End Of Year Giving 2021

D N E R A YOUR YE GIVING

!

E C N E R E F F I D A S E K A M

Inside you will find different local non-profit organizations that need your help this holiday season.

GIVE AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Published as supplement to the Siuslaw News, December 11, 2021

Kiwanis Community Flag Program The Florence Kiwanis Community Flag Program is a fundraising project for the Kiwanis Club of Florence. Funds that are raised help to support our charitable giving to local youth programs and our community projects in the Florence and Mapleton areas. With the help of our dedicated members and community volunteers, we place over 400 flags throughout Florence on at least 10 days per year, including major holidays and during the Rhododendron Fes�val.

Sponsor a flag today! #KidsNeedKiwanis

Display your patrio�sm and community support throughout the year by sponsoring a flag for just $30 per year, per flag. Sponsored flags are displayed on one of the designated routes.

Want to become a flag sponsor? You can sign up and pay on the Kiwanis website at www.florencekiwanis.org, contact us via email at info@florencekiwanis.net, or mail payment to Florence Kiwanis, PO Box 1667, Florence, OR 97439.

END OF YEAR GIVING - December 11, 2021 - 3

Our Community is Caring and Compassionate Give a gift that counts!

Characteristics of effective mentors ..................................................15 Did you know? – Children volunteering ............................................17 Did you know? – Holiday charity .......................................................6 Family-friendly volunteering opportunities .....................................16 How parents can pitch in at their children’s school .........................17 How to help kids find suitable volunteering opportunities ............18 How to include giving in your estate plan ........................................13 Safe ways for seniors to volunteer ....................................................6 The effects of volunteering on volunteers’ well-being ....................8 The link between volunteering and academic performance ..........14 The value of activity-driven fundraisers ...........................................7

FLORENCE FOOD SHARE

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ESTATE PLANNING

By naming Florence Food Share as a beneficiary in your will or trust you can help ensure that we continue our mission of alleviating hunger in Western Lane County for decades to come.

Be sure to select us as the beneficiary on your Amazon Smile account.

Us TOO Florence, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, is your source for prostate cancer information and support on the Oregon Coast.

We reach men from Bandon to the south, Yachats to the north and Mapleton to the east, plus the entire greater Florence area.

We are ready when men and their loved ones need us. Our GIVING includes: a. Urologists Dr. Bryan Mehlhaff and Dr. Roger McKimmy providing information on determining one’s risk of prostate cancer, when to start and frequency of PSA screening, diagnosis, treatment/non-treatment options with risks of both to current and later life; b. Both doctors keeping us current with the latest clinical trials such as one with the immuno-therapy Provenge which is now being tested on newly diagnosed men even if they qualify for Active Surveillance. Previously, Provenge was only available for men with advanced prostate cancer; c. Both doctors providing information on genetic testing, particularly germline mutations, such as BRCA2 which is rapidly becoming important in identifying increased risk of male and female cancers including: prostate, breast, ovarian, pancreatic and melanoma. d. Sharing our personal prostate cancer experiences, including a first-hand account of what we chose to do, why we chose it and how it has turned out; e. Supporting each other as we travel this journey together; f. Encouraging spouses/loved ones to attend meetings in support of their man.

BOTH MEETINGS ARE CURRENTLY ON HOLD. WATCH SIUSLAW NEWS FOR RESUMPTION Us TOO Florence has two monthly meetings – each with a urologist present to provide information and answer questions: a. 2nd Tuesday of each month – 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Ichiban Chinese/Japanese Restaurant. Urologist Dr. Bryan Mehlhaff attends. b. 3rd Tuesday of each month – 12 noon – 1:00 p.m. at the Ichiban Chinese/Japanese Restaurant. Urologist Dr. Roger McKimmy attends.

Us TOO Florence outreach includes: a. Monthly article in the Siuslaw News being either a local man’s Personal Prostate Cancer Journey or a Behind the Headlines written by Facilitator Bob Horney; b. Attendance at health fairs; c. Three-ring binders at over 20 locations in Florence with the above Prostate Cancer Journeys and Behind the Headlines inside (updated monthly); d. Attending the September Florence City Council meeting to receive the Mayor’s Proclamation designating September as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in the City of Florence; e. Maintaining our own website: www.ustooflorence.org. f. Providing the monthly Us TOO International HOTSHEET at the meetings and in each binder. The HOTSHEET is 8 pages of the latest prostate cancer research; g. Placing ads and other information in the Siuslaw News.

Major Financial support is provided by Oregon Urology Foundation.

Contact BOB HORNEY, CHAPTER LEADER/FACILITATOR (H) 541-997-6626 or (C) 541-999-4239 or maribob@oregonfast.net for more information.

Giving Back & Making A Difference in the Siuslaw Region

END OF YEAR GIVING - December 11, 2021 -5

Dear Readers, We are extremely fortunate in Florence to have such a wide variety of nonprofit organizations that help raise the quality of life in our wonderful community. In this pandemic year, many community members have increasingly turned to our local nonprofits for help — to provide food, to care for our elderly, and support the distressed.

These organizations are an important part of what makes our community great and resilient. But like many businesses in the private sector, they have been hit hard these past two years. Nearly all have seen revenues drop, while their services have seen increases in demand.

As you look through this guide, you may find an organization or cause that will benefit from your time or resources that are critical at this time. If you choose to donate or volunteer, you will be helping build a better community, enriching your life and the lives of others.

Thank you. From all of us.

Jenna Bartlett Publisher, Siuslaw News

WE THINK YOU'RE KIND OF A

BIG DEAL!

Thanks

For volunteering with us!

They say it takes a village, our village consists of the most amazing volunteers!

In 2021 Florence Habitat had 75 active volunteers that donated 15,000 total hours.

Support the area’s nonprofits According to Psychology Today, doing good for others, no matter how big or small the deed, feels good but also provides reciprocal benefits. The link between volunteering and lower rates of depression has been well-documented, and there is neural evidence from MRI studies suggesting a link between being generous and signs of happiness in the brain.

