a blessing to be part of Erie Gives because we are able to tell more people about our mission: to provide ‘food for the body, care for the soul’to those who are hungry, homeless, wounded, addicted and in need of support.” — Sister Mary Miller, OSB, director, Emmaus Ministries avove left: Ruth Thompson Carroll is the director of The A.N.N.A. Shelter. above right: David González is executive director at St. Martin Center Inc.
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Erie Arts & Culture, $8,398 3 E. Fourth Street, Suite 10, Erie www.erieartsandculture.org Founded as the Arts Council of Erie in 1960, the organization provided advocacy, support and promotion for artistic ventures in the Erie region.Through services to members, developing partnerships with government agencies and building new funding avenues for the arts like the local United Arts Fund and the Erie Arts Endowment, it played a critical role in shaping the region’s artistic identity during the past 54 years. In 2009, the Erie Downtown Arts and Cultural Coalition formed to focus on the cultural vitality of Erie’s downtown.The two became Erie Arts & Culture in 2014. “Erie Gives Day presents a great opportunity to raise support and awareness for our local arts and cultural sector. Donors can make a gift to their favorite historic site or cultural venue or make one gift that supports many through Erie Arts & Culture’s 2015 Arts & Culture Campaign. Erie Gives Day is a good day to help grow a more vibrant and vital region. #VibrantErie.” — Amanda Brown Sissem, executive director, Erie Arts & Culture Erie City Mission, $58,206.31 1017 French St., Erie www.eriecitymission.org The Erie City Mission is a Christian social outreach program created in 1911 by the famous evangelist Bill Sunday.The Erie City August2015
Mission operates a men’s ministry, which provides shelter and meals; a daily free lunch for men, women and children; a women’s and children’s mission program, which includes shelter and after-school programs; a family care ministry, which has a food pantry and free clothing; and the Thrifty Shopper stores. Pastor Rick Crocker is the executive director. “Erie Gives allows the Erie City Mission to say ‘yes’to more men, women, children and deserving families who need our programs and services. It invites our donors to engage in the call to ‘restore hope and change lives’right here in Erie.” — Erin Layden, development specialist, Erie City Mission Erie Playhouse, $55,085.28 13 W. 10th St., Erie www.erieplayhouse.org Erie Playhouse’s 2014/2015 season included the Main Stage and Youth Theatre productions of “Shrek The Musical,”“Elf,”“Les Miserables” and “All Shook Up,” with performances Aug. 7 and 8, 13-16 and 19-23. “Erie Gives Day helps the Erie Playhouse bring each season to a close in a financially healthy way.The gifts donated to us not only assist in producing our shows and aid in community programming, but benefit the entire Erie Region.We put these generous funds to work making the Erie Playhouse the entertainment showcase that it is.Thank you, Erie Community Foundation, your Erie Gives Day
partners and all the donors who make Erie Gives Day a success for more than 300 nonprofits.” — Almitra Clerkin, executive director, Erie Playhouse Erie Vital Signs Erie Vital Signs started as a project of the Erie Community Foundation to measure the health of the community using seven indicators: economy, education, health, environment, cultural vitality, civic engagement and regional cooperation. “Our work at the Economic Research Institute of Erie in the Black School of Business often involves measuring economic performance and wellbeing in our community.This is exemplified by our partnership with the Erie Community Foundation to be the source of data and analysis for Erie Vital Signs, which provides a wide array of economic and social indicators for the region. Erie Gives is immensely meaningful to us because its success represents yet another indicator of a valuable local asset, namely the philanthropic spirit in our community.” —Dr. Kenneth Louie, Ph.D., director, Economic Research Institute of Erie, and associate professor of economics, Sam and Irene Black School of Business at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College above left: Russ Warner is chairman of The Erie Community Foundation board of directors. above right: Brian Hannah and Quigley are from WQLN Public Media.
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cover story Foundation for Free Enterprise Education, $166,026.17 3076 W. 12th St., Erie www.pfew.org. The foundation sponsors Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week, a one-of-a-kind summer program that offers high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to run their own businesses. Approximately 36,000 students have graduated from the program since 1979. “Erie Gives is such an important event and should be a model for other communities. It is a wonderful opportunity to shine the light on the importance of ‘giving back,’ especially for our young people. Kudos to the Erie Community Foundation and its partners for hosting such a wonderful event.” — John J. Trombetta, president and CEO, Foundation for Free Enterprise Education
St. Martin Center Inc., $8,354 1701 Parade St., Erie www.stmartincenter.org Established in 1952, the center focuses on meeting immediate needs and helping to build a plan for self-sufficiency. “Besides the obvious fundraising opportunity for St. Martin Center Inc., Erie Gives allows us to be part of something greater. It lets us be part of a community movement when Erie takes care of its own.” — David González, executive director, St. Martin Center Inc.
Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania, $31,349.43 1507 Grimm Drive, Erie www.eriefoodbank.org Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania is the largest nonprofit food distribution organization in northwestern Pennsylvania. It solicits, receives, inventories, stores and distributes food and grocery products to 442 partner organizations in 11 counties. Second Harvest provided food to 167,700 people in the fiscal year ending in 2014. “The Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania relies on Erie Gives to help fund our mission during the summer months when donations typically decrease, but the need for food continues. Contributions designated to Second Harvest enable us to distribute millions of pounds of grocery items to our member agencies, who in turn, provide those items free of charge to over 81,000 individuals in Erie County.Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we are able to make sure no one in our area is hungry.” — Karen Seggi, executive director, Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania
Maria House Project, $51,017.77 1218 French St., Erie Maria House Project is a group home treatment program founded by Monsignor James Peterson in 1971. “Maria House Project is a ministry serving
men who are suffering from the effects of drug and alcohol abuse, homelessness, incarceration, gambling and/or mental health issues. Over 80 percent of its budget is based on donations. During the last three years, MHP has ranked in the top nine agencies receiving donations. Erie Gives has introduced new donors to MHP and has increased the community’s awareness of a ministry that successfully serves the marginal and the forgotten.” — Joe Tarquinio, administrator, Maria House Project
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The A.N.N.A. Shelter, $23,288.92 1555 E. 10th St., Erie www.theannashelter.com The Association for Needy and Neglected Animals was named for Anna — a Shitzu mix that was brought into the police impound and was scheduled for euthanasia. Ruth Thompson Carroll, who would become the director, spotted her and gave her a second chance. Carroll and her friend Kris Watkins started the shelter with $800 and a menagerie in a basement in 2004.They found property on East 10th Street and built a run yard and kennels for 140 animals. More than 80 percent of the animals are returned to their owners.The rest are spayed or neutered and adopted. “Erie Gives is such a wonderful opportunity for us and for the community wanting to support our mission. Fundraising is a necessary and time-consuming effort for any nonprofit, so when an event like this one comes along for us — it’s fantastic for our bottom line. It’s easy for us and easy for our donors — that’s a win/win for sure. We’re thankful to the Erie Community Foundation and local corporate sponsors for making this possible and to the people who donate to support our work.” — Ruth Thompson Carroll, director, The A.N.N.A. Shelter The Nonprofit Partnership, $1,888.25 The Nonprofit Partnership provides tools, grants, education and training, and board and leadership development.The Nonprofit August2015
Partnership is led by Director Robert Wooler. Among the organizations that have benefited is Community Country Day School, 5800 Zuck Road, which provides education for at-risk youth. “The impact that ECF and Nonprofit Partnership has had on CCDS has gone beyond a donation. ...It has said, ‘We believe in what you do!’ It says that they want to ... reach children and develop them into strong leaders,” said Angela Collins, executive director, CCDS. Women’s Care Center of Erie County, $40,033.84 4408 Peach St., Suite 101, Erie www.wccerie.org The Women’s Care Center has been serving the Erie community, western New York and northeastern Ohio since 1982. It provides counseling and support for individuals facing unplanned pregnancies, youth making lifestyle choices, women in need of healing from past choices and childless couples. “It’s hard to put into words how thankful we are for the Erie Community Foundation and Erie Gives Day. It provides a huge boost for our midsummer finances.The Women’s Care Center is a ‘people serving’ nonprofit agency. At above left: Kenneth Louie, Ph.D., is the director of Economic Research Institute of Erie and associate professor of economics, Sam and Irene Black School of Business, Penn State Behrend. above right: Joe Tarquinio is the administrator of the Maria House Project.
a time of year when giving is typically low but demand for client services is the highest, the Erie Gives Day excitement and momentum become like a wave carrying us into our fall and winter fundraising.” — Brenda Newport, executive director, Women’s Care Center of Erie County WQLN Public Media, $27,029.05 8425 Peach St., Erie www.wqln.org WQLN Public Media includes radio station 91.3-FM, public television channels 54.1, which includes original and PBS broadcasting, 54.2, the Create channel, and 54.3, the World channel; and WQLN Educational.The station also sponsors trips, concert series and more. “Erie Gives Day is a contagious day of giving that has quickly become a day of celebration — celebrating our many nonprofits that improve the quality of life here in our hometown. “For WQLN, Erie Gives Day has meant support that is essential to bringing educational children’s television, quality arts programming, news, classics, jazz and current affairs programs to the region, and so we encourage everyone to participate in two ways. First find a nonprofit whose services you care deeply about and make an online donation.Then challenge your friends to donate — heck, why not have an Erie Gives Day party? WQLN can provide the music.” — Tom New, president and CEO, WQLN Public Media LEL www.lakeerielifestyle.com
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Erie Gives
Nonprofits participating in Erie Gives On Tuesday, Aug. 11, the Erie community will have 12 hours of online giving, coordinated and sponsored by The Erie Community Foundation, between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. More than 300 local nonprofits will have the opportunity to receive a prorated share of a $220,000 match pool from each donor gift of $25 ore more. Lake Erie LifeStyle worked with The Erie Community Foundation to provide a list of all those nonprofits that had registered for Erie Gives Day as of July 10. Included below are the names, websites and a brief mission statement. To see the full list on the day of giving, visit www.eriegives.org. Sponsored, expanded descriptions are on pages 34-55. Lake Erie LifeStyle hopes these resources will help you make your choices for giving on Aug. 11. When giving, please note that only Visa, MasterCard and Discover will be accepted. The Foundation receives no fees. The organizations will receive your donation plus The Erie Community Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prorated match on Aug. 28 on Erie Gives check distribution day.
To give our neighbors a hand up, not a handout, in North Eastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s small-town tradition of caring for our own.
ACADEMY NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
www.academyneighbors.org Formed in 2012 to foster strong community ties, encourage neighborhood safety, support neighborhood assets, and encourage appropriate economic development in the Academy Neighborhood of Erie.
ACHIEVEMENT CENTER
www.achievementctr.org To maximize the potential of children.
ADVANCE NORTH EAST FOUNDATION INC.
www.advancene.com The mission of the Advance North East Foundation is to provide annual scholarships to North East students seeking higher education and to fund projects that work toward the continued advancement of the North East community. CONTINED ON PAGE 56
The Erie Community Foundation presented the Edward C. Doll Community Service Award to Sister Joan Chittister. From left are, Sister Mary Lou Kownacki, OSB, Henry Doll, son of Edward C. Doll, Chittister, Mike Batchelor and Sister Anne Wambach, OSB. Photo courtesy of The Erie Community Foundation
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Covenant Preschool COVENANT PRESCHOOL is Erie’s oldest early learning program and has a long tradition of excellence. We are located in the heart of downtown Erie, at the historic First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant. Our outstanding faculty and four spacious and bright classrooms welcome students between the ages of 2 and 5. At Covenant Preschool, we recognize that much of a child’s intellectual and creative ability develops before formal education begins. We teach positive social skills by building healthy relationships with others, encouraging self-control, self-motivation, responsibility and sensitivity to the world around. A Covenant Preschool education offers students spiritual development through the teachings of God’s love in the Bible, through Jesus Christ, our faith community and each other. We inspire a love of learning in our students, and strive to meet each child’s needs to help in his or her transition from home to school. For 65 years, Covenant Preschool
has been the leader in early childhood development. We continue to make positive changes to our school and program to help meet the needs of our students and families. Covenant Preschool is now a nut-free facility — to accommodate the increasing number of children with nut allergies. We also have extended our optional enrichment and after-school programs for families wanting a longer school day or after-school care for their children. Invest in the future! Help us continue our tradition of excellence in early childhood education and donate to Covenant Preschool on Erie Gives Day!
Crime Victim Center FOR MORE THAN 40 YEARS, the Crime Victim Center of Erie County has been helping individuals heal and move forward with their lives at a time when they are filled with hopelessness and fear. Established in 1973 as the Erie County Rape Crisis Center, today CVC provides a full continuum of services to victims and witnesses of any type of crime including sexual assault, homicide, simple and aggravated assault, robbery, home invasion, and child and elder abuse. Trained counselor advocates provide crisis intervention, counseling, accompaniment through the criminal justice and medical systems, and victim compensation and restitution assistance to help victims cope and begin healing. Counselors can also be reached 24 hours a day, seven days a week through the CVC hotline. CVC helps more than 6,000 individuals each year, and services are free and confidential regardless of when the crime occurred or whether it
was reported to law enforcement. “I was soiled in pain, trauma, flashbacks, obscured thinking and a constant battle within and outside of myself,” said a former CVC client. “The dedication, endless patience, knowledge and tools I acquired from CVC taught me another way of life.” In addition to assisting victims after crimes are committed, CVC is dedicated to raising public awareness of crimes, offering education and training programs in violence prevention, education, and training programs to schools, businesses, community groups and other agencies.
▀ Summer Treatment Programs. The Achievement Center helps to build a stronger community every day by supporting the needs of children, teens and families. It’s our investment in the community. On Erie Gives Day, we hope you’ll consider making an investment in the Erie community by supporting the great work of the Achievement Center. All contributions
help our mission, to maximize the potential of children. If you’d like more information about the Achievement Center and the programs we offer, call us at 814-4592755 or visit us online to learn more at www.achievementctr.org. Support Erie Gives Day, www. eriegives.org. One day, one gift, countless lives changed.
Achievement Center ABOVE AND BEYOND, it’s what we do. Every day, the Achievement Center’s team works to enhance the lives of children, teens and families. Helping to make a positive difference in the lives of children is our passion. Through a variety of services for children, ages birth to young adulthood, the Achievement Center provides strong clinical support to meet the unique needs of children and teens with physical, developmental and behavioral concerns. Each year, the Achievement Center cares for more than 3,500 children across Erie, Warren, Forest and Crawford counties. Working together with families and other support networks, we focus on each child’s individual strengths, helping them identify and learn new skills and strategies to experience success at home, at school and in their communities. Kids of all ages have good days and bad days. You know your child best. If you have a concern about your child’s August2015
behavior or development, contact the Achievement Center. With the help of our qualified team of professionals, we can help you decide what supports, if any, are needed. Achievement Center services include: ▀ Early Childhood/Early Intervention. ▀ Children’s Mental Health Outpatient. ▀ Specialized Mental Health Programs (PCIT, SafeStart, Play Therapy, TF-CBT). ▀ Blended Case Management. ▀ Physical Rehabilitation (Project ACCESS, Therapeutic Recreation). ▀ Family Based Mental Health. ▀ Autism Services.
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Cystic Fibrosis Association of Erie County THE CYSTIC FIBROSIS Association of Erie County is committed to helping patients and their families cope with the financial and emotional burden imposed by cystic fibrosis. CF is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the respiratory and digestive systems. While the symptoms and medical outcomes from CF vary from patient to patient, most require careful routine monitoring by a CF physician, time-consuming daily respiratory treatments, as well as, numerous costly medications to prevent the damage from and manage the symptoms of CF. As an individual with CF ages, the quantity and types of treatments may increase, which further adds to the costs associated with managing the condition. The Cystic Fibrosis Association of Erie County was created in 1965 and consists entirely of volunteers
who donate their time and talents to providing services and support to the CF community. These services include: ▀ Information, referrals and support to patients and their families. ▀ Reimbursement of selected medical and living expenses not covered by other programs. ▀ Outreach/education through CFrelated presentations at local church, school or other events. ▀ Support of medical research through regular donations to the national Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Please visit the CFA of Erie County website to find out more about CF and what we do at www.cfaerie.org.
Erie Gives
Early Connections EARLY CONNECTIONS (formerly the YWCA) has operated in Erie County for more than 100 years. Our mission is to support the success of young children and their families through leadership, advocacy and quality programs in early care and education. Currently, we serve approximately 300 children in our centers, from infant through school age. Research indicates that children who experience quality child care and early learning experiences are more likely to be successful throughout school and beyond. Eventually, these children become our community’s adults, and given good early experiences, they are more likely to finish school, seek additional training or education, and become productive citizens. In the care of nurturing, qualified staff, children engage in developmentally appropriate learning activities at Early Connections, where STAR 4-level (highest level) programming is offered at four sites
in the city of Erie and one in Union City. Keystone STARS is a quality rating system used by Pennsylvania to determine the quality of Early Care and Education sites based on rigorous standards to promote the best learning environment and safest setting possible for children, contributing to a child’s overall success. Our sixth and newest center opened in North East in June of this year with the same focus on nurturing, high-quality care in a safe setting. We welcome your questions and encourage families to bring their children to visit Early Connections!
Barber National Institute A SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE. That is the title awarded to the Elizabeth Lee Black School at the Barber National Institute by the National Association of Special Education Teachers. The ELBS serves more than 220 students ages 3 to 21 with autism or intellectual and physical disabilities from 18 school districts in northwestern Pennsylvania and western New York. It was the first school in the state to earn the designation in 2008, and continues to meet the rigorous criteria every year. The honor is one of several recently presented to the school recognizing its achievements in education. This year, the National Association of Private Special Education Centers presented its Award for Leadership and Innovation for use of technology. The award recognized the “social stories” created by students and faculty with digital artist Jude Shingle through an Artist-in-Residence program. Students learned how to use
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animation, videos and other technology to create their own electronic “social stories” that help them develop social skills and everyday living abilities. The Residency, funded by grants from Erie Arts & Culture, First Niagara Bank and the Dr. Gertrude A. Barber Foundation, is a prime example of the innovative learning that can be created through private partnerships. Donors have many opportunities to make a real difference in the lives of children with projects such as: ▀ Renovation of the fitness and performance center. ▀ Arts initiatives that promote participation and appreciation of the musical, performing and fine arts. ▀ Technology including iPads and applications that target
individualized learning. Donations to the Barber Foundation help to fund a wide range of programs for the more than 4,200 children and adults with disabilities and mental health challenges and their families served by the Barber National Institute every year. On average, over the past five years, 98.5 percent of every dollar raised was used to meet expenses for these vital programs. With your support, we are helping individuals: ▀ Develop employment skills and get hired for jobs in the workforce. ▀ Overcome behavioral health challenges to more fully participate in the community. ▀ Live independently in their own homes and apartments. Every day, it costs $170,000 on
average to cover utilities, personnel and other costs for the Barber National Institute to provide the wide range of services and therapies needed by our children, adults and families. While expenses such as food, utilities and gas continue to rise, reimbursement rates fall short of covering these costs. Our donors help to ensure that high quality services continue to be available for individuals and families in our community to help them reach their potential for productive, fulfilling lives. Learn more about our services and opportunities to donate at www. barberinstitute.org.
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Erie Gives WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG Erie County Diabetes Association ERIE COUNTY DIABETES Association (ECDA) provides vital services to transform lives with evidence-based Diabetes Type 2 Prevention and Intervention programming for uninsured and underinsured individuals in Erie County. ECDA was recently approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to become the only recognized provider of the Group Lifestyle Balance (GLB) program in the Erie region. GLB is based on a largescale study conducted by the National Institutes of Health-sponsored Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), which demonstrated that individuals with pre-diabetes who achieve 5 to 7 percent weight loss, reduce calorie intake, and participate in regular exercise can lower their risk for developing Type 2 diabetes by 58 to 71 percent. Diabetes Intervention services utilize “Survival Skills Training” for newly diagnosed individuals, and the Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) program — an evidence-
based curriculum developed by the American Diabetes Association and Merck Pharmaceutical. Successful outcomes have included: ▀ 100 percent of participants have learned how to accurately monitor their blood sugar. ▀ 97 percent have avoided unnecessary use of Emergency Department or other preventable hospitalization related to their diabetes. ▀ 90 percent have reported they are better able to cope with their diagnosis, have gained increased acceptance of the condition and help in transitioning to their new lifestyle. Your financial support will help Erie County residents to manage their disease, and to reduce the overall number of those developing Type 2 diabetes in Erie County.
