Giving
BACK Easy ways to get started volunteering Why connecting to area charities is a win-win
Learn what skills you can bring to the table
Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 7, 2020
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onprofits and charities are often considered the front line, offering all sorts of useful services to people at all levels of society. Many are dedicated to serving people who are in danger of falling through the cracks, such as organizations that offer food, shelter, clothing and the basics that are easy to take for granted. Some help babies and youth, some help people of all ages and some focus on seniors. Others can provide a leg up in other ways, such as help with substance abuse treatment, disability advocacy, literacy, mental health support and education. Even if you aren’t currently a recipient of the services of a local
GIVING BACK can be EASY
charity, there’s one thing they can all find a use for: your help.
phones, carrying boxes or basic paperwork.
While nonprofit organizations always appreciate donations of money and items, they rely heavily on the skills of volunteers. Volunteers benefit the bottom line and help put more money toward serving clients rather than toward payroll. Volunteers are also able to fill a variety of positions so the staff can focus on critical operations.
The best part is that volunteers often get so much out of the experience, whether they’re working behind the scenes or directly with clients.
Volunteers don’t need to have super skills or impressive academic credentials, although people with these backgrounds are always welcomed. But really, anyone can jump in to help in different ways, provided they are willing and eager. Help can be as simple as answering
WE NEED VOLUNTEERS!
So often people say, “We’d like to help but don’t know how to get started.” We provide some possible starting places in this section. You’ll find a guide to a variety of nonprofits in the Inland Northwest, plus other information about how to make a difference at a local level. We welcome you to read the mission statements and learn about
how each group helps its community and how you can be a part of it. Some have had an important role in the Inland Northwest for decades, others are newer to meet the needs of previously overlooked communities. If one or more of these nonprofits interests you, or you’ve had experience with them in the past, we encourage you to reach out and see where your services can be best used. Remember, this is only a sampling of the hundreds of other nonprofits and charities in the Inland Northwest. There are plenty of others around that would welcome your involvement. This way, everyone wins!
MSHH Donor Closet – Helping those in need
WE NEED VOLUNTEERS! Work in our Store, Delivery & Pickups*, Restoring & Cleaning Donated Equipment
WeWe areare 100% volunteer run and 100% volunteer run really and really enjoy people helping people you enjoy helping –you might– too! Nearly all of our mobility and medical equipment might too!in our store has been donated, so we are able to offer it at very, ery, very reasonable prices. So mobility everyone wins! Nearly all of our and
medical equipment in our store has been donated, so we are able to offer it at very, very reasonable prices. Work in our Store, Delivery & Pickups*, So everyone wins!
WE NEED VOLUNTEERS! Restoring & Cleaning Donated Equipment *Vehicle *Veh icle Supplied Supplied, Need
Clean DL &really Clean Record We are 100% volunteer run and N Market Street, SSpokane • (509) might 487-4119 too! enjoy3203 helping people –you
www.mshhdonorclosetspokane.org
Nearly all of our mobility and medical equipment in our Hours: & donated, Fri 10am-3pm. Thurs by Appointment. *Vehicle Supplied, Need store hasWed been so we are able3pm-6pm. to offer itSaturday at very, ery, very reasonable prices. So everyone wins! Clean DL & Clean Record.
3203 N Market Street, Spokane • (509) 487-4119 *Vehicle *Veh icle Supplied Supplied, Need Clean DL & Clean Record www.mshhdonorclosetspokane.org
3203 N Market Street, Spokane • (509) Hours: Wed & Fri S 10am-3pm. Thurs487-4119 3pm-6pm. www.mshhdonorclosetspokane.org Saturday by Appointment. Hours: Wed & Fri 10am-3pm. Thurs 3pm-6pm. Saturday by Appointment.
Often equipment is needed that Medicare or private insurance will not provide. People needing this equipment may be limited on funds and cannot afford to purchase new equipment. The used equipment donated to the Donor Closet is priced to help people get the equipment they need, when they need it. Our volunteers then ensure the equipment is in safe condition and cleaned before it goes to out floor for sale for a suggested donation price. We accept and sell manual wheelchairs and transport chairs, power chairs and scooters, shower chairs, commodes, hospital beds, walkers and rollators, incontinence items and much more. The Donor Closet is a volunteer staffed nonprofit. If you are looking for a rewarding volunteer position, this is it! We gladly welcome anyone who is interested in volunteering their time to help with our mission. Contact us by phone at (509) 487-4119 or by email at managerspokane@mshh-donorcloset.com. Whatever money we take in from our Donor Closet operations above our expenses is made available to assist persons with multiple sclerosis residing in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Oregon who are experiencing short-term financial difficulty. What we give out is done almost exclusively in collaboration with other nonprofit agencies – principally the Northwest Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The Donor Closet is open on Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on Thursday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Please visit our website at www.MSHHDonorClosetSpokane.org to learn more about our organization.
Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 7, 2020
Partnering for Progress lets you make a world of difference, a world away For over a decade, Spokane-based Partnering for Progress has worked in 26 remote Kenyan villages to provide empowerment programs that support health, education, water/sanitation and economic development. By collaborating with local leaders, villagers, health care providers and educators, we have formed lasting bonds. Thanks to P4P’s programs: • 4,000+ Children and clinic patients have clean water for drinking and handwashing. • 675 Young women received Days for Girls sanitary hygiene kits. • 147 Malnourished infants have grown healthy and strong. • 64 Farmers received fertilizer, seeds and training. • 26 Kenyan Community Health Volunteers have received training. • 48 Students received scholarships that enable them to attend high school. • 14 Cooperative groups are growing because of small business grants. • 7 High school graduates are attending higher education with scholarships.
Volunteer. Donate. Travel to Kenya. “If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together” African Proverb Partnering for Progress www.partneringforprogress.org (509) 720-8408
United Way continues to connect communities
Spokane County United Way fights to create safe homes free of child abuse, neglect, and domestic violence, increase graduation rates, and prevent hunger and homelessness. As a local organization, Spokane County United Way understands the issues we face and works to connect programs, dollars and people like you to create solutions together. More than $3,000,000 was raised for the COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund for Eastern Washington through a partnership with United Way, Innovia Foundation and Empire Health Foundation. In addition: • $676,952 in federal funding was awarded to United Way to distribute to nonprofits, faith-based and governmental organizations providing emergency food and shelter services. • 65,000 personal protection items were donated and collected by staff and volunteers for hospital staff and first responders. • Over 1,000 volunteers have been paired with COVID-19 volunteer positions using VolunteerSpokane.org.
United Way cannot fight without you. Because change doesn’t happen alone, please LIVE UNITED.
Join YWCA Spokane’s Learn & Give Challenge Every year, approximately 3,900 people in Spokane are reported victims of domestic violence, with thousands more likely going unreported. Our kids and our community are suffering too. One in five children has been abused by an adult. And many more are front-row witnesses to the abuse in their households. Twenty-five percent of the cases in our court system are about domestic violence, as are $6.7 million in hospital charges. Family trauma and domestic violence is a silent epidemic that requires a community-wide effort to treat. With a growing community of valued partners like you, YWCA Spokane has made addressing this issue their number one priority. This October, during Domestic Violence Action Month, YWCA Spokane invites you to join their new Learn & Give Challenge create to inspire lasting change with domestic violence. Learn more at ywcaspokane.org.
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Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 7, 2020
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4 community-building activities
Metrocreative The adage ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day’ dates back to the 12th century. Though the saying is now nearly a millennium old, its message, namely that time is necessary to create great things, is as true in 2020 as it was in 1190. Building great communities takes time, but that process is often escalated when community members take collective action to make their towns or cities happier, healthier and safer places to live. One great way to make communitybuilding the collective affair it needs to be is to plan activities that all community members can engage in and enjoy. The following are four community-building activities that can attract all members of the community.
1. FUN RUN/WALK
A community fun run/walk is great for singles, families, children and older adults. These events typically draw crowds who will either participate in a 5K run or walk (roughly 3.1 miles) or spectators who cheer them on. The event typically begins in the center of town and
then circles back so everyone begins and ends the day in the heart of town. An added benefit to this type of event is that participants usually run or walk for the benefit of a charity. Community organizers can choose a locally-based charitable organization to make the event even more community-friendly.
2. A TASTE OF THE TOWN
A taste of the town event is a great way to entice local foodies to get out of the house and enjoy some delicious foods prepared by local restaurants. Host this outdoor event on Main Street or at local park or school and allow local restaurant owners to set up food trucks or stands so community members can sample their most delicious dishes. This is a great way to bring the community together and promote local businesses.
3. MUSIC FESTIVAL
Encourage local musicians to showcase their
Helping with COVID related barriers to independence
By Vicki Leeper, Marketing Specialist, Disability Action Center NW
Life is full of transitions, and one of the more remarkable ones occurs when you are no longer in school and making your own choices. COVID may have upended this for many young people with disabilities. Disability Action Center NW is able to provide services through a peer mentoring session. Let us know what barriers you face to your independence, set goals and work towards a life defined by you – not an agency. Other things we can help with is access to community life, emergency preparedness, available assistive technology and advocating for your civil rights. DAC NW encourages young people with disabilities to be active and engaged! From a federal perspective it is defined as: “Our national policy of ensuring equality of opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency for individuals with disabilities.” 25 West Main Ave., Spokane (509) 995-7655 www.dacnw.org
unique talents with a community music festival. Invite a local radio station to host a show at the festival and encourage local bars and restaurants to set up tents or food trucks so music lovers can enjoy some food and beverages while they watch their neighbors perform.