The Florence area is well-known for its community spirit and the giving volunteers who keep many of the Siuslaw Region’s nonprofits thriving and active. In addition, the area has deep pockets, with people coming forth to support their neighbors with donations, grants, gifts and physical assets.

In this time of increased need during the COVID-19 pandemic, people can still give to support their favorite nonprofits, including the ones in this guide. Consider giving a monetary donation, asking about ways to volunteer and being ready to help in other ways.

Together we help families build strength, stability, and independence through shelter.

6 - END OF YEAR GIVING - December 11, 2021

Safe ways for seniors to volunteer

C

haritable organizations rely on the efforts of volunteers to meet their missions every day. People of all ages can volunteer, and a great number of volunteers are seniors.

A 2016 survey from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found that nearly one-quarter of American volunteers are age 65 and over. That was never more apparent than during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many nonprofit organizations were suddenly forced to confront a volunteer shortage due to the adoption of social distancing guidelines that were designed to keep vulnerable populations, such as seniors, as safe as possible.

One study from Fidelity Charitable found that two out of three volunteers decreased or stopped contributing time during the pandemic.

The rollout of various COVID-19 vaccines has allowed vaccinated individuals to return to a certain degree of pre-pandemic

normalcy. However, the threat posed by strains of the virus like the Delta variant has made some seniors apprehensive about returning to volunteering. Though each individual should consider various factors before returning to volunteering during the pandemic, the following are some options seniors can consider as they aim to safely pitch in once again.

Look for contactless opportunities. Interactions with the people they help and work alongside is what drives many volunteers to lend a helping hand. That’s especially so for seniors whose children have grown up and moved out. In person interactions may be too risky during the pandemic, but seniors can still volunteer via contactless opportunities. For example, in lieu of delivering meals by hand, seniors who work with organizations such as Meals on Wheels can deliver prepackaged meals outside recipients’ residences.

Pitch in with fundraising. A report from Giving USA released in 2021 revealed that Americans gave more to charity in 2020 than in 2019. That increase came in spite of an economic

downturn that saw millions of people lose their jobs or take pay cuts as companies scrambled to deal with lost revenue related to the pandemic. Though giving might have increased in 2020, many nonprofit organizations, including local community theaters, likely suffered due to cancellations and audience restrictions. As a result, many local nonprofit organizations are in need of financial support. Seniors who want to pitch in but stay safe can volunteer to help local organizations raise funds.

Seniors can participate in fundraising efforts from the comforts of their own homes.

Offer professional expertise. Many seniors retired after spending decades mastering their crafts, and that experience can be an invaluable resource to local nonprofit organizations. Seniors can offer professional advice and mentor youths remotely via apps like Zoom without putting their physical health at risk.

Seniors concerned for their safety can still lend a hand by volunteering with their favorite nonprofit organizations.

Did you know?

T Our Heartfelt gratitude to all our volunteers and donors who contribute so much throughout the year to support our programs.

90by30 means to “Reduce child abuse in Lane County by 90% by the year 2030.”

Donations are most Welcome and they will stay in West Lane to support our efforts. website is www.90by30.com If you are interested in joining our team please email jeannes@90by30.com

he end of the year is often a popular time to volunteer, as the spirit of giving that’s synonymous with the holiday season compels millions of people to make an effort to support local charities and nonprofit organizations. In years past, that might have made it difficult for prospective volunteers to find organizations in need of volunteers.

However, as the world continues to confront the COVID-19 pandemic, charitable organizations and nonprofits may have a host of opportunities for prospective volunteers. A 2020 report from Fidelity Charitable found that volunteer activity shifted considerably during the pandemic. Prior to the onset of the pandemic in 2019, 81

percent of volunteers lent a hand in person. That number dropped to just 35 percent during the pandemic. That left many charities and nonprofits in need of in person volunteers. The rollout of three successful vaccines will no doubt compel more people to volunteer in person as 2021 draws to a close, and there should be plenty of opportunities to help charitable organizations in need. In addition, the pandemic might have led some nonprofits to expand their remote volunteering operations, an expansion that does not need to end even as the world gradually transitions to life after COVID-19. That should mean there’s still plenty of chances to embrace remote or virtual volunteering.

END OF YEAR GIVING - December 11, 2021 - 7

THANK YOU, FLORENCE!

Your continued support allows us to provide food, shelter and medical care for over one thousand shelter animals every year; to help our neighbors with spay/neuter vouchers, pet food, and emergency veterinary care; and to continue our mission of finding forever homes for the animals in our care.

Together we are changing the world four paws at a time!

OCHS Oregon Coast

Foster!

Adopt!

Volunteer!

Donate!

Join!

OregonCoastHumaneSociety.org | 541-997-4277 2840 Rhododendron Dr., Florence OR 97439 Thrift Shop 1193 Bay Street Christmas Store 1179 Bay Street

The value of activity-driven fundraisers

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undraising is vital to the survival of many nonprofit organizations. Charity watchdog groups like Charity Navigator suggest nonprofits should aspire to spend less than 10 percent of their budgets on fundraising. That can be a tall task and underscores the need for charities to find creative, costeffective ways to raise funds.

Nonprofit organizations raise funds in various ways. Some organizations partner with local businesses and receive a portion of the proceeds participating establishments earn on certain days, while other organizations may cold call prospective donors during times of the year when giving to charity tends to increase, such as the holiday season. Activitydriven fundraisers are another popular way for nonprofit organizations to raise funds, and these endeavors can be highly effective.

What are activity-driven fundraisers?

Activity-driven fundraisers focus on an engaging activity that encourages supporters to actively participate in an effort to raise funds.

The Ice Bucket Challenge is one of the more notable activity-driven fundraisers in recent

years. Participants in the challenge would pour a bucket of ice water over their heads or the head of another person, and then challenge or nominate another person to follow suit. Participants also would urge donations to support research into amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, an incurable motor neuron disease also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Additional examples of activitydriven fundraisers are runs and walks in which participants solicit donations from supporters that increase with each mile they walk or run. The American Cancer Society’s Breast Cancer Awareness 5K walk and fun run is one popular activitydriven fundraiser that annually attracts sizable numbers of participants and donors.

