Bay Area Nonprofits - Porcia Chen Silverberg

WINTER 2015

BAY AREA

501 (c)(3)

NONPROFITS

N Thrive - A Trusted Network of Nonprofits, Business & Government

Porcia Chen Silverberg, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

CONNECTING VOLUNTEERS & DONORS TO LOCAL NONPROFITS

Welcome to Bay Area Non Profits Magazine Where Would We Be Without Our Non Profits?

T

his is such a great, and important, question: Where would we be without our Non-Profits? … I ask it knowingly, and in gratitude, all the time. I believe everyone should, all the time.

Our Non Profits do so much in services and are so important in so many ways for our community. The thought of being without is unfathomable.

Another great question is: Where would our Non-Profits be without the many, like you, who help in working, giving and volunteering? For this, we are all indeed so fortunate and so grateful. Giving is not just about giving money.

Volunteering is BIG, and many are volunteering, helping make such a big positive difference. Plus, the joy is in the giving.

About making a difference. There are so many great people, so many great companies, so many great organizations doing such great things and, yet, so much of it is under most people’s radar. They just might not know … Enter Bay Area Non Profits Magazine!

There are many great causes and stories, going on all around us, which people would like to learn and know about. So many people are doing so much for our community … and so much of it is without attention … where, otherwise, we all can be inspired by it.

Ken Packer Let us all be inspired! Welcome Bay Area Non Profits Publisher & Executive Editor Magazine! May it be a beacon to us all, something ken@svlocalmag.com ken@bayareanonprofits.org special we all will be able to learn and grow from. May everyone and everything in it, be forever an inspiration for us all. The joy is in the giving, and also the helping, knowing we are helping to make a big positive difference …

We can help. There are people wanting to create more purpose in their lives, wishing to help make a difference where they can.

There are indeed many great causes or agencies, where one might want to assist … or possibly ask about assistance.

We look forward to hearing from and sharing with more and more. Together, we can do so much more in making our community greater and stronger, for a better world and a brighter future.

Here’s to our Non Profits and everyone in our awesome Bay Area community! Here’s to our Bay Area Non Profits Magazine! Enjoy!

All the best,

Ken

FEATU

S T N E V E • S E T A D P U • RES

http://bit.ly/bayareanonprofits www.bayareanonprofits.org

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T H E

proudly sponsored by

B O R E L L

F A M I L Y

•

T R U S T

WILDLIFE CARE ASSOCIATION BANP: What is it about Wildlife Care Association that

GIVING WILDLIFE A SECOND CHANCE

us maintain a great quality of life.

made you want to help sick, orphaned, and injured wildlife? What do you do when you volunteer and how long

BANP: Do you recommend or suggest this to others?

have you been doing it?

TB: There is so much opportunity for people to help wildTB: I have always been an

life. WCA takes in more than

animal lover. After finding

5,000 sick, orphaned, and in-

2 injured birds in my yard

jured wild animals every year.

and taking them to Wildlife

Most of those animals have

Care Association, I decided

been victims of mankind in-

to start volunteering, which

cluding habitat destruction

was in 2001. I have since

and free-roaming pets.

become a home rehabilitator, rehabbing squirrels,

BANP: When you volunteer,

opossums, and various other

seeing what you see and

species. I also am the head

Theresa Bielawski, President

of the fundraising team and

doing what you do, do you often think and hope how

have served on the Board of Directors for 10 years; this is

others, too, could join in and help make a bigger, more

my 8th year as President.

positive difference?

BANP: What do you love most about what you do when

TB: We are always in need of volunteers. There are so

you volunteer? Is there a favorite “something” you like?

many things people can do to help the animals brought to us, even if they do not want to have direct contact

TB: I really love animals, so it is very satisfying knowing

with the animals; everything from answering phones

that what I do is helping animals, whether it is raising

and cleaning to hands-on feeding and medical care. No

funds, or physically taking care of a sick, orphaned, or in-

experience is necessary as we have a comprehensive

jured wild animal.

training program. People wanting to help these animals

WE ARE DEDICATED TO THE RESCUE, REHABILITATION, AND RELEASE OF LOCAL WILDLIFE

in need are heroes in the community and are ultimately BANP: Is there a particular moment that stands out for

helping the quality of life for everyone living there.

you or a particular joy you get when you volunteer?

TB: It always makes my heart happy when I am releasing animals back into the wild, where they belong. It is very satisfying knowing that animal may not have survived without my help. All wildlife serves a purpose and helps

To Donate: WCA PO Box 680, North Highlands, CA 95660 www.wildlifecareassociation.com Non Profit # 94-2528504

Hotline: (916) 965-WILD (9453) 5211 Patrol Road, McClellan, CA 95652

www.wildlifecareassociation.com

•

T H E

proudly sponsored by

B O R E L L

F A M I L Y

•

T R U S T

WILDLIFE CARE ASSOCIATION

GIVING WILDLIFE A SECOND CHANCE

BANP: What is it about Wildlife Care Association that helps us maintain a great quality of life. made you want to help sick, orphaned, and injured wildlife? What do you do when you volunteer and how BANP: Do you recommend or suggest this to others? long have you been doing it?

TB: There is so much opportunity for people to help wildlife. WCA takes in more than 5,000 sick, orphaned,

TB: I have always been an

and injured wild animals ev-

animal lover. After finding

ery year. Most of those an-

2 injured birds in my yard

imals have been victims of

and taking them to Wildlife

mankind including habitat

Care Association, I decided

destruction and free-roam-

to start volunteering, which

ing pets.

was in 2001. I have since be-

BANP: When you volunteer,

come a home rehabilitator, rehabbing squirrels, opossums, and various other

seeing what you see and

Theresa Bielawski, President

species. I also am the head of the fundraising team and have served on the Board of Directors for 10 years; this is my 8th year as President.

BANP: What do you love most about what you do when you volunteer? Is there a favorite “something” you like?

TB: I really love animals, so it is very satisfying knowing that what I do is helping animals, whether it is raising funds, or physically taking care of a sick, orphaned, or injured wild animal.

doing what you do, do you often think and hope how

others, too, could join in and help make a bigger, more positive difference?

TB: We are always in need of volunteers. There are so many things people can do to help the animals brought to us, even if they do not want to have direct contact with the animals; everything from answering phones and cleaning to hands-on feeding and medical care. No experience is necessary as we have a comprehensive training program. People wanting to help these animals

BANP: Is there a particular moment that stands out for

in need are heroes in the community and are ultimately

you or a particular joy you get when you volunteer?

helping the quality of life for everyone living there.

very satisfying knowing that animal may not have sur-

To Donate: WCA PO Box 680, North Highlands, CA 95660 www.wildlifecareassociation.com

vived without my help. All wildlife serves a purpose and

Non Profit # 94-2528504

TB: It always makes my heart happy when I am releasing animals back into the wild, where they belong. It is

WE ARE DEDICATED TO THE RESCUE, REHABILITATION, AND RELEASE OF LOCAL WILDLIFE

Hotline: (916) 965-WILD (9453) 5211 Patrol Road, McClellan, CA 95652

www.wildlifecareassociation.com

BAY AREA

NONPROFITS Rich Borell

CEO & Founder

Ken Packer

Chief Financial Officer / Treasurer

Frank Ponikvar Secretary

Pam Seeds

Board Member

Linda Holland

CONNECTING VOLUNTEERS & DONORS TO LOCAL NON PROFITS

Board Member

Bay Area Non Profits is a 501 (c)(3) Registered Non Profit Organization. Reproduction in whole or in part of any text or photographs without the written permission from the CEO is strictly prohibited. The magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork or photographs. The opinions expressed in Bay Area Non Profits Magazine are of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Board Members or Management team. The Magazine assumes no responsibility or liability for claims made by advertisers in the Magazine.

All rights reserved. Bay Area Non Profits Board Members, Management Team and Advertisers shall be held blameless for any and all errors, along with any expired dates typing errors or trademark infringements. If any errors are found, we will correct when brought to our attention within 48 hours. For all inquiries, contact us at rich@bayareanonprofits.org

Silicon Valley Non-Profits

I

Introducing Silicon Valley Non-Profits!

n this day and age, many of us are looking for purpose and asking ourselves how we can help make a difference in our community and our world.

If we were to ask ourselves, where would we be without our Non-Profits, that’s a good question - they do a lot! With them, it’s hard enough in our world. Without them, it would be unthinkable. Indeed, we have many Non-Profits doing great works and they are always looking for people, like you, who can and would like to help.

At the same time, there are many people, like you and me, who wonder what specifically more we can do with our money or, especially, just by volunteering – indeed, what a difference that does and will make.

The greatest gift of all is in the giving and what a big positive difference it makes in the lives of others. In Silicon Valley Non-Profits, learn about various great people and great organizations doing great things. May it become a growing Resource for you and many others, there’s nothing like teamwork, that can help us all in making a big positive difference for a better community here at Home.

BANP: What is it about FACES that helped you in choosing to become a supporter?

Melissa: For me, spending time with FACES was a logical next step in my volunteer work.

I have spent the last 10 years providing bullying prevention programs in my boy’s schools and that work is coming to a close in a year and a half as my youngest moves on to High School. Silicon Valley FACES provides assistance to not just children, but the community as a whole, and that’s very appealing to me.

BANP: What changes have you seen since becoming a donor and what brings you the greatest joy? Melissa: Since becoming a donor, it’s brought me joy to learn more

about the incredible programs FACES offers. I was actually able to attend one day of Camp Everytown (a youth leadership development program for HS kids), which was really important to me so I can see where my money goes. I know that camp has improved over the years, with updated and new activities. The organization is always trying to improve and better their programs and that’s impressive to me.

BANP: What is your personal philosophy about being able to help a great cause such as FACES? Melissa: I was bullied for a year when I was young and that experience created a desire to work with kids. My overall philosophy is to just be kind. You don’t have to like and feel connected to everyone you meet, it would be strange if you did, but we can all be kind to one another. FACES embodies kindness and caring and empowers kids to lead their lives in that way. FACES does such important work building a community free of bias, stereotypes, bigotry and violence. That mission resonates with me and is so important as my children and their friends become contributing members of society.

BANP: What would you say to others about donating / volunteering, etc., with FACES and in general? Melissa: Donating and volunteering with FACES is about making the world

a better place. About empowering kids to do the right thing and accept themselves and others for who they are. FACES has multiple programs for kids that focus on self-worth, leadership, breaking down the barriers of race, ethnicity, culture, gender, sexual orientation and religion. These programs are programs that ALL of our kids should be exposed to.

So when I think about where and who I want to give my money and time to, Silicon Valley FACES is the perfect organization.

BANP: What do wish other people knew about FACES? Melissa: I wish more people

knew about FACES and the amazing work they do for the community. I wish more of our schools knew about the programs they offer and were more willing to incorporate them into standard curriculum, and I wish more people knew how life-changing a program like Camp Everytown is for High School students.

408-286-9663 ▌ www.SVFACES.org

Q& A Melissa Schwartz

Coach 2 Executives Executive Presentation Skills Coach FACES Ambassador and Donor

Building a community free of bias, bigotry and violence by transforming youth into community builders.

FACES IMPACT annually

▌Educate over 3,000 youth and adults on social emotional intelligence: peaceful conflict resolution, appreciation of differences and upstanding leadership skills

CAMP EVERYTOWN

A 4-day leadership experience for high school students to create communities of empathy, respect and inclusion.

COMMON GROUND

A week-long enrichment and leadership program for incoming middle and high school students.

BUILDING CONNECTIONS An in-class diversity education program for K-5.

"

To this day, my Camp Everytown experience remains very impactful because it reminds me that no matter where you are in life, you have to remember to look back, to look forward and

408-286-9663 ▌ www.SVFACES.org

"

next to you, and be there for each other. ― Thy Truong

Camp Everytown alumna 2005

Next Door Solutions to

Domestic Violence.

Melissa Hollatz, Partner at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati and Board Member BANP: What is it about Next Door Solutions that helped you in choosing to become a supporter? What do you do when you volunteer and how long have you been doing it?

MH: I am lucky enough to work for a law firm (Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati) that is supportive of doing pro bono work, and my first introduction to Next Door Solutions was through negotiating a merger for them 10 years ago. I fell in love with Next Door Solutions based on that work and became a board member in 2006. I didn’t know much about domestic violence prior to my being introduced to them, but I think it would be impossible to learn about what an amazing organization Next Door Solutions is, or what a compelling cause domestic violence is, and not want to get involved.

Hope

Now we are safe

&

Empowerment great cause such as Next Door Solutions?

MH: I truly believe the adage that when you give to others, whether it’s time or money, the person who benefits the most is yourself. I am so fortunate to have met a group of people who scale mighty mountains on a tiny budget, and I want to do everything I can to be a part of moving the organization forward.

It’s such a rewarding feeling to feel like I can be part of the solution to domestic violence.

BANP: What would you say to others about donating / volunteering, etc., with Next Door Solutions?

MH: I would ask people to get to know Next Door Solutions, and I think they will fall in love with the organization and the wonderful people behind it, as I have. There aren’t very many places where a relatively small financial gift or a few hours of your time BANP: Is there a particular moment that can make such an enormous impact. I can’t Melissa Hollatz stands out for you or a particular joy you get describe how fulfilling it has been for me. when you volunteer/donate to Next Door Solutions?

I think sometimes people hesitate because they don’t think they have the time or that they can make a difference. I wish everyone MH: My favorite moments are talking to former clients of Next Door could see what a huge difference it makes every time someone Solutions. Hearing from someone who has escaped a violent rela- overcomes that hesitation, steps forward, and gets involved. tionship and blossomed into a happy, self-confident person fuels a desire to want to help as many other people as I can. I find their sto- BANP: What do wish other people knew about Next Door? ries extraordinary and their resilience inspiring. I am also constantly impressed by the staff, who somehow manage to take a complex MH: I wish people knew how badly Next Door Solutions needs and often frustrating problem and transform it into a source of hope support. There are so many people who need their services, and and joy. resources are so scarce. I wish everyone would write a check, spend some time getting to know us, and just talk more about domestic BANP: What is your personal philosophy about being able to help a violence so we can spread awareness about this critical issue.

Empowering women to achieve safety and self-sufficiency

Our mission is to end domestic violence in the moment and for all time.

To learn how you can get involved, visit our website at:

www.nextdoor.org

234 E. Gish Road, Suite 200, San Jose, CA 95112 Phone: 408-501-7550 24-hour hotline: 408-279-2962

Now we are safe

Empowering women to achieve safety and self-sufficiency

Our mission is to end domestic violence in the moment and for all time.

To learn how you can get involved, visit our website at:

www.nextdoor.org

234 E. Gish Road, Suite 200, San Jose, CA 95112 Phone: 408-501-7550 24-hour hotline: 408-279-2962

Tony Huynh

Summer Search Alumnus ... And Now

A Successful College Graduate Tony Huynh, Customer Success Manager at Elance-oDesk and Summer Search Alumnus BANP: What challenges did you face in getting into and finishing college?

TH: Middlebury College felt very much like a third Summer Search trip. It was difficult to go from my school of nearly all low-income students of color to one where everyone was more affluent and predominantly white. I struggled on a socioeconomic and racial basis and felt isolated. I didn’t feel like many people could validate or cared about my experiences growing up with a single mom in a low-income neighborhood.

BANP: What was your relationship like with your mentor?

universities in California. Summer Search pushed me to reconcile that the world was much bigger than I thought and there was still so much I didn’t know or understand. It was a catalyst for me to push myself out of my comfort zone and explore the world to learn more about myself.

BANP: What outside experiences did Summer Search give you and how did these affect you?

TH: I still remember that my second Summer Search trip to Paraguay with American Field Service was where I had my big epiphany about the world. I was working on a co-operative farm in a rural town an hour outside the capital. I was homesick and I was struggling with speaking Spanish to get by. And through my misery, I knew that this trip which I initially thought would be a fun, easy summer turned into one where I had to self-reflect and think that my concept of the world being just the San Francisco Bay Area was limiting.