Erie Day School CRITICAL THINKING. A love of learning. A compassion for others. Respect for self. These are among the qualities that help young people develop into strong individuals with their own unique skills and talents and equipping them for academic excellence and success in every area of life. They are also the qualities cultivated by the educators of Erie Day School. If you’re looking for more than an average education for your child, EDS offers a vibrant curriculum for toddlers through grade eight. There are small class sizes with a rigorous, high-quality curriculum, including kindergarten through grade eight, foreign languages, visual and performing arts, athletics, and learning opportunities beyond the classroom. The Early Childhood and Lower School educational programming offers students an International Baccalaureate experience — blending traditional curriculum with 21st century skills and understandings
offer our learners an education beyond compare. Middle School coursework including engineering, grammar, western civilizations, biology, algebra and coding prepare students for the academic challenges of high school and beyond. Erie Day School relies on donations to offer scholarships and financial assistance to our families in need — affecting 50 percent of our students. Donations positively impact the quality of education our students receive and set the foundation for their lifelong learning among a diverse student body. Info: www.eriedayschool.com or call 814-452-4273. Erie Day School students are learning today, leading tomorrow.
and many local agencies to ensure that the children receive the help and assistance available in our community. The CAC regularly sees children from the city of Erie, the suburbs and the rural areas of Erie County. Children who are victims of abuse come from well-to-do and economically struggling families; they have parents who are professionals, laborers and unemployed; they are from all races and creeds. Yet these children all have at least one thing in common: They did not ask or want to be abused. Child abuse prevention is also a focus of the Children’s Advocacy Center. Staff from the CAC are available to speak to groups, offer trainings
for professionals, help clarify the responsibilities of mandatory reporters and provide general information on abuse prevention and response to the public. The CAC is a member of the Erie County Child Abuse Task Force, a collaborative group of more than 20 public, private and nonprofit agencies that seek to raise awareness about child safety and educate about the protection of children. Nearly 70 percent of the annual funding for the CAC is from fundraising events and the generosity of private donors. We hope that you will take the opportunity provided by Erie Gives to help the CAC support these children who are victims of abuse.
Children’s Advocacy Center of Erie County WHAT DO YOU THINK about when you think of childhood? Summer vacations? Ballgames? School? Family gatherings? For most people, these and similar images come to mind when we remember our youth. Yet for more than 6,500 Erie County Children, those memories of childhood will include being physically or sexually abused. Across our nation, about 11 percent of children are abused (some experts estimate more than 20 percent). Sadly, due to threats, fear and shame, only 1 in 10 children who suffer abuse will tell someone who can help them. That’s where the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) comes into the picture. The CAC is the safe, child-friendly place where children can find help. Here they give details of the abuse in an interview with a well-trained, forensic interviewer. That interview is recorded and conducted August2015
according to national protocols. The interview allows law enforcement and child protective services to act to protect the children without subjecting them to multiple interviews and the re-victimization that accompanies such multiple retellings. The CAC also connects the children and their families with forensic medical services, crime victims’ support, specially trained mental health and counseling providers so that the healing process can begin. Being fully accredited, the CAC follows a multidisciplinary team approach that includes the district attorney, law enforcement, the Erie County Office of Children and Youth
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Erie Homes for Children and Adults (EHCA) IS IT POSSIBLE to reduce the incidence of intellectual and physical disabilities by designing a program aimed at disability prevention? Will education, advocacy, and connection to community resources result in healthier families? Can steps be taken to keep families intact or prevent the need for child protective services? The answer is yes — through Erie Homes for Children and Adults’ Project First Step. Project First Step (PFS) serves the most physically and socially vulnerable individuals in Erie County. PFS is a multi-service program aimed at assisting expectant mothers who are at high risk of having an infant born with a disability, families caring for children with disabilities, and families at risk of having children removed from the biological home. Most PFS clients live below the poverty level, and many also deal with physical or intellectual disabilities, homelessness, domestic violence, drug or
alcohol dependency, lack of education or job skills, and/or mental health concerns. Because it is a preventive program and not a medical service, PFS does not receive federal funding. At EHCA, we know the entire community benefits when all people are valued, including those with disabilities and those whose life circumstances can affect the health and safety of their children. Your donation to EHCA on Erie Gives Day will be used to fund the vital work of Project First Step. We welcome your support.
Erie Gives
Erie Playhouse THINK ERIE PLAYHOUSE on Erie Gives Day if you … ▀ Enjoy being in our audience. ▀ Like bragging about our homegrown talent. ▀ Appreciate the value of the arts. ▀ Recognize how the arts support Erie’s economy. ▀ Collaborate with us. ▀ Hope our children will be happy individuals and engaged citizens. ▀ Believe our community is a great place to live. ▀ Want the Erie Playhouse to be here for another 100 years! Your Erie Gives Day donation will continue to make the Erie Playhouse a better organization. We will use your gift for a defibrillator, Mainstage and Youtheatre sensory–friendly performances, and Playtime — our new pre-K initiative in collaboration with the United Way and Imagination Library.
The ERIE PLAYHOUSE has actively participated in the past with Erie Gives Day. In 2014, we received $60,351 from 216 donors, ranking us in the Top 10 for both donations (sixth) and gifts (fifth). Donors will be thanked with their name up in lights on the theater marquee and more! Check out www. erieplayhouse.org for information about the impact of your charitable gift to the Erie Playhouse. The 24 members of our board, 12 staff, 1,000 volunteers, 1,600 season ticket holders and 35,000+ audience members thank you for your consideration of the Erie Playhouse on Erie Gives Day!
institutions like the University of Chicago, University of Notre Dame, New York University, University of California-Berkeley and Stanford University, and have been accepted to every Ivy League University. The quality of academics doesn’t stop at honors calculus or AP history. Collegiate Academy offers quality education in the arts as well. Collegiate Academy Vocal Jazz ensemble has been recognized at the state level, and the theater department has produced wellknown musicals such as “Sweeney Todd,” “Into The Woods,” and “Hairspray.” But excellence in the classroom and on stage is not enough. Collegiate Academy also provides excellence in the hallways — in the culture it fosters between the staff and students, and among the students themselves.
“We work on our culture as hard as we work on our academics,” Vieira said. According to Vieira, classroom interruptions are very limited. “We strive to create safe environments both academically and emotionally,” Vieira said. “The only kind of fighting we have happens in the classroom ... during debates,” Vieira laughed, recalling especially insightful debates he encountered while visiting various classrooms. Whether helping students reach their academic goals or pushing the school to reach institutional goals, Collegiate Academy is committed to achieving excellence in everything it does. The school motto: “Always reaching higher.” Info: http://eriesd.schoolwires. net/npca. — Lydia Laythe
Collegiate Academy HIGH SCHOOL IS a time of growth — awkwardly growing into our bodies, intellectually growing into our opinions, and emotionally growing into our personalities. For many of us, the labels we had in high school followed us long after graduation. Were you a jock? A nerd? Class president? An outcast? According to Jim Vieira, dean of Northwest Pennsylvania Collegiate Academy, his school is not the typical institution with “Breakfast Club” labels and “Mean Girls” cliques. “Kids like to come here,” Vieira said. “Our culture makes Collegiate a really special place.” At Collegiate Academy, faculty and administrators create an environment that focuses on academics, fosters a love of learning, and encourages respect and tolerance. And if the number of awards Collegiate Academy has received is any www.lakeerielifestyle.com
indication, they’re quite successful at what they do. Collegiate Academy is ranked in the top 1 percent of U.S. high schools in the nation, according to Newsweek. For nine years in a row, Collegiate Academy has received a U.S. News and World Report Gold ranking. And the U.S. Department of Education recognized Collegiate Academy as a Blue Ribbon School in 2013. But all the accolades can’t compare to the quality education and experience this institution provides. Students and parents have often said, “It’s cool to be smart here.” Collegiate Academy offers 24 Advance Placement courses, students’ SAT/ACT score averages are above the national and state average, and 100 percent of students are accepted to four-year colleges. Graduates are accepted to
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Erie Gives WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG
Erie Regional Chamber Erie United Methodist Alliance and Growth Partnership THE MISSION of the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership is to collaborate and mobilize leadership, expertise, and resources to sustain business, create jobs, grow investment, enrich lives, and improve the prosperity of the region. Programs and Services offered through our organization: ▀ Business to Business Referrals ▀ Exclusive Networking Events ▀ Savings and Discount Programs ▀ Marketing and Sponsorship Opportunities Print and Electronic Publications ▀ Erie Business Action Team ▀ ▀ Lead Economic Development Team ▀ Project Jobs ▀ Tap Into Erie ▀ Takt Triangle ▀ Business to Business Matchmaking
▀ CEO Roundtable Engagement ▀ Destination Erie/Emerge2040 ▀ K-12 Common Core State Standards ▀ Erie County Healthcare Collaborative ▀ Erie Regional Education and Training Consortium ▀ Transformational Initiatives ▀ What can we help you and your business with today?
“I’VE ALWAYS DREAMED of having my own bed!” Five-year-old Grace beamed. There, in front of her, was a freshly made bed, complete with handmade quilt and fluffy stuffed rabbit, all donated by neighbors. Carefully, she crawled onto the bed, laid her head on the pillow, wrapped her arm around her new friend and began her stay at Erie United Methodist Alliance’s emergency shelter for homeless families. No child deserves to be homeless. Yet, Grace is one of more than 200 children in our community who found safe shelter and services at EUMA last year. Together, we are ending homelessness and alleviating the effects of poverty here in northwestern Pennsylvania. Last year, 16,126 bed-nights immediately ended homelessness for families and veterans — including three out of every four children in Erie’s shelter system. Of these clients, 81 percent reported their situation improved following their stay with
EUMA. In addition to our three shelters, EUMA: ▀ Operates a 24/7 rapid response team tasked with getting people off the streets and on a pathway to permanent housing. ▀ Offers a communitywide voucher program providing free clothing and household items to those in need through EUMA’s Rainbow Connection Thrift Store. ▀ Helps the homeless access vital medical care through EUMA’s Healthcare for the Homeless Partnership. Learn more at www.euma-erie.org. Thank you for ending homelessness for families, children, veterans and alleviating poverty in northwestern Pennsylvania!
Erie Arts & Culture Show your support for local arts and culture on Erie Gives Day! Give to the 2015 Arts & Culture Campaign! Erie Arts & Culture represents the collective voice of creators, investors and community members passionate about arts and culture. Established as the Arts Council of Erie in 1960, our mission is to strengthen the vibrancy and vitality of the Erie region and enrich the lives of our people through the advancement of arts and culture. We achieve this by creating a shared vision for the arts and culture sector, building public will and participation, mobilizing resources, encouraging alignment of services and collaborations and helping to assess the health and impact of the sector. We are a proud partner to the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts and an Erie County Lead August2015
Asset as recognized by the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority (ECGRA). Erie County residents have long championed a united fund drive to
inspire, grow and sustain our cultural treasures. The 2015 Arts & Culture Campaign continues this tradition. Your gift to Erie Arts & Culture on Erie Gives Day will support the 2015 Arts & Culture Campaign. One gift to the 2015 Arts & Culture Campaign strengthens the vibrancy and vitality of the Erie region. Here’s what your donation to Erie Arts & Culture on Erie Gives Day will support: ▀ 65 percent of your gift will support the operations of cherished cultural assets: Erie Art Museum, Erie County Historical Society, Erie Playhouse, Erie Philharmonic, expERIEnce Children’s Museum. Dafmark Dance Theater, US Brig Niagara/ Erie Maritime Museum and the Lake Erie Ballet; ▀ 10 percent percent of your gift plus revenue from the Erie Arts Endowment will provide competitive grants for innovative art and cultural
projects throughout Erie County; ▀ 20 percent of your gift will stay with Erie Arts & Culture to strengthen and unite our arts & culture sector; ▀ And, the remaining 5 percent percent will maintain Erie County as one of 48 remaining united arts fund drives in the country. Grow your gift to arts and culture on Erie Gives Day. This Aug. 11, make your gift to Erie Arts & Culture! Learn more at www.erieartsandculture. org, like us on Facebook @ erieartsandculture or follow us on Twitter #vibranterie. Are you a provider of arts and cultural programs, products or services? Become a member at www. erieartsandculture.org/member_ services/join. www.lakeerielifestyle.com
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Erie Gives
Experience Children’s Museum Fairview School Foundation
WHY SUPPORT THE Experience Children’s Museum? ▀ We’re home to the coolest cave in town — Bedrock Cave! ▀ Everyone can be a kid here — and we encourage it. ▀ We’re not afraid of getting wet. You can paint with water and race rubber ducks. ▀ It’s the only place in town where you can imagine yourself as a doctor, banker or superhero all in one day. ▀ New this year! The Children’s museum is home to an Outdoor Classroom — one of 10 in Pennsylvania. Kids can explore the Discovery Path, play musical instruments, read a book in the reading nook and more! ▀ Your gift will help us instill quality family fun and learning into our community. ▀ Check us out at 420 French St., located in the heart of downtown Erie. The Children’s Museum is home to three floors of hands-on exhibits for children of all ages to engage in creative play, science, health, math,
culture and art. ▀ The Children’s Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and on Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is $7 per person; yearly memberships are also available. Special programs including Open Studio, Toddler Story Time, Discovery Camps, Preschool classes and Baby classes are offered. Visit www.eriechildrensmuseum. org for more information on upcoming special events, memberships and museum news.
AT THE FAIRVIEW SCHOOL Foundation, we know that strong schools build strong communities. Putting children first is our guiding principle. We work diligently to provide funding for innovative educational projects, college scholarships and campuswide enhancements, while growing the financial base of the Foundation for the future. The efforts of the Fairview School Foundation positively impact all students of the district. During the 2014-15 school year, the Fairview School Foundation awarded nearly $15,000 in minigrants to teachers and more than $11,600 in scholarships to graduating seniors. Districtwide improvements the Foundation helped to fund include: the new turf field at Jack Bestwick Stadium, the Chris Batchelor Memorial Tennis Courts, the Larry D. Kessler Tiger Trail and the athletic field concession stand. Additionally, the Ann V. Moore
Speaker Series assists in bringing dynamic and relevant speakers to our district. Fairview High School is one of just 337 schools nationwide to be recognized as a 2014-15 National Blue Ribbon School, acknowledging the exceptional learning environment at Fairview. This is the highest award possible for any school district in the United States. Please help us build our community by supporting the Fairview School Foundation on Erie Gives Day. Your tax-deductible donations coupled with the Erie Gives pro-rated match will enable us to continue our work with the district to provide excellence in academics, athletics and the arts. Thank you!
Harborcreek Youth Services WHEN YOU DONATE to Harborcreek Youth Services during Erie Gives, you’re giving so much more than money. You’re giving kids the tools to create, express themselves, and heal from past trauma. You might know HYS as the “boys home” — but did you know we are actually a Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility? We offer trauma-informed services for children, adolescents, and their families who require the highest level of behavioral health care. In addition to residential care, we also provide Erie County Therapeutic Foster Care for boys and girls ages 5-18 and entire families through our Multisystemic Therapy programs. We are a Sanctuary-certified agency, meaning we focus on skills for social responsibility, self-care and the future. This year, your Erie Gives contribution to Harborcreek Youth Services will help our agency add www.lakeerielifestyle.com
Helping Kids Succeed Since 1911
new programming, space, and materials for Therapeutic Art, Music, and Movement Therapies. The kids who will be served through this project have been through traumatic experiences that have resulted in a need for intensive psychiatric treatment. We are proud to announce a new collaboration with Mercyhurst University’s Art Therapy and Music Therapy departments. By working with their faculty and students to develop our new programming, we ensure success for our clients and can offer meaningful, real-world experiences for
tomorrow’s leaders. While our agency has changed, grown, and succeeded over the past 104 years, it’s more important now than ever that we have the support of donors like you. All children need therapeutic options for expression — especially kids who may not be ready to speak for themselves — and we want to give them every chance and tool they need. Thank you for considering donating to Harborcreek Youth Services during Erie Gives. To find out more about our organization, visit our website at www. hys-erie.org or call us at 814-899-
7664. If you’re interested in becoming a Therapeutic Foster Parent, call and dial extension 333. We are grateful to be part of this community and for your support as we continue to help kids and their families succeed. August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 41
Erie Gives WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG
Family Services of NW PA FOR NEARLY 125 YEARS, Family Services of NW PA has been serving the Erie region with the mission of strengthening family life by providing counseling, education and advocacy programs. With more than 25 programs, including in-office and in-home therapy, adoption services and mentoring programs, Family Services is committed to the well-being of individuals and families within our community. In an effort to expand our mission, Family Services relaunched the Big Brothers Big Sisters program in Western Crawford County. The program, currently active in Erie County, is a structured mentoring program for kids ages 6 to 13 years old. Adult mentors participate in recreational activities, provide academic support and encourage youth on a path to success. These
relationships often change the course of a child’s life. We’re excited to develop America’s No. 1 mentoring program deeper into our region. Family Services also will be expanding our Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy team. Through this expansion, we’re looking forward to further impacting the lives of those affected by trauma and toxic stress in ways that help them thrive in our community. If you or someone you know might interested in learning more about the programs at Family Services of NW PA, please visit our website at www.fsnwpa.org or call 800-634-2560.
Flagship Niagara League FOR NEARLY THREE decades, the U.S. Brig Niagara and her crew have been sailing the Great Lakes as the flagship ambassador of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, preserving and interpreting the story of the Battle of Lake Erie. In partnership with the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, the Flagship Niagara League, a 501(c)(3), nonprofit educational associate organization, is chartered to facilitate citizen participation and operation of the U.S. Brig Niagara and its homeport, Erie Maritime Museum. The Flagship Niagara League raises funds to help keep this historical vessel sailing into the future and the doors to the Erie Maritime Museum open, while promoting Erie and Pennsylvania’s history, culture and economy. Niagara, a replica of Perry’s victorious flagship during the Battle of Lake Erie in the War of 1812, sails to various ports telling the story of the battle to nearly 25,000
visitors each year. As a Coast Guard Certified Sailing School Vessel, Niagara accepts trainees and students who learn the skills of traditional square-rig seamanship through sailing, maintaining and/or living on the ship. When in homeport, the ship herself, berthed within yards of the museum, is the premier “exhibit.” Inside the museum, enter the world of Lake Erie where you can discover and interact with history. Historical artifacts, interactive exhibits and dramatic videos bring the Battle of Lake Erie and Erie’s rich maritime history to life.