4. FIELD DAY
Many adults fondly recall school-wide field days when they were in elementary schools. Communities can capitalize on those fond memories by organizing community-wide field days that encourage participation from all residents. Categorize events by age, so residents young and old can compete, and group size, so families and singles can compete against one another in events like three-legged races or horseshoes. Community-building activities can be fun and effective ways to strengthen neighborhoods and foster strong relationships between residents of all ages.
Help and hope for people facing Alzheimer’s or dementia The Alzheimer’s Association is a voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s disease and all other dementia, and we are leading the way by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. We offer a variety of care and support services across the Inland Northwest for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia, including care consultation, support groups, educational opportunities and social engagement programs. People may also call our 24/7 Helpline 800-272-3900, anytime day or night, for information, support, crisis assistance and referrals to local resources. The Alzheimer’s Association Washington State Chapter serves Washington and North Idaho. For more information about local services, volunteer opportunities and upcoming events: Website: alzwa.org Email: InquiryWA@alz.org Spokane: (509) 456-0456 Coeur d’Alene: (208) 666-2996
Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 7, 2020
Invest in Girls. Change the world.
Wow, what a year—but we’re still here! This past year came with a lot of challenges and the Girl Scouts of Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho, along with dozens of volunteers, rose to the challenge of navigating a pandemic. Cookie sales continued but in a slightly different way. Our innovative entrepreneurs connected with you through our website and social media and they delivered cookies while remaining socially distant. We continued to provide programming and camp experiences both virtually and in-person and we are looking forward to the day we can once again connect in-person full time.
Thank you for supporting the Girl Scouts of Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho.
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Reaching out with care Mission Community Outreach Center (MCOC) was created 24 years ago to provide individuals and families in Spokane with clothing. Over the years, the services we provide have been expanded; we now distribute house wares, hygiene items and diapers. On average, we serve about 300 people a week at our center located on E. Mission Ave. Our customers come from all walks of life and from all over the world, including a growing refugee population, as well as domestic violence and fire victims. Our customers can come shopping once every 60 days for clothing and house wares, and every 30 days for infant diapers. MCOC is run mainly by dedicated volunteers as we only have one paid employee. Our mission has grown over the years, and so has the need in our community. We are so thankful for the continuous love and support we receive; without our community, none of this would be possible.
We’re with you every step of the way. Hospice of Spokane Hospice of Spokane is the community’s only nonprofit hospice, serving patients and their families in Spokane, Stevens, Ferry and Pend Oreille counties. Formed in 1977 by a visionary group of community volunteers, Hospice of Spokane became the 12th oldest hospice in the United States. Our comprehensive knowledge, reputation and trust of the community come from decades of experience and dedication to providing the highest quality care. Using a holistic approach to end-of-life care, hospice addresses the medical, emotional, psychological and spiritual needs of patients with terminal illness, along with support to their families. Hospice of Spokane cares for anyone of any age with any terminal condition. Patient-centered care is provided by a team of physicians, nurses, nurse aides, social workers, chaplains, volunteers and bereavement counselors. From delivering specialized care right in the home to inpatient care at either of our two hospice houses, we are here for our patients and their families. We feel it is a privilege to be with patients and families on their endof-life journey. Thank you for putting your trust in us, for volunteering with us, for the many donations in support of our work, and for partnering with us in our service to others. For more information about Hospice of Spokane services or volunteering with us, please call (509) 456-0438 or contact us by email at info@hospiceofspokane.org.