Are activity-driven fundraisers effective?

The sheer volume of activity-driven fundraisers makes it more difficult to gauge the success of these events. However, a recent study from researchers at Carnegie Mellon University found that people are inclined to contribute more when the experience is painful and labor-intensive. That suggests that activity-driven fundraisers like charity runs can be highly effective and lucrative ways to raise money. Indeed, various estimates suggest the Ice Bucket Challenge raised more than $220 million worldwide.

Nonprofit organizations raise funds in myriad ways. Activity-driven fundraisers are among the more engaging, and often successful, ways to raise money for a good cause.

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The effects of volunteering on volunteers’ well-being

A

recent analysis examining the potential correlation between volunteering and wellbeing found that volunteering is associated with a higher well-being as well as a positive change in well-being. Authors of the study, which was published in the Journal of Happiness Studies in March of 2020, acknowledged that evidence pertaining to the correlation between volunteering and well-being has accumulated gradually in recent years, though they feel their study offers the most realistic assessment to date in regard to that link. That’s good

news for volunteers, many of whom may be quick to point out that they get as much as they give when volunteering. Recent analyses support that notion and may compel millions more to make time to give back through volunteering. Though more studies are needed, the Cleveland Clinic notes that some of the health benefits often associated with volunteering include lower blood pressure, increased self-esteem, lower levels of depression and stress, and greater satisfaction with life.

Be the FACE of performing arts in Florence!

Our Mission is to support Florence’s ArtsCulture & Entertainment at the Florence Events Center. Our Goal is to excel at Three Things: 1. Funding capital improvements at the FEC 2. Provide performance grants to help schools and other nonprofit arts groups to afford to use the FEC. 3.

Host engaging Arts, Culture, & Entertainment events

• Have fun supporting the arts • Meet famous people • Serve your community • Support the fabulous FEC • Visit FlorenceArts.org

as fundraisers to keep the fabulous FEC fabulous. These include the Winter Music Festival, Indoor Yard Sale, Festival of Books, and Art Gallery Galas. We’re looking for enthusias�c likeminded new members/supporters to join us with their gifts of time, talent, and funding in supporting our mission and goals.

Please Contact Us Today!

Visit: FlorenceArts.org Call: 541-997-1994 Email: Info@EventsCenter.org

Formerly Friends of the Florence Events Center, FACE is a local, all volunteer, 501c3 nonprofit. Those who make a gift of support to FACE receive a thank you note and a tax-deducti ble receipt!

Thank you.

Thanks Th k to the h support off generous donors d lik like you, this past year PeaceHealth Peace Harbor Medical Center Foundation raised $392,010.

With gifts to funds such as Area of Greatest Need and Palliative Care program support, philanthropy helped support the purchase of: ■

A new echo machine

■

A CT scanner with cardiac capability

■

Dermatology equipment

■

Operating room gurneys

■

New serving line equipment

■

IV infusion equipment

We are grateful for your generosity, which helps ensure PeaceHealth Peace Harbor Medical Center continues to serve as a high-tech, state-of-the-art facility – and keeping care close to home.

O

ur community is full of organizations that rely on people like you to volunteer! The pandemic was hard on volunteer-driven nonprofits and community groups, but they’ve adapted and found ways to safely get involved.

The organizations listed here are just some of the many in the community that rely on volunteers. Every year for over two decades the Florence

Thank You,Volunteers!

Area Community Coalition has, as part of our mission, sponsored an annual Volunteer Recognition Celebration at the Florence Events Center. Due to Covid, those events have been postponed for the last two years, but the F.A.C.C. still wants to honor and recognize the importance of volunteers in the community.

If you are a volunteer, thank you! And if you know someone

who is a volunteer, thank them.

Finally, consider giving a few hours a month to a cause you care about! Volunteer!

T

he Florence Area Community Coalition has, for over thirty years, been dedicated to improving the quality of life in Western Lane County through the sponsoring and encouragement of partnerships, network-

ing, volunteerism, community involvement, education and awareness.

Over the years, the F.A.C.C. has served as a sponsoring organization for the following entities as they applied for their non-profit status: • Quality Child Care of Florence • Miller Park Skate Park • West Lane Translator (Community Radio)

• Friends of Honeyman State Park • Siuslaw Education Foundation • Florence Farmers Market The F.A.C.C. also sponsors an annual area-wide Volunteer Recognition Celebration, and presents a scholarship to a local graduating student who has demonstrated a commitment to volunteerism.

In addition, the F.A.C.C.

has collated and published a service directory listing social service agencies, government agencies, educational organizations and other organizations and agencies for many years.

This directory is available on our web site, www.florenceareacc.org

NON-PROFIT DIRECTORY WITH OVER 93,000 VOLUNTEER HOURS THIS LAST YEAR INCLUDING FACC AND ITS BOARD MEMBERS 90 BY 30 Contact Person: Jeanne Shannon – West Lane Coordinator Email Contact: jeannes@90by30.com 650-279-2094 90by30.com Develop and implement programs locally to “reduce child abuse by 90% by the year 2030.”

Our Volunteers deliver this program as follows: Regional Leadership Team – Governing Board that decides on and delivers programs locally. Goal of programs is prevention of child abuse and fundraising. “Roots of Empathy” teach students about empathy, identifying feelings and caring for others in 1st grade classes at Siuslaw & Mapleton Schools. The “Welcome Baby Bundle” delivered to families expecting a baby with useful baby items, a Resource Binder and Period of Purple Crying video. CAPM “Child Abuse Prevention Month” is an Annual program in April nationwide.

Volunteers plant “pinwheel gardens” around Florence & Mapleton to create a public awareness of child abuse. Also write newspaper articles all month. Various other activities that change yearly. We are in the process of developing a new program for middle school students.