TH: I don’t think I’ve told anyone as much about my life, my insecurities, and my aspirations than Meghan Kirkpatrick, my mentor. I never struggled with the weekly hour of silence that was our check-ins. It was Tony Huynh just an hour for me to talk and vent and have someone who really was there for me provide an objective opinion and guidance in my life. She made me more self-reflec- BANP: What is different about how you approach the world due tive! When I was in college in Vermont, Meghan had moved to to your experiences with Summer Search?

New York and I actually saw her a few times when I was visiting friends in Manhattan!

TH: I’m always up for an adventure! One of the best years of my life was when I studied abroad for a full year in England and in BANP: How did Summer Search help transform what you China during college. A full year to myself to explore the world thought you could accomplish in school and in life? and myself! It’s something I couldn’t have done or felt excited about it if it hadn’t been for Summer Search. If anything, Summer TH: Summer Search transformed my thoughts on the world. Search has pushed me to think that if something scares or terriI think growing up in my neighborhood, I thought life was the fies me, I should probably do it. It’s probably the most liberating Bay Area and not much else and college only consisted of the aspect of my life, why limit myself?

HELPING YOUNG PEOPLE SOAR...

TOGETHER. Summer Search’s mission is to help low-income teenagers transform what they believe is possible for themselves and develop the skills they need to become college-educated leaders who give back to their families and communities.

Summer Search San Francisco 500 Sansome Street, Suite 350 San Francisco, CA 94111 (415) 362-5225

Summer Search Silicon Valley 255 N. Market Street, Suite 200 San Jose, CA 95110 (408) 291-0062

WWW.SUMMERSEARCH.ORG

Tony Huynh

Summer Search Alumnus ... And Now

A Successful College Graduate Tony Huynh, Customer Success Manager at Elance-oDesk and Summer Search Alumnus BANP: What challenges did you face in getting into and finishing college?

TH: Middlebury College felt very much like a third Summer Search trip. It was difficult to go from my school of nearly all low-income students of color to one where everyone was more affluent and predominantly white. I struggled on a socioeconomic and racial basis and felt isolated. I didn’t feel like many people could validate or cared about my experiences growing up with a single mom in a low-income neighborhood.

BANP: What was your relationship like with your mentor?

universities in California. Summer Search pushed me to reconcile that the world was much bigger than I thought and there was still so much I didn’t know or understand. It was a catalyst for me to push myself out of my comfort zone and explore the world to learn more about myself.

BANP: What outside experiences did Summer Search give you and how did these affect you?

TH: I still remember that my second Summer Search trip to Paraguay with American Field Service was where I had my big epiphany about the world. I was working on a co-operative farm in a rural town an hour outside the capital. I was homesick and I was struggling with speaking Spanish to get by. And through my misery, I knew that this trip which I initially thought would be a fun, easy summer turned into one where I had to self-reflect and think that my concept of the world being just the San Francisco Bay Area was limiting.

TH: I don’t think I’ve told anyone as much about my life, my insecurities, and my aspirations than Meghan Kirkpatrick, my mentor. I never struggled with the weekly hour of silence that was our check-ins. It was Tony Huynh just an hour for me to talk and vent and have someone who really was there for me provide an objective opinion and guidance in my life. She made me more self-reflec- BANP: What is different about how you approach the world due tive! When I was in college in Vermont, Meghan had moved to to your experiences with Summer Search?

New York and I actually saw her a few times when I was visiting friends in Manhattan!

TH: I’m always up for an adventure! One of the best years of my life was when I studied abroad for a full year in England and in BANP: How did Summer Search help transform what you China during college. A full year to myself to explore the world thought you could accomplish in school and in life? and myself! It’s something I couldn’t have done or felt excited about it if it hadn’t been for Summer Search. If anything, Summer TH: Summer Search transformed my thoughts on the world. Search has pushed me to think that if something scares or terriI think growing up in my neighborhood, I thought life was the fies me, I should probably do it. It’s probably the most liberating Bay Area and not much else and college only consisted of the aspect of my life, why limit myself?

HELPING YOUNG PEOPLE SOAR...

TOGETHER. Summer Search’s mission is to help low-income teenagers transform what they believe is possible for themselves and develop the skills they need to become college-educated leaders who give back to their families and communities.

Summer Search San Francisco 500 Sansome Street, Suite 350 San Francisco, CA 94111 (415) 362-5225

Summer Search Silicon Valley 255 N. Market Street, Suite 200 San Jose, CA 95110 (408) 291-0062

WWW.SUMMERSEARCH.ORG

PARENTSHELPINGPARENTS

Building Bright Futures for Children with Special Needs

Global research consultant for cultural competency in human services for people with special needs Delores Springs, MA, Board Member BANP: What do you love most about what do when you volunteer? Is there a favorite “something” you like?

PHP for guidance as the staff advocated for culturally competent services cultivating self-esteem, confidence, and self-sufficiency. My sister attended a workshop on safety and social skills. It brings my mom and I joy watching my sister learn from her experience at the PHP workshop. She began to build her esteem encouraging her to exercise confidence leading to resolving conflict and positive choices to stay in school. When I volunteer I am filled with joy knowing the support I provide assures optimal health and underscores the well-being of people with special needs.

DS: Serving as a board member and a volunteer evokes satisfaction knowing loved ones, like my sister, benefit from Parents Helping Parents support services. A vital part of volunteering involves advocacy for education and awareness. As a board member I love investing my time to address gaps in service delivery, encourage collaborative partnerships among child serving systems, and promoting awareness to create sustainable resources for individuals with special needs.

BANP: What is it about Parents Helping Volunteering at PHP enlarges my scope of Parents that helped you in choosing to beprovisions to be a part of an agency providcome a supporter? ing services which uplifts countless families experiencing hopelessness and isolation.

DS: Parents Helping Parents has been a savPHP’s support network creates opportuniing grace to my family as well as countless ties to build community partnerships while others. PHP walked with us through pitfalls promoting family driven success plans exand celebrated victories. We developed panding service provisions based upon inlifelong relationships and strategic partnerDelores Springs terdependent provider relationships. It is a ships with people honoring the strengths, joy to see the quality of life improve for those benefiting from cultures, traditions, and expertise that everyone brings to comPHP resources. Parents Helping Parents (PHP) volunteers assist prehensive care. I understand and appreciate the ripple effect in promoting thriving family-centered services. of giving to support initiatives. I challenge others to commit and serve creating a sense of community and interdependence BANP: Is there a particular moment that stands out for you or through bridging gaps between professionals and families. a particular joy you get when you volunteer?

PHP is one of few organizations striving for excellence in best DS: Parents Helping Parents sets the bar high by providing practices, multi-culturally competent service delivery, and unconditional care. When my sister was diagnosed with a dis- individualized care. I am honored to be affiliated with and ability requiring managed care and therapeutic services, we donate to an agency that increases commitment for change prayed for her to flourish in a healthy lifestyle experiencing a forging unity, fostering continuity of care, and implementing life filled with attainable hopes and dreams. Unfortunately my a working plan marketing strategies essential for sustainabilsister dealt with a multitude of problems including her refusal ity and opulence for excellence in service for individuals with to attend school after being bullied repeatedly. We turned to special needs and their families.

Your child has just been diagnosed with a developmental, medical, psychological, learning or other issue — what now?

You are not alone.

Parents Helping Parents strives to improve the quality of life for any child with any special need of any age, through educating, supporting and training their primary caregivers.

Parents Helping Parents Sobrato Center for Nonprofits–San Jose 1400 Parkmoor Avenue Suite 100 San Jose, CA 95126 www.php.com | (408) 727-5775

BANP: How has Parents Helping Parents made a difference and what impact do you wish yet to see?

MEP: We are especially fortunate at PHP because we hear inspirational stories almost every day. Just last month the mother of a fourth-grader told one of our Education Specialists, “Since speaking and meeting with you, things have been looking up for us. I feel like we are finally on the right track and it’s all thanks to you. Your ability to see through all confusion and provide us with razor sharp focus helped me to identify our problem and ask the right questions, request the appropriate things, find the right people, and now we are getting help from people that are making a difference.”

Building Bright Futures for Children with Special Needs!

PHP parents are warriors every day.

AN INTERVIEW WITH

MARY ELLEN PETERSON, CEO BANP: What is Parents Helping Parents about, and what do you all do?

Because the majority of our staff and volunteers (including our Board) are par-

MEP: Parents Helping Parents (PHP) was created in 1976 by two moms – both

MEP: Well that’s a fairly easy question for me to answer. I love that the work we do

with children with Down syndrome. They quickly realized the power of validat-

is so relevant and has such a powerful impact. Did you know that one in six Ameri-

ing their experience by sharing the highs and lows, the dreams recalibrated to

can children have a developmental or learning disability? That’s an increase of 17%

fit reality, the possibilities for looking beyond a diagnosis to the whole child.

during the past 10 years, an increase that will require more health and education

I found PHP when my son Joe was an infant. Doctors said, “He’ll be a vegetable.

services according to researchers from the Center for Disease Control.

Put him in a state hospital. He will never walk or talk.” I couldn’t, I wouldn’t believe my beautiful baby had no future. Luckily for me, through PHP I found

I love the staff and volunteers of PHP – so many who are parents of children

other parents who had children with special needs who were doing well. That

with special needs. In the past, strong extended family networks were there

gave me hope and I knew I was not alone, that if other people could care for

to help families meet the challenges of life with a child with special needs. But

their children with special needs, I could care for mine.

today’s increased mobility and decreased interdependence means that the extended family often lives far away. Natural support systems no longer exist and

Today Joe is 40. Not only does he walk and talk, he has very definite likes and

the family faces continual crises alone. Before connecting with PHP, parents

dislikes. He’s a big imposing guy who tells the truth – even when it makes oth-

often feel lost and alone. The entire family can be affected by a lack of support;

ers uncomfortable. He’s taught me countless lessons and because of Joe and

PHP has grown its services to meet the needs of families as their children with

so many children like him, I’ve been a PHP staff member for nearly four decades.

special needs grow into adulthood.

championing their cause.

ents of children with special needs, we know how vital that ‘razor sharp focus’ is in creating a path for each individual child.

Yet all parents want their children, whatever their special healthcare needs, to have the same rights and opportunities that other children experience. When

Another parent wrote, “Can’t say enough nice things about this organization.

you’re in the community and you experience a child with a challenging behav-

They are so helpful to families with children with special needs (all kinds of

ior, accept that we can all have a bad day now and then; and remember to value

special need). Sometimes you just need a little help to focus when you’re so

the individual and to honor their differences.

exhausted and that’s what PHP does.”

BANP: What is it you like to say to potential Donors and Volunteers? Why is That sense of exhaustion is common among the families we serve and it doesn’t

Parents Helping Parents so special?

just affect the parents; the entire family may experience significant stress in ev-

MEP: PHP envisions a world where our communities are not overwhelmed by

eryday life and can find solace and strength in talking to peers about the chal-

the challenges of parenting a child with special needs because there are ad-

lenges they face. That can make an immeasurable difference.

equate resources for families. This world will include and embrace all people

BANP: What do you love most about Parents Helping Parents and the work that you all do?

A very grown up Joe with his Mom

with special needs. Their lives and the lives of their families will be filled with In looking forward, I expect to see the communities fully accessible and inclu-

hope, fun and meaningful opportunities that reflect an optimism and sense of

sive, and valuing all individuals regardless of their abilities.

security about the future.

BANP: What would you like the world to know about Parents Helping Par-

We are dreaming BIG. Your time, as a volunteer, and treasure, as a donor or

ents and how can people help make a difference?

sponsor, are investments in those big dreams.

MEP: Our clients are families of children born with birth defects or Fetal Al-

• Help us achieve greater name recognition for PHP – locally, nationally and in-

cohol Syndrome, victims of accidents, those with chronic and life threatening

ternationally – to meet the needs of families near and far who can benefit from

illnesses, the 1 out of 10 children with autism, ADHD and learning disabilities.

our expertise and experience.

One in 68 children in the US experiences Autism Spectrum Disorder. In Califor-

• Make it possible to place PHP staff and parent liaisons in local hospitals,

nia of the 6.2 million K-12 public school students, 12% are in special-ed with

schools and community centers throughout the county.

disproportionate representation by ethnicity such that 55% identify as Hispan-

• Visit, support and help us grow the innovative I-tech Center, a leader in Assis-

ic, 9% as African American, 7% as Asian/Pacific Islander and 3% as Multi-ethnic.

tive Technology for children and adults with special needs.

• Provide the means to research and develop web-enabled products and ser-

This issue is relevant to all of us. A recent study found that 9+% of employees in

vices that increase PHP efficacy and efficiency without increasing cost.

the US care for a family member with a disability – parents and siblings balanc-

Together, we can empower parents to advocate for their children with mastery,

ing work responsibilities with therapy, medical appointments, education plans.

advocating on potential rather than limits. We can support, teach and train

PHP is uniquely family-centered, focusing not just on the child, but on the in-

families to look beyond diagnoses of disabilities, to speak up with confidence

herent strengths of the family as the central unit of support for the child – no

I love it that we work to make and sustain that connection. The long tenure of

matter how old. Our mission is to help children and adults with special needs

so many of the staff, volunteers and supporters is a testament to the strength of

receive the support and services they need to reach their full potential by pro-

this connection. But I want you to know that this is not just our cause. Our mis-

viding information, training and resources to build strong families and improve

sion should be everyone’s concern because how we support the most vulnerable

systems of care. Last year, almost 6,000 parents and professionals contacted

members of our community will directly affect our overall quality of life and how

PHP and we provided over 22,000 direct services.

we value others in the community.

Most parents are warriors occasionally on behalf of their children – infants

on behalf of their children throughout the life cycle from infancy through

through adulthood. PHP parents are warriors every day. For their children who

adulthood and grow self-advocates to be leaders and to have their own voice

cannot effectively communicate, they are their eyes, ears and voices. For those

to share with all of us the bright futures that living intentional lives fosters.

who cannot self-regulate, they are monitors, moderators and often staunch defenders of rights and access. As the first and sometimes only advocates for their children, they need to have current information and tools for effectively

BANP: How has Parents Helping Parents made a difference and what impact do you wish yet to see?

MEP: We are especially fortunate at PHP because we hear inspirational stories almost every day. Just last month the mother of a fourth-grader told one of our Education Specialists, “Since speaking and meeting with you, things have been looking up for us. I feel like we are finally on the right track and it’s all thanks to you. Your ability to see through all confusion and provide us with razor sharp focus helped me to identify our problem and ask the right questions, request the appropriate things, find the right people, and now we are getting help from people that are making a difference.”

Building Bright Futures for Children with Special Needs!

PHP parents are warriors every day.

AN INTERVIEW WITH

MARY ELLEN PETERSON, CEO BANP: What is Parents Helping Parents about, and what do you all do?

Because the majority of our staff and volunteers (including our Board) are par-

MEP: Parents Helping Parents (PHP) was created in 1976 by two moms – both

MEP: Well that’s a fairly easy question for me to answer. I love that the work we do

with children with Down syndrome. They quickly realized the power of validat-

is so relevant and has such a powerful impact. Did you know that one in six Ameri-

ing their experience by sharing the highs and lows, the dreams recalibrated to

can children have a developmental or learning disability? That’s an increase of 17%

fit reality, the possibilities for looking beyond a diagnosis to the whole child.

during the past 10 years, an increase that will require more health and education

I found PHP when my son Joe was an infant. Doctors said, “He’ll be a vegetable.

services according to researchers from the Center for Disease Control.