Our community’s only nonprofit hospice, serving patients and their families since 1977. Dignity. Trust. Compassion. 509.456.0438 hospiceofspokane.org
Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 7, 2020
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According to the Mayo Clinic, research has shown that volunteering can lower rates of depression and promote better physical health compared to not volunteering. In addition, an analysis of data from the Longitudinal Study of Aging found that individuals who volunteer have lower mortality rates than those who do not. With so many benefits to volunteering, it’s no wonder that families often seek ways to volunteer together. Such efforts can be a great way to spend time together and give back to a community, all the while affording families a chance to reap the many rewards of volunteering. The following are a handful of potential volunteering opportunities that families can consider. • Litter cleanups The National Park Service estimates that plastics account for up to 90 percent of the trash floating in the ocean and littering shores. Many national and local organizations aim to combat plastic pollution via beach cleanups, and these efforts welcome volunteers of all ages, making them ideal ways for families to give back together. But litter is not just a problem for oceanfront communities. The organization Keep America Beautiful notes that 66 million pounds of litter and recyclables were collected in 2019. KAB hosts various litter cleanup programs in towns and cities across the country and encourages families to join their movement. • Combat homelessness According to the 2019 ‘The State of Homelessness in America’ report from The Council of Economic Advisers, in January 2018, more than a half a million people were counted as homeless in the United States. Statistics in Canada are not as recent as those in the United States, but estimates suggest as many as 235,000 Canadians are homeless in any given year. Volunteering at a nearby homeless shelter is a great way for families to help this often underserved segment of the population. Contact a local homeless shelter to learn about specific volunteering opportunities, which may involve preparing and serving meals; tutoring homeless men, women and children; and involvement in other services shelters offer.
How families can volunteer together
Metrocreative The efforts of volunteers often go unnoticed, but the thoughtful men, women and children who give up their free time to support worthy causes do a lot to bolster their communities. Volunteering also pays dividends for the volunteers, and not just because they’re helping to strengthen the communities they call home.
• Clothing drives Clothing drives not only benefit the homeless, but they also help people who simply don’t have the means to purchase new clothing. Families can donate their own slightly used clothing to nearby goodwill organizations and organize clothing drives through their schools and places of employment. Encourage neighbors to follow suit and donate their own slightly used items. Volunteering together is a great way for families to give back to their communities.
crisis
Responding to
lives
Stabilizing
hope Advocating
VOLUNTEER • DONATE JOIN OUR TEAM
www.cceasternwa.org (509) 358-4250
Catholic Charities focus on community collaboration Since 1912, Catholic Charities has affirmed the dignity of every person, partnering with parishes and the greater community to serve and advocate for those who are vulnerable, bringing stability and hope to people throughout Eastern Washington. Rooted in this mission, our legacy of service to our most vulnerable neighbors, regardless of religious affiliation, continually builds a foundation of stability, health and hope. We herald Christ’s love for all by engaging each person respectfully and compassionately. We accompany them with dignity and love on their individual journey through poverty, addiction and illness. Responding to Christ’s love, we envision a community where children born into poverty can thrive as adults, where all people live with the dignity of a roof over their heads and where the voiceless can speak and be heard. We collaborate with partners in business, government, church and nonprofit fields to solve community problems. We pioneer innovative programs to inspire action and hope among our clients. At all times, we commit steadfastly to the dignity of every person at all stages of life.
Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 7, 2020
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How to help kids in your community
Some people support local charities by volunteering or making financial donations, while others may deliver meals to convalescents who cannot leave their homes.
Helping kids is a wonderful way to give back to your community. And helping kids is not just for parents, as young adults and older adults with no children of their own or those whose children are fully grown can give back to kids in their communities in various ways. Coaching Youth sports leagues rely on volunteers to run smoothly. Youth sports league coaches are not paid, so each coach is a volunteer. Inquire with your local government office about how to become a youth sports coach in your community. In many instances, no coaching experience is necessary to coach youth sports. However, prospective coaches will likely have to undergo training before they can patrol the sidelines. Such training may include everything from coaching pointers to emergency medical training and more. Teaching
Teaching school is a full-time job, but not all teaching gigs are paid. Adults with knowledge to pass along to the next generation may want to explore volunteer teaching opportunities. Successful professionals can share their professional expertise with high school or college students through communitysponsored programs. Amateur or
professional musicians can offer lessons to youngsters interested in learning an instrument, while writers can teach kids about writing. Volunteer teaching opportunities may be easiest to find by speaking to local boys and girls clubs or schools that offer weekend or after school programs. Fitness Kids who are not involved in organized athletics may still enjoy exercise, which provides even more opportunities for adults to give back to the youth in their communities. For example, cycling enthusiasts can work with local youth organizations to sponsor cycling groups for kids. If hiking or kayaking is your passion, look into organizing trips to nearby state parks where kids can hike and/or kayak and learn to love the great outdoors. Mentoring Many young people benefit from the guidance of mentors. Mentoring can be done through an organization such as Big Brothers Big Sisters (www. bbbs.org) or through local school systems that connect professionals from certain fields with students interested in pursuing careers in those fields. Mentoring.org is a great resource for adults interested in mentoring who may not know how to get involved with helping kids in their communities.