The Humane Society of Northwestern Pennsylvania FOR MORE THAN 120 years The Humane Society of Northwestern Pennsylvania has worked for the well-being of animals in the Erie area. Today, we operate the only open-access animal shelter in the region. The Humane Society serves as a safety-net for relinquished, stray, or abandoned animals and ensures that each animal entering the shelter is treated with compassion and given the best quality of care. The Humane Societies Animal Law Enforcement team plays an integral part in safeguarding all animals. Animal cruelty comes in all shapes and sizes. Over the years, The Humane Society has logged thousands of complaints and has documented all too many instances of cruelty. The cruelty division has operated under the Humane Society for more than 25 years and has one of the longest and most consistent histories of animal law enforcement in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. August2015
We are a small shelter, with a dedicated staff, and a strong volunteer base. We are able to care for the animals that come through our doors each year by working hard and making the most of all of our resources. We need help from our community — by adopting our wonderful animals, spreading the word about the great shelter we have, and through financial support that enables us to take in more animals that may have no other possibility for a second chance. The kindness and generosity we receive from members of our community is boundless, and
because of this support we are able to care for pets like Cody, a poodle who was a victim of severe animal neglect. After Cody received the necessary treatment, he was able to find his forever family. Help us
continue achieving our mission and creating happy endings for our fourlegged friends. Please support the Humane Society of NWPA on Erie Gives Day. Your thoughtfulness is appreciated! www.lakeerielifestyle.com
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Girl Scouts of Western Pennsylvania AT GIRL SCOUTS of Western Pennsylvania, our mission says it all: Girl Scouts builds girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place. Girl Scouts is the world’s most successful organization dedicated to fostering girls’ leadership potential. The Girl Scout experience has shaped the lives of the majority of female senior executives and business owners, two-thirds of women in Congress and virtually every female astronaut. Girl Scouts give back Girl Scouting helps put girls on a path for future career success, but the experience also inspires them to give back to the community. According to a study by the Girl Scout Research Institute, all Girl Scouts alumnae, regardless of how long they were a Girl Scout, are more active in community service and volunteer work than women who were not Girl Scouts. GSWPA is a community asset When girls succeed, so does
society. Girl Scouts helps girls discover themselves and their values, connect with others and take action to make the world a better place. At Girl Scouts, everything centers on the girl: activities are girl-led, providing the opportunity for girls to learn by doing in a cooperative — not competitive — environment. We lead with fun, so girls are learning new skills and building confidence while making friends and memories they’ll cherish for life. To volunteer or learn more about GSWPA, visit www. gswpa.org or call 800-248-3355.
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Goodwill AT GOODWILL, our mission’s simple. You donate. We train. People work. Your support of Goodwill’s mission starts by cleaning out your closet and donating gently used clothing and household items to one of our stores and donation centers. Your donations are processed for sale, and the proceeds help Goodwill fund training programs for hardworking people, who are struggling to find work. Once you see how Goodwill changes lives, you will realize how much your support is really needed. Each time you make a financial contribution or donate gently used items, you are supporting our new mission efforts in Erie. Later in 2015, Goodwill will be opening a new workforce Development Career and Training center in Erie for the first time! We will be providing nationally proven Goodwill Programs as well as new programs being developed here
in Erie and at other Goodwill Centers throughout the United States to meet emerging social service needs. Our services will cover a variety of issues such as: vocational rehabilitation, intensive job placement, on-the-jobtraining, supported employment, and work-related soft skills training. As you can see, donations of gently used goods and financial gifts are needed now more than ever! Goodwill’s mission really is simple. Your donations and purchases strengthen your community, one job at a time. You donate. We train. People work. Visit Goodwill today and thank you for supporting Goodwill on Erie Gives Day!
complete their last year of high school and freshman year at Mercyhurst University, thus enabling them to graduate from the university in three years with significant financial savings. Eighth-grade students advanced in math, science or languages may begin taking high school classes at Mercyhurst Prep as McAuley Scholars. MPS features 22 different sports teams that compete at regional and state levels including an exclusive competitive award-winning international rowing team. Our nationally competitive speech and debate team competes at such prestigious schools as Harvard University. Our award-winning creative and performing arts program has launched
MPS grads into successful arts-related careers. Some MPS graduates are Broadway stars, some hold technical art positions in Hollywood, to name a few. MPS is known for the Mercy mission of service and concern for the dignity of all persons. This past school year, MPS students gave nearly 25,000 hours of service to the Erie community, the people of Baltimore, community organizations in China, Ukraine, Russia, Korea and more — an average of 44 service hours per student. This year your Erie Gives donation will go toward a much-needed, goanywhere van to transport students to events, sports, retreats, activities. Thank you for helping us reach our $30,000 goal. Visit www.mpslakers. com for more information.
Mercyhurst Prep FOUNDED BY THE SISTERS of Mercy in 1926, Mercyhurst Preparatory School (MPS) boasts a long history of Mercy and Catholic values, academic excellence, and whole person development. Sitting on a sprawling, tree-lined, 7.25-acre campus overlooking Lake Erie, MPS is NWPA’s only coeducational Catholic high school. Throughout their high school career, Mercyhurst Prep students have the opportunity to expand their world view and grow into compassionate leaders excelling at the nation’s top universities. With a 98 to 100 percent college attendance rate, MPS graduates succeed at the best schools in the USA and abroad. The 2015 class of 138 graduates received nearly $14,000,000 in college scholarships. The coeducational environment provides a realistic way of preparing young people to take their places naturally in the wider community of male and female adulthood. Learning together breaks down the www.lakeerielifestyle.com
misconceptions each sex may have about the other and provides an excellent foundation for developing meaningful and lasting relationships as the students move into college and careers. The 90-minute block schedule imitates the class time that students will encounter in college. MPS is proud of its small class size and student-tofaculty ratio of 12:1. A world academic leader with the International Baccalaureate program for the past 30 years, MPS offers a destination for students from across the region and around the globe that is unmatched. The 2014-15 school year included boarding students from 10 different countries. Students can take college credit classes at a reduced rate at Mercyhurst University by accessing via the Mercy Walkway that connects the campuses. MPS seniors may simultaneously
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Erie Gives WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG The Greater Erie Alliance for Equality Inc. THE GREATER ERIE ALLIANCE organization dedicated to supporting its straight allies through educational programs, social events, and opportunities for service, which are designed to strengthen our voice and enhance our image in the region. During the five years of our existence, we have partnered with allies in many sectors of the Erie community to bring awareness and and transgender people in our area. Last year, we provided a $10,000 gift
rich diversity of Erie and support other organizations in our area that are allies
Greater Erie Area Habitat for Humanity GREATER ERIE AREA HABITAT for Humanity is changing lives and building hope through simple, decent homeownership. Over the years, more than 60 families have earned their dream of seven parents in the Habitat process
Index rating (currently 57/100) by a first step in this 2020 vision, we are conducting a multiphase needs
home and a bright future for their children. Habitat families earn their opportunity to become homeowners. attending monthly budget sessions and
with Edinboro University’s Department we will host our second biennial
year we host other social events and service opportunities to celebrate the
fosters the development of personal responsibility, organization, time literacy. Communities are strong when individuals are strong. It is wise to invest in individuals willing to help themselves to improve their situations. Habitat families don’t want a handout; they need a hand up. A recent homeowner commented about
who give freely of their time and our website, www.greatereriealliance. com.
into the reality of a home. We are empowering families to build a better future. Our program
community as we continue to change lives and build hope.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Erie County THE NATIONAL ALLIANCE on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Erie County provides education and support to individuals, children, and families facing the challenges of mental illness in Erie County. NAMI serves over 6,000 unduplicated individuals each year through our programs and services. All services are provided free of charge, in order to ensure that no family is ever turned away, regardless of their ability to pay. Examples of NAMI of Erie County’s programs and services include:
Erie County
program teaches participants to become active members of their own recovery, while training participants to prevent a mental health crisis from occurring. development component, which
these activities, increasing their overall mental wellness.
other local agencies, exposes children to different artistic mediums and the positive benefits art can have on mental
— NAMI provides mental health education presentations to a variety of school districts, organizations, and businesses throughout Erie County. In the past year, NAMI has positively impacted over 1,000 area high school
family members and friends who have a loved one facing the challenges of participants with mental health advocacy tools, to ensure that their loved ones are receiving the treatment on empathy, allowing for a greater understanding of the challenge their loved one is facing. Many program August2015
Children experience an educational in an activity that utilizes the concepts
presentations educate attendees about the signs and symptoms of mental illness, suicide prevention, and
different organizations throughout Erie County that offer services, in addition to many other topics. All donations made to NAMI of Erie County stay right here in Erie County and directly support our programs and yours, that NAMI is able to offer these programs and services free of charge eliminate the negative stigmas that surround mental illness and remove barriers to treatment for individuals and families facing a mental health challenge. www.lakeerielifestyle.com
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Kaleidascope Inc. IN 2005, Janet Pawlowski, Licensed Psychologist, L.M.F.T, founded Kaleidascope Inc. While providing therapy services to children, teens, and adults diagnosed with Asperger’s disorder, she found that after high school there were few services available. Janet has been dedicated to filling that void and creating a service delivery that meets the needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Today, KAS provides individual, family and group programming for individuals on the autism spectrum and related issues. Kaleidascope is also a provider for state-funded adult autism programming, offering individualized support within the community, behavioral support services and therapy services. During the last 10 years, it has become apparent these individuals also need assistance in acquiring affordable and supportive housing. As children with autism grow into adults with autism, they want what
everyone wants, to live their lives independently and make the most of their talents. Living in their own apartments will allow them the option of making choices and directing their future making their individual dreams and goals attainable. Kaleidascope is in the process of developing programming to make this a reality, with the availability of supports and the opportunity to maintain a social network. Community support is crucial to create a unique housing option for a unique population. Help us to make a difference in their lives. For more information, visit www.kas-erie.org.
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Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier Park LEAF: ERIE’S ARBORETUM — Creating educational opportunities and outdoor experiences for our community. Imagine fifth-grade students outside learning about trees, recycling, invasive species and composting. As part of Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier Park’s Arbor Day celebration, more than 260 students had just that experience. They also helped to plant four trees. How about preschoolers learning about bugs or the life of a tree or fish? With the construction of our new Education Center, we now have monthly Little Leaves activities for children under age 5 and Drop-In Tuesday summer nature-themed programs for children ages 4 to 8, which combine story time, lessons, crafts and excursions through the arboretum. These are just a few of the programs presented by LEAF. In addition, there are summertime concerts and theater performances, movies in the arboretum, art classes, workshops for adults and two festivals: the LEAF Festival and Winterfest.
With the exception of our annual fundraiser, ArborEAT’em, the majority of LEAF’s events are free and open to the public. Many volunteers help with annual cleanup and our programming, which is appreciated. Thanks to last year’s Erie Gives Day contributions, LEAF was able to offer busing to city schools for Arbor Day, and Little Leaves was started. Your support through Erie Gives will allow LEAF to continue those programs and reach more members of the community. Our tagline is “Trees and Memories Grow Here.” Help us continue to make that possible.
continue and prosper. The U.S. economy was built on innovation and the entrepreneurial spirit. The railroad, steel, and energy sectors were all driven by research and development to produce better products and production methods. Innovations in electronics, the tech sector, and the Internet are equally vital and have increased productivity, quality, and market distribution. Today, industries across all sectors that adopt and rely on innovation pay more, have greater impact on their local economies, and are better positioned to adapt and survive in economic downturns. Collaboration and innovation are especially crucial because our region no longer competes merely on a local or national level. Our entrepreneurs
and businesses must compete globally in order to survive and thrive. Without local business, all other aspects of life in Erie also suffer. We cannot fund schools, charities, or other associations without local dollars infused into the economy. Entrepreneurs rarely succeed alone. They need a network of contacts, business and financial partners, peers, and resources to succeed. Likewise, Erie’s future as a vibrant, creative, and inviting region in which to live, work, and thrive depends upon the success of these entrepreneurs. With your support, the Innovation Collaborative aims to make that not just a possibility, but a reality, tomorrow and for a long time to come. Info: http:// innovationcollaborators.com.
Innovation Collaborative ENTREPRENEURSHIP IS the cornerstone of American progress. Recognizing that, the Innovation Collaborative has made it our mission to support and promote the creation and development of local businesses in the Erie area. We know from past success in Erie that if we build it, they will come. The converse is equally true. If we, as a region, do not build it, they won’t come. Without active support and expertise, our local entrepreneurs cannot succeed as they should. This is where the Innovation Collaborative comes in. There is an environment in which entrepreneurs thrive. Funding and support are absolutely crucial. Entrepreneurs are most successful when they have access to human, financial and professional resources. But their businesses cannot grow unless they operate in an environment that encourages and safeguards entrepreneurs. This network is described as the “entrepreneurship ecosystem.” www.lakeerielifestyle.com
The Innovation Collaborative offers a number of necessary services to enhance the local entrepreneurship ecosystem. We develop and execute outreach and promotional programs to build a regional culture where entrepreneurship is understood, appreciated, and celebrated. Our activities enhance communication and collaboration between individuals and organizations. We also conduct ongoing inventory, assessment and publication of the Erie region’s entrepreneurial activities and provide fundraising and project management resources to further enhance that ecosystem. The skills, time, and money needed to create and grow business must be made available to our local entrepreneurs in order for them to
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Erie Gives WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG The Sisters of St. Joseph Mission & Ministries Foundation THE SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH Mission & Ministries Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization established in January, advances the mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph by inviting community members to join them in ministry, and ultimately raising, stewarding and granting funds to support the congregation, its ministries and other like-minded entities. The foundation was created in order to advance the SSJ mission of “serving the dear neighbor without distinction.” Today, the mission is fulfilled by many ministries throughout northwestern Pennsylvania, and in various other cities and counties where our sisters live and serve. Their primary ministries include: health care, education, inner city neighborhood networks, homeless shelters, advocacy for peace and justice, housing, mentoring and support for women in need, outreach
to refugees and immigrants, global mission projects, spiritual direction and prayer ministries, and pastoral ministries. Relationships have always been essential to the work of the Sisters of St. Joseph. Over the years, support of generous friends and community leaders has made it possible for the sisters to serve thousands of dear neighbors. The foundation hopes to engage more people, foster more relationships and ultimately have the resources to fund existing and new ministries, as well as other community efforts. Your donation through Erie Gives will help the SSJ Mission & Ministries Foundation support many ministries well into the future.
The Sisters of St. Joseph Neighborhood Network THE SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH Neighborhood Network is a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania. The mission of the SSJNN is to provide leadership, advocate for local residents, and partner with the broader community to develop opportunities for both personal growth and neighborhood revitalization. The organization was founded in 2000 by two sisters in Erie’s historic Little Italy. That location remains at 425 W. 18th St. and serves the designated neighborhood of 12 blocks there, from State to Cranberry streets and West 12th to West 26th streets. In 2014, another location was also founded to address the needs of a blighted neighborhood on Erie’s east side, serving Parade Street to East Avenue and East 16th to East 33rd streets.
Some ministries of SSJNN include youth programs such as tutoring, art, summer work, Pedal Mettle (earn-a-bike program), weekly soup kitchen, many revitalization efforts such as murals and gardens, and the Genesis housing program to enable first-time homeowners. Accomplishments of the organization to date include approximately 75,000 hot meals served, more than 1,000 unduplicated children in individualized and small group programs, physical revitalization including the installation of 14 murals, many security cameras, new sidewalks and three large community gardens. Many relationships have also been fostered, neighborhood watches have been created, and many families have been served with affordable housing, budget counseling, referrals and more.
St. Patrick’s Haven
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There continues to be a need for St. Patrick’s Haven, however, expenses have increased and government funding has decreased. Thanks to the support of many benefactors, we have managed to keep the shelter operating. But more help is needed if we are to continue operating throughout the year. Your donation through Erie Gives Day will help us provide for the basic needs of this growing population of homeless men.
SINCE 1984, St. Patrick’s Haven has responded to the needs of homeless men in the city of Erie as part of an outreach ministry of the associates of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania. “The Haven” is open daily from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. and can accommodate 21 men each night. Unlike other shelters that turn away men who are visibly intoxicated or under the influence, St. Patrick’s Haven welcomes them, as long as there is no alcohol or other substances brought into the shelter. St. Patrick’s Haven serves dinner on the weekends, while the men eat at area soup kitchens on weekdays. Last year, 5,220 shelter nights were provided for 97 men; about half were veterans. St. Patrick’s Haven serves all qualified people without distinction, and will not refuse anyone on the basis of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, disability, and/or age.
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Linked By Pink CONSIDER LINKED By Pink on Erie Gives Day! Linked By Pink, a nonprofit organization consisting of Erie-area breast cancer survivors, offers support to diagnosed patients under the age of 45. We provide emotional and financial support for young women within a 45-mile radius of Erie. LBP was founded after nine young survivors came together to raise funds for local organizations through a calendar sale. In 2008, we held our first monthly support meeting. By gathering these amazing women, we’ve been able to identify many different ways a young patient may need help. Through fundraisers and donations, we have implemented various programs to assist patients with items not covered by insurance. Our grant program provides funds directly to patients to help with copays, travel and living expenses. Our grants have
helped over 80 young women with more than $50,000 in cash assistance. While research for a cure is important, there are many patients in our area who are unable to afford the necessities related to treatment. We also believe a diagnosis affects the whole family. Below are some ways LBP helps within our community: ▀ Comfort gift bags to anyone diagnosed with breast cancer. ▀ Gift cards for meals after surgery. ▀ House cleaning for stage 4 members. ▀ College scholarships to children of those diagnosed. ▀ Monthly support meetings. Your donation helps us continue these important programs. Info: www. linkedbypink.org.
Erie Gives
Meals on Wheels FORTY-FOUR YEARS is a long time to know someone. Like any relationship, Meals On Wheels has developed deeply rooted connections to the Erie community it has served since 1971. Despite the years Meals On Wheels, http://mealsonwheelserie.org/, spent deepening its ties in the community with home-delivered meals, the organization is now expanding into new services. Since Terry Pytlarz began his role as executive director four years ago, the organization has grown and improved. “We needed to be mainstream,” Pytlarz said. “It’s time to grow our base and grow the services we provide.” At its most basic, Meals On Wheels delivers client-paid meals directly to the homes of older adults, individuals with disabilities through a state assisted program, and individuals who meet income and needs qualifications through Greater Erie Community Action Committee. Meals On Wheels services have always included
delivering meals, but less than two months ago the organization started a new service: grocery shopping and delivery. This new service allows the organization to serve more consumers outside the city of Erie and Millcreek Township. Meals On Wheels already is serving the homebound in Edinboro, Girard and Harborcreek. But even as its services expand and its client base broadens, Pytlarz knows he’s fulfilling a foundational need for the people he serves. “We serve people in the most basic way,” Pytlarz said, noting that more than 300 people are served daily. “Food is food. It doesn’t get any more basic than that. Because it’s such a basic need, we can’t miss a delivery. And we don’t. We never have, and we never will.” — Lydia Laythe
Saint George Catholic School
SAINT GEORGE CATHOLIC School is a Parish grade school that offers preschool programs and kindergarten through eighth-grade elementary education. We are a school and parish of distinction, and are well-recognized in Erie, as a result of the longtime dedication to superior ministries by our community originators and existing members. We were founded in 1944 by the Sisters of Mercy, who provided 61 years of dedicated service. We are accredited by Middle States. We offer before- and after-school child-care programs to meet the needs of our working families. We have a team of teachers that are committed to www.lakeerielifestyle.com
education and lifelong learning. We are responsive to diverse needs and offer an array of accommodations, assistance with math and reading, speech and language remediation, and one-on-one tutoring. New for the 2015-16 school year is our 2-Year-Old Littlest Lancer Learning Program. At SGS, we make sure children have a sense of belonging, they feel safe, and they are respected, and most important love school. We offer exciting activities and events with scheduled field trips, holiday parties, celebrations, sports events, and more. We begin and end our day in prayer, and we participate in weekly children-led liturgy. From 40 families registered in 1942
to more than 2,000 families in the year 2015, the Parish has become one of the largest in the Diocese. At this time there are also 500 students enrolled in Saint George School. We are proud of each and every one of our students, and the students we graduate each year with the confidence and readiness skills for success in high school and beyond. We are forming the future contributors for the Erie Community. At Saint George School, we are committed to providing Academic Excellence, Leadership, and Faith Development. Following the example set by our Parish and Pastor, we strive to form a community that is welcoming and responsive to
our Parish and school families. We continue to accommodate the enrollment growth, facility development and enhancements of our school and Parish. Generous donations to our school and Parish through Erie Gives aid in providing students with financial scholarship awards who might otherwise not have the opportunity to attend Saint George School. We are always excited to meet new families with children who might be interested in becoming part of our Saint George family. August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 47
Erie Gives WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG
Mercy Center of the Arts Mercy Hilltop Center Inc. A WJET-TV 24 reporter. A General Electric Transportation engineer. A Mercyhurst University professor. A Glenwood Pet Hospital veterinarian. These are just a few of the creative minds developed at Mercy Center of the Arts Preschool. Since 1970, more than 5,000 children have graduated from Mercy Center of the Arts, 444 E. Grandview Blvd. The quality arts- and sciencebased education our young students receive builds a lifelong love for learning and foundation for success. A sponsored ministry of the Sisters of Mercy, we are committed to awakening children to truth, love, wonder and beauty in order to nourish healthy human development. By investing in Mercy Center of the Arts through Erie Gives, you are investing in Erie County’s only arts- and sciencebased preschool education. At Mercy Center of the Arts, open to children ages 3 through pre-K, art, science, music, dramatic movement and literature are at the core of every
lesson. We also pride ourselves on small class sizes and student/teacher ratios and correlated, multisensory curriculum. Our preschool is open five mornings per week featuring two specially designed curricula: a twomorning program for 3-year-olds and a three-morning program for 4- and 5-year-olds. We invite you to stroll through our halls, painted by alumni Steve Mik. Explore our classrooms with your young children. Visit us at www. mercycenterofthearts.com. Call 814824-2519 to enroll your preschooler. And please give generously via Erie Gives.