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time?

20-50, depends How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? Hundreds!

ADA GRANGE #570 Contact Person: Megan Schofield Email Contact: plmbschofield@gmail.com 541-997-6933 Facebook page@AdaGrange#570 The grange is a family oriented non-profit organization.

We are involved in community service, Food Share, School Donations, Scholarship Program, SOS donations, and our Veteran’s, to name a few.

Our volunteers help out on bingo’s (8x’s a year), the scholarship fundraiser and the Halloween & Christians parties.

They also donate non-perishables food for a SOS family (4x’s a year)

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time?

About 140 How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? About 550 hours

CROW Contact Person: Melanie Heard Email Contact: crowtheaterkids@yahoo.com 541-999-8641 www.crowkids.com CROW is a non-profit performing arts organization dedicated to providing high quality arts opportunities to both children and adults.

Our amazing volunteers are the lifeblood of our nonprofit!

From production team members to parent volunteers to businesses/individuals helping behind the scenes, our volunteers help create the magic of CROW How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time?

100+ How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? 20,000+ hours (estimated)

CARING & PREGNANCY CENTER Contact Person: Susan Kirby Email Contact: susankppc@gmail.com 541-902-2273 or 541-999-2427 (cell) Encourage, educate and equip individuals and families during their pregnancy or parenting journey. We offer compassionate support and hope by providing education, material supplies and community connections to those making pregnancy decisions or seeking to grow in their parenting skills. All services are free and confidential.

Serve as receptionists, *client advocates, help in Stork Boutique, launder clothing donations, help at fundraising events, serve on board of directors. *Client advocates spend time with clients listening, forming relationships, encouraging, educating and equipping through prenatal, parenting, and life skills video lessons and discussion, connecting to local resources.

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time? 25 How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? 1,000

CITY OF FLORENCE Contact Person: Alex Ferguson Email Contact: hr@ci.florence.or.us 541-590-4012 https://ci.florence.or.us Provide local governmental services to our community.

All of the members appointed to City boards and committees; Council, Planning Commission, EMAC, CEDC, PAC, TAC, Budget, etc. are volunteers. We have a variety of citizen volunteers that directly support Airport, Parks, Events Center and Police.

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time?

100+ How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? 2,000+

FLORENCE COMMUNITY PTA Email Contact: florenceoregonpta@gmail.com Facebook.com/FlorenceCommunityPTA Parents, Teachers, and community working together to improve the education, health, safety and well-being of our children and youth.

We work on doing fundraiser events for the community and grants for teachers to help with things they need for classrooms and their school!

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time?

100+ every year How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? 100+ every year

FLORENCE EMERGENCY COLD WEATHER SHELTER Contact Person: Patricia (Pat) Burke Email Contact: huberburke@gmail.com 541-590-3598 Facebook page: facebook.com/FECWS Proved overnight shelter in heated and lighted Pallet™ shelters when weather is threatening to health and life. Also proved food or vouchers and blankets, clothing.

Staff shelter compound when open, explain shelter protocols, proved supervision overnight, cook and serve dinners and breakfasts or give food vouchers, provide transportation to

and from site.

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time?

10-50 depending on need How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? 16-? Depending on need

FLORENCE FARMERS MARKET Contact Person: Mary Shaw Email Contact: marymshaw7@gmail.com 541-261-5423 www.florencefarmersmarket.org Provide locally grown/produced food to the Siuslaw Region from May through October.

Support Market shoppers, direct traffic, help vendors put up and take down their booths, assist with SNAP/Double Up programs.

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time?

12-14 How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? 2,000

FLORENCE FOOD SHARE Contact Person: Colin Morgan Email Contact: colin@florencefoodshare.org 541-997-9110 Florencefoodshare.org Our mission is to alleviate hunger and enhance the health and dignity of people in Lane County.

Volunteers assist in the pantry, garden, warehouse and many fundraisers. They also provide emotional support by listening and offering a smile or should to lean on.

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time?

Approximately 100 How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? 10,555 hrs.

FLORENCE SENIOR CENTER Contact Person: Sue James Email Contact: seniorcenter@oregonfast.net 541-997-8844 www.florenceseniorcenter.org Provide nutrition, recreation, education and current info for

all older adults to enjoy.

Front desk volunteers greet everyone who comes into our facility – keep contact list for everyone.

Kitchen volunteers wash dishes and help chef prepare meals.

Servers serve meals, bus tables, set up tables Board members are volunteers.

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time? 20 How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? 8,400

FLORENCE HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Contact Person: Ivy Rash Email Contact: info@florencehabitat.org 541-902-9227 www.florencehabitat.org What organization does? Florence Habitat brings people together to build homes, communites and hope.

What do volunteers do? Florence Habitat has a variety of volunteer needs from cashiers and Donation Ambassadors in ReStore to painting and hammering at the construction site.

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time? 74 How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? 15,000 hrs.

OREGON COAST HUMANE SOCIETY Contact Person: Elizabeth Thompson Email Contact: exec.director@oregoncoasthumanesociety. org 541-915-8619 www.oregoncoasthumanesociety.org Volunteers work at both the animal shelter and our thrift store where all money raised goes to support our shelter residents and the community animals.

Thrift Store – accept donations, price & merchandise product, cashier, help at estate sales.

Shelter – clean, socialize animals, exercise animals, special events, receptionist, fundraising.

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time?

100 How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? 8,000

PFLAG-FLORENCE Contact Person: Linda Yoder Email Contact: lindayoder@hotmail.com 541-590-0944 www.pflagflorenceoregon.org As a chapter of one of the largest grassroot organizations in support of the LGBTQ+ community, PFLAG-Florence meets and conducts outreach to increase public awareness.

Our focus is to provide safe space to discuss issues related to people in the LGBTQ+ community and advocate for equitable treatment.