Put him in a state hospital. He will never walk or talk.” I couldn’t, I wouldn’t believe my beautiful baby had no future. Luckily for me, through PHP I found

I love the staff and volunteers of PHP – so many who are parents of children

other parents who had children with special needs who were doing well. That

with special needs. In the past, strong extended family networks were there

gave me hope and I knew I was not alone, that if other people could care for

to help families meet the challenges of life with a child with special needs. But

their children with special needs, I could care for mine.

today’s increased mobility and decreased interdependence means that the extended family often lives far away. Natural support systems no longer exist and

Today Joe is 40. Not only does he walk and talk, he has very definite likes and

the family faces continual crises alone. Before connecting with PHP, parents

dislikes. He’s a big imposing guy who tells the truth – even when it makes oth-

often feel lost and alone. The entire family can be affected by a lack of support;

ers uncomfortable. He’s taught me countless lessons and because of Joe and

PHP has grown its services to meet the needs of families as their children with

so many children like him, I’ve been a PHP staff member for nearly four decades.

special needs grow into adulthood.

championing their cause.

ents of children with special needs, we know how vital that ‘razor sharp focus’ is in creating a path for each individual child.

Yet all parents want their children, whatever their special healthcare needs, to have the same rights and opportunities that other children experience. When

Another parent wrote, “Can’t say enough nice things about this organization.

you’re in the community and you experience a child with a challenging behav-

They are so helpful to families with children with special needs (all kinds of

ior, accept that we can all have a bad day now and then; and remember to value

special need). Sometimes you just need a little help to focus when you’re so

the individual and to honor their differences.

exhausted and that’s what PHP does.”

BANP: What is it you like to say to potential Donors and Volunteers? Why is That sense of exhaustion is common among the families we serve and it doesn’t

Parents Helping Parents so special?

just affect the parents; the entire family may experience significant stress in ev-

MEP: PHP envisions a world where our communities are not overwhelmed by

eryday life and can find solace and strength in talking to peers about the chal-

the challenges of parenting a child with special needs because there are ad-

lenges they face. That can make an immeasurable difference.

equate resources for families. This world will include and embrace all people

BANP: What do you love most about Parents Helping Parents and the work that you all do?

A very grown up Joe with his Mom

with special needs. Their lives and the lives of their families will be filled with In looking forward, I expect to see the communities fully accessible and inclu-

hope, fun and meaningful opportunities that reflect an optimism and sense of

sive, and valuing all individuals regardless of their abilities.

security about the future.

BANP: What would you like the world to know about Parents Helping Par-

We are dreaming BIG. Your time, as a volunteer, and treasure, as a donor or

ents and how can people help make a difference?

sponsor, are investments in those big dreams.

MEP: Our clients are families of children born with birth defects or Fetal Al-

• Help us achieve greater name recognition for PHP – locally, nationally and in-

cohol Syndrome, victims of accidents, those with chronic and life threatening

ternationally – to meet the needs of families near and far who can benefit from

illnesses, the 1 out of 10 children with autism, ADHD and learning disabilities.

our expertise and experience.

One in 68 children in the US experiences Autism Spectrum Disorder. In Califor-

• Make it possible to place PHP staff and parent liaisons in local hospitals,

nia of the 6.2 million K-12 public school students, 12% are in special-ed with

schools and community centers throughout the county.

disproportionate representation by ethnicity such that 55% identify as Hispan-

• Visit, support and help us grow the innovative I-tech Center, a leader in Assis-

ic, 9% as African American, 7% as Asian/Pacific Islander and 3% as Multi-ethnic.

tive Technology for children and adults with special needs.

• Provide the means to research and develop web-enabled products and ser-

This issue is relevant to all of us. A recent study found that 9+% of employees in

vices that increase PHP efficacy and efficiency without increasing cost.

the US care for a family member with a disability – parents and siblings balanc-

Together, we can empower parents to advocate for their children with mastery,

ing work responsibilities with therapy, medical appointments, education plans.

advocating on potential rather than limits. We can support, teach and train

PHP is uniquely family-centered, focusing not just on the child, but on the in-

families to look beyond diagnoses of disabilities, to speak up with confidence

herent strengths of the family as the central unit of support for the child – no

I love it that we work to make and sustain that connection. The long tenure of

matter how old. Our mission is to help children and adults with special needs

so many of the staff, volunteers and supporters is a testament to the strength of

receive the support and services they need to reach their full potential by pro-

this connection. But I want you to know that this is not just our cause. Our mis-

viding information, training and resources to build strong families and improve

sion should be everyone’s concern because how we support the most vulnerable

systems of care. Last year, almost 6,000 parents and professionals contacted

members of our community will directly affect our overall quality of life and how

PHP and we provided over 22,000 direct services.

we value others in the community.

Most parents are warriors occasionally on behalf of their children – infants

on behalf of their children throughout the life cycle from infancy through

through adulthood. PHP parents are warriors every day. For their children who

adulthood and grow self-advocates to be leaders and to have their own voice

cannot effectively communicate, they are their eyes, ears and voices. For those

to share with all of us the bright futures that living intentional lives fosters.

who cannot self-regulate, they are monitors, moderators and often staunch defenders of rights and access. As the first and sometimes only advocates for their children, they need to have current information and tools for effectively

The Rewards Are Limitless, And I Am So Happy I Can Help.

Carolyn Qi, Fundraising Chair of the PACE Youth Leadership Committee (YLC) BANP: What is it about PACE that made you want to choose PACE? What do you do when you volunteer and how long have you been doing it?

CQ: Pacific Autism Center for Education is nothing like any other organization that I considered joining before Junior year. As a Freshman and Sophomore, I worked with another organization over the summer, helping hold a summer camp for children with special needs. With them, I did a lot of hands on work and really got to know the children. With PACE, I got the exceptional experience to work behind the scenes and help the children from all aspects. Working hands on, I could only help one child at a time, but working with PACE, I could help raise enough money to pay a professional to teach an entire class of children.

With one hour, I could benefit 10 children instead of just one.

BANP: What do you love most about what you do when you volunteer? Is there a favorite "something" you like?

CQ: We usually work behind the scenes to raise money and awareness, but occasionally get to see our hard work get put into action. That, in itself, makes the hours put into a benefit concert or local fundraiser worth it. One day, I went in during school hours to speak with Rachel, and I had to wait for a couple minutes while she was in a meeting. Within those 15 minutes, 3 students walked by me accompanied by an adult. They all said a cheerful hello to me as they went on walks, on school trips, and other various activities provided by the school.

Just seeing how my work has benefited so many students makes my day. They may not know me and I may not know them, but yet, I got to feel that connection and that joy when they smiled at me.

BANP: Do you recommend or suggest this to others?

CQ: Only for those who are dedicated to helping others. It takes a while to see your hard work pay off when you are only working behind the scenes and not hands on.

Without the immediate gratification, it takes a lot of dedication. But the rewards are limitless. The award at the finish line is doubled because the wait for it is long.

CQ: The sense of success. After Volunteer, Carolyn Qi hours and hours of making cold calls to restaurants and local stores, it feels phenomenal to get someone who picks up the phone and donates. Whenever we hold an in-restaurant fundraiser, I always get to see BANP: When you volunteer, seeing what you see family and friends eating together, and I feel and doing what you do, do you often think and hope butterflies in my stomach knowing that they came to how others, too, could join in and help make a bigger, support something I stand for. When I see young more positive difference? adults learn about children with Autism, I feel a sense a joy that more people are being exposed to the CQ: Everyone can make a simple donation that can Autism community and will become as accepting as I go to helping others. Every penny counts. If they am to these special individuals. have the time, they can volunteer at a local organization, working one on one with children with BANP: Is there a particular moment that stands out Autism. It brings me joy to see that there are others for you or a particular joy you get when you out there that support the same cause as I do, so volunteer? naturally I appreciate any form of help from others.

Everything helps make our work easier.

Pacific Autism Center for Education Connect • Support • Educate

Pacific Autism Center for Education provides for the educational and residential needs of children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities. Specialists in speech and language development, occupational therapy, behavior management and special education instruction work as a team to serve the diverse needs of our clients through our innovative Children’s Therapeutic Services for toddlers to school aged, Sunny Days Preschool, The PACE School for ages 6-22, and Residential Group Homes for those aged 6-59.

Now accepting students!

(408) 245-3400 | info@pacificautism.org 1880 Pruneridge Avenue, Santa Clara, CA www.pacificautism.org

POSITIVECOACHINGALLIANCE

BETTER ATHLETES BETTER PEOPLE

Robyn Varellas, Volunteer

Providing a Positive, Character-Building Experience For All Youth Athletes

BANP: What is it about Positive Coaching Alliance that RV: I recall a Triple-Impact Competitor® Scholarship Awards made you want to choose the Positive Coaching Alliance ... Ceremony Presented by Deloitte, where we honor high What do you do when you volunteer and how long have school athletes of exceptional character. One of the Waryou been doing it? riors’ players who was scheduled to speak had a last-minute RV: My husband, Larry, a partner at Deloitte (a corporate conflict - so off the bench came Andre Iguodala a great role supporter of PCA), has been on the Board of Positive Coach- model! ing Alliance for seven years. Our entire family has been involved with athletics at many levels BANP: Do you recommend or suggest and had the benefits of positive coaches this to others? and character-building sports experiencRV: Absolutely!! The Positive Coaching es. Understanding the lifetime impact Alliance National Advisory Board Memon youth of positive sports experiences bers, National Board Members, and staff made it an easy decision to focus on Posiat the Mountain View headquarters and tive Coaching Alliance.

Chapters across the country are some of As a volunteer, I get to spend a lot of the most talented, energetic, intelligent hands-on time working with PCA staff, as and inspirational people I have met. I feel well as interacting with student-athletes, like I should thank them every time I get board members and donors. I have been to help with an event and interact with involved for the last four years with PCA’s this group! I have learned so much from annual National Youth Sports Awards Dinthe PCA staff and management team, as Robyn Varellas ner and Auction Sponsored by Deloitte, as well as from the coaches, athletes, parwell as other donor and student-athlete recognition events. ents and students we support. What a great opportunity to learn, have fun and make a difference! Any individual, BANP: What do you love most about what you do when corporation or group that values team play and character you volunteer? Is there a favorite “something” you like? throughout life would love to support PCA. RV: I love seeing the coaches and student-athletes whom BANP: When you volunteer, seeing what you see and doing we honor at events each year. Hearing their stories of how what you do, do you often think and hope how others, too, positive coaching has been life changing for them makes could join in and help make a bigger, more positive differme proud to be a part of PCA. Volunteering also gives me ence? a chance to develop skills I enjoy – so it’s a double benefit!

RV: I do! Just think of the impact on nonprofits if everyone took a passion of theirs and put it to work for a cause they BANP: Is there a particular moment that stands out for you believe in! Nonprofits would be stronger than ever and the or a particular joy you get when you volunteer? world would be a better place!

POSITIVECOACHINGALLIANCE

BETTER ATHLETES BETTER PEOPLE

Robyn Varellas, Volunteer

Providing a Positive, Character-Building Experience For All Youth Athletes

BANP: What is it about Positive Coaching Alliance that RV: I recall a Triple-Impact Competitor® Scholarship Awards made you want to choose the Positive Coaching Alliance ... Ceremony Presented by Deloitte, where we honor high What do you do when you volunteer and how long have school athletes of exceptional character. One of the Waryou been doing it? riors’ players who was scheduled to speak had a last-minute RV: My husband, Larry, a partner at Deloitte (a corporate conflict - so off the bench came Andre Iguodala a great role supporter of PCA), has been on the Board of Positive Coach- model! ing Alliance for seven years. Our entire family has been involved with athletics at many levels BANP: Do you recommend or suggest and had the benefits of positive coaches this to others? and character-building sports experiencRV: Absolutely!! The Positive Coaching es. Understanding the lifetime impact Alliance National Advisory Board Memon youth of positive sports experiences bers, National Board Members, and staff made it an easy decision to focus on Posiat the Mountain View headquarters and tive Coaching Alliance.

Chapters across the country are some of As a volunteer, I get to spend a lot of the most talented, energetic, intelligent hands-on time working with PCA staff, as and inspirational people I have met. I feel well as interacting with student-athletes, like I should thank them every time I get board members and donors. I have been to help with an event and interact with involved for the last four years with PCA’s this group! I have learned so much from annual National Youth Sports Awards Dinthe PCA staff and management team, as Robyn Varellas ner and Auction Sponsored by Deloitte, as well as from the coaches, athletes, parwell as other donor and student-athlete recognition events. ents and students we support. What a great opportunity to learn, have fun and make a difference! Any individual, BANP: What do you love most about what you do when corporation or group that values team play and character you volunteer? Is there a favorite “something” you like? throughout life would love to support PCA. RV: I love seeing the coaches and student-athletes whom BANP: When you volunteer, seeing what you see and doing we honor at events each year. Hearing their stories of how what you do, do you often think and hope how others, too, positive coaching has been life changing for them makes could join in and help make a bigger, more positive differme proud to be a part of PCA. Volunteering also gives me ence? a chance to develop skills I enjoy – so it’s a double benefit!

RV: I do! Just think of the impact on nonprofits if everyone took a passion of theirs and put it to work for a cause they BANP: Is there a particular moment that stands out for you believe in! Nonprofits would be stronger than ever and the or a particular joy you get when you volunteer? world would be a better place!

T Together - Helping Many Where Help Is Needed

his is such we be with in gratitude, all t Our Non Profits many ways for o unfathomable.

Another great without the man volunteering? F grate We, the Board of Directors of Bay Area Nonprofits, Volu mak the g would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Ab grea our truly kind and generous sponsors. It is thanks orga of it to them for their support, that together we are know Th helping support many great nonprofits … and many arou abou great causes … that will help many people who are in com whe Ken Packer Le need here locally throughout the Bay Area.

Publisher & Executive Editor Mag ken@svlocalmag.com ken@bayareanonprofits.org spec Bay Area Nonprofits takes great pride that we are ever Connecting Volunteers & Donors to Local Nonprofits – wanting to help. for u knowing we are We can help.

Together – we will make a world of difference! in their lives, wi There are indee Thank you to all our sponsors – whether it is an individual for $10 wantor to a assist …

We look forwa corporation for $1 million – together, the impact of making a big andposimore. Toge community grea tive difference, of locally making a world of difference, of helping many future.

Here’s to our N great nonprofits and many great causes - it will certainly benefit our community!

He local communities and us all.

All the best,

Please support all our wonderful sponsors. We are indeed very grateful to all who are participating and helping make this big positive difference, this world of difference here at home, and all who will, as we will help support the many who are in need.

Ken Packer E xecutive Editor

P R O U D L O C A L COMMUNITY SPONSOR

With Great Appreciation To:

S U N N Y V A L E

L O C A L

B U S I N E S S

il Postale Italian-American Bistro & Bar FOR THEIR GENEROUS DONATION OF $5,000

IL POSTALE IS A PROUD BAY AREA NONPROFITS SPONSOR SINCE SEPTEMBER, 2015

IT IS WITH OUR DEEPEST APPRECIATION THAT WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK MR. JOE ANTUZZI AND IL POSTALE ITALIAN-AMERICAN BISTRO & BAR IN SUNNYVALE FOR THEIR SPONSORSHIP AND SUPPORT.

THANKS TO THEIR GENEROUS DONATION, THEIR SPONSORSHIP WILL HELP SUPPORT MANY LOCAL NONPROFITS IN THEIR CONNECTING WITH COMMUNITY AND FINDING WHAT WILL BE VALUABLE DONORS AND VOLUNTEERS – TO HELP WHERE MUCH HELP IS NEEDED.

Thank you very much IL POSTALE ITALIAN-AMERICAN BISTRO & BAR 100 S. MURPHY AVENUE • SUNNYVALE, CA 94086 • (408) 733-9600 • ILPOSTALE.COM

development to Elevate teachers over the course of the summer. Even after the summer Elevate [Math] program has concluded, our teachers take the teaching strategies that they learned over the course of the pro-

Silicon Valley Education Foundation (SVEF) Champions Learning for Today’s Tech-Savvy World

gram into their classrooms during the regular school year where each teacher impacts, on average, an additional 175 students.

We’re proud to say that many of our former Elevate students are now eligible to attend top four-year colleges. Our programs change the life trajectory of young students, showing them that they can succeed in mastering critical subjects and get into a good college. Our drumbeat has always been “College Begins in Middle School.”