FOR 43 YEARS, Mercy Hilltop Center (formerly Mercy Center on Aging) has served the senior community of the city of Erie and Erie County. Sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, New York, Pennsylvania and Pacific West Community Inc., we offer extensive programs, classes and activities continuing to enrich the older adult population. “Nationally accredited since 2000, we have met all national high standards in all disciplines for Senior Centers,” says Karen Narusewicz, Executive Director. “We provide a venue for socialization, educational expansion, health and wellness.” As a nonprofit, nondenominational service, Mercy Hilltop’s mission is to keep older adults as independent as possible for as long as possible. The focus is on each individual’s mind, spirit and body wellness. Membership is open to men and
women, 60 years of age and older. Benefits of membership include: nurse clinic, notary service, beauty shop, income tax assistance, flu shot distribution, professional speakers, fitness classes — all levels, Silver Sneakers participants, art classes — all levels, dance classes, quilting and knitting classes, social events, travel, library, innovative/diverse programming, grandparents raising grandchildren support group, referral services. We welcome anyone interested for a tour during Center hours, Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Friday, 8 a.m. until noon. Info: www.mercyhilltopcenter.com.
Saint Mary’s Home
YOUR GENEROUS contribution, made in the name of Saint Mary’s Home of Erie on Erie Gives Day, is one small gesture that has a lasting impact for local seniors benefiting from Saint Mary’s Benevolent Care Program. Thank you for considering a gift for seniors in Residential Care most in need of financial assistance. These seniors are engaging in a vibrant lifestyle during the encore of their lives. Take a look at what’s outside your front door by visiting www. stmaryshome.org. August2015
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Erie Gives
Mercy Center for Women FOR 21 YEARS, Mercy Center for Women (MCW) has been providing a safe haven — as well as hope — for homeless women with or without children. Founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1994 and housed in a former convent, MCW provides transitional housing and support services to about 33 homeless women each year. Women find themselves seeking the services of MCW for a variety of reasons: Some are dealing with addiction, mental illness, or both; others have no support system or come from abusive situations; some cannot afford housing due to bad credit or unemployment. In addition, MCW connects the women with other agencies that can help them with their individual needs, teaches them about budgeting and responsible spending, and offers courses on topics like self-esteem and healthy relationships. MCW also helps both residents and nonresidents through its Dress for Success® Erie program, providing women with
professional attire and career services. “The ultimate goal is to move the women into their own permanent housing and to empower them to become self-sufficient, productive members of society and in particular, productive members of their families,” says Christine Tombaugh, Executive Director. “We want them to be the best mothers they can be, so that their children are the visible result of the improved parenting skills the mothers are learning. We strive to interrupt the generational cycle of poverty and homelessness.”
Our Lady of Mount Carmel School
FUTURES BEGIN HERE! Begin your child’s Bright Future at Our Lady of Mount Carmel School — a safe, values-based environment where you will know that the teachers and families will always be a part of your child’s future. We offer tuition assistance program, before- and
after-school care, small class sizes, and technology for all grade levels preschool through eighth grade. Our Lady of Mount Carmel School has been educating students for over 50 years. We are proud of our school and will continue the tradition of excellence.
TREC Helps Horses Help People with Equine-Assisted Therapy WHEN THE THERAPEUTIC Riding Equestrian Center (TREC) works to help improve well-being of clients, there’s always a horse involved. But it’s more than the pony ride at the local fair for those experiencing TREC’s unique and successful approach to equine-assisted activities and therapies for physically, emotionally and/or socially challenged children, adults and military veterans. How can a horse be therapeutic? Researchers have proved that caring for, riding, and/or interacting with a horse can have a profound effect on well-being. The movement of a horse mimics the natural movement of the human body when walking, and this movement and the warmth of the horse improves balance and coordination, relaxes tight muscles, increases range of motion and improves circulation. Since horses mirror the rider’s state of mind, working with horses provides constant feedback, reflecting the rider or handler’s behavior. Learning to interact with horses provides a sense of peace www.lakeerielifestyle.com
and an emotional wellbeing that can carry over into daily life. Brushing and grooming a horse teaches skills that can build self-esteem and confidence. With small classes designed for personalized attention, and by grouping students by skill level and age, along with advanced classes, TREC creates an environment and opportunity for clients to enjoy themselves while benefiting from the therapy provided by P.A.T.H. International (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) trained and certified instructors and a cadre of remarkable and dedicated volunteers. Located on the grounds of the Tailwind Equestrian Center in Fairview, TREC offers several sessions throughout the year except in the coldest winter months. Celebrating 35 Years of Serving Erie County “Our kind of work requires a stable of qualified and healthy horses,” says
Robert Snyder, TREC Board Chairperson. “What that means is that TREC pays for the stabling, feeding, and care of these horses all year long, which is financially challenging, as you would expect.” He explains that TREC depends not only on its certified instructors and motivated volunteers at all levels, but on the generosity of the supportive Erie community. “This year marks our 35th year of providing our unique service to Erie County clients,” adds Beth Racine, Interim Executive Director, pointing out that TREC added disabled military veterans to its client roster this year. Through fundraisers like GiddyUp Palooza, participation in the annual Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community, and the generosity of Pizza Hut’s Raising Dough for Kids Benefit Golf Tournament, along with critically important Erie Gives Day, TREC is enabled to make a meaningful difference for and in the Erie County community.
See what clients and their families and volunteers say about their beneficial TREC experience in their own words by reading “A Special Place in My Heart,” “A Mother’s Dream. A Son’s Reality,” “Thanks for the Smile on His Face” and many more stories and testimonials about TREC at www.trecerie.org. You’ll also find more information on volunteer opportunities, photos of TREC in action, and upcoming event information at the TREC website. August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 49
Erie Gives WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG
PRM Friends Forever THE FRIENDS FOREVER is a dedicated group of more than 150 volunteers who generously give their time and talents to support Pleasant Ridge Manor and its 300 hundred residents. The Friends actively fundraise year-round for a number of projects, including capital improvements, facility vehicles, various equipment and activities, all of which directly benefit our residents. The Friends’ mission is to assure that the medically and financially indigent of Erie County shall receive the highest quality medical and nursing home care in an environment that promotes the psychological, social, spiritual, recreational; and rehabilitative development of the individual. The Friends organization was created and exists by the authority of the Pleasant Ridge Manor board of trustees. The Pleasant Ridge Manor board of trustees consists of seven members of Erie County Council, the Erie County clerk, the Erie County
executive and the Erie County director of finance. It is a nonprofit 501(c) (3) tax exempt, auxiliary organization that has a threefold purpose: ▀ To assist the board of trustees in promoting public relations that will bring greater community interest and understanding to Pleasant Ridge Manor. ▀ To render volunteer services, either inside or outside Pleasant Ridge Manor. ▀ To raise funds to assist Pleasant Ridge Manor in maintaining and/or supplementing recreational, personal and/or medical services to its residents.
Royal Family Kids Camp LAST MONTH, 60 Erie County foster children experienced life-changing moments with adults they can trust at the 11th annual Royal Family Kids Camp. Royal Family Kids Camp is a free weeklong overnight camp for boys and girls between the ages of 6 and 12 that are connected with the Erie County foster care system. All of our campers come to us through the Erie County Office of Children & Youth, and most come from a background of abuse, abandonment and neglect. Erie RFK Camp activities include swimming, fishing, archery, group games, arts, crafts, a hay ride and campfire, cookouts, pony rides and an “Everybody’s Birthday” party with cake and presents. Each child receives two T-shirts, an MP3 play away, which contains recordings of camp songs and dramas, a canvas memory bag, a personalized photograph album and
an “Everybody’s Birthday” present. Most of all, Royal Family Kids Camp gives our campers HOPE. The stats for the outcomes of foster kids’ lives are not good, but (since the kids age-out of the system right into our own community) YOU can make a difference not only in the campers’ lives but in YOUR community when you help Royal Family Kids. ALL of our staff are volunteers, so ALL money raised goes to our programming. Moments Matter. Help Us Create Those Moments. Info: www.erie.royalfamilykids.org or www.royalfamilykids.org.
implies a commitment to physical activity and nutrition, it is committed to so much more. Wellsville is helping kids and families make healthy choices and helping them feel confident ... because the better you feel about yourself, the better you’ll take care of yourself and others. Everything about the Wellsville program is holistic and inclusive. From a mission that centers on the mind, body, and spirit, to addressing the needs of all body types — its messages reach individuals across genders, races, and socioeconomic boundaries. Iorio notes, “Good health comes in all shapes, sizes, ages, skin colors and abilities. And Wellsville celebrates that in many ways.” The community has recognized
Wellsville’s efforts by bestowing upon the television show Wellsville several awards including the 2015 Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters award for excellence in broadcasting in the category of Outstanding Public Affairs Program/ Series and the 2011 PAB excellence in broadcasting award for Outstanding Television Program Designed For Children. “It’s a journey, not a destination,” Iorio says of Wellsville’s mission to reach children and families. It takes a village to raise a child, and so during Erie Gives Day, WellFit Incorporated asks for your support in Wellsville’s cause in helping children and families live healthier and more active lives. — Lydia Laythe
Wellfit Inc. WELLFIT INCORPORATED was founded in 2002 when Kathy Iorio, then director of Hamot Wellness Center, and then Chief Medical Officer of Community Health Net Tony Snow, M.D., discussed the alarming rise in health problems in children and families including increasing high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes and bullying. They asked: How can we help encourage and empower children and families to improve their health? Their answer was to form a 501 (c)(3) organization, WellFit Incorporated and the multifaceted program Wellsville. Wellsville’s mission is to help families and children L.E.A.P., Learn Embrace and Actively Practice, optimal health in mind and body. Wellsville wants to make a positive, healthy difference in the minds, bodies, and spirits of children and families. It uses a multi modality approach to educate and entertain families and children, which they call “edu-tainment.” Wellsville connects to people where they are through dynamic school August2015
assemblies (Wellsville Goes to School), activity and nutrition DVDs, engaging community events, a family friendly interactive website (Wellsville.tv), radio spots and an award-winning weekly television show, Wellsville, which airs Saturdays at 8 a.m. on FOX 66 and a Facebook page (facebook.com/ wellsvilleusa). The Wellsville Goes to School program (WGTS) includes energizing school assemblies and classroom presentations, which reach more than 2,500 elementary students each year. The WGTS program leaves educational resources for teachers to support physical activity, healthy eating and civility messages. Students receive take-home materials to share with their families. And while the name Wellsville
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SafeNet IF YOU COULD STOP a problem before it starts, wouldn’t you? Of course you would! Now you have the opportunity to do just that with regard to Domestic Violence (DV) through Erie Gives. DV is a behavior used to gain power/control over an intimate partner through fear. Children who witness DV in their homes are 75 percent more likely to become abusers or to end up involved with abusers. This means the problem will grow exponentially if not addressed. Children are the key to stopping this generational cycle of abuse. But isn’t this a private family matter? Not so. Domestic Violence affects us all. In America, $5.8 billion a year is spent on decreased productivity, increased health-care costs, absenteeism, errors, and employee turnover as a result of DV.
With 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experiencing violence from their partners, there’s never been a time when SafeNet’s services have been needed more! Established in 1974, SafeNet provides free confidential services for victims of DV and their children. Services include emergency shelter, counseling, advocacy, legal representation, education, transitional housing and specific programs for children. Your support of SafeNet is invaluable. In all of its 40 years, SafeNet has never received grant funding specifically for the needs of children, yet those needs have never been ignored, thanks to the generosity of the Erie community.
Erie Gives
Sarah Reed Children’s Center NIGHTS ARE THE HARDEST at the Sarah Reed Children’s Center residential facility. The children crawl into beds that aren’t their own, hold onto blankets that don’t smell like home, and know that their parents won’t be coming to say “Good night.” They try to fall asleep, but it’s not easy. The Children’s Center was founded in 1871 when it was called “The Home for the Friendless.” While the name has changed, the individuals it serves have not. The residential facility houses 50 to 60 children. Some stay six months, others stay for years. The children in the residential facility rarely have visitors. Some have a list of people they can call. Some don’t even have a list. The Children’s Center serves all of Pennsylvania and southern New York. They serve more 900 children and adolescents per day, all dealing with their own unique mental health struggles and past life traumas. Programs include residential treatment, partial hospitalization, outpatient behavioral health, therapeutic day
care services, alternative education programs, SELF (Sanctuary Education for Learning Fundamentals) Program and school-based services. The Children’s Center, among other goals, strives to bring normalcy to the lives of the children they serve. They held Prom a few weeks ago. They take trips to Eriez Speedway, the Children’s Museum and Waldameer, to name a few. They even plan to build a playground! Donations to the Children’s Center help these children have some happy and healthy childhood experiences. Your donation can make a difference at this special place to provide for a brighter tomorrow. — Lydia Laythe
Sarah Reed Senior Living Stairways Behavioral Health SARAH REED HAS BEEN trusted with the care of seniors for more than a century! We offer Residential Apartments, Personal Care, Memory Support, Short-Term Rehab and Skilled Nursing. Our priority is to ensure the care and comfort of our residents with respect and dignity. Here are some thoughts shared by our residents and their families: ▀ “My mother is safe now.” ▀ “The care my wife received when she was ill was very loving.” ▀ “I need more help since I got home from the hospital. I’m so glad I can get nursing services in my apartment.” ▀ “I wouldn’t be going home today if it weren’t for the great rehab team at Sarah Reed.” ▀ “I never worry about my husband’s care. The staff is very attentive.” Sarah Reed Senior Living relies on www.lakeerielifestyle.com
the generosity of donors to support our services. Our commitment to older adults of the Erie area is exemplified by the launch of an expansion and renovation of our facility to further improve the accommodations and services we offer. Your donation will help ensure that area seniors continue to have affordable housing and care of the highest quality! The board, staff, residents and families THANK YOU, for considering us on Erie Gives Day. To learn more, or donate anytime, visit www.sarahareed.org or call (814) 878-2600.
WELLNESS. FOR MANY years, you never heard that word spoken in the context of treatment for behavioral health. But today at Stairways Behavioral Health, “wellness” is a word that has become commonplace among our staff of 325 as they work at making our mission a reality by “assisting persons with mental healthcare needs at any stage of life in their recovery by providing comprehensive rehabilitation, treatment and supports essential for living, working, learning and participating fully in the community.” This year, Stairways intends to dedicate the proceeds from our participation in the Erie Community Foundations’ Erie Gives campaign to meeting the individual wellness needs of our clients. Over the last year, our generous donors have given financial gifts that have assisted our clients in receiving YMCA memberships, walking shoes, swimwear, bicycles, fishing
licenses and equipment, pedometers, full spectrum lights, haircuts and makeovers. This year we processed 177 requests totaling $14,473. Since the majority of our clients live below the federal poverty line, these relatively small gifts make a big difference in the everyday lives of our clients. All donations go directly to helping make our clients’ lives better. Please consider making a difference in someone’s life by giving to Stairways Behavioral Health on Aug. 11, 2015. For more information, visit www. stairwaysbh.org or contact Kim Stucke, Chief Development Officer, at 814878-2170 or by e-mail at kmstucke@ stairwaysbh.org. August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 51
Erie Gives WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG
St. Martin Center Inc. “I KNOW THERE’S a place that I can come for help.” — Brenda For more than 45 years St. Martin Center Inc. has been feeding the hungry, educating children and helping families become financially secure. Our ultimate goal is to help individuals reach independence. “I want to thank you for everything. I didn’t think there were people like you left out there in this world. You made me believe again.” — Mary A You can help families like Gerald and his mom. Gerald picks up a senior food box for his mother every month. This gives them nutritious food and helps them stretch their dollars. You can help a child like Alaiya, who attends our early learning center. Alaiya is learning skills to get ready for kindergarten while making friends and going on educational field trips. This allows her mother to attend work
St. Paul’s Neighborhood Free Clinic
uninterrupted. You can help someone like Marci, who almost lost her home to foreclosure after she lost her job of 16 years and fell behind in her payments. With our help, she saved her home and created a solid financial plan for her future. You can make a difference in these and other lives though your donation to St. Martin Center Inc.
Tamarack Wildlife Rehabilitation & Education Center TAMARACK WILDLIFE Rehabilitation & Education Center’s twin mission is to rehabilitate wildlife and return it to the wild, and to provide education for all ages promoting appreciation and understanding of wildlife. We specialize in the rescue, treatment and release of injured, orphaned and sick wildlife focusing on birds of prey of all ages, adult seed-eating songbirds, turtles and opossums from northwestern Pennsylvania, including Erie County. Other species of wildlife are cared for whenever there is the staffing, room and funding to do so. Recently more bald eagles have been admitted at Tamarack. With the rebound of bald eagles in the area, the number has risen to eight to 10 eagles treated per year. Our greatest success is seeing a wild animal returned to its home. With birds, this can be quite dramatic and breathtaking as they return to the open sky. August2015
We are registered as a charitable organization in Pennsylvania located at 21601 Stull Road, Saegertown, and have nonprofit 501(c)(3) status with the IRS. As such, we are governed by a board of directors, all of whom are volunteers. Donations and memberships are the life blood of Tamarack. Tamarack does not receive any government funding. Become a member, sponsor an educational bird, or make a memorial contribution. It’s your donations that give these animals a second chance. Info: www.tamarackwildlife.org. Thank you, Erie Gives!
IT’S BEEN THE MISSION of St. Paul’s Neighborhood Free Clinic for more than 20 years to provide Erie County adults who can’t afford a visit to a physician or dentist with the care they need, free of charge. “Because of the generous support of our many donors, we have the ability to help those in need in the Erie community with free medical and dental care,” says Lisa Kelleher, Executive Director. “Although the Affordable Care Act promises to help get millions of Americans the insurance they need, many still go without health insurance because the costly premiums and deductibles are not affordable for those who live in poverty.” Founded in 1993, St. Paul’s
Neighborhood Free Clinic is a cooperative effort between volunteer health and dental professionals and a volunteer support staff that includes physicians, dentists, registered nurses, hygienists and a board of directors. In its 22 years of operation, the clinic estimates that it has provided more than $7.5 million in total cost savings to the community through the medical and dental services it offers. “The St. Paul’s Neighborhood Free Clinic has been able to help so many people in the community to live healthier lives, which is all made possible by the clinic’s generous volunteers and donors. St. Paul’s Clinic will be ready to help, as long as there is a need in our community,” says Kelleher.
A.N.N.A. Shelter THE A.N.N.A. SHELTER is a nonprofit 501(c) (3) animal welfare organization proudly serving the needs of animals in the greater Erie area since 2004. We offer loving open admission care to dogs, cats, small animals, horses, farm animals — and any other creature that needs our help. Our mission has been and continues to be to rescue and rehabilitate stray and unwanted animals while serving the entire Erie community by providing safe housing of lost pets; offering animals for adoption and offering a number of community services, including: affordable spay/ neuter and veterinary care to the public through our three clinics; senior pet visits and education programs for school-aged and college students; a pet food bank; and our own licensed Pennsylvania Cruelty Officer.