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time? 6 How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? 150

SAFE SHELTER FOR SIUSLAW STUDENTS Contact Person: Suzanne Mann-Heintz Email Contact: safeshelter12@gmail.com 541-590-0779 safeshelterforsiuslawstudents.org We assists students and their families who are insufficiently housed to obtain emergency shelter and move toward self-sufficiency and a better quality of life.

We are developing a network of Host Home teams to house unaccompanied minors and/or small families. We provide needed items for students like clothing or school supplies.

We mentor young families. We’re so grateful for our volunteers!

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time?

About 20 just now How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? 175

SIUSLAW EDUCATION FOUNDATION Contact Person: Suzanne Mann-Heintz Email Contact: Suzanne@siuslaweducationfoundation.org 541-590-0779 siuslaweducationfoundation.org We raise money for the Mapleton and Siuslaw School Districts for projects that enhance academic achievement and expand learning opportunities for all students.

Donate funds or help with fundraisers, apply for grants, make decisions about project funding, support our school students and staff!

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time? 15 How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? 200

SIUSLAW OUTREACH SERVICES Contact Person: Lori Oltman Email Contact: Lori@flroencesos.org 541-997-2816 ext. 206 www.florencesos.org Our mission is to provide compassionate, respectful and confidential support to people in need.

Some volunteers greet clients and handle receptionist duties.

Some answer our Crisis Line. Some volunteers sort and display clothing donations.

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time?

25-30 How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? 11,000 (pre-covid) (expect approx. 7000 this year)

SIUSLAW PUBLIC LIBRARY Contact Person: Erin Gordenier, MLIS (she/her) Email Contact: erin@siuslawlibrary.org 541-997-3132 www.siuslawlibrary.info Siuslaw Public Library is a special district serving the residents of Florence, Mapleton and surrounding communities. We provide books, DVDs, magazines, children’s activities, and more for checkout; offer free public computers and wi-fi; and many other free services for the community.

Volunteers do many valuable tasks for the library, including shelving, organization, processing new materials, repairing books, assisting with genealogy research, helping at summer reading and other children’s programs, and so much more!

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time? In a typical year, we have about 100 active volunteers. (This past year, we had 4.)

How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s

time? In a typical year, volunteers give about 5,000 hours.

(Due to the pandemic, the most recent fiscal year number is much lower: 392 hours.)

SIUSLAW VALLEY FIRE & RESCUE Contact Person: Michael Schick Email Contact: chief@wlfea.org 541-997-3212 www.sfvr.org Provides fire suppression, fire prevention and emergency medical services over 100 sq. miles in Western Lane County.

Serve as Firefighters and Emergency Medical Technicians either responding from home, work or while staffing the fire station.

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time? 30 How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? 12,000

SIUSLAW VISION Contact Person: Stephanie Sarles Email Contact: coordinator@siuslawvision.org 541-590-2425 www.SiuslawVision.org Building a better Siuslaw community together – Siuslaw Vision convenes, catalyzes and connects individuals and organizations who want to improve quality of life for people living in the Siuslaw region. We help people implement locally-owned solutions that address community-identified goals.

Visions Team members make connections; convene organizations and people within the Siuslaw region; research, locate, and coordinate resources; promote the Vision; and foster community ownership. They also secure financial support for Siuslaw Vision and support community activities and leaders that share the organization’s mission of building a better community together.

How many volunteers do you have in a year’s time? 100 total volunteers involved; 15-20 Board & Vision Team How many hours do your volunteers give in a year’s time? Vision Team/Board – approximately 1,500 hours per year (Many additional hours to other nonprofits they are also involved in)

2021 has been all about the fine art of the “pivot.”

Advanced Acting Program & Summer Acting & Improv Camps Original Parking Lot Radio Show & “Macy’s Style” Window Displays C.R.O.W. has remained ever positive and very grateful for our incredible donors and supporters. We have BIG plans for 2022!

Thank you for keeping the arts alive in your community.

Please consider making a tax-deductible donation at: www.crowkids.com or P.O. Box 184, Florence, OR 97439

END OF YEAR GIVING - December 11, 2021 - 13

How to include giving in your estate plan

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haritable giving is the lifeblood of many nonprofit organizations. The generosity of donors helps charities meet their missions and provide vital services to people facing disease, financial hardship and other situations they cannot overcome on their own.

Many donors make sacrifices to support their favorite causes and charities. Forgoing certain luxuries so money can be donated to charity illustrates the selfness nature of charitable giving, which can even continue after death. Estate planning is a complicated process that details exactly how a person wants their assets divvied up after death. But an estate plan also can go into effect while individuals are still alive.

Each year, millions of people across the globe choose to include charitable giving in their estate plans, and that can benefit charities and donors. The following are a handful of the many ways charitable men and women can incorporate giving into their estate plans.

Bequest giving in a will or living trust. Perhaps the most widely known way to include charitable giving in an estate plan is to bequeath money in a will or living will.

The Community Foundation Alliance notes that bequests typically allow donors to define how their donations will be spent or utilized. That benefits charitable organizations, but surviving family members also can benefit from such arrangements. According to LawDepot.com, individuals may be able to lower the estate taxes on their estates at their time of death if they bequeath money to an eligible

charitable organization in their wills.

Consider a charitable rollover. The Internal Revenue Service notes that individuals with an IRA, SEP IRA, Simple IRA, or retirement plan account generally must begin withdrawing money from these accounts when they reach age 72. These withdrawals are called required minimum distributions and they are considered taxable income.

However, individuals who want to give to charity can opt for a Qualified Charitable Distribution, or QCD. A QCD counts toward the minimum distribution from retirement accounts and individuals will not be taxed on the money they donate to charity. That’s a win-win for charities and individuals 72 and over who do not need to withdraw money from their IRAs to meet daily living expenses.

Donate via a charitable remainder trust. A charitable remainder trust, or CRT, allows individuals to set up a trust that benefits both a designated beneficiary and a charity or charities of their choosing. When a CRT is set up, a beneficiary will receive annual payments from the trust until it terminates, at which time the remaining funds in the trust are donated to charity. The philanthropy experts at Fidelity Charitable note that individuals can name themselves as the beneficiaries of the trust, which ensures they will have an income during retirement and that their favorite charities will be supported when the trust expires.