BANP: How has SVEF made a difference and what impact do you still wish to see the foundation make?

MC: WestEd, the regional laboratory of the U.S. Department of Education,

An Interview With

MUHAMMED CHAUDHRY, President and CEO

Muhammed Chaudhry sits in on an Elevate (Math) class to help students solve a math problem.

recently published an independent study that confirmed the effective-

people help make a difference?

ness of our flagship program, Elevate [Math]. The year-long, randomized

MC: The Silicon Valley Education Foundation is one of the Valley’s most

controlled trial showed that Elevate [Math] increased the algebra readi-

prominent voices in education, particularly in underserved communi-

ness level of students by 2.4 times compared to the control group. The

ties. We believe that the best way to close the racial, socio-economic,

study also concluded that the effect of our program is more than twice

and gender achievement gaps is through education. We are a strong

the typical effect found among similar summer intervention programs.

voice for innovation, especially championing STEM education and im-

We are also making a difference with our policy advocacy. Two years ago,

plementation of education technology in the classroom. SVEF’s strategy

we created the East Side Alliance. This partnership brings the East Side

is to partner with corporations and other organizations that understand

Union High School District and its elementary feeder districts together

the need to prepare our next generation of students for skilled profes-

to provide a seamless learning experience for students and boost aca-

sional jobs in the global marketplace.

demic achievement across the district. In addition, SVEF has advocated

With generous financial support from organizations such as Applied

for school districts to adopt “A-G” requirements - standards high school

Materials, Flextronics, Chevron, SanDisk, Adobe, Intel, and the 49ers

students must meet to be eligible for California’s UC and CSU systems.

Foundation, SVEF has developed STEM-focused initiatives and math and science intervention programs that have become state and national

BANP: What is Silicon Valley Education Foundation about, and what do

BANP: What do you love most about SVEF and the work that you all do?

The number of students who were enrolled into a default A-G curriculum

you all do?

MC: Changing children’s lives. We love that we are changing the learn-

rose from 12% to almost 70% over the last six years, thanks in large part

models for changing the lives of previously underserved students.

MC: I’ve built SVEF around the belief that a new kind of organization was

ing landscape in Silicon Valley in a significant way. More than 8,000

to SVEF’s policy advocacy efforts.

SVEF also helps teachers fund projects that school budgets are unable

needed – one with a different philosophy and approach to the challeng-

middle school students have gone through our summer Elevate [Math]

Another major impact has been SVEF’s Learning Innovation Hub (iHub),

to support. Through corporate and private fundraising, we have built

es in legacy systems. I saw the need to create a non-profit resource and

program, a 75-hour (four week) intervention course that prepares in-

which has been at the forefront of education technology implementa-

a Teacher Innovation Grant program, which offers teachers funding for

advocate for students and educators. As it stands, only 50% of our high

coming 8th graders for Algebra I (or the Common Core equivalent), a

tion. iHub connects EdTech entrepreneurs with classrooms across Sili-

field trips and innovative classroom projects. Field trips give many stu-

school graduates are eligible to apply to UC or CSU. Here at SVEF, we are

critical gatekeeper to college success. By providing these students with

con Valley, giving students a chance to live test the most cutting-edge

dents from less-advantaged communities unique opportunities to ex-

obsessed with putting all students on track for college and career read-

a strong academic foundation in 8th grade, we ensure that they are both

technology while simultaneously providing feedback to developers to

perience off-campus “learning labs,” such as the California Academy of

iness. By focusing on the critical areas of science, technology, engineer-

prepared for rigorous high school coursework and set up for success in

ensure that their product will best serve students. iHub has elevated

Sciences in San Francisco or the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

ing, and math (STEM), we help students develop skills that will prepare

college. Elevate [Math], which we offer at no cost to students or their

learning for several hundred students by providing them with new tools

SVEF welcomes volunteers to make a difference in the lives of children by

them for the demands of the 21st century workforce.

families, targets students from under-served schools who score at the

that enhance their classroom experience.

helping tutor and mentor students in our Elevate [Math] classes.

To this end, we’re addressing the issues on three fronts: we work directly

“Standard Nearly Met” level on the math portion of their SBAC examina-

A final innovative program is our 49ers STEM Leadership Institute, in con-

with school districts and stakeholders to promote positive policy chang-

tion.

junction with the 49ers Foundation. Now in its second year, the program

BANP: What is it you like to say to potential donors and volunteers? Why

es for all students, provide direct programming for students in subjects

The Elevate [Math] program was designed with the goal of closing the

has enrolled 120 middle school students in a rigorous STEM curriculum

is SVEF so special?

that put them on track to succeed in college, and support innovative ini-

racial “achievement gap” in Silicon Valley – the measured discrepancy in

within the Santa Clara Unified School District. Students are exposed to

MC: We make a difference in children’s lives by placing some of the most

tiatives to bring better technologies into our classrooms.

academic performance between students of color and their white peers.

a high-tech environment with cutting-edge tools, such as laser cutters,

academically and economically-challenged students in our proven pro-

SVEF’s programs and initiatives include math intervention courses

In serving a population of students in which the majority are students of

a 3D printer, and robotics kits to help them strengthen their math and

grams with the goal of providing them support and a pathway to college

called Elevate [Math]; our 49ers STEM Leadership Institute that serves

color, Elevate [Math] works to ensure that all students are afforded the

engineering skills as they aim for admission to top-tier colleges in STEM

and successful careers. We are changing the education landscape by sig-

high-achieving students from underserved schools; the Learning Inno-

educational opportunities necessary to succeed in college and beyond

fields. We’re now building on our early success by expanding the pro-

nificantly improving student achievement in STEM subjects through our

vation Hub (iHub) that connects Bay Area classrooms with EdTech entre-

regardless of their background.

gram into high school.

academic programs and supporting technological innovation that trans-

preneurs; East Side Alliance that joins the East Side Union High School

Over the past two years, the Elevate [Math] program has aligned its cur-

We hope to lead the charge in expanding opportunities for education

form students’ classroom experiences. In partnering with underserved

District and elementary feeder districts to provide seamless learning

riculum to the new Common Core State Standards. In doing so we hope

technology implementation and pushing for computer science educa-

districts that predominantly serve students of color, we are resolved to

and advocates for district adoption of “A-G” standards. We also provide

to acquaint students with the new standards so that they will enter their

tion to become part of all schools’ core curriculum.

ensure that all students in Silicon Valley are given access to educational

Teacher Innovation Grants and community education forums.

8th grade math course more confident in their ability to succeed. We are also excited to provide 35 hours of Common Core-aligned professional

opportunities that pave the way to college so we can develop the next BANP: What would you like the world to know about SVEF and how can

generation of Silicon Valley’s leaders and innovators.

development to Elevate teachers over the course of the summer. Even after the summer Elevate [Math] program has concluded, our teachers take the teaching strategies that they learned over the course of the pro-

Silicon Valley Education Foundation (SVEF) Champions Learning for Today’s Tech-Savvy World

gram into their classrooms during the regular school year where each teacher impacts, on average, an additional 175 students.

We’re proud to say that many of our former Elevate students are now eligible to attend top four-year colleges. Our programs change the life trajectory of young students, showing them that they can succeed in mastering critical subjects and get into a good college. Our drumbeat has always been “College Begins in Middle School.”

BANP: How has SVEF made a difference and what impact do you still wish to see the foundation make?

MC: WestEd, the regional laboratory of the U.S. Department of Education,

An Interview With

MUHAMMED CHAUDHRY, President and CEO

Muhammed Chaudhry sits in on an Elevate (Math) class to help students solve a math problem.

recently published an independent study that confirmed the effective-

people help make a difference?

ness of our flagship program, Elevate [Math]. The year-long, randomized

MC: The Silicon Valley Education Foundation is one of the Valley’s most

controlled trial showed that Elevate [Math] increased the algebra readi-

prominent voices in education, particularly in underserved communi-

ness level of students by 2.4 times compared to the control group. The

ties. We believe that the best way to close the racial, socio-economic,

study also concluded that the effect of our program is more than twice

and gender achievement gaps is through education. We are a strong

the typical effect found among similar summer intervention programs.

voice for innovation, especially championing STEM education and im-

We are also making a difference with our policy advocacy. Two years ago,

plementation of education technology in the classroom. SVEF’s strategy

we created the East Side Alliance. This partnership brings the East Side

is to partner with corporations and other organizations that understand

Union High School District and its elementary feeder districts together

the need to prepare our next generation of students for skilled profes-

to provide a seamless learning experience for students and boost aca-

sional jobs in the global marketplace.

demic achievement across the district. In addition, SVEF has advocated

With generous financial support from organizations such as Applied

for school districts to adopt “A-G” requirements - standards high school

Materials, Flextronics, Chevron, SanDisk, Adobe, Intel, and the 49ers

students must meet to be eligible for California’s UC and CSU systems.

Foundation, SVEF has developed STEM-focused initiatives and math and science intervention programs that have become state and national

BANP: What is Silicon Valley Education Foundation about, and what do

BANP: What do you love most about SVEF and the work that you all do?

The number of students who were enrolled into a default A-G curriculum

you all do?

MC: Changing children’s lives. We love that we are changing the learn-

rose from 12% to almost 70% over the last six years, thanks in large part

models for changing the lives of previously underserved students.

MC: I’ve built SVEF around the belief that a new kind of organization was

ing landscape in Silicon Valley in a significant way. More than 8,000

to SVEF’s policy advocacy efforts.

SVEF also helps teachers fund projects that school budgets are unable

needed – one with a different philosophy and approach to the challeng-

middle school students have gone through our summer Elevate [Math]

Another major impact has been SVEF’s Learning Innovation Hub (iHub),

to support. Through corporate and private fundraising, we have built

es in legacy systems. I saw the need to create a non-profit resource and

program, a 75-hour (four week) intervention course that prepares in-

which has been at the forefront of education technology implementa-

a Teacher Innovation Grant program, which offers teachers funding for

advocate for students and educators. As it stands, only 50% of our high

coming 8th graders for Algebra I (or the Common Core equivalent), a

tion. iHub connects EdTech entrepreneurs with classrooms across Sili-

field trips and innovative classroom projects. Field trips give many stu-

school graduates are eligible to apply to UC or CSU. Here at SVEF, we are

critical gatekeeper to college success. By providing these students with

con Valley, giving students a chance to live test the most cutting-edge

dents from less-advantaged communities unique opportunities to ex-

obsessed with putting all students on track for college and career read-

a strong academic foundation in 8th grade, we ensure that they are both

technology while simultaneously providing feedback to developers to

perience off-campus “learning labs,” such as the California Academy of

iness. By focusing on the critical areas of science, technology, engineer-

prepared for rigorous high school coursework and set up for success in

ensure that their product will best serve students. iHub has elevated

Sciences in San Francisco or the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

ing, and math (STEM), we help students develop skills that will prepare

college. Elevate [Math], which we offer at no cost to students or their

learning for several hundred students by providing them with new tools

SVEF welcomes volunteers to make a difference in the lives of children by

them for the demands of the 21st century workforce.

families, targets students from under-served schools who score at the

that enhance their classroom experience.

helping tutor and mentor students in our Elevate [Math] classes.

To this end, we’re addressing the issues on three fronts: we work directly

“Standard Nearly Met” level on the math portion of their SBAC examina-

A final innovative program is our 49ers STEM Leadership Institute, in con-

with school districts and stakeholders to promote positive policy chang-

tion.

junction with the 49ers Foundation. Now in its second year, the program

BANP: What is it you like to say to potential donors and volunteers? Why

es for all students, provide direct programming for students in subjects

The Elevate [Math] program was designed with the goal of closing the

has enrolled 120 middle school students in a rigorous STEM curriculum

is SVEF so special?

that put them on track to succeed in college, and support innovative ini-

racial “achievement gap” in Silicon Valley – the measured discrepancy in

within the Santa Clara Unified School District. Students are exposed to

MC: We make a difference in children’s lives by placing some of the most

tiatives to bring better technologies into our classrooms.

academic performance between students of color and their white peers.

a high-tech environment with cutting-edge tools, such as laser cutters,

academically and economically-challenged students in our proven pro-

SVEF’s programs and initiatives include math intervention courses

In serving a population of students in which the majority are students of

a 3D printer, and robotics kits to help them strengthen their math and

grams with the goal of providing them support and a pathway to college

called Elevate [Math]; our 49ers STEM Leadership Institute that serves

color, Elevate [Math] works to ensure that all students are afforded the

engineering skills as they aim for admission to top-tier colleges in STEM

and successful careers. We are changing the education landscape by sig-

high-achieving students from underserved schools; the Learning Inno-

educational opportunities necessary to succeed in college and beyond

fields. We’re now building on our early success by expanding the pro-

nificantly improving student achievement in STEM subjects through our

vation Hub (iHub) that connects Bay Area classrooms with EdTech entre-

regardless of their background.

gram into high school.

academic programs and supporting technological innovation that trans-

preneurs; East Side Alliance that joins the East Side Union High School

Over the past two years, the Elevate [Math] program has aligned its cur-

We hope to lead the charge in expanding opportunities for education

form students’ classroom experiences. In partnering with underserved

District and elementary feeder districts to provide seamless learning

riculum to the new Common Core State Standards. In doing so we hope

technology implementation and pushing for computer science educa-

districts that predominantly serve students of color, we are resolved to

and advocates for district adoption of “A-G” standards. We also provide

to acquaint students with the new standards so that they will enter their

tion to become part of all schools’ core curriculum.

ensure that all students in Silicon Valley are given access to educational

Teacher Innovation Grants and community education forums.

8th grade math course more confident in their ability to succeed. We are also excited to provide 35 hours of Common Core-aligned professional

opportunities that pave the way to college so we can develop the next BANP: What would you like the world to know about SVEF and how can

generation of Silicon Valley’s leaders and innovators.

Volunteering as a Family Teaches Important Life-long Lessons Volunteer opportunities for families are varied. You should be able to find one that fits your family’s interests, schedule and the age range of your children.

Selecting a Volunteer Opportunity: Choosing your family’s first few volunteer opportunities may be a learning experience. You can choose opportunities based on issues about which your family is passionate, needs in your community, or organizations that you have researched. You will also have to decide how large of a block of time your family can spend volunteering. Check out volunteer opportunities thoroughly to make sure they are good matches for your family. A bad experience can cause a negative reaction to volunteering in the future.

To learn about volunteer opportunities that include children in your children’s age range, look for social service agencies in your area on the internet or in the yellow pages or check out VolunteerMatch online.

Some ideas to consider are: Shopping for food, clothing, or toys and delivering them to an organization that distributes them Participating in a community clean-up Visiting a nursing home or a home-bound senior citizen Collecting books or toys for a hospital Holding a fundraising event like a bake sale Participating in a charity walk Helping at an animal or wildlife center Helping on a regular basis at a social service organization Preparing Your Children: Before your family participates in a volunteer event, talk to your children about what you will be doing, who will benefit and why it is important. Be enthusiastic and upbeat. Take them on a field trip if it helps illustrate the value of the volunteer work.

Assessing the Experience and Planning the Next One: After the volunteer activity, have a family discussion about the activity, how your children feel about it, and what you all learned. Provide some options and ask your children which one they would like to do next time.

Benefits for Your Children: Volunteer activities are a time for families to bond, and they teach children about others whose lives are very different from their own lives. Children learn compassion, the joy of giving, and the importance of community service. In addition, children from families who volunteer together are more likely to continue to volunteer as adults. Volunteering shapes your children’s lives long-term.

The joy is in the giving. It certainly creates a positive impact and makes a positive difference. It’s a lesson well learned and sets a wonderful example. In gratitude, it touches everyone and in so many positive ways. As a family, helping others is a gift, and is something that will be cherished and appreciated for a lifetime by all.