We are also the local chapter of Pets for Vets — a national program matching veterans with pets for therapy and emotional support. Thousands of animals come through our shelter and farm every year. With no space or time limits and veterinarians and behavior trainers on our staff, each animal is given the chance it deserves to have a new beginning in a lifelong committed loving home. We are thankful to the Erie community and everyone who supports our mission and daily endeavors to help those who cannot help themselves. Living our mission — one day, one animal at a time. www.lakeerielifestyle.com
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Voices for Independence HOW MANY PEOPLE plan to graduate college? Get a job? Buy a home? How many people plan to wake up one morning and have a disability? Everyone makes plans. “Nobody plans to be disabled,” Dan Hanson, Voices for Independence (VFI) Director of Development, said. “But for anybody who is, that’s what we’re here for.” In 1993, a group of people with disabilities were receiving services but felt disillusioned. They felt they didn’t have any say in the services they received. So they decided there had to be a better way, and if it didn’t already exist, they would create it. And that’s just what they did. They created alternatives to existing services and advocacy options. They wanted to provide independent living supports and services that are
consumer driven and responsive to and respectful of people with disabilities. This group became Voices for Independence. “If you are an individual with a disability, you have a voice in your own independence,” Hanson said. Voices for Independence is a small organization, but the work it does is huge. Voices for Independence offers five core services to people with disabilities: Advocacy, attending care services, nursing home transition, independent living, and housing. Voices for Independence empowers people with disabilities, improves the quality, independence, dignity, and control of their lives, and promotes independent living. Info: www.vficil.org.
The Woman’s Club of Erie Inc. THE OBJECTIVES OF THE Woman’s Club of Erie Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, are education, philanthropy, community involvement and preservation of their Club House. Organized in December 1897 and incorporated in January 1900, the Club has established two scholarships that are awarded annually to students attending local universities. Located at 259 W. Sixth St., the former residence of Winifred and Davenport Galbraith was purchased in 1921 by the Club. Built over a period of three years, the Richardsonian Romanesque-designed home was completed in 1892. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Club House was given “Significant” status as part of Erie’s West Sixth Street Historic District. A number of projects needed to preserve the building have been carried out throughout the years: heating system, extensive www.lakeerielifestyle.com
rewiring, storm windows, restoration of the large stained-glass windows, restroom renovation, new flooring and the addition of a glass enclosed atrium. The Club House features a red slate roof, the most expensive of the three slates available. A Raise the Roof Campaign, initiated two years ago and ongoing, is necessary to generate the funding needed to repair and replace the slate roof. Annual fundraisers are held to support the mission activities and preservation efforts of the Club, in addition to monthly luncheons and dinners featuring guest speakers. The community is welcome to attend.
Erie Gives
WCTL WCTL IS ERIE’S only local Christian radio station, bringing the hope and love of Jesus to the middle of your busy week. We provide a familyfriendly alternative on the radio, playing the best Contemporary Christian music and programs 24/7. And if you don’t have a radio handy, be sure to listen to WCTL via the live stream on www.wctl.org or download our mobile app to your Android or Apple device. On-the-air: Start your day with the Wake-Up Call (6:30 to 10 a.m.); Lori Clapper puts a positive spin on your workday (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.); Drive Home with Rich Smith (2 to 6 p.m.); and Cap’n H wraps up your day (6 to 9 p.m.). Finally, take time to grow in your faith with popular Bible teachers during Prime Time Teaching (9 to 11 p.m.). In our community: Throughout the year, WCTL offers events that bring
faith, family and fun to your home and workplace. Each spring, we host mustattend events, including the Rejoice, Refresh, Renew women’s conference and Family Comedy Night. In the fall, WCTL is the region’s source for live high school football play-by-play coverage. Listen to WCTL in the Erie, PA, and tri-state area on 106.3 FM; Downtown Erie — 105.9 FM; North East, PA — 99.1 FM; Girard, PA — 93.1 FM. So, next time you turn on your radio, make a positive, encouraging choice! Find out more at www.wctl. org or visit our Facebook page, www. facebook.com/WCTLRadio.
YMCA WE ALL FACE HURDLES — or gaps — in our lives that can prevent us from reaching our full potential — particularly those of us living in lowerincome households. As a community, we must do more to bridge gaps for all, especially children. In order to help more people “hop the gap,” we need you to join the YMCA of Greater Erie’s efforts. To help, make a gift to the Y on Erie Gives Day at www.eriegives.org. One hundred percent of gifts received by the Y on Erie Gives Day will be used to support Y programs for the community: Meals for Kids: 1 in 5 kids doesn’t know where their next meal will come from. The Y serves more than 850 meals daily and an additional 200 meals daily during the summer months. Health: Solutions to obesity, physical activity and behaviors require lifestyle changes that are hard to implement — more than 65 percent of us would call ourselves healthseekers or stop-start exercisers. The Y helps more than
26,000 people develop healthy habits, lose weight and build strength. Water Safety: Drowning is the second-leading cause of accidental death among kids ages 1-14. The Y helps more than 6,000 kids and adults learn to swim and to be safe in and around water. Learning: By fifth grade, kids from low-income households are two to three school years behind in reading than kids from middle-income households. The Y helps more than 600 kids stay on track with learning through after-school enrichment programs. Learn more about the Y’s impact at www.webuildpeopleerie.org. August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 53
Erie Gives WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG
Community Health Net FOR 30 YEARS, Community Health Net has lived its mission to provide exceptional health care to all, regardless of their ability to pay. Community Health Net (CHN) is a Federally Qualified Health Center, and its services are designed to be accessible to all patients. CHN understands the community’s needs and responds by offering accessible, affordable and high-quality primary medical, dental, and vision care. Today, Community Health Net’s dental and medical practices go well beyond traditional primary care for their patients. For example, Community Health Net offers: Board Certified physicians, continuity of care, primary and preventive care in Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, General Dentistry, Optometry, Gynecology, Pediatrics, a Health Care for the Homeless Program, and a Ryan White Part C Medical
Program; nonprovider services include a Pharmacy, Health Education, Case Management, telephonic interpretive services and 24-hour on-call services. CHN is certified by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations (JCAHO). CHN opened the Dr. Nicholas Hosu Dental Suite at the Daniel S. Snow, M.D. Health Center, 1202 State St., in January 2015. Dental and medical services are available at the Daniel S. Snow, M.D. Health Center seven days a week. In September 2015, CHN will open its first school-based health center within the Girard High School. Please become part of our mission for a healthier community by donating to CHN on Erie Gives Day, Aug. 11, 2015.
Erie Contemporary Ballet Theatre ERIE CONTEMPORARY BALLET Theatre (formerly Erie Dance Conservatory Company) is a pre-professional dance company that provides exceptional training in the art of dance and allows both the dancer and the audience to experience dance in classical as well as contemporary forms. ECBT presents a master class series open to the public each year, invites in established, emerging and innovative choreographers, and affords dancers varied performance opportunities. ECBT also presents public educational activities and stages a variety of performances to enable diverse audiences to experience dance and develop knowledge and appreciation for dance. Our goal is to inspire, educate and enrich the lives of our dancers and the community through outstanding training in and the performance of classical and contemporary forms of dance. Erie Contemporary Ballet Theatre
offers the community a season of multiple performances. This current year includes our Spring Gala, which includes excerpts from Act II of “Swan Lake,” a Director’s Choice performance with an evening of new works by many distinguished choreographers, and the full length ballet of “The Nutcracker.” We want dancers and the general public to experience the art of dance and recognize that it is rich in tradition and inspires creativity, growth, self-expression and discipline. For more information, please contact us at www.eriecbt.org or (814) 476-7123. You can also find us on Facebook.
Maleno Family-to-Family Fund Millcreek Education Foundation IN 2009, when ABC’s “Extreme Home Makeover Home Edition” chose to rebuild Clara Ward’s east Erie home where she ran a center for underprivileged children, Maleno Development provided the manpower and materials for the project. But once Ward’s home was finished and the TV crews were gone, the Maleno family decided to continue helping local families and individuals by creating the Family-to-Family Fund, which helps them provide free home renovations to those who otherwise can’t complete them due to financial or health constraints. We didn’t want the “Extreme Makeover” build to be our first and last charitable project; we are committed to giving back on an ongoing basis,” said John Maleno, president and founder. Since starting the fund, they have completed 15 makeover projects both large and small, ranging from the August2015
construction of a wheelchair ramp for a motorcycle accident victim to the complete rebuild of a home for a family dealing with polycystic kidney disease. They are currently working on the home of an Erie family with three children whose mother is suffering from heart problems that require rehab and surgery. The house is receiving a new roof, flooring and paint on the first floor, a renovated bathroom, repairs to the stairs, and outdoor paint and landscaping. “We appreciate the support of our vendors and our trades and community members who have supported the fund,” Maleno said. “We will continue to reach out to those in our community with remodels and renovations of their homes.”
THE MILLCREEK EDUCATION Foundation (MEF) exists to support the educational advancement of the Millcreek Township School District students and to provide alumni with opportunities to stay connected with one another and their alma mater. Through various initiatives, MEF Trustees seek support to fund educational programming requests, faculty/staff professional development, student scholarships, athletic and extracurricular projects, and other unmet needs beyond what is supported through tax dollars. Your gift to MEF on Erie Gives Day will help grow an endowment that will benefit students for several years. The Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority has generously agreed to match gifts received up to $5 per student in the district or a little more than $35,000!
Annually, MEF gives approximately 40 scholarships to McDowell High School graduates, and district faculty are encouraged to apply for grants on a quarterly basis to fund projects consistent with the mission of the foundation. Corporations can partner with MEF through sponsorships, Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credits (EITC), and employee matching gifts. Golden Trojan Pass raffle tickets will be going on sale in August ... this is your chance to win two passes to attend all varsity McDowell home athletic events and Center For Performing Arts performances during the 2016-17 school year for FREE! For more information, please visit our website www. millcreekeducationfoundation.org, follow us on Facebook or e-mail us at admin@millcreekeducationfoundation. org. www.lakeerielifestyle.com
WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG
The Reason For Our Hope Foundation THE REASON FOR Our Hope Foundation was founded in 2004 by Father Larry Richards in answer to 1 Peter 3:15: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope.â&#x20AC;? The mission of the foundation is to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ and His Church through CDs, DVDs and published works, all of which are distributed worldwide. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Your life will be changed forever,â&#x20AC;? Father Larry explains, after you listen to his presentations. The foundation also helps various charities that make real the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We are currently renovating the Avila House Retreat Center in Union City that the late
Monsignor James Peterson opened in 1981. Father Larry will continue Monsignor Petersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work in bringing people to Christ through this retreat center. You can help us to continue to fulďŹ ll Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s will with your ďŹ nancial support, and also through volunteering and praying for the foundation. To become a volunteer, please call the ofďŹ ce at (814) 455-7364. For additional information, please be sure to visit our website at: www.thereasonforourhope.org. We are grateful to the Erie Community Foundation for this opportunity to be included in â&#x20AC;&#x153;Erie Gives!â&#x20AC;? A special thank-you to all of you for being a part in this wonderful endeavor.
Erie Gives
Performing Artists Collective Alliance Performing Artists Collective Alliance (PACA) is a community performing arts center and theater that promotes the widest variety of artistic endeavors and educational opportunities. As we continue to grow and evolve, we ďŹ nd new ways to reach out to the community. We promote performing and visual arts educational opportunities, give space to artistic and performing groups without a permanent home, and provide space for the arts to thrive. In addition to our own PACA PRESENTS PRODUCTIONS, we provide quality space to teachers and practitioners of dance, theater, ďŹ tness and music so that they may explore their individual visions and goals. Teachers are free to create their own class schedules and curriculum and
attract students who will attend classes. Space includes a theater for live performances, as well as several areas designated for rehearsals and classes. Vocal and instrumental rooms will be available in September. Gallery space is available for shows and rentals. By providing quality classroom and performance space to a wide range of practitioners, we hope that a synergistic overlapping of talents will naturally occur and artistic creativity will organically develop and evolve. This sharing of talents assists in creating new and original collaborations between artists. The combination of studio space in conjunction with performance space allows these collaborations to be seamlessly presented to the public. Find us at www.paca1505.com and on Facebook.
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Erie Gives WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33
ALBION AREA FAIR
www.albionfair.com To support Albion Area Fair agriculture, youth and community events.
ATTORNEY & KIDS TOGETHER ERIE COUNTY LAW FOUNDATION
ALBION AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY
www.eriebar.com/public-foundation Formed in 1989, the Erie County Law Foundation is a public nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation that grants scholarships and provides legal services to the poor.
ALL ABOUT CHARACTER INC.
AUTISM SOCIETY NORTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA
www.albionarealibrary.org To provide library services and promote lifelong learning.
www.characterbeaboutit.org Reduce dropout rate, promote leadership skills and reduce the crime rate among youth by teaching positive character traits for a successful life with excellent teaching by trained role models.
www.nwpa-asa.org To improve the quality of life across the life span for persons on the Autism Spectrum and their families through: advocacy, education, service, support and research.
ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION, GREATER PENNSYLVANIA CHAPTER
BARBER NATIONAL INSTITUTE
www.alz.org/pa The Alzheimer’s Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research.
AMERICAN RED CROSS OF NORTHWESTERN PA
www.redcross.org The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.
AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION
www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Affiliate/Erie/ Pennsylvania/Home_UCM_GRA085_ AffiliatePage.jsp Mission is to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
AMERICANS FOR THE COMPETITIVE ENTERPRISE SYSTEM INC. (ACES)
www.aceserie.org Americans for the Competitive Enterprise System Inc. (ACES) is an educational organization promoting the understanding of free market economics to students, teachers, and the general public through business and education partnerships.
ARC OF CRAWFORD COUNTY
www.arcofcrawfordcounty.org The Arc of Crawford County advocates for the rights of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting maximum independence.
ARC OF ERIE COUNTY
www.thearcoferie.org The Arc of Erie County is committed to preserve, enhance and enrich the quality of life for all persons with disabilities.
ASBURY FOUNDATION/ SPRINGHILL SENIOR LIVING
www.theasburyfoundation.org Securing charitable support to enhance the lives of persons served by Asbury.
ASBURY WOODS PARTNERSHIP INC.
www.asburywoods.org To preserve Asbury Woods and provide all members of the community with meaningful environmental, educational and recreational experiences that inspire a greater sense of stewardship and sustainability.
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www.barberinstitute.org We are making dreams come true. We provide children and adults with intellectual disabilities and mental health challenges and their families the education support and resources needed to be self reliant.
BAYFRONT BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT
Bayfront Beautification Project was part of the ECF’s 75th anniversary gift to serve as a catalyst to attract other Erie organizations to join in making the bluff along the Bayfront Parkway beautiful for many generations to enjoy.
BETHESDA TRINITY CENTER/ BETHESDA LEADERSHIP CENTER
www.bethesda-home.org Bethesda Trinity Center and Bethesda Leadership provide vital mental health, behavioral health, and educational services to children, youth and families in Erie County.
BETTER HOUSING ERIE
www.eriecd.org Better Housing Erie, an affiliate agency of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Erie, fulfills a housing shortage and need for community redevelopment.
BHUTANESE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION OF ERIE
www.bcerie.org Assists members of the Bhutanese community with their integration into Erie preserving their own culture, tradition and religion.
BIKE ERIE
www.bikeerie.org Bike Erie leads efforts to transform our streets and communities into healthy, vibrant and accessible places for safe bicycling and healthy transportation for everyone.
BECAUSE YOU CARE INC.
www.becauseyoucare.org Because You Care Inc. is dedicated to the rescue, treatment and placement of stray and abandoned pets. Because You Care does not euthanize healthy animals.
BETHANY OUTREACH CENTER
www.bethanyoutreachcenter.org This volunteer driven Christian organization, rooted in Erie’s east side, reaches people who need a hand up and hope for life change.
www.cacerie.org Dedicated to the delivery of a timely, effective, coordinated, community response to allegations of child abuse and to child abuse prevention.
CHILDREN’S MIRACLE NETWORK AT SAINT VINCENT HOSPITAL
BORO WOMEN’S SERVICES
BAYFRONT MARITIME CENTER
www.mlkcentererie.org Established in 1966 with a mission to improve the conditions of work, play, study, health and living conditions of the people of Erie, in particular the Bayfront, through effective programs of social services and action.
CHILDREN’S ADVOCACY CENTER OF ERIE COUNTY INC.
www.eriechildrensmuseum.org To provide a safe, family-centered educational experience that inspires creativity, exploration and imagination through play, interactive exhibits and innovative programming.
www.borowomenservices.com A collaborative Edinboro-Cambridge Springs organization that provides free and confidential services to educate and empower individuals in making healthy and informed choices.
BAYFRONT NATO MARTIN LUTHER KING CENTER
www.cccas.org The mission is to provide professional counseling and adoption services and other programs that educate, affirm, and support individuals of all faiths to achieve their fullest human potential.
BLENDED SPIRITS RANCH
BAYFRONT EAST SIDE TASKFORCE (BEST)
www.bayfrontcenter.org BMC’s mission is: to design and implement engaging, hands-on, maritime-themed educational, vocational and recreational opportunities for the community in a universally accessible waterfront facility.
CATHOLIC CHARITIES COUNSELING & ADOPTION SERVICES
www.ahn.org/locations/saint-vincenthospital/childrens-miracle-network Funds raised through Children’s Miracle Network at Saint Vincent Hospital help purchase lifesaving medical equipment for tiny patients in our community.
www.blendedspiritsranch.org Our mission is to provide a safe and structured environment for using equine therapies to help individuals feel empowered, build self-esteem, fight depression and treat the effects of PTSD.
www.besterie.org Our central themes have been to organize the community to build a positive neighborhood image, increase neighborhood pride and beautify the neighborhood.
CAMP JUDSON
www.campjudson.com A Christian camp and retreat center along Lake Erie in North Springfield, Pa., that helps individuals to grow their relationship with God, strengthen churches and to bless our community.
BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF ERIE
www.bgcerie.org Youth development programs and activities inspire and enable young people and encourage them to achieve their full potential as knowledgeable, caring, contributing citizens.
BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA FRENCH CREEK COUNCIL
www.frenchcreek-bsa.org Mission is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.
BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA TROOP 57
To prepare our community’s youth to be responsible and participating citizens and leaders. To cultivate self-confidence and personal growth in youth.
BREVILLIER VILLAGE
www.brevillier.org Through uncompromising attention to body, mind and spirit, Brevillier Village meets housing and health care needs in a homelike atmosphere.
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
CHRISTIAN INSTITUTE OF HUMAN RELATIONS
mickes@hertmitagehouse.org
COMMON GROUND YOUTH CENTER INC.
www.cgyc.org The center fosters and reinforces positive values, behavior and lifestyles and brings the hope of God into the lives of young people who may be experiencing difficulty, trouble and dysfunction.
COMMUNITY ACCESS TELEVISION
www.catverie.org Community Access Television’s mission is to facilitate and promote community involvement in the production and cablecasting of television programs that benefit our community.
COMMUNITY COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
www.ccdserie.com Educate students in grades 1-12 according to the prescribed regulations of the Department of Education of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania while providing guidance and support relationships.
COMMUNITY HEALTH NET
www.community-healthnet.com Providing exceptional health care to all, Regardless ...
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WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG COMMUNITY OF CARING
www.thecommunityofcaring.net Our mission is to meet basic human needs in a caring way.
CORRY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION
DRAMASHOP
EMMAUS MINISTRIES
www.facebook.com/pages/CommunityOutreach-Group-of-EriePA/1625057567706043? fref=ts The mission of the Community Outreach Group is to be of service to our less fortunate neighbors in our community. We seek to share coats, clothing, a hot lunch, and a contagious smile.
www.corrylibrary.org The Corry Public Libraryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mission is to provide recreational and educational materials for the enjoyment and enlightenment of all community members.