Don’t you think Spokane needs Goodwill? This one simple question launched Goodwill in the Inland Northwest more than 80 years ago. Especially in this year full of turmoil, we still see the need for Goodwill in our region every day. We see people who need new job skills, like our Google IT Support certification. We see people who need help getting a job. We see people who need help getting stable housing. We see people who need something as simple as clothes for a job interview. This year, while our stores and donation centers were closed for weeks due to COVID-19, Goodwill staff were still working to help people with work, housing and basic needs. We helped people like Shad, who was so excited to get back to work at a local grocery store. We helped veterans like Doug get into an apartment of their own, enjoying the peace of a locked door and a warm bed. We helped people like Chris, who says he has “gained a better understanding of who I am and the potential I have due to the people that I have met and the support I have received.” When you shop and donate at Goodwill, you are giving back to your community. Your donations and purchases help support our programs that are serving thousands of people in eastern Washington and north Idaho every year. Goodwill is working every day to change lives. The great deals on gently-used fashions for you and your home, well that’s just a little environmentally friendly icing on the cake.
Shalom Ministries continues to serve during difficult times By Deidre Jacobson, Chair, Shalom Board of Directors
Despite the unprecedented challenges of the corona virus pandemic, Shalom Ministries continues, as it has since 1994, to meet the needs of food insecure homeless and low-income people in downtown Spokane. Our Dining with Dignity program serves wholesome and nutritious meals four days each week in six separate meals, welcoming all who are hungry. Our Pathways program offers opportunities for members of our dining population who choose to serve their peers (our Core Team), to create and serve “Grab and Go” meals, safely provided during the pandemic. The Core Team participates in case management, housing assistance, use of laundry and shower facilities, a day lounge, bus passes, training, stipends and employment. Meal service has increased by 18% as a long line of “socially distanced” diners wind around the building to receive their “Grab and Go” meals. We serve over 5,000 meals each month and the need continues to grow. Our ability to continue this life-giving service depends on the generosity of people like you. Please help the often-hidden people in our community who struggle to survive; your generosity has never been more needed and appreciated. Please send a contribution to PO Box 4684, Spokane, WA 99220. You may also donate through our Facebook page or online at www.shalommeal.org.
Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 7, 2020
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Steps to take
before donating to charity
Metrocreative onations from private citizens are the lifeblood of many nonprofit organizations. Without donations from millions of wellintentioned individuals, many charities would not be able to fulfill their missions. When donating to charitable organizations, donors typically want to know their donations will make a difference. With a little pre-donation research and a few smart giving strategies, prospective donors can make sure their donations ultimately end up doing the most good.
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REFINE YOUR ONLINE SEARCHES. The Federal Trade Commission recommends searching online for a cause you care about but adding certain terms to the search before choosing a charity. For example, if you’re passionate about helping the homeless, instead of entering ‘charities
for the homeless’ into the search engine, search for ‘highly rated charities for the homeless.’ Such a search may uncover red flags about certain organizations and direct you to the most reputable charity possible. VET A CHARITY BEFORE DONATING. Transparency is important when choosing a charity. A charity should willingly share information such as how donation dollars are spent and the programs that have been established to help it meet its mission. Such information should be readily available on the organization’s website. The FTC recommends donors learn how much of their donations will be used to provide direct support to the programs. The FTC also recommends being suspicious of charities that
do not provide detailed information about their missions and programs. DON’T GO IT ALONE. Vetting charities is important, but donors shouldn’t feel like they have to do all that legwork on their own. Various organizations, including Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator and CharityWatch exist to protect donors and ensure they give wisely. Local government regulators also may be able to provide information about charities to help donors avoid fraud. Charitable donations help millions of people every day. Donors can protect themselves and ensure their money is used wisely by doing their homework before giving to nonprofit organizations.
Sister Mary Tracy
The Catholic Foundation of Eastern Washington “The Catholic Foundation furthers the work of the Church and serves the people of Eastern Washington by building, managing and distributing income from contributions and endowed funds.” (Catholic Foundation Mission Statement) The Catholic Foundation was founded by the Spokane Diocese in 1981 as a primary way to secure the future of the diocesan ministries in advancing the work of the Church. A capable and dedicated board of trustees governs the foundation; the members represent a broad cross-section of society: lawyers, accountants, investment advisors, professional volunteers, marketing professionals, corporate executives, civic leaders, educators and religious leaders. The foundation has grown steadily to a current balance of over $40 million; this amount is the total of 250 custodial and endowment accounts. For 39 years, individuals, families and organizations – schools, parishes, seminary, diocese, private trusts and estates – have established endowments, many of these memorialize or honoring a person, group or institution. Clearly, the account holders as well as the Catholic Foundation understand the importance of long-term planning and the central role endowment holds in this strategic positioning. The Catholic Foundation Board invites members of the Eastern Washington community to consider setting up an endowment to memorialize or honor a special person in your life. Or you may want to invest in a current endowment, such as priests’ retirement, seminarian education, Catholic schools or over a hundred other considerations. Please contact Sr. Mary Tracy at (509) 358-7334 to discuss your personal interests. Gifts of any size are meaningful and valued.
Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 7, 2020
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Spokane’s Singing Nuns bring music, prayer to the world
Oftentimes people picture Sisters as being a world apart. And in some senses they are. But COVID-19 found the lives of Spokane’s Singing Nuns turned upside down, right along with the rest of the world. On very short notice, the Sisters learned that their private academy was going to be closed for a bit, and that bit became the whole fourth quarter. Summer came, and the annual Singing Nuns’ summer concerts were both canceled, as were so many other facets of their everyday life. But one thing that COVID was unable to touch was their prayer. And with everything going wrong, why not pray more? Almost immediately, the Sisters added an extra hour of daily prayer to their schedule, with the specific purpose of praying for an end to the pandemic; for those who have contracted the illness, those who have lost their livelihood and are suffering from want and privation, for those suffering from loneliness and isolation, for the ability to re-open our churches and worship freely, for the restoration of our human liberties, etc. Additionally, every Saturday morning they renew the ancient tradition of chanting the Litany of the Saints, begging heaven’s army to intercede for us and appease God’s justice, and on Saturday evening they pray 15 decades of the Rosary, asking God’s mother, Mary, Queen of Peace, to help our troubled world. Sadly, the Singing Nuns have had to cancel their Christmas concerts this year, which would have marked the 25th anniversary of their Christmas Evermore concerts. Plans are underway to spread Christmas cheer through an online “walk down memory lane” concert. In the meantime, they wish to assure the Spokane community that each and every one of them is being remembered in prayer.
V
Virtual volunteering opportunities
olunteerism is essential to maintain charitable organizations. Many cannot function effectively without volunteers campaigning for their efforts, handling day-today activities and serving in many other essential capacities. During the pandemic, nonprofit organizations have been affected by social distancing recommendations. It’s challenging to lend a helping hand when those hands may inadvertently be passing on a potentially dangerous illness. Social distancing and other restrictions instituted in response to the global pandemic do not have to stifle volunteer efforts. The internet can be a gateway to volunteer opportunities — many of which can be handled virtually from the safety of home. Organizations like Goodwill, the United Nations and even AARP offer online volunteering opportunities. Resources such as Volunteer Match also can connect interested parties with organizations that have virtual volunteer options. The following are a few additional ways to
become a virtual volunteer. • Manage social media accounts. Charitable organizations recognize the importance of a social media presence, so prospective volunteers can offer to help nonprofits keep their social media accounts updated and viable. • Assist those without sight. Volunteers with Be My Eyes can provide important assistance to blind or low-vision individuals. Virtual video calls enable volunteers to communicate with people directly and provide help. • Offer tutoring or teaching. Virtual learning has become the new norm in many different school districts. Parents who may need assistance with children adapting to remote learning can benefit from quality educators willing to lend their time and skill sets. • Design and build websites. Organizations may have trouble finding time to keep their websites updated with the latest information. Writers may be needed to keep blogs current, while coders can improve sites and make
them more secure. • Assist call centers. People may have various questions and needs in a time of crisis. Volunteers can be used in retail call centers, online therapy lifelines and even school offices. Remote technology enables calls to be parsed out and answered by volunteers working from home. • Translate emails and phone calls. Translators are always in demand in an increasingly global society. Bilingual men and women can volunteer as translators so their favorite charitable organizations can effectively overcome any language barriers that may exist between their staffs and the people they’re trying to help. Staying close to home has become the norm during the pandemic, paving the way for virtual volunteers to make a difference in their communities.
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Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 7, 2020
Deductions and donations: What donors should know G
iving to charity is a selfless act that’s worthy of recognition. That recognition can come in many forms, and donors should know that even the “tax man” likes to reward men and women who donate to charity. Both the United States and Canada reward donors with tax credits. The financial services firm H&R Block notes that, in the United States, taxpayers can deduct donations made to qualified charities. Such deductions must be itemized, but they can greatly reduce a person’s taxable income. According to TurboTax®, Canada also has a generous tax credit system, rewarding taxpayers who donate to charity by giving them a credit that’s up to 29 percent of the amount donated at the federal level. In addition, taxpayers also may be entitled to an additional amount up to 24 percent depending on which province they call home. Laws regarding donations and tax deductions can be difficult to understand, so donors should always discuss their donations with their financial planners or tax preparers before filing their returns. The following is some general information regarding donations and deductions that can be useful to prospective donors.