By Ken Packer E X E C U T I V E

E D I T O R

P R O U D L O C A L COMMUNITY SPONSOR

With Great Appreciation To:

M O U N T A I N

V I E W

L O C A L

B U S I N E S S

LA FIESTA RESTAURANT FOR THEIR GENEROUS DONATION OF $6,250

LA FIESTA IS A PROUD BAY AREA NONPROFITS SPONSOR SINCE OCTOBER, 2015

IT IS WITH OUR DEEPEST APPRECIATION THAT WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK LA FIESTA FOR THEIR SPONSORSHIP AND SUPPORT.

THANKS TO THEIR GENEROUS DONATION, THEIR SPONSORSHIP WILL HELP SUPPORT MANY LOCAL NONPROFITS IN THEIR CONNECTING WITH COMMUNITY AND FINDING WHAT WILL BE VALUABLE DONORS AND VOLUNTEERS – TO HELP WHERE MUCH HELP IS NEEDED.

Thank you very much

LA FIESTA RESTAURANT 240 VILLA STREET • MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA 94041 • (650) 968-1364 • LAFIESTARESTAURANT.NET

Fighting lung disease in our local communities since 1911

BREATHE CALIFORNIA is dedicated to fighting the most critical lung health issues. Our grassroots organization works with communities to promote health through a host of local programs and services. Over the years, our key roles have included establishing tobacco-free communities, achieving healthy air quality and fighting diseases such as asthma and tuberculosis. 100% of the funds we raise remain here in the Bay Area to make a difference in the place we call home.

TOBACCO EDUCATION & PREVENTION • BREATHING IMPROVEMENT COURSES • ASTHMA MANAGEMENT CLASSES LUNG HEALTH SPEAKERS BUREAU • COMMUNITY FORUMS & EVENTS • ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENTS • SMOKEFREE COMMUNITIES • SUMMER ASTHMA CAMP • PATIENT SUPPORT GROUPS • LUNG DISEASE RESEARCH INFORMATION & REFERRALS • TB PREVENTION PROGRAM • “QUIT SMOKING” CLINICS • CLEAN AIR CAMPAIGNS

408.998.5865 | www.lungsrus.org | 1469 Park Avenue, San Jose, CA 95126

Our Clients are youth and adults 16 years and up with any disability who can achieve COMPETITIVE EMPLOYMENT.

Our Mission Expandability provides persons with disabilities access to adaptive technology and career transition services so that they can achieve their desired education and employment, and improve their quality of life.

Over 14,000 People Served Since 1997

Expandability Solutions    

 

    

For Youth & Adults: Career, education and benefits counseling Self-Advocacy Employment exploration and preparation with workshops, job shadowing, informational interviews Job Placement and support Assistive Technology which modifies the computer workstation for persons with specific functional limitations, such as limited movement, blindness, learning disability or a work related injury Autism at Work Expandability Staffing Boot Camp for job search, social and life management skills OTAY for youth with mental health disabilities CA Promise for youth with severe disabilities receiving SSI

Get Involved, Make A Difference

Your company can work with us to develop strategies to employ people with disabilities that meet your business needs.  Offer paid internships for people with disabilities  Use Exandability Staffing for your temporary hiring needs  Contract with Expandability for outsourced business functions such as mail room services, document control, and customer service Services for Employers Assistive Technology Accommodations Disability Awareness Training Effective strategies for ensuring contingent workforce is inclusive  Recruitment strategies for hiring persons with disabilities of all skill levels     

74% of students placed into jobs by Expandability achieved paid employment for over 90 days

The best reason to hire a person with disabilities is because he or she is qualified. Employers also benefit in other ways by:  Reducing training and recruitment costs. People with disabilities have higher performance rates and are less likely to leave.  Increasing productivity in work groups. People with disabilities motivate other employees.  Diversifying your workforce to appeal to a diverse customer base. One in five Americans has a disability, representing $1 trillion in purchase power.  Utilizing tax credits.

Expandability 1150 S. Bascom Avenue Suite #7A San Jose, CA. 95128 Tel: (408) 278-2000 Fax: (408) 278-2010 Email: maria@expandability.org

Issues Facing People With Disabilities

With Disability

Without Disability

Employment Rate

39%

73%

High School Graduation Rate

64%

83%

Household Income

$42,800

$66,200

Completion of 1 Year of College

5%

28%

Poverty Rate

Double

92.5% of high school seniors served by Expandability complete high school

Last year 85% of high school seniors served transitioned or made plans to transition to postsecondary education

35 YEARS OF FEEDING THE HUNGRY The mission of Loaves & Fishes Family Kitchen is providing no cost hot, nutritious meals and support services in a dignified, safe, and caring environment. We offer our services to all in need with a special emphasis on families, seniors, and the homeless. Our vision is to serve as many struggling individuals as possible with a focus on geographical areas of greatest need. Loaves & Fishes began with a simple meal of fish and bread for 11 adults and 15 children in February, 1980. Today, we are one of the most respected nonprofits in the Bay Area, serving over 2,500 meals a week.

The Need Research shows that 31% of Santa Clara County households—185,000 families—were vulnerable to hunger. Hunger and malnutrition have severe and long-lasting consequences. Hungry children have trouble focusing at school, thus jeopardizing their ability to do well in their studies and thereby create better lives in the future. Malnourished seniors are at greater risk of losing their independence. Poor nutrition leads to obesity (especially in children) and increases the risk of diabetes and heart disease.

Malnutrition in a pregnant woman can seriously affect her child’s health. Through our nutritious hot meals, Loaves & Fishes Family Kitchen plays a vital role in helping to keep children, adults, and seniors healthy and productive.

Current Programs Loaves & Fishes serves meals seven days per week (including holidays) throughout the Bay Area. We expect to serve at least 150,000–200,000 meals at those locations in FY 2014–2015. Also, we are planning to add at least two more meal-service locations this year. We are committed to nutritionally balanced meals, and is one of the few soup kitchens in Northern California that has it’s own organic garden and emphasizes fresh fruits and vegetables, along with healthy protein items, rather than canned or processed foods that tend to be high in sugar and/or sodium.

Special meals are prepared on Thanksgiving and Christmas, providing warmth and compassion. These meals are an opportunity to enjoy a hot meal while spending the holiday with others.

For those who need to prepare food at home, Loaves & Fishes provides monthly grocery bags filled with staple items, such as pasta, peanut butter, and fresh produce. In Fiscal Year 2014–15, we expect to provide approximately 2,000 bags to local families.

WWW.LOAVESFISHES.ORG

Josh Russell and Steve Wozniak on the set of Signature Silicon Valley with Janice Edwards, executive producer and host. Signature Silicon Valley shows every Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. on Comcast Silicon Valley Channel 30 in San Jose and Campbell.

PARTNER WITH CREATV SAN JOSE It’s good for the community.

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255 West Julian Street, Suite 100, San Jose, California 95110

What is ichthyosis?

Ichthyosis is a family of genetic skin disorders characterized by dry, scaling skin that may be thickened or very thin. The prefix “ichthy” is taken from the Greek root for the word fish. Each year, more than 16,000 babies are born with some form of ichthyosis.

Ichthyosis affects people of all ages, races and gender.

The disease usually presents at birth, or within the first year, and continues to affect the patient throughout their lifetime.

What is FIRST? FIRST is a vibrant, growing foundation connected to its members and families by the special skin and unique management needs of individuals and families with ichthyosis and related skin types.

FIRST supports families across the country and around the world. An example of how FIRST can have an immediate impact in your community

is the online ‘Tele-Ichthyosis’ tool: http://www. firstskinfoundation.org/content.cfm/Ichthyosis/ Tele-Ichthyosis/page_id/762 If a baby is born with a rare skin disorder, doctors can upload images, documents or questions to the Tele-Ichthyosis web portal and receive guidance from an expert panel.

What causes ichthyosis?

Most forms of ichthyosis are very rare. The genetic mutation that causes the disorder is passed from parent to child. In some cases however, neither parent exhibits the disorder themselves, but they are carriers of the defective gene. When two carriers pass their mutated gene on to a new life, the child will inherit the disorder. In some very rare cases, the genetic mutation occurs spontaneously in the affected generation.

Dane’s Friends for FIRST Concert Our son, Dane Christian Phelps, showed signs of ichthyosis at 6 weeks old. His rare form of ichthyosis, which was likely caused by a spontaneous gene mutation, also affected his heart. Although Dane only lived to be 3 ½ years old, he touched many lives and will continue to reach thousands more with Dane’s Friends for FIRST Concert. Please join us on September 12th, 2015, for an inspirational night of music and dance at the Flint Center (De Anza College, Cupertino, CA). There will also be a silent auction. We would love for you to join us! For more information please visit: https://www.facebook.com/DanesFriendsForFIRST Article submitted by Suzanne and Eric Phelps of San Jose, CA.

The ‘Sons of Serendip’ are a talented musical quartet from Massachussetts. You may recognize them as the 4th place finishers on season 9 of America’s Got Talent (2014). We are honored that they will be performing for our next concert at the Flint Center in Cupertino on September 12th, 2015. What a blessing. You won’t want to miss it and we’d love to see you there! www.sonsofserendip.com

25

YEARS

Family Giving Tree

HOLIDAY WISH DRIVE HO

P

E

O

TM

SE

IN

NEED

SHARING

Family Giving Tree AN

D JOY WITH

TH

One-quarter of California’s children are living below the federal poverty line* Because no child should feel forgotten during the holidays, the Family Giving Tree is bringing joy to children in need by fulfilling their exact holiday wishes. And, for 25 years, it’s been our honor to share the hope and joy of the holidays with Bay Area children and their families. * September, 2014 Public Policy Institute of California

Join Us in Sharing Hope and Joy

1

Visit Us Online

2

Make a Donation

3

www.FamilyGivingTree.org

Lead a Drive

Family Giving Tree

BACK-TO-SCHOOL DRIVE

Education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty In the Bay Area, 74% of low-income 10th graders score below Algebra standards.

When 80% of jobs created in next decade will require STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) skills, not having the proper school supplies can be a barrier to learning. The Family Giving Tree’s Backto-School Drive gets kids started off on the right foot!

“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.”

– William Butler Yeats

Join Us in Sharing Hope and Joy

1

Visit Us Online

2

Make a Donation

3

Lead a Drive

The

San Francisco 49ers

Community Relations and

49ers Foundation

A PROUD TRADITION BOTH ON AND OFF THE FIELD

ncer sula with Breast Ca m To Jim h ac Co ad 49ers He r 2014 Warriors in Octobe

49ers Linebacke rs visit Good Samaritan Hos pital

H

ow do you define a Class Organization? From the very top on down. An organization that, internally, has everyone’s attention and 100% participation. Pride that’s felt everywhere and amongst everyone. Like one big family that cares. That’s the 49ers.

The Season is actually 12 months long for the 49ers – as they like to say, “There is no off-season” – both on and off the field. As the on-field football season ends, the Foundation gets to work, hosting charitable events that raise millions of dollars to benefit non-profit organizations in alignment with the 49ers Foundation’s mission to keep kids “Safe, On Track, and In School.” During the season,

ving dinner to Serving Thanksgi at Loaves & Fishes homeless families

each week on the players’ day off, the 49ers orchestrate community events that transform people’s lives.

The San Francisco 49ers Foundation is the non-profit community funding extension of the 49ers, now in its 23rd year.

TE Vernon Davis host ing kids a a Player t VISA Sho p With

49ers honor breast cancer survivors at an October home game

The Foundation supports programs for underserved youth that keep them “Safe, On Track and In School.” Over the past 23 years, the Foundation has donated nearly $30.6 million - $4.6 million in 2014, including a $1 million gift to launch the 49ers STEM Leadership Institute in collaboration with the Silicon Valley Education Foundation and the Santa Clara Unified School District with significant support from Chevron.

The philanthropic efforts of the 49ers Foundation are highly focused and strategic; remaining true to the well-developed mission statement and purpose and committed to creating measurable results through transformational grants and impact programs.

In 2014, 49ers players participated in more than 50 events, donating over 400 hours of volunteer time, impacting over Joanne Pasternack 80,000 people in Director of Community need annually.

Relations and the In 2014, 100% 49ers Foundation of the players participated in one-or-more community events.

Meet Joanne Pasternack, the Director of Community Relations and the 49ers Foundation for the San Francisco 49ers. Joanne attended high school in the Bay Area. Her father was a dedicated fan of the 49ers and Joanne grew up cheering for the 49ers as well. She went to college at the University of Pennsylvania, then to law school at Santa Clara University.

Following law school, she went to Washington, DC, where she worked with the Kennedy and Shriver families for the extraordinary non-profit, Special Olympics. At Special Olympics, she found a perfect marriage of her two passions – sports and philanthropy. It was the beginning of Joanne’s path towards a position that seems tailor-made for her interests and skills.

After working a World Winter Games for Special Olympics in Alaska, Joanne returned to the Bay Area where she secured a job with the City of Mountain View in the City Manager’s Office and the Police Department. While there, she co-founded the Mountain View Police Activities League (MVPAL), where she once again found a natural proclivity for event management, charitable outreach and using sports as a vehicle to transform perceptions and, in turn, a community. She was at the City of Mountain View in a variety of roles for over six years when, one day, she saw a job posting.

She remembers how her heart began beating with excitement as she read the position description. “Looking for the right person … The San Francisco 49ers … Community Relations.”

She couldn’t believe what she was reading. This would be her dream job and she wanted to go for it and boy, did she!

Joanne was interviewed extensively. It was a very thorough process - it was that important to them. They certainly knew that they found the right person and she certainly knew that she found the right organization! They complete each other, on and off the field. Her words: “I live this … I breathe this … and I love this job.”

Joanne told me about the 49ers and their overall commitment to charitable work. Their concept of Sports and Philanthropy was no afterthought. Leading by example, are John and Denise and Jed York and their entire family. John, Denise and Jed live and breathe philanthropy, vigorously engaging in activities and throwing considerable energy, effort and support towards the team’s charitable endeavors. John and Denise’s daughters, Jenna and Mara, are active participants in nearly every community event, sharing their zeal for transforming the lives of at-risk youth through hands on service. Their brother, Tony, is also involved and spent time with his father in New Orleans, visiting a school that had been ravaged by Hurricane Katrina and taking time to get to know the students, among other activities. Daughter-in-law, Danielle (Jed’s wife), is a former school teacher and worked for years in an underserved middle school deep in the heart of one of the most challenged parts of San Francisco. From the top down, it’s the

49ers honor troops aboard the USS America

culture, the fabric, the very spirit. Their desire has always been, and will always be, to see “Philanthropic change through sports.” Indeed, they want to be not just the best in the NFL, but in all sports. In 2013, they achieved this goal and were named the national recipients of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s prestigious Steve Patterson Award for excellence in sports philanthrophy. They were also one of four finalists for the Global Beyond Sport Award for outstanding sports team.

The San Francisco 49ers Foundation was honored by the San Jose/Silicon Valley Business Journal for being No. 13 in corporate philanthropic giving in 2014. Not bad for a company that has only 250 employees. The No. 2 Company, by comparison, was Cisco, with 72,000 employees.

There are many examples of their contributions. The San Francisco 49ers Academy – a school for low income middle school youth in East Palo Alto – not only bears the name of the 49ers football team, but it is also indelibly stamped with the spirit of their storied franchise. The school focuses on the underlying socioeconomic situations that were barriers to the students’ success by collaborating with teachers, police officers and strong mentors.

Recognizing the challenges faced by youth in the economically disadvantaged community of East Palo Alto and seeing an opportunity to make a measurable difference for these youth, the 49ers Foundation has been a part of the Academy since 1996, giving grants while also providing

Coach Tomsula Greeting Football Camp for the Stars Participants - a camp for athletes with Down syndrome

49ers STEM Leadership Institute

hands on support through collaboration, 1000s of game tickets, mentorship, facility enhancement, and donations.