EARLY CONNECTIONS INC.
www.emmauserie.org Emmaus, a ministry of the Benedictine Sisters of Erie, is a Christian presence and outreach to the poor in Erie since 1974 through the Emmaus Soup Kitchen and Food Pantry and Sister Gusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Kids Cafe.
http://earlyconnectionserie.org/ Early Connections supports the success of young children and their families through leadership, advocacy, and quality programs in early care and education.
CORRY ROTARY CLUB
EDINBORO AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY
www.environmenterie.org Environment Erie is committed to the sustainability of our communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural resources through restoration, revitalization and education, especially among our youth.
COMMUNITY RESOURCES FOR INDEPENDENCE INC.
CORRY YMCA
COMMUNITY OUTREACH GROUP INC.
www.crinet.org Committed to preserving, enhancing, and enriching the quality of life for all people with disabilities.
COMMUNITY SHELTER SERVICES
www.communityshelter.org To preserve the dignity and support the development of individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness by providing options for shelter, as well as supportive services.
COMPASS READING CENTER INC.
www.compassreadingcenter.org Compass Reading Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is to provide the highest quality, state-of-the-art, individualized Multisensory Structured Language instruction to individuals with dyslexia or a related learning disability.
CORRY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
www.corryhospital.com Corry Memorial Hospital â&#x20AC;&#x201D; A community of caregivers committed to excellence.
CORRY PUBLIC LIBRARY
htfox@hotmail.com
Healthy living is a combination of a healthy mind, body, and spirit, which makes the YMCA so much more than just working out. We believe that lasting and positive change can only occur when we work together.
COVENANT PRESCHOOL
www.covenantpreschoolerie.net/ A childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intellectual and creative ability develops before formal education begins, and Covenant Preschool builds self-esteem and positive attitudes, promotes social interaction and teaches children that they are created, loved and cared for by God.
CRIME VICTIM CENTER
www.cvcerie.org To reduce the impact of crime by counseling, education and advocacy.
CYSTIC FIBROSIS ASSOCIATION OF ERIE COUNTY
www.corrycommunityfoundation.org Corry Community Foundation works to connect donors to their favorite charities.
www.cfaerie.org Offers financial and emotional support to those individuals and families affected by cystic fibrosis (CF) within Erie County through volunteers.
CORRY HIGHER EDUCATION COUNCIL
DOORKEEPERS CHRISTIAN OUTREACH
www.corryhied.org The Corry Higher Education Council promotes lifelong learning to empower individuals, produce a competitive workforce and enhance the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quality of life.
www.doorkeepers.org/index.html Dedicated to offering facilities and programming designed to: strengthen Christians in their faith; stimulate the spreading of the Gospel of Jesus Christ; and support the growth of new Christians.
www.dramashop.org Provides entertaining and provocative theatrical experiences designed to challenge, educate and engage the Erie community.
Erie Gives
www.edinborohistory.org The Edinboro Area Historical Society collects, preserves and promotes the history of Edinboro and the surrounding area.
EDINBORO UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION-THE PORRECO PROMISE
www.edinborofoundation.org The Edinboro University Foundation exists to support the mission of Edinboro University of Pennsylvania through the cultivation and management of assets and projects and the disbursements of foundation assets.
EDINBORO UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
www.edinboro.edu Edinboro University is distinguished by its focus on individual attention to student success, commitment to diversity, responsiveness to the evolving needs of the broader community and the highest quality education.
EMERGYCARE
www.emergycare.org EmergyCareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is to save lives and positively impact health, well-being and safety in the communities we serve.
EMMAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FOOTPRINTS
www.emmasfootprints.com Supports families who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss with compassionate guidance, resources and financial assistance.
ENVIRONMENT ERIE
ERIE AREA RABBIT SOCIETY & RESCUE (EARS)
Rescue, care and adoption of surrendered or abandoned domestic rabbits, primarily in Erie County.
ERIE ART MUSEUM
www.erieartmuseum.org The mission of the Erie Art Museum is to maintain an institution of excellence dedicated to the promotion and advancement of the visual arts.
ERIE ARTS & CULTURE
www.erieartsandculture.org Strengthen the vibrancy and vitality of the Erie region and enrich the lives of its people through the advancement of arts and culture.
ERIE CEMETERY ASSOCIATION
www.eriecemeteryassoc.com The Erie Cemetery Association is dedicated to providing a variety of premier cemetery services that exceed the expectations of our community.
ERIE CHAMBER ORCHESTRA
www.gannon.edu/Visitors-and-Community/ Area-Attractions/Erie-Chamber-Orchestra/ The mission of the Erie Chamber Orchestra is to ensure that everyone has access to classical music, regardless of age, income, education or cultural background. All performances are free.
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August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 57
Erie Gives WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG ERIE CITY MISSION
www.eriecitymission.org As a Christian, nonprofit organization, the Mission provides quality services and care that restores individuals and families impacted by the effects of addiction, poverty, homelessness and lack of hope.
ERIE CONTEMPORARY BALLET THEATRE
www.eriecbt.org We want dancers and the general public to experience the art of dance and recognize that it is rich in tradition and inspires creativity, growth, self-expression and discipline.
ERIE COUNTY COUNCIL FOR THE DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING INC.
ERIE COUNTY VOCATIONALTECHNICAL SCHOOL FOUNDATION
www.ects.org Erie County Vocational-Technical Foundation exists to support the students of the Erie County Technical School and its participating school districts through scholarships, charity and special programs.
ERIE DAWN
www.eriedawn.org Rooted in the belief that all people have the right to live in a setting that safeguards human dignity, Erie DAWN in partnership with area landlords provides safe, affordable independent, transitional housing for low-income women and children.
ERIE DAY SCHOOL
Provide the Deaf and Hard of Hearing children worthwhile cultural, social experiences and plan a variety of activities throughout the year for them through the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Activity Committee.
www.eriedayschool.com Erie Day Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is to pursue excellence in education as the regional leader in early education (toddler, preschool, pre-K and kindergarten through grade eight).
ERIE COUNTY DIABETES ASSOCIATION
ERIE DRUM CORPS ASSOCIATION
ERIE INSURANCE CHARITY CHALLENGE
www.erieinsurance.com
ERIE JUNIOR PHILHARMONIC
www.eriephil.org/about-the-erie-phil/juniorphilharmonic/ The Erie Junior Philharmonic is an educational outreach program affiliated with the Erie Philharmonic orchestra.
ERIE PHILHARMONIC
www.eriephil.org The mission of the Erie Philharmonic is to strengthen our community and region by providing high quality live orchestra concerts and programs that enrich, entertain and educate people of all ages.
ERIE PHILHARMONIC CHORUS
www.eriephil.org The Erie Philharmonic Chorus is a professional-level, volunteer choral organization providing excellent choralorchestral performances to entertain, educate and enrich the cultural life of our community.
ERIE HOMES FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS (EHCA)
ERIE REGIONAL CHAMBER & GROWTH PARTNERSHIP
ERIE COUNTY DRUG AND ALCOHOL COALITION
www.ehca.org The mission of Erie Homes for Children and Adults is to assist people with disabilities to live rich and fulfilling lives. We do this by providing or coordinating compassionate, therapeutic and medical support to individuals.
www.eriecountyhistory.org To collect, preserve, present and interpret the rich history of Erie County and the neighboring regions.
www.erieindependencehouse.org Exists to enhance and promote independence in people with disabilities through the provision of accessible, affordable, adaptive housing necessary for them to lead productive, independent lives.
ERIE UNITED METHODIST ALLIANCE
www.euma-erie.org Centered in Christâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love and compassion, EUMA is a ministry providing hope and the promise of a brighter future to the homeless members of our community
ERIE WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FUND
www.erieycfoundation.org The EYC Foundation believes that fostering boating skills in young people greatly enhances leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, increases self-esteem and promotes teambuilding.
www.eriethunderbirds.org Provides and promotes live music, including the drum and bugle corps activity via performances, instruction and education.
ERIE COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
ERIE TOGETHER
www.erietogether.org Working together to prevent and reduce poverty, elevate prosperity, and make the Erie region a community of opportunity where everyone can learn, work and thrive.
ERIE PLAYHOUSE
www.diabeteserie.org To combat the growing epidemic of diabetes in our community by increasing public awareness, promoting prevention and helping individuals understand and responsibly manage their diagnosis.
ERIE INDEPENDENCE HOUSE INC.
www.nie.goerie.com The mission of NIE is to help develop the next generation of news and information consumers.
www.eriecommunityfoundation.org In 2007, The Erie Community Foundation established Erie Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fund as a donoradvised fund that helps local women support deserving local causes.
www.erieplayhouse.org The Erie Playhouse enriches the greater Erie region by providing lifelong opportunities to participate in quality theater.
www.eriedrugandalcohol.org/ Our objectives: to reduce substance abuse in Erie County; to educate the community about prevention, intervention and treatment; and to lead a network between agencies and individuals.
ERIE TIMES-NEWS IN EDUCATION
www.eriepa.com Providing the leadership to attract, retain and expand business in the region.
ERIE YACHT CLUB FOUNDATION
ERIE ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY
ERIE REGIONAL LIBRARY FOUNDATION
www.eriezoo.org The Erie Zoological Park and Botanical Gardens of Northwestern Pennsylvania serves as a quality of life asset to a tristate area of Pennsylvania, New York and Ohio.
ERIE SILENT CLUB INC.
www.eriesfuturefund.org At Erieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Future Fund, we provide scholarship opportunities for 3- and 4-yearold children from low-income families to attend a high-quality early childhood education program and become better prepared for kindergarten.
www.erielibrary.org The purpose of the Erie Regional Library Foundation is to raise funds essential for the capital improvements to and operation of the Erie County Public Library. www.eriesilentclub.org To promote social, cultural, and athletic activities among deaf individuals.
ERIEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FUTURE FUND
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www.fairviewpresbyterianchurch.com/ Love Grows Here: To spread the love of God to all in our community.
FAIRVIEW SCHOOL FOUNDATION
www.fairviewschoolfoundation.org The purpose of the Fairview School Foundation is to help students by supporting the improvement and enhancement of current and new programs through community financial support.
FAMILY SERVICES OF NW PA
www.fsnwpa.org Our mission is to strengthen family life by providing counseling, education and advocacy programs to any individual or family.
FILM SOCIETY OF NORTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA
http://filmsocietynwpa.org Fosters awareness, appreciation, and understanding of the art of film while providing assistance, support, and education for regional film production.
FINDLEY LAKE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
www.eriecommunityfoundation.org The mission of Findley Lake Community Foundation is to improve the quality of life in our region by promoting philanthropy and building permanent charitable endowments to make a difference forever.
FLAGSHIP NIAGARA LEAGUE
www.flagshipniagara.org An educational associate organization of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission that is chartered to facilitate citizen participation and operation of the U.S. Brig Niagara and its home port, Erie Maritime Museum.
FORGIVEN MINISTRIES INC.
www.forgiven-ministries.org Formed to provide life-changing opportunities to women and men being released from the Pennsylvania prison systems.
FORT LEBOEUF HISTORICAL SOCIETY
http://fortleboeufhistory.com/ The purpose of the Fort LeBoeuf Historical Society is to preserve and restore the historical legacy of the Fort LeBoeuf area and to familiarize our community with its heritage.
FORT LEBOEUF SCHOOL DISTRICT FOUNDATION
www.flbfoundation.com To help our students succeed in life by providing a wide range of educational opportunities and financial support.
FOUNDATION FOR FREE ENTERPRISE EDUCATION
www.pfew.org To heighten the awareness of Pennsylvaniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s youth about their future role in the American free enterprise system by delivering high-quality and practical handson learning experiences.
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FOUNDATION FOR SUSTAINABLE FORESTS
www.foundationforsustainableforests.org To protect forested land and ecosystems and support rural communities through working forests; to raise awareness of the importance of preserving intact forested ecosystems; and to highlight sustainable forestry and practices for the benefit of the land.
FRENCH CREEK VALLEY CONSERVANCY
www.frenchcreekconservancy.org To promote the environmental integrity of the French Creek watershed, and to advocate the protection of its natural resources.
FRIENDS OF THE ERIE COUNTY LIBRARY
www.facebook.com/#!/ EriePAFriendsOftheLibrary The mission of the Friends of the Erie County Public Library is to support and advocate for our library. Our vision is a thriving and sustainable library accessible and welcoming to all.
FRIENDS OF THE TOM RIDGE ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER
www.friendsoftrec.org To preserve and enhance educational programming, natural history, research and visitor services at the TREC.
GANNON UNIVERSITY
www.gannon.edu Gannon is a Catholic, Diocesan university dedicated to excellence in teaching, scholarship and service.
GEM CITY BANDS
www.gemcitybands.org The purpose of GCB is to promote band music in the community through concerts and other performances.
GENERAL MCLANE FOUNDATION
www.generalmclane.net/gm-foundation Remembering our past, investing in our future.
GIRARD SCHOOL DISTRICT FOUNDATION
www.girardsdf.org To enhance educational opportunities for all district students; to increase public involvement in schools; to increase initiatives which support quality instruction and lifelong learning endeavors.
GIRL SCOUTS WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA
www.gswpa.org Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place.
GOODELL GARDENS & HOMESTEAD
FAIRVIEW PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
www.goodellgardens.org Goodell Gardens & Homestead is an educational institution whose mission is to hold and maintain botanical and historical collections for exhibition and interpretation through the adaptive reuse of the buildings, land, and artifacts of the Goodell homestead and farm.
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Erie Gives WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG GRADY’S DECISION
www.gradysdecision.com Our mission is to provide emotional, spiritual and financial support to families experiencing premature births as well as babies with special medical needs.
GREATER ERIE ALLIANCE FOR EQUALITY
www.greatereriealliance.com Dedicated to supporting the region’s LGBT community and its straight allies through educational programs, social events, and opportunities for service.
GREATER ERIE AREA HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
www.habitaterie.org The Greater Erie Area Habitat for Humanity is changing lives and communities and building hope through simple, decent homeownership in partnership with volunteers and community support.
GREATER ERIE COMMUNITY ACTION COMMITTEE (GECAC)
www.gecac.org Erie County’s designated community action agency formed to provide advocacy and diverse services directed toward the elimination of poverty and the causes of poverty.
GREATER ERIE YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA (GEYSO)
To provide the opportunity for musically talented individuals to achieve the highest level of artistic advancement, education, and social growth by participation in musical programs.
HAMOT HEALTH FOUNDATION
www.hands-erie.org H.A. N. D. S makes stronger and more vibrant neighborhoods in partnership with the communities it serves through the development and management of quality affordable housing.
HARBORCREEK YOUTH SERVICES
www.hys-erie.org Using Sanctuary practices and principles, we help youth and families overcome adversity and build positive futures within a safe, Christian environment.
HERMITAGE HOUSE YOUTH SERVICES
www.hermitagehouse.org Our philosophy of treatment is based upon the belief that a balance between caring support and consistent discipline along with appropriate counseling, can make a difference in the life of a troubled youth.
HOLOCAUST EDUCATION BUS FUND
The Fund’s intent is to provide and conduct guided bus tours to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C., for selected secondary school students from northwestern Pennsylvania.
HOLY FAMILY SCHOOL
www.gotohfs1.com The mission of Holy Family School is to be a beacon of Christ’s light, while guiding the development of the whole child spiritually, intellectually, socially, physically and emotionally.
HOOKED ON BOOKS FOR KIDS
www.hookedonbooksforkidserie.org Hooked on Books for Kids is an allvolunteer nonprofit organization dedicated to literacy, lifelong learning and the love of reading. Our clients are underprivileged children and youth, birth to age 18 in Erie County.
HOPE FOR ERIE ANIMAL WELLNESS
www.hopeforeaw.wix.com/hopeforeaw We are a community outreach program for animals and their guardians. We build relationship with guardian(s) and pet(s) in their own environment.
HOSPICE OF METROPOLITAN ERIE INC.
www.hospiceerie.org Provide care of the highest standard to enhance the quality of life of terminally ill individuals, their families and the community.
HOUSE OF MERCY
www.houseofmercyerie.org Established and sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, it promotes a healthy neighborhood and engages children and adults in positive experiences.
HUMANE SOCIETY OF NORTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA
www.humanesocietyofnwpa.com The Humane Society of Northwestern Pennsylvania operates the only openaccess shelter in the region, meaning we do not turn away any animals brought to us.
HVA SENIOR LIVING ALLIANCE
www.askhva.org HVA is the regional resource for collaborative programming and support services for member organizations that enhances the quality of care and life for seniors and our community.
INNER-CITY NEIGHBORHOOD ART HOUSE
www.neighborhoodarthouse.org The mission of the Benedictine Sisters of Erie Inner-City Neighborhood Art House is to enable children to experience beauty, grow in positive self-expression and selfdiscipline, and develop into full and productive humans.
INTER-CHURCH MINISTRIES
www.icmeriecounty.com A network of Christian churches committed to cooperation for the greater good of the religious community and people of Erie County.
INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ERIE
www.refugees.org To protect the rights and needs of persons in forced or voluntary migration by advancing fair public policy, facilitating and providing professional services and promoting participation of migrants in community life.
IROQUOIS SCHOOL DISTRICT FOUNDATION
www.iroquoissd.org To enhance the educational opportunities for all district students through grade 12 through imaginative and creative partnerships with educators, with the financial support of alumni and friends.
J.C. MARTIN GOLF COURSE RESTORATION FUND
The purpose of the J.C. Martin Golf Course Restoration Fund is to improve the conditions of the course for generations of young golfers who can then enjoy and learn the game of golf.
JOHN F. KENNEDY CENTER INC.
www.thejfkcenter.org The John F. Kennedy Center Inc. seeks to improve conditions of work, play, study, health and living among the lower income residents of northeast Erie (city).
JUNIOR LEAGUE OF ERIE
www.juniorleagueoferie.org An organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.
www.hamothealthfoundation.org To support UPMC Hamot in serving our patients, our communities and one another in the tradition of quality, health, healing and education.
H.A. N. D. S.: HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENT SERVICE
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WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG JUVENILE DIABETES RESEARCH FOUNDATION (JDRF)
LAKE SHORE RAILWAY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
www.jdrf.org/northwestpa JDRF is the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes research. JDRF’s goal is to progressively remove the impact of T1D from people’s lives until we achieve a world without type 1 diabetes.
http://lakeshorerailway.com All-volunteer educational organization operates a railroad museum on the grounds of the former New York Central Railroad passenger depot in the borough of North East.
KALEIDASCOPE INC.
LIFECARE PREGNANCY AND FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER
www.kas-erie.org Using our vast clinical experience and a passionate approach, we provide services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
KEYSTONE ATHLETIC DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATION
www.eriecrossoverbasketball.org KADO encourages youth development by providing opportunities for personal and athletic growth.
L’ARCHE ERIE INC.
www.larcheerie.org A community of faith where life is shared between individuals with and without intellectual disabilities.
LAKE ERIE ARBORETUM AT FRONTIER PARK
www.leaferie.org LEAF is a tree museum situated within Frontier Park with over 150 different species of trees. Its mission is to create educational opportunities and outdoor experiences for our community.
LAKE ERIE FANFARE INC.
www.leregiment.org Dedicated to promoting the drum & bugle corps and related activities for their educational, artistic and family oriented entertainment values.
LAKE ERIE COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE
LINKED BY PINK
www.linkedbypink.org Linked By Pink is a local nonprofit organization consisting of Erie-area survivors diagnosed with breast cancer before the age of 45. It serves an area within a 45-mile radius of Erie and raises awareness of breast cancer patients while raising funds for patients and their families.
LIVING IN FULFILLED EXCELLENCE
www.lifethrumusic.org LIFE Inc., founded in 2012, is committed to breaking the vicious cycle that feeds many of today’s disadvantaged youth into a pipeline that is destined for poverty, violence, crime, prison and substandard living by improving academic and career readiness opportunities for all disadvantaged students.