Are all donations deductible?
H&R Block notes that, in the United States, donations must go to one of three types of groups in order to qualify for deductions. Donations made to nonprofit religious groups, nonprofit educational groups and nonprofit charitable groups, which are often referred to as 501(c)(3) organizations, may qualify for deductions. The Government of Canada notes that the Charities Directorate can be contacted directly at 1-800-267-2384 to confirm if a charity qualifies for a tax deduction. In addition, TurboTax® notes that the Canada Revenue Agency (https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency. html) provides a searchable online database that allows donors to confirm if a charity is registered and eligible for deductions.
Does a donation have to be money in order for it to be deducted?
Non-cash donations are eligible for deductions in both Canada and the United States.
Do I need to get anything from the organization I donate to?
In most instances in the United States, H&R Block notes that charitable organizations must provide donors with certain information in order for donations to be deducted. A receipt that indicates the organization’s name and address and the date and location of the donation must be submitted. In addition, the amount of the donation when donating cash or, in the case of non-cash donations, a reasonably detailed description of the items donated. The Government of Canada advises donors to keep official donation receipts from registered charities and other qualified donees for five years. Official receipts should not be sent in with tax returns. For a list of what items must be on the receipts, visit Canada.ca. Donating to charity is a selfless endeavor that may lead to rewards when donors file their tax returns.
Spokane Public Radio delivers the daily news – in many formats Spokane Public Radio provides high-quality informational, educational, and artistic programming to 750 communities across 20,000 square miles of the Inland Northwest. SPR offers 1.25 million people easy access to local, national, and global news, and music, entertainment, and the arts. As long as you have a radio, computer, smart speaker or phone you can listen to Spokane Public Radio for free, every day, and hear NPR programs, the BBC and much more. Several transmitters broadcast in HD. SPR streams throughout the world online at SpokanePublicRadio.org, providing three different stations, KPBX 91.1, KSFC 91.9 and KPBZ 90.3 FM, wherever you need to listen. SPR is here for listeners 24/7 thanks to contributions made by people who care about their community. SPR depends on listener support. Our pledge to each supporter is to provide local and national programming needed to survive and thrive in a complicated world. Working together with our audience makes our region a better place to live, work, and play. You can go to our website, SpokanePublicRadio. org, to learn more about programs, events, volunteer opportunities, and how to make a donation to continue our service in the region. Thank you to everyone who’s contributed over the last 40 years to fuel great nonprofit public radio in our communities. As SPR continues broadcasting in a year filled with upheavals ranging from pandemic, civil unrest, an unsettled economy, and catastrophic wildfires — please take this opportunity to help fund this essential news and cultural resource.
Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 7, 2020
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The Salvation Army of Spokane provides HOPE and HEALING in our community Since 1891, The Salvation Army has remained on the front lines in meeting the needs of our most vulnerable neighbors. Thanks to supportive donors, thousands of lives have been transformed. Our lifealtering programs and services of ‘Doing the Most Good’ include: Sally’s House & Evangeline’s House: Sally’s House is an emergency foster receiving care facility for ages 2-12 removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect, abandonment or criminal activity. Evangeline’s House is a short-term emergency foster care placement program for ages 12-20. Last year, close to 7,000 combined safe shelter nights were provided. Camp Gifford: Eastern Washington’s oldest summer youth camp serves many low-income children, 80% of whom wouldn’t be able to attend. More than 1,000 children attended in 2019, returning with a revived sense of purpose, new friends, and restored hope.
True Scenario: With many schools closed due to COVID-19, staff at Sally’s House is not only providing 24/7 behavioral, emotional and physical support, but in-house schooling, too. Staff is working with teachers from each child’s school, and following tailored curriculum to ensure that each child excels during this time. Sally’s House is the only emergency foster care placement center in Eastern Washington for children, ages 2-12, who have been removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect, abandonment or criminal activity.
Here are a few of our life-transforming programs... Short-Term Foster Care Placement
Nurturing/Visitation Center: Court-ordered visitations for children/ families in difficult situations are conducted in a safe, secure environment by experienced, well-trained staff. Nearly 1,300 individuals were served last year, helping to mend broken relationships. Stepping Stones: 30-unit transitional apartment complex serves homeless families with children who are at, or below, 30%-50% of Spokane County’s median income. Last year, more than 32,000 safe bed nights were provided. Emergency Safe Shelter: 12 furnished studio units are available for homeless families with children/couples without children for up to 90 days. Close to 11,000 safe shelter nights were provided last year. The Way Out Shelter: A new 102-bed facility in Spokane that serves homeless adults.