With an increase in obesity rates among our nation’s youth, the 49ers have incorporated the PLAY 60 youth fitness program into the Academy to increase the students’ overall health, building a $75,000 outdoor fitness zone and bringing national visibility to the school and its commitment to fitness through a partnership with Matthew McConaughey. With the 49ers involvement, test scores have skyrocketed to the highest level in the school district – on par with far wealthier ZIP codes. In 2014, the 49ers Foundation facilitated $750K in contributions to the Academy, hosted eight events and dedicated countless volunteer hours to assist the youth.

And there is so much more! Breast Cancer Awareness, helping feed the homeless, where Jed has been the Food and Fund Drive CoChairman for Second Harvest Food Bank for

LB Patrick Willis with Make-A-Wish recipient

QB Colin Kaepernick with a Make-A-Wish guest

two years. The Bayview Hunters Point YMCA near Candlestick Park is another place they love supporting. They are also strong supporters of City Year San Jose/Silicon Valley, Hedge Funds Care (eradication of child abuse), the Center for Youth Wellness, Fresh Lifeline for Youth (FLY), and the Football Camp for the Stars (a camp for athletes with Down syndrome), and many others.

The 49ers Taube/Koret Touchdowns for Kids program is another wonderful example of the giving spirit of the 49ers. For every Touchdown, Field Goal, Interception and Sack, in partnership

with the Taube Family Foundation and the Koret Foundation, the 49ers, philanthropist Tad Taube and Koret have raised $1.25 million to help support Bay Area charitable organizations.

Again, here is a collaborative commitment that helps improve the life, safety and educational opportunities for the children of the communities they serve.

The 49ers host two very popular — and philanthropically productive — fundraising events. One is the Pasta Bowl. This has become their popular annual kick-off to the new season, the night before pre-season training begins. All the players come together and literally serve their designated table of admiring fans with food and pictures and fun. All proceeds go to benefit the community. There is also the 49ers Foundation Winter Fest, held in March in Lake Tahoe. This event always sells out. It’s a fun time for all and in 2014, the 49ers Foundation brought in $2 million during the weekend to support local Bay Area charities.

That primarily is the Foundation side. There is also the Community Relations side. Each week, the players have one day off. Typically it is on Monday. On their day off, the Community Relations team organizes community events where players have an opportunity to participate in hands-on service events where they can directly impact those in need in the Bay Area.

From hosting a board game tournament for youth with serious illness at the Ronald McDonald House to building a playground in East Palo Alto, inspiring incarcerated youth to choose a different and more productive path and so very much more, for the 49ers philanthropic outreach efforts, it is always about the people and for those in need in our community. There are a good number of players who can relate to coming from hard upbringings and they pour their hearts into the events. FLY is a perfect example, where the players and students talk about issues and goals. The players inspire and make a difference for the kids they personally reach through such community visits.

Even on the road, like when they have traveled to Youngstown to train in between East Coast games, they made a huge difference visiting a local hospital, school, and community center. In October 2010 and 2013, when

dedication and passion. they traveled to London to play in the NFL “The key here is that the members of the International Series game, they had one day off. Instead of site-seeing, they arranged special 49ers family recognize that they have been blessed with a special opportunity - one that days with a hugely popular Premier League is not to be taken for granted,” Joanne said. team – Tottenham Hotspur – and together, in “The 49ers take this responsibility seriously. one of the poorer districts of London, they held That is why we do what we do. Whether it a collaborative event for 100 low-income youth is a rookie or a seasoned veteran, ownership showcasing the PLAY 60 movement and the or a 49ers alumnus, we are so very proud of importance of getting out to play, 60 minutes a day, through both football and soccer.

It was an amazing day. The 49ers were the first to host such a large scale event while playing the International Series game. The following year, another team repeated this warm, monumental gesture.

The 49ers are also very active in spreading the messaging of the NFL “Play 60” Campaign to inspire children to be active and keep healthy. Vernon Davis has been a 49ers spokesperson.

2014 49ers Foundation Contribution Announcement at Levi’s® Stadium One year, inspired by the youth’s our 49ers and their authentic commitment to commitment to the campaign, he hosted a transforming the lives of those in need.” team of 15 students from the 49ers Academy Indeed, when I visited with Joanne, there who participated in a competition to write a was definitely an energy, a spirit that touched commercial for “Play 60.” Vernon arranged for a Limo ride to a special evening held at his home everything and everyone there. It was obvious – all about helping benefit community – and with an Academy Awards Red Carpet look, plus infectiously and fantastically impactful. The Paparazzi and Oscar-like statues for the kids. A fun, memorable event for everyone for a life time! 49ers feel that community has done so much to benefit them as an organization and, as Another example of the tremendous a result, the organization in turn is happy player participation is Joe Staley who, with and proud to be able to give back to the a librarian for a mother, loves reading to community - as it has and will continue to in elementary students and was honored with perpetuity. If there were a Super Bowl Trophy a national accolade for helping build literacy among youth. It does make a difference. And given to the organization based on what they do off the field, as well, no doubt the San the list of what all the 49ers do, individually, Francisco 49ers would be winners of that one as a Team and as an organization is a very each and every year. long one. All without fanfare, but with total

SUCCESS STORY

Year Up empowers young adults to go

from poverty to a professional career

IN A YEAR.

WHO ARE WE?

WHO DO WE SERVE?

Since opening its doors in 2008, Year Up Bay Area has served more than 1,100 young adults.

We train 320 students at our San Francisco and Silicon Valley campuses each year.

To qualify, students must:

Year Up’s model combines the development of marketable job skills, an educational stipend, an internship, college credits and support to help place young adults on a viable path to economic self-sufficiency.

WHO ARE OUR PARTNERS?*

• Have a high school diploma or GED • Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident or have legal right to work in the U.S.

* partial listing of Year Up Bay Area’s more than 40 Corporate Partners

OUR IMPACT

360 students

100%

SERVED ANNUALLY

INTERNSHIP PLACEMENT

“I feel powerful,”

says Marla Bell, a San Francisco native and recent graduate of Year Up Bay Area. “I’ve accomplished so much in one year.

Imagine what I’m going to accomplish in the years to come.”

A year ago, Marla was working a dead-end job. Today, she is working full-time at AutoDesk, a software company, as a Training and Organizational Development Assistant.

Before Year Up, Marla considered college, but it was not a feasible option due to financial constraints. She was hungry for an opportunity. That’s when she discovered Year Up. Year Up students attend classes for six months in a rigorous academic setting, learning the technical and professional skills necessary to succeed in entry-level technology-based positions. They then put their newlyacquired skills to work at a six-month internship with some of the top companies in the Bay Area.

• Be between the ages of 18 – 24

• Be highly-motivated to learn technical and professional skills for a career in Information Technology (IT)

Visit yearup.org for more student success stories

94%

WORKING OR STUDYING FULL TIME1

$21.00 $7.25 Federal

Year Up Bay Area Graduate

minimum wage

HOURLY WAGE2

GIVE | VOLUNTEER | HOST | HIRE

Help Us Close The Opportunity Divide!

PLEASE VISIT YEARUP.ORG FOR MORE INFO

1. Weighted average wage of employed Year Up Bay Area graduates from most recent class; minimum wage: http://www.dol.gov/whd/minwage/q-a.htm.

2. Positive Outcomes defined as working or in school full time within 4 months of graduation from program.

Marla majored in Project Management and landed her role at AutoDesk as a Training and Organizational Development Intern where she assisted her team with organization and preparation. “Transitioning from being a Year Up intern to a full-time employee felt like I was taking the training wheels off,” admits Marla. “But I’ve learned that personal growth is endless.”

Marla proudly stood on stage as the Master of Ceremonies with her job offer already in hand. She is dedicated to uplifting her Bayview-Hunter’s Point community and plans to pursue higher education in Africana studies and eventually start her own nonprofit.

Underrepresented youth have even more reason to work harder. It’s difficult to work hard if you don’t have the tools and resources, and

that’s where Year Up thankfully steps in.

San Francisco Campus, 80 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA 94104 | 415.512.7588 Silicon Valley Campus, 100 West San Fernando Street, Suite 103, San Jose, CA 95113 | 408.513.3004

SUCCESS STORY

Year Up empowers young adults to go

from poverty to a professional career

IN A YEAR.

WHO ARE WE?

WHO DO WE SERVE?

Since opening its doors in 2008, Year Up Bay Area has served more than 1,100 young adults.

We train 320 students at our San Francisco and Silicon Valley campuses each year.

To qualify, students must:

Year Up’s model combines the development of marketable job skills, an educational stipend, an internship, college credits and support to help place young adults on a viable path to economic self-sufficiency.

WHO ARE OUR PARTNERS?*

• Have a high school diploma or GED • Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident or have legal right to work in the U.S.

* partial listing of Year Up Bay Area’s more than 40 Corporate Partners

OUR IMPACT

360 students

100%

SERVED ANNUALLY

INTERNSHIP PLACEMENT

“I feel powerful,”

says Marla Bell, a San Francisco native and recent graduate of Year Up Bay Area. “I’ve accomplished so much in one year.

Imagine what I’m going to accomplish in the years to come.”

A year ago, Marla was working a dead-end job. Today, she is working full-time at AutoDesk, a software company, as a Training and Organizational Development Assistant.

Before Year Up, Marla considered college, but it was not a feasible option due to financial constraints. She was hungry for an opportunity. That’s when she discovered Year Up. Year Up students attend classes for six months in a rigorous academic setting, learning the technical and professional skills necessary to succeed in entry-level technology-based positions. They then put their newlyacquired skills to work at a six-month internship with some of the top companies in the Bay Area.

• Be between the ages of 18 – 24

• Be highly-motivated to learn technical and professional skills for a career in Information Technology (IT)

Visit yearup.org for more student success stories

94%

WORKING OR STUDYING FULL TIME1

$21.00 $7.25 Federal

Year Up Bay Area Graduate

minimum wage

HOURLY WAGE2

GIVE | VOLUNTEER | HOST | HIRE

Help Us Close The Opportunity Divide!

PLEASE VISIT YEARUP.ORG FOR MORE INFO

1. Weighted average wage of employed Year Up Bay Area graduates from most recent class; minimum wage: http://www.dol.gov/whd/minwage/q-a.htm.

2. Positive Outcomes defined as working or in school full time within 4 months of graduation from program.

Marla majored in Project Management and landed her role at AutoDesk as a Training and Organizational Development Intern where she assisted her team with organization and preparation. “Transitioning from being a Year Up intern to a full-time employee felt like I was taking the training wheels off,” admits Marla. “But I’ve learned that personal growth is endless.”

Marla proudly stood on stage as the Master of Ceremonies with her job offer already in hand. She is dedicated to uplifting her Bayview-Hunter’s Point community and plans to pursue higher education in Africana studies and eventually start her own nonprofit.

Underrepresented youth have even more reason to work harder. It’s difficult to work hard if you don’t have the tools and resources, and

that’s where Year Up thankfully steps in.

San Francisco Campus, 80 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA 94104 | 415.512.7588 Silicon Valley Campus, 100 West San Fernando Street, Suite 103, San Jose, CA 95113 | 408.513.3004

You a r e

CoRdIAllY INVITed to a

SpeCIAl ToUR of

VAlleY MedICAl CeNTeR in San JoSe

Join us for a special insider’s tour which will include a look at our state-of-the-art Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Rehabilitation Center and highlight the new construction on the VMC campus.

Schedule Your Tour

About VMC Foundation

Tours are scheduled on an ongoing basis. If you are interested, please call 408.885.5206 or email vmcfoundation@hhs.sccgov.org. Individuals and groups—large and small—are welcome.

VMC Foundation raises donations from the community on behalf of our hospital and the entire Santa Clara Valley Health & Hospital System. The Foundation seeks these funds for programs that support community well-being, improve the quality of care, and promote access to medical treatment for all residents of Santa Clara County regardless of their ability to pay.

Valley Medical Center 751 South Bascom Avenue, San Jose, CA 95128

Enroll in Cancer Prevention Study-3.

By enrolling in the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Prevention Study (CPS-3), you can help us understand how to prevent cancer, which will save lives and create a world with more birthdays for everyone.

This New Year, resolve to help fight cancer by participating in CPS-3. During 2013, CPS-3 enrollment will be held at locations throughout the Bay Area.

For more information about enrolling or volunteering, please visit cancer.org/cps3 or call 1-888-604-5888.

Š2009, American Cancer Society, Inc. No.080131-Rev.10/10

Who has the game plan in your family?

In an emergency, every second counts – that’s why it’s crucial to identify a meeting place in case your family is separated during a disaster. Designate a meeting place in your neighborhood and one outside of the neighborhood in case you have to evacuate. Establish the right emergency plan for your family – we’ll show you how.

Download the Earthquake mobile app to make your plan or visit redcross.org/ prepare today

Silicon Valley Chapter

Creating Opportunities for Self-Reliance in Santa Clara County • Advocacy to Cut Poverty • Behavioral Health • Children, Youth and Family Development • Economic Development • Education • Employment • Financial Education • Housing Services • Immigration Legal Services • In-Home and Long-Term Care • Older Adult Services • Refugee Resettlement and Foster Care • Senior Nutrition and CalFresh • Youth and Senior Community Centers

S E R V I N G A L L C U LT U R E S A N D B E L I E F S 2625 Zanker Road, San Jose, CA 95134 408.468.0100 | www.CatholicCharitiesSCC.org | info@CatholicCharitiesSCC.org Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County

@GregKepferle

CatholicCharitiesTV

I AM FOR THE CHILD

™

Learn More.

Attend an orientation for information.

Help.

Volunteer at the office or special events.

Donate.

With your support, we can provide an Advocate for every child on our waiting list.

Become a friend, mentor and advocate for an abused child.

w w w. B e M y A d v o c a t e . o r g For more information Call: (408) 573-5665 Email: info@cadvocates.org

CHANGE THE WAY YOU LOOK AT IDEAS.

For over 25 years, the Churchill Club has been a place in Silicon Valley for important people to say important things. We encourage an open exchange of ideas and different perspectives in pursuit of innovation, economic growth, and societal benefit. That’s a noble cause, no matter how you see the world.

churchillclub.org

™

The Art of Helping Many Where Help is Needed A VISIT WITH DR. EMMETT CARSON & SILICON VALLEY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION “Lifelong Philanthropy - Here in Silicon Valley, we have a front-row seat to view trends, not only in the tech sector that gives us our name but also in philanthropy. Here, where the ceiling for wealth is high, and so are the needs of those without it, we’re seeing a major shift …

“We are seeing more people embrace philanthropy … Developing ways to partner with them in achieving their charitable passions is our job … Philanthropy is becoming a lifelong pursuit, one that addresses a wide range of problems, issues and needs … The effect this trend will have on our communities is up to all of us.” - Dr. Emmett Carson A VERY SPECIAL MERGER It was October, 2006, when Dr. Emmett Carson was recruited to oversee the merger of the Peninsula Community Foundation (San Mateo County) and the Community Foundation Silicon Valley (Santa Clara County).

The merger took place in January, 2007, and for Dr. Carson it meant moving to California from Minnesota to undertake the unprecedented challenge of merging two separate community foundations – an attempt to unite donors in two very different counties, as well as bridge many different business communities and city politics.

Predictably, there would be a lot of resistance.

Dr. Carson accepted this challenge, becoming CEO and President in late 2006. He is the first to say that the merger of the two entities – whose staffs

were almost completely unknown to one another – was a collaboration that took shape over time.

As CEO, Dr. Carson has continued to lead a unified Silicon Valley Community Foundation to new heights. The nonprofit organization has grown exponentially thanks to the great staff, the many wonderful relationships built, the overall inspiring group of partners, and its many donors. Silicon Valley Community Foundation has become the largest community foundation in the nation and in the world.

SVCF’s work in the community locally, nationally and globally continues to grow. “Our grantmaking activity in 2014 is just one example of the incredible generosity of individuals and corporations throughout the Bay Area,” said Dr. Carson.