LOVE INC OF WEST ERIE COUNTY
Serving the church, facilitating the resources. To minister the love of Christ to those in need in West Erie County.
LUTHER MEMORIAL CHURCH & ACADEMY
www.luthermemorialonline.org Luther Memorial is Christ’s church that brings its ministry to northwest Pennsylvania within the context of its Lutheran heritage.
www.greaterpawv.wish.org Grants the wishes of children with lifethreatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.
MALENO FAMILY-TO-FAMILY FUND
www.malenodevelopment.com To support building and renovation projects for Erie families and neighborhoods in need.
MARCH OF DIMES FOUNDATION — NORTHWEST PENNSYLVANIA DIVISION
www.marchofdimes.org/pennsylvania/ To improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.
MCCORD MEMORIAL LIBRARY
www.mccordlibrary.org/ Dedicated to serving the North East area by assembling, organizing, preserving, making accessible books and materials.
MEALS ON WHEELS ERIE
www.mealsonwheelserie.org Meals On Wheels Erie promotes healthy, independent living through home delivery of nutrition services.
MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION OF NORTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA
www.mhanp.org MHA provides a consumer driven environment that supports and promotes recovery for people with mental health needs.
MERCY CENTER FOR WOMEN
www.mcwerie.org Mercy Center for Women is a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of Mercy New York, Pennsylvania, and Pacific West Community and is committed to enhancing the dignity of each person it serves through the healing of body, mind and spirit.
MERCY CENTER OF THE ARTS
www.mercycenterofthearts.com Following the example of Jesus, the Mercy Center of the Arts strives to serve the People of God, particularly children, by awakening them to truth, love, wonder and beauty in order to nourish healthy human development.
MERCY HILLTOP CENTER INC.
www.mercyhilltopcenter.com To keep older adults as independent as possible for as long as possible. The focus is on each individual’s mind, spirit and body wellness.
MERCYHURST PREPARATORY SCHOOL
www.mpslakers.com A four-year coeducational Catholic secondary school founded by the Sisters of Mercy to prepare students from all religious and ethnic backgrounds for a successful, productive and compassionate life in an ever-changing and interdependent world.
MERCYHURST UNIVERSITY
www.mercyhurst.edu Consistent with its Catholic identity and Mercy heritage, Mercyhurst University educates women and men in a culture where faith and reason flourish together, where the beauty and power of the liberal arts combine with an appreciation for the dignity of work and a commitment to serving others.
MILLCREEK EDUCATION FOUNDATION
www.millcreekeducationfoundation.org/ To support the Millcreek Township School District by seeking funding for educational programming, student scholarships, faculty professional development and other projects to enhance the education.
MILLCREEK YOUTH ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION
www.myaasports.com To implant firmly in the youth of the community the ideals of good sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty, courage, and courtesy, so that they may be finer, stronger and happier, and that they will grow to be healthy citizens.
www.lecom.edu To prepare students to become osteopathic physicians, pharmacy practitioners, and dentists through programs of excellence in education, research, clinical care and community service.
http://lifecareofcorry.com A Christian pro-life pregnancy center proclaiming the Gospel, offering abstinence education.
MAKE-A-WISH GREATER PENNSYLVANIA AND WEST VIRGINIA (MAKE A WISH)
Erie Gives
www.lakeerielifestyle.com
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Erie Gives WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG MISSION EMPOWER
www.missionempower.org Provides advocacy, education and the promotion of inclusion assisting families and their children with disabilities.
MONTESSORI IN THE WOODS
www.montessoriinthewoods.org To provide childhood education and care according to the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori — individualized education and respect for the unique learning styles of each child.
MOTHERS AGAINST TEEN VIOLENCE
NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY, WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA CHAPTER
www.mspakeystone.org We mobilize people and resources to drive research for a cure and to address the challenges of everyone affected by MS.
www.nwsd.org Ensures the highest level of educational innovation supporting students, faculty and staff with community involvement in a partnership of lifetime learning.
NEIGHBORHOOD RESOURCE ORGANIZATION
NORTHWESTERN COMMUNITY YOUTH CENTER INC.
www.nroerie.org A nonprofit agency created to provide resources, support and technical assistance to neighborhood groups throughout Erie County.
NEW BLOSSOMS NEW LIFE FOUNDATION
www.matverie.org The reduction of teen violence in Erie through youth mentoring and community education.
www.newblossomsnewlife.org Provides financial assistance and emotional support to couples challenged with infertility with the goal of helping them have a child.
MULTICULTURAL COMMUNITY
NEW HOPE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF ERIE
Resource Center www.multiculturalcrc.org To facilitate the educational, social, political and economic progress of the communities we serve. We will work to break down cultural barriers due to language, appearance, or ethnic traditions.
MYSTIC MOUNTAIN TRAINING CENTER
www.mysticmountaintrainingcenter.org Provides a safe and positive experience for children and families to learn about the saving hope of Jesus Christ.
NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS OF ERIE COUNTY
www.newhopechurcherie.com
NORTH EAST COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
www.necommunityfoundation.org Assists a diverse group of donors in improving the quality of life in and around North East by creating permanent and flexible endowments.
NORTH EAST IN BLOOM
www.northeastinbloom.org Promotes beautification, environmental sustainability, economic development, and community involvement throughout the North East Borough and Township.
NORTHWEST PENNSYLVANIA COLLEGIATE ACADEMY
www.eriesd.org/npca The mission of the Northwest Pennsylvania Collegiate Academy, a regional public magnet school, is to provide a dynamic, rigorous college-preparatory education in a diversified, student-centered urban environment.
www.ncycenter.com Promotes and provide programs and activities that encourage a positive lifestyle for the youth with opportunities to interact with affirmative role models and mentors in safe, well supervised environments.
NORTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA ARTISTS ASSOCIATION
www.npaaonline.org Organizes annual exhibits for its 139 members’ participation, annually donates college scholarships to local graduating high school seniors, and promotes visual arts in the community.
NWPA CLEFT PALATE INSTITUTE
www.eriecleftpalate.com Our mission is the physical and communicational restoration of those children presenting with cleft lip/palate or various craniofacial anomalies to as nearly normal status as possible.
NWPA PROJECT LINUS
http://nwpaprojectlinus.blogspot.com Provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized or otherwise in need, through the gift of new blankets and afghans, lovingly created by volunteer “blanketeers.”
NURTURING HEARTS
www.nurturing-hearts.org Provides supportive leadership and life skills which will furnish and prepare at-risk girls ages 10-18 for a bright and positive future.
OPPORTUNITIES UNLIMITED OF ERIE
www.ouerie.org Creates employment opportunities for people with disabilities and to support them in achieving their vocational goals.
ORPHANANGELSCATSANCTUARY ANDADOPTIONCENTER
www.orphanangels.org To find loving, permanent homes for all the cats in our care and to promote a philosophy of spay/neuter as the only humane method of controlling and reducing cat overpopulation.
OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL SCHOOL
www.olmcerie.org Founded in 1962, Our Lady of Mount Carmel is a Catholic community that exists to proclaim the “Good News” of Christ. The family environment of the school permeated with the Spirit of the Gospel.
OUR LADY OF THE LAKE PARISH
wwww.ololake.com Make Christ and His Church the Living reality of all people subject to our influence and to share Christ in faith, hope, love under the guidance of the Holy Spirit & through the ministry of the Catholic Church.
OUR LADY’S CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
www.ourladyschristian.org We foster social, emotional and spiritual growth in a secure environment, where students in kindergarten through eighth grade are challenged to think critically and creatively and to become lifelong learners.
PARKINSON PARTNERS OF NW PA INC.
www.parkinsonpartners.org To encourage, educate and support Parkinsonians, their caregivers and loved ones as they cope with the challenges of Parkinson Disease.
www.namierie.org NAMI of Erie County is focused on fostering personal growth and family stability by supporting and educating family and individuals facing the challenges of mental illness.
NORTHWESTERN COMMUNITY EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION INC.
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WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG
Erie Gives
Nonprofits and supporters of Erie Gives turn out for the check presentation of $2.2 million at the Erie Zoo in 2014. Photo courtesy of The Erie Community Foundation
PARK UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
http://pumcne.org/ To make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
PARTNERSHIP FOR ERIE’S PUBLIC SCHOOLS
www.partnershipeps.org Works to strengthen Erie’s Public Schools by providing community and financial support in five key areas: Arts, Athletics, Academics, Assistance and Advocacy.
PAY IT FORWARD FUND
www.eriepa.com/strategic-initiatives/ payitforward The PIF Fund will help repay a portion of the student loan debt for recent college graduates who live and work in northwest Pennsylvania and plan to give back to the region.
PENN STATE ERIE, THE BEHREND COLLEGE
www.behrend.psu.edu To provide high-quality innovative educational, research and outreach programs in a welcoming student-centered learning environment.
PENN STATE ERIE, THE BEHREND COLLEGE, SUSAN HIRT HAGEN CORE AND POSITIVE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
www.youtherie.com Positive Youth Development activates individuals to create caring and responsible communities.
PERFORMING ARTISTS COLLECTIVE ALLIANCE
www.paca1505.com PACA is a community performing arts center and theater that promotes the widest variety of artistic endeavors and educational opportunities.
PERSEUS HOUSE
www.perseushouse.org Our mission in treatment is to serve youth and families through evidence-based programming designed to promote prosocial behavior and healthy lifestyles.
www.lakeerielifestyle.com
PINE GROVE CEMETERY corryroger@msn.com
PLEASANT RIDGE MANOR FRIENDS FOREVER
www.pleasantridgemanor.com To assure that the indigent of Erie County receive the highest quality medical and nursing home care that promotes the psychological, social, spiritual, recreational and rehabilitative development of the individual.
PRESBYTERIAN HOMES
www.presbyhomes.com Support the Elmwood Gardens Renovation Fund.
PRESQUE ISLE PARTNERSHIP
www.discoverpi.com To enhance Presque Isle visitors’ experience by developing, funding and implementing projects and programs on the Park, while protecting the natural environment.
REGIONAL SCIENCE CONSORTIUM
www.regsciconsort.com To promote and enhance our knowledge and understanding of the Lake Erie and Ohio River Basin ecosystems through research and education.
ROYAL FAMILY KIDS CAMP
www.erie.royalfamilykids.org To provide positive memories and life changing moments in the lives of Erie County children of abuse, abandonment and neglect through our programs of camps, clubs and mentoring.
SAFE HARBOR BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
www.shbh.org Dedicated to promoting the health and enrichment of the whole person in a nurturing, recovery-focused environment with compassion, integrity, advocacy and innovation.
SAFE JOURNEY
www.mysafejourney.org To enhance empowerment, self-direction, safety and justice for women and children who are victims of domestic violence by providing free confidential services and awareness and prevention education
SAFENET
SAINT VINCENT FOUNDATION
www.safeneterie.org Committed to ending domestic violence, affirming human dignity and delivering comprehensive services to victims of domestic violence. We believe every individual has the right to live life free from abuse.
www.ahn.org/locations/saint-vincenthospital/foundation To support Saint Vincent Hospital in delivering safe, compassionate, quality health care. Every dollar donated stays local.
SAINT GEORGE CATHOLIC SCHOOL
www.sarahreed.org Promotes emotional well-being of children and families, helping them to realize their potential and experience success.
www.sgs-online.org Preschool through 8th grade coeducational Catholic School, founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1944, strives for academic excellence and provides moral social awareness.
SAINT GEORGE CHURCH
www.stgeorgeerie.org Makes Jesus, the Son of God, present in our lives through the Sacraments, prayer, and community. We recommit ourselves each day to more deeply understand and live our faith, support each other, and to be a beacon of hope in our darkened world.
SAINTJUDETHEAPOSTLECHURCH
www.stjudeapos.org We are to answer the needs of our parish following by reaching out to them and bringing them home to God.
ST. LUKE SCHOOL
www.slserie.org We focus on each child in a value-centered Catholic community, within a safe and nurturing environment, facilitating learning for life.
SAINT MARY’S HOME OF ERIE
SARAH A. REED CHILDREN’S CENTER
SARAH REED SENIOR LIVING
www.sarahareed.org Chartered as Erie’s first welfare agency in 1871, Sarah Reed Senior Living is committed to providing a comprehensive approach to senior living through a continuum of care for its residents at a reasonable cost.
SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK OF NORTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA
www.eriefoodbank.org To provide food to those in need within 11 counties of northwestern Pennsylvania while creating awareness and educating the community on the realities of hunger.
SHRINERS HOSPITALS FOR CHILDREN
www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org Provides the highest quality care to children with neuromusculoskeletal conditions and other special health care needs without regard to ability of a patient or family to pay.
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH OF NORTHWESTERN PA
www.stmaryshome.org Founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph and operated in the Catholic tradition, Saint Mary’s Home is committed to an environment of loving care.
www.ssjerie.org Reaching out to the ever changing needs of the world, serve the neighbor without distinction as we work toward uniting neighbor with neighbor and neighbor with God.
ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC CHURCH
SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORK
www.saintpatrickparisherie.org A visible and living Catholic symbol of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, proclaiming it through vibrant liturgies, excellent preaching and well-prepared adult education. We sponsor the largest weekly food pantry in the city.
www.ssjnn.org The SSJ Neighborhood Network, sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania, advocates for local residents to develop opportunities for personal growth and neighborhood revitalization.
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Erie Gives
WWW.ERIEGIVES.ORG
SNOOPS NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
www.snoopserie.org Neighborhoods Watch No. 13 — SNOOPS is dedicated to revitalizing our inner-city area by attempting to provide safe and affordable housing in Erie.
ST. MARK’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
www.saintmarkserie.org A vibrant community of seekers who — by word and action — strive to boldly proclaim the transforming Gospel of Jesus Christ.
ST. MARTIN CENTER INC.
www.stmartincenter.org To engage in work among the needy by providing immediate and long-term services for individuals, regardless of their race or religion, to give them find a path of selfreliance consistent with the Catholic Church.
ST. MATTHEW’S LUTHERAN CHURCH 950 W. Seventh St.
ST. PATRICK’S HAVEN
www.ssjerie.org This shelter for homeless men, is a ministry of presence to men who choose a place of safety, a warm bed, a shower, coffee, a snack and friendship nightly.
ST. PAUL’S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH Fund
www.stpaulserie.org
Children enjoy playing with a parachute, thanks to GE interns, during the 20-year celebration at the Neighborhood Art House Ice Cream Social on Sunday, July 12. Photo by Sister Susan Freitag
ST.STEPHEN’SEPISCOPALCHURCH
www.ststephens-fairview.org An open and welcoming Christ-centered worship community where all people can find caring and acceptance, and be formed in faith to go out to make a difference in the name of the Gospel.
STAIRWAYS BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
STRONG VINCENT STATUE STUDENT PARENTING PROGRAM (ERIE SCHOOL DISTRICT)
To assist pregnant/expectant and parenting students (male and female) with their dual role as student and parent so babies are born healthy, develop appropriately, and student parents can realize their potential.
ST. PAUL’S NEIGHBORHOOD FREE CLINIC
www.stairwaysbh.org An innovative provider of communitybased mental health services that employ best practices to support recovery and wellness that serves more than 10,000 individuals annually.
www.sunshinegroupoferie.wordpress.com Dedicated to helping the needy, less fortunate, shut ins, and nursing home patients by providing a large variety of gifts at Christmas and throughout the year.
ST. PETER CATHEDRAL
STRINGSFORACURE FOUNDATION
SUPPORTS COORDINATION OF NORTHWEST PENNSYLVANIA INC.
www.stpaulsfreeclinic.org St. Paul’s Neighborhood Free Clinic provides free primary health and dental care to qualified patients throughout Erie County.
www.stringsforacure.org Dedicated to providing education, comfort, support and financial assistance directly to cancer patients, primarily those with breast cancer.
www.supportscoordination.org We are committed to supporting individuals with disabilities and our aging population. We strive to enhance the quality of life and the self-sufficiency of people in need.
www.tamarackwildlife.org We help Pennsylvania wildlife by caring for injured, orphaned or ill wildlife to enable their return to the wild and promoting appreciation and understanding of wildlife through education.
THE A.N.N.A. SHELTER
www.theannashelter.com To provide lost/stray pets with a safe nurturing environment where they can be reunited with their owners or placed into a new loving responsible home.To provide this care in a loving, nurturing, clean, safe environment.
THE BAIR FOUNDATION
www.bair.org Provides Christ-centered quality care and services dedicated to the treatment and empowerment of children, youth and families in crisis in Erie, Crawford, Mercer and surrounding counties in northwestern Pennsylvania.
www.stpetercathedral.com A Roman Catholic community gathered together to worship God in joy. We seek to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ, celebrate uniqueness of our people, and minister to our brothers and sisters.
SUNSHINE GROUP OF ERIE
TAMARACK WILDLIFE REHABILITATION & ED CENTER
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www.bhaktaschool.org Offers programs that integrate meditation, holistic wellbeing and the arts since 2007. We are committed to transform lives by raising the individual and collective consciousness of people of all cultures and races.
THE ERIE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
www.eriecommunityfoundation.org The Erie Community Foundation works to improve the quality of life in our region by evaluating and addressing community issues, by promoting responsible philanthropy and by connecting donors to the critical needs of the community.
THE IMAGINATION LIBRARY
UNION CITY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
www.unioncitycf.org To improve the quality of life and the broad charitable health care needs of Union City-area residents.
UNION CITY FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER
www.ucfsc.org Provides social, health and educational services with the goal of empowering families to help themselves.
UNION CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY
www.ucpl.org Offers services and materials to assist the communities of Union City, Union Township and Bloomfield Township with their need for recreational, educational and professional information.
UNIONCITYSENIORCENTERCOOPERATIVEINC.
www.unitedwayerie.org/imagination Helps you read with your child. Every child will have books of their very own, at no cost to you, thanks to United Way of Erie County and The Erie Community Foundation.
Houses the GECAC Erie County Senior Center, and our mission statement is to provide various activities for anyone over 60 years of age.
THE NONPROFIT PARTNERSHIP
www.unitedwayerie.org United Way of Erie County is working to reduce poverty. We have set a bold, long-term challenge to help 10,000 more local families become self-sufficient by 2025.
www.thenonprofitpartnership.org To enhance the management and governance of regional nonprofit organizations through capacity-building programs and services.
THE REASON FOR OUR HOPE FOUNDATION
www.thereasonforourhope.org/index.php Founded by the Rev. Larry Richards to spread the news of Jesus Christ through various multimedia resources and to make available Catholic speakers who are effective instruments of this evangelization.
THE REGIONAL CANCER CENTER FOUNDATION
www.trcc.org Supports the Regional Cancer Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work providing treatment and support services to persons with cancer and blood disorders in the Erie region.
THE SALVATION ARMY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ERIE & MEADVILLE
www.use.salvationarmy.org The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church. Its mission is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in his name without discrimination.
THE SIGHT CENTER OF NORTHWEST PENNSYLVANIA
www.sightcenternwpa.org To prevent blindness and promote independence for those suffering from vision loss.
UNITED WAY OF ERIE COUNTY
UNITED SERVICE CORPS
www.unitedservicecorps.org Benefits local and global community through service to others with volunteer programs.
VILLA MARIA ACADEMY
www.prep-villa.com Cathedral Preparatory School and Villa Maria Academy form a Christ-centered, co-institutional, collegepreparatory Catholic school of the Diocese of Erie with a foundation of faith, family, excellence, and tradition.
VILLA MARIA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
www.vmelementary.com The school furthers the mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph by providing an atmosphere that promotes academic excellence as well as the spiritual, social, artistic and physical development the students.
VISION FOR THE POOR
www.climbforsight.org To empower local eye-care specialists in developing countries by building sustainable eye clinics and funding essential ophthalmic infrastructures with like-minded organizations.
VISITING NURSE ASSOCIATION
THE UPPER ROOM OF ERIE INC.
www.erievna.org Since 1906, the mission of VNA of Erie County is to provide quality, cost-effective home health care and hospice services to residents of Erie County, regardless of the ability to pay.