Individuals who want to make charitable giving part of their estate plan can do so in various ways.

Florence’s History is at Risk!

Help Preserve it Today!

YOUR PERSONAL CONTRIBUTION WILL BE MATCHED! “An orange glow shows from the window. Soon, it radiates out another. And another. Before anyone can call 911 the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum is engulfed in a roaring inferno spreading unimpeded through the building. Firefighters arrive in time to save…almost nothing,” explains museum President, Del Phelps. “That is my biggest fear right now.”

We are very excited to announce that the Mehlum Family Foundation and the Siuslaw Bank Community Fund have offered to match your personal tax-deductible contribution, dollar for dollar, up to $20,000. Please join us today in this Artifact Preservation Initiative to help protect and preserve the thousands of priceless treasures of our history!

Thank you!

Visit all the amazing local history at the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum! 278 Maple St. Florence!

Double Your Gift Today!

Contribute at SiuslawPioneerMuseum.com or mail a check to: PO Box 2637 Florence, Oregon 541-997-7884

14 - END OF YEAR GIVING - December 11, 2021

The link between volunteering and academic performance

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here are many reasons for parents to encourage children who express an interest in volunteering. Volunteering is a social activity that can help children develop their social and networking skills, and many parents credit volunteering with instilling a sense of perspective in their children that they might not have gained had they not been exposed to people from different backgrounds. Volunteering also has been inked to stronger academic performance. The Corporation for National and Community Service reports that students who indicate they’re doing better in school are more likely to be volunteers than students who report doing less well. The broadened exposure to people and places that students may

Who are Soroptimist?

otherwise not encounter without volunteering also can benefit them in the classroom, helping them more readily identify with cultures and societies they’re studying. College applicants with volunteering experience also may set themselves apart in the increasingly competitive application process. Though

a 2019 Pew Research study reported that most schools admit more than two-thirds of their applicants, that figure is significantly lower at many of the more highly rated institutions in the United States.

For example, Stanford University (4.3 percent) and Harvard University (4.9 percent) recently reported acceptance rates below 5 percent. Though volunteering alone won’t help applicants gain acceptance to such competitive institutions, it can serve as a strong résumé builder and be even more effective if it also produces the previously noted improvements in academic performance.

Soroptimist are women at their best, working to help other women to be their best.

Soroptimist is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment.

Locally, Soroptimist works to assist Florence and the surrounding communities with scholarships and awards. The women of Soroptimist are a colorful group of caring people who see value in women and girls who are motivated yet struggling to achieve their goals.

Some of Soroptimist projects include, supporting the Focus Four Crisis Line, feeding hungry firefighters while working the Mapleton Fire, celebrating motherhood by creating and gifting Mother’s Day Baskets for new moms, promoting Human Trafficking Awareness, among many other important projects.

One of Florence Soroptimist largest service projects is to organize the Soroptimist Community Christmas Basket Project. This project supplies about 400 Florence area families with holiday groceries, easing food insecurity, and stress around the holidays. Many businesses and service groups work with Soroptimist to meet the needs of so many. Please consider joining in this effort by sending your monetary gift to: Soroptimist International of Florence P.O. Box 1209 Florence OR 97439 If you would like more information, check out Soroptimist of Florence on Facebook. Or Call 541-991-3455

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here are many ways for people to give back to their communities. Some people may volunteer with a local nonprofit organization, while others may donate to a favorite charity. Established professionals who want to lend a hand can consider becoming a mentor.

Mentors play invaluable roles in the lives of millions of young people across the globe. The most successful mentors tend to have certain characteristics that lend themselves to this significant yet rewarding challenge.

Characteristics of effective mentors

Enthusiasm: Enthusiasm is essential when mentoring young people. Young people will quickly realize if a mentor is enthusiastic or simply going through the motions. In the latter instance, mentors can quickly alienate the people they’re trying to help if they appear disinterested or give the impression that they’re there because they have to be and not because they want to be. No one has to become a mentor, so professionals who lack the enthusiasm necessary to be a successful mentor can look for other ways to lend a hand.

Listening skills: Though it’s not uncommon for mentors to give advice, it’s also imperative that mentors learn to listen to the people they’re trying to help.

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association notes that a willingness to serve as a sounding board is one of the many characteristics displayed by excellent mentors. Though mentors can share their own

Assisting those in need in our Community.

11:00 am – 1:00 pm for donations Lunch is 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

HELPING HANDS COALITION 4590 HIGHWAY 101, FLORENCE

LOCATED AT THE COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH

Call 541-997-5057 to Volunteer helpinghandsflorence.org

✔ Things we are in desperate need of: Tents- 2+ man size Sleeping Bags- warm to below 30 degrees Tarps- 10x12 Toothpaste Warm Socks Foot Care Products Canned Food Items Toilet Paper

perspective, it’s important that they also listen to what their mentees have to say.

Availability/accessibility: A successful mentor has enough time to make the mentor-mentee relationship worthwhile for both parties. Professionals with especially hectic schedules may not be as available or accessible as they need to be to become successful mentors. Professionals who are flexible and able to routinely meet with their mentees can utilize that accessibility to build strong relationships.

Nonjudgmental: The AHSA notes that an ability to listen without judging is also a characteristic of an excellent mentor. Mentees may be reluctant to open up if they think their mentor is judging, and that reluctance could make it difficult for the relationship to be successful.

Diversity of experience: Successful mentors tend to have a diversity of experiences or a recognition of the value of such diversity. A diversity of experience increases the likelihood that mentors can relate to whatever situations their mentees are in. That can be a useful attribute that mentors use to build strong bonds with their mentees.

Mentoring is a great way to give back. Though no two mentors are the same, successful mentors often share the same qualities.