In addition, SVCF launched the Center for

Early Learning, reinforcing its commitment to Silicon Valley’s young children and their families. Research completed last year included the 2014 Silicon Valley Index in partnership with Joint Venture Silicon Valley, and a report on human trafficking in Silicon Valley, completed in partnership with Juniper Networks Foundation Fund and Not For Sale. The first project of the Center for Early Learning was the Parent Story Project, a first-of-its-kind on the well-being of Silicon Valley parents. Plus SVCF also was honored to co-host a historic meeting at the White House of representatives from more than 150 community foundations and government agencies.

SVCF “By The Numbers” 2014: Contributions: $1.96 Billion … Assets under management $6.5 Billion Grants: $474 Million (awarded from all funds) … Number of Grants: 65,500, including those from matching gift programs Grants: $216 Million to Bay Area charities ... Grants: $18 Million to International Charities …

Countries: 57 received grants, including the U.S.

attended Chicago public schools, then Morehouse College and then Princeton University. When he was very young he experienced a tragedy when a neighbor’s child was shot and killed. Dr. Carson’s family quickly picked up and moved across town. He remembers, it was between 3rd and 4th grade. His life, he said, changed. The family moved just 30 blocks away and, yet, it was a world of difference. He saw and he experienced the differences in inequality and social justice. It was two worlds apart. This would impact him and his work - his entire life - to this very day.

Role models were his mom and dad. They taught him about “Heroes” and “Sheros” in black history. His father would read to him every night about successful African-American professionals, which truly inspired the young Dr. Carson. He had learned so much about African-American professionals, and all minorities, that it fed him a sense of wanting to make a difference for many, for all people. This spoke to him: “Hey, the world can be what you make of it.”

At Morehouse, he EXPERIENCING AN thought he would go to law ALL-IMPORTANT school and be an attorney.

PARTNERING But he had a professor With its individual, (who was kidding at family and corporate the time) who said he donors, as well as nonprofit would not endorse him partners, Silicon Valley for law school (he would SVGives, hosted by SVCF, raised $8 million Community Foundation have, he later admitted). for local charities in one day in 2014. is working to make a big Instead, he recommended positive difference for many Economics and Public of our nonprofits and our community as a whole.

Policy, saying: “It would be a stronger major for Dr. Carson added, “There are many who live you … that you can influence people every day.” and work in Silicon Valley, who are wonderful It would be more impactful for Dr. Carson, he supporters of Silicon Valley Community suggested, and as things have turned out, he was Foundation, who are from all around the world. right. He was Dr. Carson’s advisor in school …

Many donors are multi-dimensional. They see and is one of his “Heroes.” themselves as global citizens. It is important to them where they want to make a difference, for PREPARATION FOR THE WORK TO BE DONE where they have come from, and also for a better Morehouse, Dr. Carson said, prepared him very world.” When asked if he thinks philanthropists well. It was a time when being African-American can move mountains, Dr. Carson responded, “I felt challenging and that the education he received hope so.” there gave him confidence … and a feeling that he was ready, prepared, for the highs and the lows of THE ROAD TO SILICON VALLEY attending Princeton.

Dr. Carson was born and raised in Chicago. He The mental preparedness was so helpful, being

just one of a handful of African-American students to complete that program … and the first to have been accepted in the middle of the year. There would be positives and negatives … It was a whole new world, he felt. “Someone’s got to be first, so being a first at anything, you have to carry your own weight.”

FIRST DESTINATION: THE FORD FOUNDATION. WHAT WAS THAT LIKE? Fresh out of Princeton, the young Dr. Emmett Carson was recruited to work for the Ford Foundation. “It was a fantastic opportunity,” he said. “There were many brilliant people all around me. It was like a university with some of the most brilliant people … together there to create a better world.” He had a mentor while there, from whom he learned much about philanthropy. He learned plenty, he said, about what philanthropy can do and how to work it effectively. This helped prepare him early on and very well for what was to come.

NEXT DESTINATION: THE MINNEAPOLIS FOUNDATION. WHAT WAS THAT LIKE? From the Ford Foundation, he was recruited to become the CEO of The Minneapolis Foundation.

At the young age of just 33, he was already being asked to be the CEO of one of the largest community foundations in the country.

Emmett shared, “The pressure was, for example, when making a $500,000 decision on something … making sure I got it right. I learned it was so important to know the people, the histories, the politics … who over-promises and who under-delivers. It’s about big risky things. It’s not as risky when we know the actors and who we are betting on. It’s also very important to be a part of the community.”

THEN THE WEST COAST CALLED … WELCOME TO SILICON VALLEY At that time came this challenge, this opportunity, to come to Silicon Valley. Dr. Carson shared: “It was exciting to come here, to execute a merger that was unprecedented. (1) Can you get this merger off the ground; can you get it to work?

(2) Can you be an advocate on important issues, where it would be tough, and still raise the money and the support needed? (3) Can you bring our partners, our companies, our governments

together to approach and find solutions for these large issues facing us?

Dr. Carson, as we have seen, was up to it … and also with the great art of collaborating. Here and now, working closely together with Carl Guardino, the CEO of the Silicon Valley Leadership Group, is a perfect example. He discussed the importance of “the three-legged stool” functioning right, together, in this case, namely: Nonprofits, Business and Government. It’s imperative that we need to work together for rightful solutions.

Just the night before our meeting, he and Carl went together as a team to Sacramento (Dr. Carson representing the nonprofits community sector and Carl the business community sector) and met with our legislative leaders (representing the government community sector). Their

Emmett Carson greets families in December, 2014, at Caltrain Holiday Train presented by SVCF.

message was this: “If we don’t address these pressing issues that we face today in housing, transportation and education, if we don’t take action, it has certainly reached the crisis point that we will choke off our own success … for our present and our future.”

ARE YOU OPTIMISTIC? When asked if he’s optimistic, without hesitation, Dr. Carson responded, “I’m very optimistic because we have all the raw materials here. We have amazing smart people here who have figured out such amazing things. We have resources here that are financial to help us get what we will need. And we have a state of mind

regarding changing rapidly, a cultural mind set, to change. What’s been missing has been the political will. And we have reached a point, especially with housing, transportation and education, a convenience for some and a problem for others. It has become a problem for everyone … that has become intolerable for all.

many together, making a big positive difference.

A SPECIAL DAY AND CAUSE OF CARING: SILICON VALLEY GIVES. Another great example is “Silicon Valley Gives.” Initially, it was to have been a one-dayonly event. There have been Days of Giving in other cities - some successful, some not. Here, there would be challenges … In Santa Clara and THE THREE-LEGGED STOOL AND A PLAN IN San Mateo Counties, where there are 41 different PLACE? communities. People are busy, tens of thousands “Do we have a 5-10 year plan that we of commuters from the South Bay heading north presented or are things on the drawing board? and tens of thousands heading south. Unlike No, I think it’s somewhere in between … where other cities, where there is a central city, with a we have a good idea where the Valley is … central media, newspaper and social network: institutions where we’re doing well … and where “which you could depend on for a successful we’re falling down. Now the issue is to see if the campaign” … not so here, this was totally political energy is there to move forward with unchartered waters. some of the issues that we face. Now, it’s a matter Key sponsors stepped forward in 2014: The of the government to make specific bills and turn John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and them into action. To hopefully get enough support Microsoft, also the Sobrato Family Foundation and behind them … and then hopefully a Governor’s the David & Lucile Packard Foundation and PayPal, signature on them.” meaning the costs would be met and everything raised would benefit local grant-making initiatives.

FROM WORKING TOGETHER COMES The staff at Silicon Valley Community Foundation POSSIBILITY diligently researched how other communities were What is Dr. Carson’s vision? He sees that there successful … and a significant commitment of time are a lot of nonprofit and for-profit leaders who are across the organization was allocated to plan and heroes, too many to mention or single out, plus implement for the overall event. many partners that they are very blessed to work Silicon Valley Gives 2014 was a wonderful with. “It is a pleasure and privilege to meet with success. By The Numbers: $8,000,833 was raised, people every day to help make their dreams into 674 nonprofits participated and benefited. There reality … and our community a great and better were 14,889 donors, 21,869+ unique donations place to live and work.” and $233 was the average gift size. All in one He added, “It is this belief that is so inspiring day, a day no one was sure about, speaks well of for our community and the world … So what’s Possibility. exciting is that we get together with donors and discuss with them ‘Possibility Starts Here’ and how WHERE WOULD WE BE WITHOUT OUR NON they would like to see our community benefit, how PROFITS? WHERE WOULD OUR NON PROFITS they would like to see change in the world. Our BE WITHOUT SVCF? donors are generous to all kinds of great causes.”

P.S. There’s great news ahead. On May 5, 2015, there will be a Silicon Valley Gives II ! What WHAT CAN PEOPLE DO TO HELP? a Cinco de Mayo it will be. There’s also a Silicon Two great examples. One is “The Big Lift” in Valley Gives 2016 planned now, too. What a San Mateo County. This effort to ensure all the Big Positive Difference this will make in helping county’s children can read well by third grade benefit many nonprofits and our community. has been undertaken by a consortium of over It is these special partnerships and the many 100 nonprofit organizations, including the county people working together that make these kind Board of Education. A federal grant of $7.5 of Possibilities real for our today and tomorrow. million in private donations will help the entire These are but a few examples where Silicon Valley county. It’s not one single effort, but many, where Community Foundation has done much and each one is important, and this represents so continues to help many where help is needed.

Family & Children Services of Silicon Valley

Strengthening families, Changing lives.

“Our daughter started the year suicidal.

Thanks to her therapist, she’s now in better emotional shape than she’s been in many years.”

- Parents of a teenager served

through our school-based clinical counseling services

You can help!

Each year, we reach more than 7,000 children, teens, and adults in Silicon Valley in need of counseling and support.

We invite you to join us in strengthening families and changing lives.

Find volunteer opportunities, ways to give, special event dates, and news: | www.fcservices.org | 650.326.6576 | 408.292.9353 Based in Palo Alto and San Jose. Serving our neighbors at community-based locations throughout Silicon Valley.

Continuing a tradition of service since 1948.

To protect the privacy of our clients, we use licensed stock photography for illustrative purposes.

Coverage for every child Santa Clara Family Health Foundation (SCFHF) is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization whose focus is on raising funds to support the Healthy Kids insurance program and the Children’s Health Initiative in Santa Clara County. Through the Foundation, community leaders, community members, foundations, corporations, local businesses, friends, and other supporters can contribute funds to help achieve the goal of providing every child in Santa Clara County with access to quality health care through insurance.

We believe that one uninsured child is one too many. If you have a child or know a family with children who do not have health coverage, live in Santa Clara County and the family maximum monthly income is below $5,700 for a family of four, please call us at 1-877680-4555 or visit our website.

Santa Clara

Family Health Foundation www.healthyfamilyfund.org (408) 874-1999

Fth Estate

We at Fth feel strongly about helping the homeless community with their most pressing needs.

With that in mind, we are purchasing and filling up backpacks with essential supplies for survival out on the street.

These kits contain things like Clif bars, first aid kits and socks, which with your help, we will eventually be able to refill at our Sunnyvale distribution center.

Our cost is currently $60 per kit.

Food is an immediate need.

In order to address this issue in a mobile, agile fashion we thought, what better way to feed people than by taking the food to them? To test the feasibility of this idea, we began talking to food truck owners and found that many of them already feed the homeless on their own and they would be more than happy to join our food truck network for the homeless!

Although the majority of our funding comes from internal volunteers and board members, it still takes a strong network of donors to make a sustainable impact on the issues of homelessness, hunger and ultimately survival of these less fortunate but still incredibly valuable members of our society.

As a 501c3 organization, all donations are eligible for a charitable tax deduction.

2 yr Goal: 7,693 backpacks and supplies distributed to the entire Bay Area homeless community.

2 yr Goal: mobile app developed to dispatch a network of food truck drivers to people in need.

2 yr. Goal: bring in $500k to purchase a food truck and 7k + backpacks for the homeless.

instagram.com/FthEstate

facebook.com/FthEstate

@Fthestate

fthestate.tumblr.com

Http://Fth.estate is a 5013c non-profit organization based in Sunnyvale , Ca. For volunteer, sponsorship or media inquiries, email Kristine@fth.estate

DO GOOD

BY DONATING YOUR GOODS!

SHOP • DONATE • VOLUNTEER

Cabinets Doors Appliances Electrical Tiles Plumbing Paint Lighting Flooring Hardware Tools Windows

DONATE your new and reusable building materials, appliances, cabinets, furniture, tools, and home improvement materials to help build affordable housing. Your donation may be tax deductible and pick-up service is available in the East Bay and Silicon Valley.

Drop-offs end 30 minutes before closing.

PROcEEDS from the ReStore help build Habitat for Humanity homes in Alameda, Contra Costa, and Santa Clara counties, making the dream of homeownership a reality for families with limited incomes. Habitat East Bay/Silicon Valley brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope.

BayAreaReStores.org • 800-SHOP-090 (800-746-7090)

OAKLAND 9235 San Leandro St.

SAN JOSE 1008 S. 2nd St.

SAN JOSE 1608 Las Plumas Ave.

Anyone is at risk of homelessness.

Everyone deserves a decent place to live.

HomeFirst helps people find and keep permanent housing.

With your support, we can end homelessness.

www.HomeFirstSCC.org

Housing Trust Silicon Valley works to make our community a more affordable place to live by increasing the supply of affordable housing, assisting first-time homebuyers, and preventing homelessness.

Since 2000, Housing Trust Silicon Valley has invested over $75 million in our community and created over 10,000 affordable afforda housing opportunities.

Leading the way home for Silicon Valley Residents www.housingtrustsv.org I 408.436.3450 I info@housingtrustsv.org

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We ’ re mak ure sh appe nt o day .Are F i nd o ut at l l s .o rg/ gba o r c al l 4 0 8.4 9 0 .2 6 6 6 . e d byt h eF D A be t we e n 2 0 0 0 and 2 0 1 2 we re first appro ve d f o r blo o d c anc e r pat ie nt s, y o u awareo fh o wc lo sewearet omanyne w lif e saving bre ak t h ro ugh s? O rh o wy o uc an h e lp?

wit hre se arc hsuppo rt e do by L S. F o rge t so me .We ’ re mak ing6 c ure appe nt o day .Are F i nd utL at l l s .o rg/ gba o rday c al l4 0 8.4 9 0 .2 6 6 . sh Make a donation.

Volunteer your time.

Be an ambassador for LLS areo fh o wc lo sewearet omanyne w lif e saving bre ak t h ro ugh s? O rh o wy o uc an h e lp? within your community.

Help us make someday today. o utatl l s .o rg/ gba o rc al l4 0 8.4 9 0 .2 6 6 6 .

Greater Bay Area Chapter San Francisco Office 221 Main Street, Ste. 1650 San Francisco, CA 94105 Silicon Valley & Monterey Bay Office 675 N. First Street, Ste. 1100 San Jose, CA 95112

HEALTHY FUN SUMMER LEARNING Summer Camps YMCA OF SILICON VALLEY

What makes Y camps different?

Our campers…

• Learn values and positive behaviors • Practice healthy habits • Participate in fun activities • Develop leadership skills • Discover talents and potential • Develop a sense of responsibility

• Gain independence and confidence • Build character • Explore nature • Make new friends and learn social skills • Go home with memories to last a lifetime

et rest you and g Find the Y nea mp guide at your summer ca

mmercamp ymcasv.org/su

Our day and overnight camps…

• Are accredited by the American Camp Association • Meet the highest standards in nearly 300 areas, including health, safety, personnel, transportation and facilities • Are staffed by caring people trained in safety, CPR, First Aid and child development We offer financial assistance if you need it.

We inspire kids in camps spanning from Morgan Hill to Redwood City and in the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains at Camp Campbell.

YMCA OF SILICON VALLEY 1922 The Alameda 3rd Floor, San Jose, CA 95126 | 408 351 6400 | ymcasv.org/summercamp

Nothing Else Matters When You’re Hungry.

Give What Matters Today!