THE WOMANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CLUB OF ERIE INC.
www.vficil.org To empower people with disabilities and promote independent living.
THE WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ROUNDTABLE
WALNUT CREEK MARINA SUNSET GARDEN FUND
www.mhanp.org/UpperRoomErie Faith-based ministry provides a safe and welcoming place for Erieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homeless year round. Promotes membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; active participation in the educational, civic and philanthropic objectives of our community. www.wrterie.org Furthers goals and aspirations of all women by creating a sisterhood that shares knowledge, abilities and empathy with other women.
THERAPEUTIC RIDING EQUESTRIAN CENTER
www.trecerie.org Working in partnership with the community, TREC enriches the total well-being of eligible individuals by providing an engaged connection to horses through supervised equineassisted programs.
www.lakeerielifestyle.com
VOICES FOR INDEPENDENCE
cbfbeach@mac.com
WARNER THEATRE PRESERVATION TRUST
www.erieevents.com/about/warner_theatre.htm
WATTSBURG AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY, WATTSBURG-ERIE COUNTY FAIR
www.wattsburgeriecountyfair.com/ To provide a quality educational fair for the community to enjoy annually with friends and family that demonstrates the past, present and future of local agriculture.
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THE BHAKTA SCHOOL OF TRANSFORMATION
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WATTSBURG AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT FOUNDATION
Directly supports programs and activities that enhance student educational experiences.
WCTL-FM OF INSPIRATION TIME INC.
www.wctl.org To inspire, entertain and inform from a Christian perspective.
WELLFIT INCORPORATED (WELLSVILLE)
www.wellsville.tv Educates and empowers children and their families to L.E.A.P. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; learn, embrace and actively practice healthy living in mind and body.
WINDS OF CHANGE INC.
www.windsofchangenp.org/woc2/home.php Honors and supports all with care and respect. To provide people a space where they can view their surroundings from a different perspective.
WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CARE CENTER OF ERIE COUNTY INC.
www.wccerie.org To be a partner in overall community wellness and an agent of change for emotional healing, character development and family stability.
WQLN PUBLIC MEDIA
www.wqln.org Stimulates, enriches, educates and entertains the public through communications.
YMCA OF GREATER ERIE
www.ymcaerie.org Puts Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.
YOUNG PEOPLEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHORUS OF ERIE
www.ypcerie.org With an emphasis on diversity, YPC Erie brings together young singers from all across Erie County. Since 2009, more than 1,000 students from over 37 different public, private and parochial schools have benefitted.
YOUTH LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE OF ERIE
www.ylierie.org Provides an outreach program that develops high school students into leaders who are informed, motivated, and committed to working toward an improved quality of life.
ADDITIONS AT PRESS TIME: ALL GODâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHILDREN MINISTRIES, INC.
www.allgodschildrenministries.org
CAMP NOTRE DAME
www.campnotredame.com
COMMUNITY NURSING SERVICES OF NORTH EAST
www.northeastnurses.com
INNOVATION COLLABORATIVE
www.innovationcollaborators.com
KIWANIS CLUB OF ERIE FOUNDATION NWPA PRIDE ALLIANCE
www.nwpapride.org
UNION CITY LITTLE LEAGUE
www.ucball.com
WLD RANCH
www.wldranch.com
YOUNG ARTISTS DEBUT ORCHESTRA
www.yadostars.org
August2015
www.lakeerielifestyle.com
on scene
COACH LAMPE RETIRES The career of Greg Lampe, a 2003 inductee of the Erie County Aquatic Hall of Fame, was celebrated at Lake Shore Country Club when he retired as coach and pool director in June. A Strong Vincent High School graduate who swam and coached the Colonels, he went on to Kent State University. Lampe returned home to briefly teach at Tech Memorial and then at his alma mater. He was in charge of the Colonelsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; swimming and water polo programs on and off between
1970 and 1987. He also was a coach of Fairviewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s swimming program for six years and served as a PIAA official from 1968 to 2011. Lampe also made history in 1985 as Gannon Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inaugural swimming coach. Photo by Christine Erin Photography
above: Dr. Charles and Susan Furr as Clark Kent and Lois Lane enjoy the Erie Art Museum Superhero Mania fundraiser. below: Brian Sheridan, as Batman, and his wife, Katherine, as Wonder Woman, celebrated superheros at the Erie Art Museum fundraiser.
above: Coach Greg Lampe, center back, reunited with some of the many swimmers he has coached over the years during a party at Lake Shore Country Club in June.
SUPER PARTY
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Superheros and heroines arrived by leaps and bounds at the Erie Art Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pARTy on the Patio on Friday, June 12. The signature event celebrated pop culture, archetypes and the artistry of comic books. The Erie Art Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pARTy on the Patio was themed Superhero Mania, and it welcomed more than 350 guests. All of the proceeds benefited the Erie Art Museum. Millennium Sound provided the music, and quirky, comic-themed food was generously donated by Make It Fabulous Catering, Artâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bakery, Caliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s West Catering, Molly Brannigans and The Plymouth Tavern. Allburnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Florist and Erie Uplighting transformed the Erie Art Museum into a comic-themed party, while Erie Beer and Magic Hat provided beer for the guests to enjoy. Photos by Mike Conway/www.mikeconwayphotography.com
August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 67
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on scene
BAY SWIMMERS CELEBRATE Nearly 300 swimmers had near-perfect conditions in June for the eighth annual swim across Presque Isle Bay. The BaySwim, a nearly 1-mile swim from Presque Isle State Park to the Erie Yacht Club, is organized by the Presque Isle Partnership and the Erie Yacht Club. It was originally organized to celebrate that the bay was clean enough to swim in. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winner was Marie Georger, in her first attempt at the event. There are nearly as many volunteers monitoring the swimmers on boats, kayaks, Jet Skis and on the shores as there are actual swimmers. All proceeds from the event go to local organizations. Photos by Jack Hanrahan/Erie Times-News
www.lakeerielifestyle.com
top: Swimmers begin the 1-mile swim across Presque Isle Bay on June 20 during the eighth annual BaySwim starting at Presque Isle State Park and ending at the Erie Yacht Club. left: Swimmers line up before swimming across Presque Isle Bay. above Marie Georger of Erie is the first swimmer to make the swim across Presque Isle Bay during the eighth annual BaySwim.
August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 69
wqln PUBLIC BROADCASTING
Sea creatures star in ‘Big Blue Live’ By John Chacona
FOR DECADES, featuring almost tactile and lovingly composed cinematography, meticulous editing, and attention to the finest details of narration, music and postproduction, BBC nature documentaries were miracles of carefully wrought cinema, but they failed to capture something fundamental to nature, its sheer capriciousness and potent unpredictability. Someone at the Beeb must have had the same thought, because now comes “Big Blue Live,” a television and multimedia event that will air on WQLN on three nights, Aug. 31 through Sept. 2, at 8 p.m. For one hour each evening, viewers will be taken to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary in California, a once-threatened ecosystem that is the site of a once-a-year convergence of species, including humpback whales, blue whales, sea lions, dolphins, elephant seals, sea otters, brown pelicans and the undisputed box office star-of-the-naturedoc firmament, the great white shark. This panorama of aquatic life will be treated in the way that political conventions or space flight launches were once covered. Advanced filming technologies will capture live reports from air, sea, and below the waves, while four on-air correspondents will describe the action from a reporting hub at the Monterey Bay Aquarium and from aboard research vessels of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Office of National Marine Sanctuaries. The on-air correspondents — Dr. M Sanjayan, the host of “Earth: A New Wild,” recently on PBS, and currently the senior scientist at Conservation International; Liz Bonnin, a science broadcast journalist based in the U.K.; and Dr. Joy Reidenberg, the host of the recent PBS program “Sex In the Wild,” and a comparative anatomist with expertise in marine mammals will provide insight into the anatomy of the wide range of marine life that populates Monterey Bay. August2015
BBC stalwarts Steve Backshall, an awardwinning naturalist and writer, and Matt Baker, a U.K.-based news anchor, will also appear. Like a salty Super Bowl, the broadcast will also call on an array of leading scientists and other experts to weigh in with insights and analysis. In a way, it’s a quaint notion, but there’s risk involved. What if storms keep the birds from the skies or heavy seas make filming difficult or even dangerous? Of course, that unpredictability is the essence of live television and it’s what keeps us glued to our sets (or to our second screens; “Big Blue Live” will also stream online and in social media). It’s the ultimate in reality TV with a cast of thousands, perhaps tens of thousands. above: A Northern elephant seal pup stretches on the beach at Guadalupe Island Biosphere Reserve, off the coast of Baja California, Mexico. Photo courtesy of PBS
“The BBC has been at the forefront of innovative nature programming for decades. With ‘Big Blue Live,’ we are at the epicenter of scientific research, providing a real-time adventure for viewers,” said Matt Forde, of BBC Worldwide North America. “Converging entertainment and science, this dive into Monterey Bay’s extraordinary ecosystem will inspire audiences of all ages.” For viewers along the shores of a lake that was once an exemplar of environmental distress, the comeback story that is the frame for “Big Blue Live” should be inspiration enough. If it can happen there, it can happen here. And who knows? Ten, 20 or 50 years on, a documentary film crew from PBS and the BBC might chronicle the return of the blue pike to Lake Erie — live and in big, blue, beautiful ultra high definition. LEL “Big Blue Live” will air on WQLN-TV at 8 p.m. Aug. 31 through Sept. 2. www.lakeerielifestyle.com
WQLN Public Media 8425 Peach Street, Erie, PA 16509, www.wqln.org 814-864-3001, 800-727-8854, FAX 814-864-4077
WQLN Station Guide August 2015, Issue 254
TV is
Hot and veryCool
this month on WQLN TV By Halle Kostansek
It’s positively atomic. July 28 at 8pm The Bomb will look at how America developed the nuclear bomb. Then at 10pm Uranium: Twisting the Dragon’s Tail will follow physicist Dr. Derek Muller around the world to explain uranium’s birth – from the collapse of a star – and its roles in medicine and warfare. The Mystery of Matter: Search for the Elements, August 19 at 8pm, will quest to understand what the world is made of, from the tiniest molecule to complex organisms... including sea creatures! Nature lovers of all ages, take heed: Big Blue Live is THE wildlife event of the season. Spend three live nights, 8-9pm August 31-September 2, stationed at Monterey Bay and Monterey Bay Aquarium with conservationists, animal behaviorists, and most important amazing marine creatures as they convene on the bay. Celebrate the bay’s conservation success story, and witness the creature features as they happen! In a human creature feature, Secrets of the Dead presents JFK & LBJ: A Time for Greatness, August 4 at 9pm, examining President Johnson’s transformation of America and his work to ensure JFK’s legacy with the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Voting Rights Act. Masterpiece will www.lakeerielifestyle.com
premiere Arthur & George September 6 at 8pm, starring Martin Clunes as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle investigating the case of the half-Indian son of a vicar who is framed for a crime. WQLN’s Sounds Around Town will bring the hot and cool sounds of summer to your living room at 8pm on Thursdays. Relive the rock, funk, groove, and all that jazz from our 2015 live concert series: August 20: The Groove; August 27: Tennessee Backporch; September 3: M4; September 10: Tyler Smilo; and September 17: Daybreak Radio. And pop music lovers, save the date for the premiere of the 2015 PBS Arts Fall Festival on October 9, featuring Unity: The Latin Tribute to Michael Jackson. Hot! Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) calf underwater, Hawaii from “Big Blue Live”. Photo courtesy of David Fleetham. top to bottom: President John Fitzgerald Kennedy and Vice President Lyndon Baines Johnson from “JFK & LBJ: A Time for Greatness”. Photo courtesy of LBJ Presidential Library. Nick Gehlfuss and Paul Lyons as Glenn Seaborg and Arthur Wahl in “The Mystery of Matter: Search for the Element”. Photo courtesy of Jeffrey Dunn / Moreno/Lyons Productions LLC. Dr. Derek Muller at Fukushima, Japan from “Uranium: Twisting the Dragon’s Tail”. Photo courtesy of Josephine Wright/Genepool Productions Pty Ltd.
Indie Mondays with POV Tea Time - July 27 A ritual sustains five Chilean women through personal and societal change. Beats of the Antonov - August 3 Music unites the people of the Blue Nile as they are subjected to bombing. Neuland - August 17 Students traumatized in their home countries carve out a new home in Switzerland. The Storm Makers - August 24 Poverty, despair, and greed fuel the modern slave trade in Cambodia. Point and Shoot - August 31 A journey through North Africa and the Middle East sees revolution break out in Libya. POV is on WQLN TV Mondays at 10pm.
Support for Sounds Around Town is made possible in part by
Martin Clunes as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in “Arthur & George”. Photo courtesy of Neil Genower/Buffalo Films for MASTERPIECE.
August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 71
Radio
By Brian Hannah
The stars shine bright over the Erie Playhouse, one of the oldest and largest community theaters in the nation. Recognized as one of the 10 best community theaters in national competition, it remains at the forefront of the arts not only in Northwest Pennsylvania, but across the entire state and country! Friday, August 14 at noon, Live from Studio Q! is pleased to welcome Erie Playhouse Producing Director Richard Davis, Executive Director Almi Clerkin, and a cast of talented performers to the
WQLN Studios for an Erie Playhouse season preview. The live studio audience and WQLN Radio listeners will get an early sneak peek, or should we say “sneak listen”, into the exciting new offerings at the Erie Playhouse! I’d love for you to join me, Brian an Hannah, here at the WQLN studios for Live from Studio Q! featuring the Erie Playhouse. The WQLN Studios are located ted just one mile south of I-90 on Peach Street. There is plenty of parking and plenty of seating.. But if you can’t
Erie Gives day You work hard for your money, so why should you give it away? Top reasons people say they make charitable donations include: I was touched by someone’s story. I want to feel like I’m part of something. I want to be seen as a role model. I need a tax deduction! Whether your motivation is emotional or practical, the Erie Community Foundation will once again give you a great opportunity to be charitable when it hosts its annual Erie Gives Day on Tuesday, August 11 from 8am to 8pm. The Foundation has a record $220,000 available to match a portion of every donation made online at www.ErieGives.org on Erie
August2015
make it, don’t worry I’ll broadcast it live on Classics on 91.3FM! I hope to see you here at WQLN on August 14 at noon!
Events
Gives Day! In addition to Erie Community Foundation’s contribution, this match includes generous donations from GE Transportation, Erie Insurance, Presque Isle Downs and Casino, Eriez Magnetics, and an anonymous donor. Last year, hundreds of individuals helped raise over $27,000 for WQLN on Erie Gives Day. We were – and are – so grateful for these donations, which helped us continue bringing high-quality TV and radio to the Lake Erie region. So, if you root for WQLN or any other local nonprofit, please remember them during the 12 exciting hours of Erie Gives Day! Erie Gives Day is Tuesday, August 11, 2015, from 8am to 8pm at www.eriegives.org.
www.lakeerielifestyle.com
Events
WQLN Radio and Five & 20 Spirits & Brewing present the 2nd Annual Vivaldi in the Vineyard, a celebration of the change of season and a farewell to another Erie summer! This year’s event will be Downton Abbey inspired, to celebrate the final season of the program, which will air in early 2016. Guests will enjoy Vivaldi selections performed by ensembles from the Erie Philharmonic and the Erie Chamber Orchestra. Five & 20 Spirits & Brewing, our region’s first producer of all three favorite libations wines, spirits, and beer will offer samples of their wine, event themed cocktails, and beer. Local restaurants will provide special food pairings to complete the evening. Each attendee will receive a special event glass and bottle of wine.
Yes, it’s a farewell to summer, but also a celebration of the coming autumn and everything that special time of year holds!
Vivaldi in the Vineyard Saturday, September 12 from 6-9pm Five & 20 Spirits & Brewing 8398 Main Rd (Rt. 20), Westfield, NY 14787 $65 per person – WQLN Member $75 per person – Non Member All proceeds benefit WQLN. For tickets contact Jocelyn at 814-217-6055 or visit www.wqln.org.
By Lisa Counasse
Feeling the blues because summer is passing you by? We’ve got your remedy a WQLN Road Trip! There’s something for everyone, whether you like big city livin’ or excitement that’s close to home. And the best part? Your entire trip is planned for you from the transportation to the meals, tips, and tickets. You simply get on the bus and enjoy the journey! All you need to decide is where you want to go! Sponsored by
www.lakeerielifestyle.com
Experience Pittsburgh
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Erie Islands
Jersey Boys (Pgh.)
Friday, August 14, 2015 Friday, August 21, 2015 Chicago
Fri.-Sat., September 18-19, 2015 Sunday, September 27, 2015 Finger Lakes Wine Tour
Thur.-Sat., August 27-29, 2015
Friday, October 2, 2015
Lighthouses of Lake Erie
Beautiful the Musical (Pgh.)
Friday, September 4, 2015
Sunday, November 1, 2015
Classic Christmas Markets in Germany, Austria, & France
Sun.-Mon., Nov. 29-Dec. 7 New York City
Thur.-Sat., December 3-5, 2015 Wizard of Oz (Pgh.)
Friday, January 8, 2016 Sound of Music (Pgh.)
Friday, March 25, 2016
For more information, or to reserve your seat visit wqln.org or contact Jocelyn at 814-217-6055 or jtaylor@wqln.org. August2015 Lake Erie LifeStyle 73
Education
Presented by
$5
in advance $7 at the door
children 12 & under
FREE
By Kathy Carducci WQLN Education has turned up the volume on fun this year for the JUMP! Back to School Expo on Sunday, August 9, 2015, from 11am to 3pm at the Bayfront Convention Center! Children can participate in a live TV audition for the new “My Favorite Book” series on WQLN TV, receive face painting by Taradoodles, check out The Real Magic Steve, plus a lot more. In its third year now, this educational outreach event points families to many community resources, and it gives children an opportunity to learn, discover, and explore through interactive exhibits that demonstrate subjects from engineering, math, and science to music and dance, with the hope of sparking children’s interest in learning as they prepare for the upcoming school year. The NW Regional Highway Safety booth is sure to be popular again this year, allowing teens to experience what it’s like to drive while distracted. Last year, children met Brian Hannah, WQLN’s Classics host, with a chance to record what they enjoyed most about JUMP! Not only did they discover how
Elementary School Reading Competition
voices are recorded at WQLN Radio, but they shared their excitement about visiting the Erie Zoo’s booth, receiving free school supplies, and meeting Clifford the Big Red Dog, among other things. For more information about JUMP!, or to register your child for the live TV audition, go to wqln.org/jump. JUMP! is also a great way for organizations and businesses to connect directly to families. Many of last year’s organizations and businesses are returning, including Triangle Tech, R. B. Wiley Community Charter School, Cathedral Prep/Villa Maria Academy, Waddell & Reed, NAMI of Erie County, Nutrilite, and the Achievement Center. Their participation each year is a demonstration of their commitment to improving the lives of children, while promoting product awareness, lead generation, and networking in the interest of increasing children’s academic success. For event details visit www.wqln.org/jump, or contact Kathy at kcarducci@wqln.org.
If you walk through the halls of Robison Elementary School, you will see something large and shiny a trophy. That’s right! Robison Elementary placed first in WQLN Education’s 2014 Q Kids Readers Elementary School Reading Competition. Is your school up for the challenge this year? Would you like a chance to snatch the
Support Free Public TV and Radio
WQLN Radio 91.3 FM
calling (814) 864-3001 ext. 0 August2015
Member Services Monday – Friday 8:30 am-5:00 pm 8425 Peach St., Erie, PA 16509-4788 1-800-727-8854 ext. 299 receptionist@wqln.org
Sponsored by
trophy from Robison Elementary? The second annual Q Kids Readers Elementary School Reading Competition will begin September 1. Your school will have three months to read as many books as possible! For more information and to register your school, visit wqln.org/readers or contact Kathy at (814) 217-6001. Visit Us Online Or att ww www.wqln.org www.wqln.org. www.lakeerielifestyle.com