HELPING HANDS COALITION

MISSION AND VISION STATEMENT Our mission is to assist the homeless, destitute and needy in our community. We don’t replicate what other organizations are doing in our area; instead we operate a drop-in day center and referral system. The center offers, those in need, a safe place where they find out about services available in the community and get advice on how to apply for assistance locally, statewide and nationwide. Helping Hands Coalition provides direct and practical help as well as hot meals on days other groups are not providing food; vouchers for laundry, bus tickets, prescriptions, utilities, warm clothing, tents, sleeping bags, and other camping equipment, etc., articles of hygiene, and items for pets; a place for them to collect phone messages and receive their mail; as well as a place to just catch their breath and figure out what and where to go next without judgement of any kind.

The center treats all visitors with respect, dignity and compassion, AND WITHOUT DISCRIMINATION OR JUDGEMENT OF ANY KIND.

16 - END OF YEAR GIVING - December 11, 2021

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pending time with their families benefits children in myriad ways. Such quality time can strengthen bonds between parents and children, and one study from the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse found that frequent family dinners make children less likely to use tobacco, consume alcohol and use marijuana.

Volunteering is a great way for families to spend time together. Children of various ages can reap the rewards of volunteering, and those rewards may be even more significant when kids give back alongside their parents. Children’s ages and maturity levels should always be considered when looking for a volunteering opportunity. The following are some family-friendly options parents can consider as they look to volunteer with their children.

Food drive: Participating in a food drive is a great way for families to give back together. Kids of all ages can pitch in on a food drive. Parents can take children to the grocery store and let them pick items to donate. Kids also can accompany their parents to pick up donated items and drop them off at the local food bank.

Toy drive: Toy drives are popular come the holiday season, and children of all ages may enjoy picking items that they know will help to make the holiday season special for other youngsters. If toy drive organizers don’t request specific items, ask kids which toys they would recommend or encourage kids to donate lightly used items they no longer use. Children are enthusiastic givers, and toy drives are a great opportunity to

Family-friendly volunteering opportunities illustrate how good it feels to help those in need.

Park/beach cleanups: Human beings are stewards of the environment, so what better way to instill that lesson in children than to volunteer to clean up local parks and beaches?

Kids will look forward to a day in the great outdoors, and they’ll take pride in knowing they did their part alongside their parents to make their favorite green spaces and beaches cleaner for their communities.

Soup kitchens: In 2020, Feeding America, a nationwide network of more than 200 food banks, cited a study that found 67 percent of food banks were in need of volunteers. Many volunteers, a significant percentage of which are seniors,

stopped volunteering during the COVID-19 pandemic out of fear of catching the virus. The successful rollout of COVID-19 vaccines for adults and children over 12 has reduced the risk of serious illness from the coronavirus. Though parents must consider various factors before volunteering in the era of COVID-19, fully vaccinated families can work with local food banks to safely offer their time. Such efforts can teach children valuable lessons about the importance of giving back, and many food banks have altered their operations to make it safe for volunteers to lend a helping hand.

Volunteering as a family can strengthen the bonds between children and their parents.

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ost of us go through day to day activities without even thinking about how we will get to where we want to go. We have the means of transportation that is reliable and comfortable.

However, within our community, there are those who struggle to make ends meet and don’t have that luxury. Many families who do own transportation may not have the means to properly maintain the vehicle and keep focus on safety and reliability because of everyday activities such as work, food, clothing, housing and even school activities that take precedence. That means that transportation for them may simply be a luxury.

Rods N Rhodies, Inc., an Oregon Nonprofit 501 (c) (3) organization was formed in November of 2018, is an organization that would like to be part of the solution by providing safe and reliable transportation for those families who work, go to school and even volunteer in our community. This past year we have been able to help families with repairs!

For more information, please contact Gary Cargill, President (541) 999-6513 florencerodsnrhodies@gmail.com

Rods N Rhodies Car Show TOP HOT RODS & CLASSIC CARS TO SHINE

SEPTEMBER

rodsnrhodies.org

Check online for details for upcoming shows.

How can you help?

Give Where You Live!

• Volunteer • Make a Donation • Join the Board • Come to the Car Show

Donating your vehicle to Rods N Rhodies, Inc. is a great way to support our work.

END OF YEAR GIVING - December 11, 2021 - 17

How parents can pitch in at their children’s school

G Did you know?

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arents who want to encourage their children to volunteer may find their efforts at doing so are more convincing if they volunteer themselves. A 2013 study published in the Journal of Adolescence examined the effects that parents who volunteer and talk about volunteering have on children.

Researchers found that the children of volunteers were 27 percent more likely to volunteer than children whose parents did not volunteer. In addition, adolescents were 47 percent more likely to volunteer when their parents volunteered and talked about volunteering with their children.

iving back to one’s community can take many forms. Some may give back by supporting legislature to make communities more inclusive, while others may volunteer with their local fire departments. Parents of school-aged youngsters can typically find many opportunities to give back through their children’s schools.

Parents who volunteer with their children’s schools often get a unique glimpse into their children’s life at school. Such parents may see how their children interact with educators and classmates and gain greater insight into the school community where kids spend so much of their time. Volunteering at school also can benefit kids, who may recognize the importance of education more readily if mom and/or dad are spending their free time on campus. That recognition can leave to improved performance in the classroom.

Parent-teacher associations can be great resources for parents who want to volunteer with their children’s schools. Each year, students graduate and move on to new schools or colleges, and that means schools are in fresh need of parent volunteers each school year. Though each school has its own unique needs, the following are some roles parent volunteers may be able to play at their children’s schools.

Tutor Mentor IT support: Parents with significant experience in tech or information technology can offer to lend a hand or provide advice or insight in support of a school’s IT staff Organizer: Schools host many functions in a

typical school year, and officials typically ask parents to pitch in so such events can be successful. For example, parents can help organize school fundraisers, dances and holiday bazaars.

Chaperone on field trips Assistant coach: Many schools pay stipends to the head coaches of their athletic teams, but parents can serve as unpaid assistants or support staff during the season. For example, parents can volunteer to work as game day staff, taking tickets at the gate or directing ticket holders where to park.