Sally’s House: Only emergency program in Spokane County for children, ages 2-12 Evangeline's House: Emergency care placement for youths, ages 12 through 20.
Family Emergency & Transitional Housing
Our Emergency Safe Family Shelter, The Way Out Shelter and Stepping Stones apartments all provide a bridge from homelessness to self-sufficiency.
Family Resource Center: Includes the county’s largest food bank, where close to 4 million pounds of food were distributed last year to thousands. This year’s pandemic has caused community needs to rise as high as 50%.
Family Resource Center
Includes the largest food bank in Spokane County, as close to 4-million pounds of food were distributed last year to thousands of individuals.
How YOU Can Partner with Us Mail tax-deductible financial gifts to: The Salvation Army, 222 E. Indiana Ave., Spokane, WA, 99207. Indicate: “To be used for The Salvation Army in Spokane.” Donate, volunteer, and read ‘Success Stories’ at www.makingspokanebetter.org. ‘Like’ our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/ TheSalvationArmyofSpokane/.
THANK YOU for your support of The Salvation Army!
Real People. Real Change. Cliff’s family has struggled with alcohol addiction and all the accompanying dysfunction for generations. He started drinking at 14, landed in juvenile detention for assault at 15, and kept up that pattern for more than a decade. “I came to the Union Gospel Mission in January 2006 because I had nowhere else to go. No one wanted me around. I was completely broken. “I walked through that east door and said I wanted a bed... not realizing my whole life was going to be transformed forever.” Even though Cliff says it took almost two years to really clear his head and learn how to deal with his emotions, he still points to that day when he walked into UGM as the turning point of his life. “Once I came here, I KNEW God loved me, and it has never left me. My identity is in Christ, and nothing can shake that. I found the sense of belonging I had been wanting my whole life.” Today, Cliff has 14.5 years sober. He has worked the same job for 12 years, been married for 8. He plays an active, stabilizing role in the lives of his 16-year-old daughter and her sister. He mentors teenage boys at the YMCA and is actively involved in his church. “I am who I am because of Jesus. Everything is because of him.” For more on Cliff’s story, go to uniongospelmission.org/real change.
Rescuing the perishing Renewing the ability to thrive Restoring healthy community
This year, due to the pandemic, community needs have risen as high as 50%. Between COVID-19 assistance and our year-round programs/ services, thousands of lives are being changed THANKS to supportive donors. For more info, or to Help Us Help Others, please visit:
www.makingspokanebetter.org
Food Bank | Visitation Center | Transitional Housing | Foster Care Receiving | & More
222 E. Indiana Ave, Spokane, WA 99207 / 509-325-6810 salvationarmyspokane@gmail.com
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Giving Back is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 7, 2020
CAUSE CONNECTION COMMUNITY COVID has temporarily changed the way we deliver on our promise to strengthen the foundations of our community, but not on our commitment to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Every day at the YMCA we nurture all youth by helping them achieve their full potential as they grow in every developmental stage. Our early learning centers give children the very best start by providing the preparation they need to be kindergarten ready and successful throughout their academic career. We support parents and caregivers by engaging youth before and after school in a safe place with active play, homework assistance, and time to just be a kid. Teens find a supervised place to be themselves, have fun, learn new skills and be part of something positive and safe. Our commitment to health and wellness extends beyond cardio equipment and group exercise classes and pools, it crosses boundaries where serious health inequities exist in our community. It gives hope for those struggling with disease and unhealthy lifestyles. It makes sure our children who experience food insecurity receive consistent nutrition across many locations in the area. Being socially responsible means stepping up when our community needs us and for over 136 years, the YMCA has done just that. This year that looked like creating pop-up camps for kids whose parents and caregivers were essential workers as our community shut down to respond to the pandemic. It meant providing a meal site for any child in our community under 18 years of age regardless of connection to the YMCA. Now education looks very different, so we met the need by creating virtual learning academies with internet access for kids not in school but doing their studies remotely while their parents/caregivers work. It also means meeting our community where they are by never letting program registration or membership fees be a barrier to participating in YMCA programs or membership through our Membership For All and financial assistance programs. It means welcoming our neighbors from every walk of life, age, background, income, race, gender, religion, or ethnicity. Our doors are open for all which places our mission into action.
At the YMCA, we believe everyone deserves a safe place where they can learn, grow and thrive.
509 777 YMCA (9622)
ymcainw.org
CAUSE CONNECTION COMMUNITY
We transform lives by nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living, and fostering social responsibility.
Get Involved, We can’t do it alone!
Our Cause Strengthens the Foundations of Our Community
509 777 YMCA (9622) ymcainw.org