Club official: Extracurricular clubs also can benefit from parents willing to work as volunteers.

Parents can help students who want to start new clubs or serve as moderators or helpers in existing clubs.

Speaker: High schools may host periodic career days throughout the school year to help students on the cusp of applying to college uncover potential career paths. Parents with significant professional experience in a given field can offer to speak to students on career days, sharing information about their careers and industries and answering any questions students may have.

Administrative support: Parents also can pitch to help with behind-the-scenes administrative duties like letter-writing, grant proposals and other projects that play a vital role in securing funding for school programs and other services.

Parents who want to give back to their communities can take an active role in their children’s schools.

18 - END OF YEAR GIVING - December 11, 2021

Today You Can Help Vic�ms of Domes�c Violence, Sexual Abuse & Homelessness in Our Community!

How to help kids find suitable volunteering opportunities

Right now you can make a difference by supplying…

Monthly cash gi�s so we can buy what clients need when they need it • Socks • Raingear • Tarps Toothbrushes • Feminine Products • Infant Diapers Food Gi� Cards • And by adding us to your estate plan

The Need Is Real…Help Transform A Life!

Last year Siuslaw Outreach Services provided service to 2669 individuals including…

• 477 vic�ms of domes�c violence • 44 vic�ms of sexual assault • 15 vic�ms of sex trafficking • 444 calls to our 24/7 crisis line • 97 a�er-hours responses with law enforcement or EMS • 116 families with evic�on no�ces • 564 households with u�lity bill assistance • 189 individuals experiencing homelessness • 28 par�cipants in self-sufficiency educa�on programs Compassionate people like you have helped SOS provide hope and dignity to those in crisis in the Florence/ Mapleton/Dune City areas since 1986!

You make possible a 24/7 crisis line, safe house, emergency clothing & personal supplies, crisis interven�on & personal advocacy, rent/u�lity/basic need vouchers, and self-sufficiency educa�onal programs.

Siuslaw Outreach Services www.FlorenceSOS.org Office: 1576 W. 12th Street Mail: P.O. Box 19000 Florence, OR 97439 Business Phone: 541-997-2816 24/7 Crisis Hotline: 541-997-4444

resource for aspiring volunteers.

VolunteerMatch.org partners with more than 130,000 nonprofit organizations to help them find the volunteers they rely on to meet their missions. Volunteering opportunities listed on VolunteerMatch are broken into categories such as Animals, Arts & Culture and even Children & Youth, making this an ideal place for aspiring do-gooders to start their volunteering journey.

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olunteering is a great way for people to give back to their communities.

Many people give back out of a desire to help others, but those same individuals may acknowledge that volunteering benefits volunteers most of all.

Various studies examining the benefits of volunteering on volunteers have been conducted in recent years. Seniors and retirees who volunteer often cite the sense of purpose that giving back provides. But it’s not just adults who benefit from volunteering. In fact, a report from the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension noted that volunteerism promotes positive citizenship among youth, contributes to youths’ identity development and increases their self-esteem.

The authors of the report also note that volunteering helps youth develop empathy for others.

Parents who want their children to reap the rewards of volunteering can try various strategies to help youngsters find an opportunity to lend a hand.

Utilize the internet. The internet is a great

Speak with school officials. A child’s school is another great place to discover volunteering organizations. Extracurricular activities like school-sponsored clubs may organize volunteering excursions throughout the school year.

Educators, including school principals, teachers and guidance counselors, also can help parents find the right volunteering opportunities for their children.

Speak with local church officials. Like schools, local churches often sponsor youthbased volunteering activities. Many churches encourage all youths to join in their efforts, including those who are not members of their congregations.

Speak with children. Parents can encourage youngsters to offer their input in regard to volunteering. Some youngsters may already have strong ideas on the types of volunteering activities that interest them. For example, avid surfers and nature enthusiasts may want to volunteer with their local parks system to help keep beaches and parks clean. The more enthusiastic children are about a volunteering opportunity, the more likely they are to stick with it for the long haul.

Volunteering benefits young people in myriad ways, especially when kids find an opportunity they can be passionate about.

Florence Oregon Lodge #1858 of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks would like to thank its members and the community for the gracious and generous contributions this past year.

Because of this support, Florence BPOE has donated over $36,894 for benevolent, educational, and patriotic community minded programs.

These programs include local scholarships for young adults, support for our Veterans, support for those in need, meals, local youth sports activities, Americanism Essay contest for grades 5-8, and the Elks Drug Awareness Education Program for primary grade students and their parents.

Florence Lodge #1858 holds several programs each year that we encourage the community to attend. These include Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Flag Day, Veterans Day, and POW/MIA Day. This year we will also have a free drive-through Christmas Dinner to thank the community for their support.

The Elks could not do any of this without the loving support of our members and our community, for this We Thank You! If you are interested in becoming a member or have questions regarding our Order, please contact the Lodge at #541-997-2610.

Once again Thank You for your continuing support! ELKS CARE, ELKS SHARE!

ELKS LODGE #1858

1686 12th Street •Florence, Oregon 97439

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FOOD BACKPACK FOR KIDS THANK YOU, FLORENCE! FOR YOUR FAITHFUL SUPPORT Dear Friends, Our children are Florence’s priceless treasure…our pride & joy…our future! When YOU learned of the reality that a significant number of local students went home from school every weekend knowing they would have little or no food…YOU decided that was not acceptable!

When Food Backpack for Kids Volunteers shared our program designed to feed every at-risk child, YOU made it possible with financial support…for the past 10 years!

Cross Road Assembly Church underwrites all FB4K expenses, so that every dollar YOU donate purchases food! Siuslaw & Mapleton Schools partners with us to discreetly distribute the food bags we deliver to them.

TOGETHER, NO CHILD WILL GO HUNGRY!

Children should be happy, not hungry.

Please send your tax-deductible check to Food Backpack for Kids, P.O. Box 3347, Florence, OR 97439