When Bella’s parents lost their jobs and home, they turned to Second Harvest Food Bank to feed their family. Bella is not alone. Nearly 250,000 people in Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties rely on Second Harvest each month to receive the healthy food they need to survive.

Every $1 you donate will provide 2 nutritious meals for a family like Bella’s.

Thank you to Silicon Valley Local Magazine for donating this advertising space.

SHFB.org

866-234-3663

Join the STEM movement at STEMpower[ed]!

At Silicon Valley Education Foundation, we support STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education as the gateway to 21st century jobs. Our STEMpower[ed] website is an easy-to-use site to help parents and educators find the best STEM programs to create that critical spark in their students.

Visit stempowered.svefoundation.org for the one-stop-shop for STEM education in the Silicon Valley.

About SVEF: Silicon Valley Education Foundation (SVEF) is a not-for-profit resource and advocate for students and educators. We are dedicated to raising student performance in the critical areas of STEM.

Thanks to you and thousands of people like you, United Way Silicon Valley is working to improve community conditions by helping local people become financially stable and independent.

We have been privileged during this tough economy to expand our work.

We’ve grown programs and partnerships that help more young children learn to read. We’ve provided one-on-one credit coaching for low-income adults and we’ve funded some of the most innovative and effective programs in the county. Everything we do, we do with your help.

Please consider donating to United Way Silicon Valley today and help us continue to improve community conditions and change lives.

“Only 16% of the charities we rate have received at least 2 consecutive 4-star evaluations, indicating that United Way Silicon Valley outperforms most other charities in America.”

Ken Berger, CEO Charity Navigator

www.uwsv.org

BAY AREA

NON PROFITS

Having An Impact & Making A Difference For Community Where Would We Be Without Our Nonprofits?

“Our Nonprofits play a critical role in the world we live in today. People in the community don’t realize how much they do and how that affects the quality of life for every one of us. They contribute so much.”

Thus began this insightful and inspiring conversation with Porcia Chen Silverberg.

PLM: Where do you work and what do you do?

PCS: I am the Executive Director at Thrive – The Alliance of Porcia Chen Silverberg Executive Director, Nonprofits for San Mateo Thrive - The Alliance of County Nonprofits for San Mateo Thrive was established County in 2000 by a group of leaders from the nonprofit sector to help promote collaboration and support nonprofits, in order to strengthen the economic and social health of San Mateo County.

With a membership of nearly 200 members,

Thrive is a “go-to hub” for people who want to make a difference for San Mateo County, as well as the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. We are a conduit for Government and Nonprofits. Instead of making 50 to 200 calls, they can make one call to me. I love to connect people and organizations.

For Thrive, I do pretty much everything that’s asked of a nonprofit leader - I am the chief Fundraiser, Evangelist, Member Relationships Director, Outreach Director and Ambassador. I am very fortunate to have an incredible associate, Cindy. Together, with the support of a handful of volunteers, we run all of Thrive’s programs. I am very proud of what we are able to accomplish.

PLM: Where did you grow up, go to school and what did you study?

PCS: I was born and raised in Taipei, Taiwan, until I was almost 14 when we moved to Denver, Colorado. I went on to study Communications at the University of Colorado at Boulder …

To read the rest of Porcia’s great article, please go to our Silicon Valley Talk website (www.siliconvalleytalk.com) and enjoy the balance under the category “Non-Profits”.

Peninsula

Non-Profits

I

Introducing Peninsula Non-Profits!

n this day and age, many of us are looking for purpose and asking ourselves how we can help make a difference in our community and our world.

If we were to ask ourselves, where would we be without our Non-Profits, that’s a good question - they do a lot! With them, it’s hard enough in our world. Without them, it would be unthinkable. Indeed, we have many Non-Profits doing great works and they are always looking for people, like you, who can and would like to help.

At the same time, there are many people, like you and me, who wonder what specifically more we can do with our money or, especially, just by volunteering – indeed, what a difference that does and will make.

The greatest gift of all is in the giving and what a big positive difference it makes in the lives of others. In Peninsula Non-Profits, learn about various great people and great organizations doing great things. May it become a growing Resource for you and many others, there’s nothing like teamwork, that can help us all in making a big positive difference for a better community here at Home.

Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA Annamarie Azevedo, Volunteer & Donor

BANP: What is your personal philosophy about being able to help a great cause such as the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA? AA: I try to make a difference no matter how big or small that might be. So why not make your heart happy by making that difference in the lives of deserving animals. Since the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA has an open door policy –meaning, they accept all animals, not just those who are highly adoptable -- it was an easy decision for me to help them.

BANP: What would you say to others about donating/volunteering with the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA and in general?

AA: Being both a donor and volunteer I get to see donations being utilized first hand.

It's extremely fulfilling seeing so many wonderful animals being loved, fed and cared for, and then re-homed. We can make such a huge difference in these animals’ lives, as well as our own, just knowing we’ve helped better these little angels. So many come to PHS/SPCA injured, sick, scared and emaciated. Without donations, they couldn’t be saved.

BANP: What do you love most about what you do when you volunteer? Is there a favorite "something" you like?

AA: I love the unwavering love that dogs give, regardless of their previous life and treatment.

They bring sunshine on the gloomiest of days.

Whether I take them for a walk outside or for playtime inside, the happiness they exhibit is heartwarming. They show us how to enjoy the smallest of life's pleasures that we humans take for granted. My favorite thing is the cuddle time at the end of each play session.

BANP: Is there a particular moment that stands out for you or a particular joy you get when you volunteer?

AA: Some dogs get overlooked because they're older or have special needs. They might be hearing or sight impaired, missing a leg, ears cropped too short or maybe they are just overly shy. When these guys get adopted, it doesn't get any better. The most unforgettable was Raphael who was aged, blind, and partially deaf, with thinning hair. His owners had moved out and left him behind to fend for himself. He was the first dog I walked at PHS/SPCA and I was there the day he was adopted. Pure JOY! BANP: Do you recommend or suggest this to others?

AA: I would recommend volunteering to people from all walks of life, all economic backgrounds and ages. No matter who we are, stressful things pop up daily. I can't think of a better way than volunteering to forget them and, at the same time, bring much needed and deserved love and joy into an animal’s life.

You will get back much more than you could ever give. The animals make you feel loved, help you get exercise, fresh air… and you can't find a better listener. Give it a try. You won't be sorry.

Warm. Inspiring. Fun.

Visit Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA’s Center for Compassion at 1450 Rollins Road in Burlingame.

650/340-7022 | phs-spca.org

Photo by Nick Elias

MAY YOU THRIVE IN A MILLION WAYS …

meeting real challenges, with real collaboration. It feeds my soul

Thrive, The Alliance of Nonprofits for

ened nonprofit organizational effectiveness and leadership devel-

San Mateo County An Interview

serving San Mateo County and bridging the gap between local

to know Thrive is the “go-to hub” for an entire sector dedicated to the common good as it is very gratifying to know we are the “eyes and ears” of hard-working nonprofit professionals and that we are offering relevant and meaningful programs to support them. I am also inspired by our nonprofit leaders’ passion, resilience, ingenuity, generosity and commitment to being a part of solutions for bettering our community.

BANP: How has Thrive made a difference and what impact do you still wish to see Thrive make?

PCS: For fifteen years Thrive has been making a difference in San Mateo County. We have made many transformative connections and cross-sector collaborations, provided programs that strengthopment. We want to continue bringing resources to nonprofits

With Porcia Chen Silverberg, Executive Director

nonprofits and local residents and workers.

We are actively promoting the “AND” philosophy to catalyze positive synergy that impacts the entire community.

BANP: What is the Thrive Alliance about and what do you all do?

cent topics include a sold out series on Connecting Tech with

We are especially proud to have contributed to the creation of the

PCS: Thrive, The Alliance of Nonprofits for San Mateo County, has

Nonprofits that drew many new members. The Thrive Community

Sobrato Center for Nonprofits project in San Mateo County. Thrive

been around for just over 15 years. It was founded by leaders from

Forums consistently offer excellent opportunities for nonprofits to

worked closely with the Sobrato Family Foundation to assist with

the nonprofit sector, pulling together a robust, trusted network of

meet one another and connect with key stakeholders that they

needs assessments, gathering community input, and promoting

nonprofit organizations, business, government agencies, elected

typically can’t access on their own. We generally have 80 to 120

the Center to nonprofits.

officials and civic leaders. Our mission is to promote collaboration

attendees for each of these events.

And we continue to respond to the needs of the nonprofit commu-

and support nonprofits to strengthen the economic and social

Thrive OnBoard connects community members as potential board

nity with new programs. This year we introduced Thrive OnBoard

health of San Mateo County.

volunteers to local nonprofits. This year’s fair addressed a long-

to connect potential board volunteers to local nonprofits. The fair’s

Think of Thrive as a “go-to hub” for people who want to make a dif-

time need for quality board member recruitment for the county’s

huge success confirmed a long-time need from the county’s non-

ference in the county and the greater San Francisco Bay Area. We

nonprofits. We will be making it an annual event.

profits who struggle with attracting new board of directors volun-

promote authentic and meaningful cross-sector engagement be-

Leadership Circles for CEOs are for nonprofit executive directors

teers. We will bring the event back on April 27, 2016.

tween government agencies, businesses and nonprofits, working

and CEOs. This is a collaborative venue to engage with peers in

And every day, Thrive members make strategic connections that

through a single conduit rather than in separate silos. Together we

an intentionally small group, four times a year. Combining sub-

further San Mateo County’s business and community efforts with:

have greater impact!

ject-matter experts, peer-to-peer support, and actionable ideas

• expert consultation

And in this virtual-oriented world, Thrive is powered by real com-

and resources, participants share experience, best practices and

• co-sharing of staff

munity. Thrive’s programs are person-to-person, bringing all sec-

gain increased perspective on relevant topics.

• staff positions filled

tors to the table to connect, to learn and to teach one another.

Thrive Connects is an ongoing series for nonprofit executives and

• resources identified and supplied

Real people, real collaboration, addressing real issues in San Ma-

development professionals in agencies of all sizes, offering pro-

• co-sharing of space

teo County.

fessional development, organizational effectiveness, and collab-

Thrive’s programs connect the community in a number of ways:

orations.

Thrive Community Forums are for all community members. This

BANP: What would you like the world to know about Thrive and how can people help make a difference?

is Thrive’s signature program, offered four times each year, pre-

BANP: What do you love most about Thrive and the work that you all do?

PCS: We believe that every individual and every sector of society

senting distinguished speakers and panels of experts on a diverse

PCS: It can be challenging to foster community in an increasingly

has a role to play in improving our community. Thrive’s unique ap-

range of timely subjects relevant to nonprofit organizations. Re-

technology-driven world. I love that Thrive is primarily real people,

proach allows us to work across the social, public and private sec-

tors, and facilitate and magnify outcomes through connections, collective voice, and person-to-person collaboration. Only Thrive includes nonprofits from every sector – from large foundations to small organizations, from human services to the arts and education, hospitals, banks and county departments. Together we form an ecosystem for San Mateo County that gets things done: • for Nonprofits • for Government • for Business • for Everyone BANP: What is it you like to say to potential Donors and Volunteers? Why is Thrive so special?

PCS: You have to experience Thrive. There is nothing quite like it. Nowhere else can you access such a wealth of nonprofits, donors, volunteers and community leaders in one place. We believe that philanthropy and volunteerism should begin at home, and we have unique opportunities, people and resources to address the many challenges we have – RIGHT HERE. Thrive is committed to continue serving nonprofits to strengthen their capacities and achieve their missions. We also want to help local business and community leaders who are looking to make a difference in the world to start right here in their back yards.

Join us—You can be part of Thrive, too, and support us as we gather good people to get good done – right here!

www.ThriveAlliance.org

MAY YOU THRIVE IN A MILLION WAYS …

meeting real challenges, with real collaboration. It feeds my soul

Thrive, The Alliance of Nonprofits for

ened nonprofit organizational effectiveness and leadership devel-

San Mateo County An Interview

serving San Mateo County and bridging the gap between local

to know Thrive is the “go-to hub” for an entire sector dedicated to the common good as it is very gratifying to know we are the “eyes and ears” of hard-working nonprofit professionals and that we are offering relevant and meaningful programs to support them. I am also inspired by our nonprofit leaders’ passion, resilience, ingenuity, generosity and commitment to being a part of solutions for bettering our community.

BANP: How has Thrive made a difference and what impact do you still wish to see Thrive make?

PCS: For fifteen years Thrive has been making a difference in San Mateo County. We have made many transformative connections and cross-sector collaborations, provided programs that strengthopment. We want to continue bringing resources to nonprofits

With Porcia Chen Silverberg, Executive Director

nonprofits and local residents and workers.

We are actively promoting the “AND” philosophy to catalyze positive synergy that impacts the entire community.

BANP: What is the Thrive Alliance about and what do you all do?

cent topics include a sold out series on Connecting Tech with

We are especially proud to have contributed to the creation of the

PCS: Thrive, The Alliance of Nonprofits for San Mateo County, has

Nonprofits that drew many new members. The Thrive Community

Sobrato Center for Nonprofits project in San Mateo County. Thrive

been around for just over 15 years. It was founded by leaders from

Forums consistently offer excellent opportunities for nonprofits to

worked closely with the Sobrato Family Foundation to assist with

the nonprofit sector, pulling together a robust, trusted network of

meet one another and connect with key stakeholders that they

needs assessments, gathering community input, and promoting

nonprofit organizations, business, government agencies, elected

typically can’t access on their own. We generally have 80 to 120

the Center to nonprofits.

officials and civic leaders. Our mission is to promote collaboration

attendees for each of these events.

And we continue to respond to the needs of the nonprofit commu-

and support nonprofits to strengthen the economic and social

Thrive OnBoard connects community members as potential board

nity with new programs. This year we introduced Thrive OnBoard

health of San Mateo County.

volunteers to local nonprofits. This year’s fair addressed a long-

to connect potential board volunteers to local nonprofits. The fair’s

Think of Thrive as a “go-to hub” for people who want to make a dif-

time need for quality board member recruitment for the county’s

huge success confirmed a long-time need from the county’s non-

ference in the county and the greater San Francisco Bay Area. We

nonprofits. We will be making it an annual event.

profits who struggle with attracting new board of directors volun-

promote authentic and meaningful cross-sector engagement be-

Leadership Circles for CEOs are for nonprofit executive directors

teers. We will bring the event back on April 27, 2016.

tween government agencies, businesses and nonprofits, working

and CEOs. This is a collaborative venue to engage with peers in

And every day, Thrive members make strategic connections that

through a single conduit rather than in separate silos. Together we

an intentionally small group, four times a year. Combining sub-

further San Mateo County’s business and community efforts with:

have greater impact!

ject-matter experts, peer-to-peer support, and actionable ideas

• expert consultation

And in this virtual-oriented world, Thrive is powered by real com-

and resources, participants share experience, best practices and

• co-sharing of staff

munity. Thrive’s programs are person-to-person, bringing all sec-

gain increased perspective on relevant topics.

• staff positions filled

tors to the table to connect, to learn and to teach one another.

Thrive Connects is an ongoing series for nonprofit executives and

• resources identified and supplied

Real people, real collaboration, addressing real issues in San Ma-

development professionals in agencies of all sizes, offering pro-

• co-sharing of space

teo County.

fessional development, organizational effectiveness, and collab-

Thrive’s programs connect the community in a number of ways:

orations.

Thrive Community Forums are for all community members. This

BANP: What would you like the world to know about Thrive and how can people help make a difference?

is Thrive’s signature program, offered four times each year, pre-

BANP: What do you love most about Thrive and the work that you all do?

PCS: We believe that every individual and every sector of society

senting distinguished speakers and panels of experts on a diverse

PCS: It can be challenging to foster community in an increasingly

has a role to play in improving our community. Thrive’s unique ap-

range of timely subjects relevant to nonprofit organizations. Re-

technology-driven world. I love that Thrive is primarily real people,

proach allows us to work across the social, public and private sec-

tors, and facilitate and magnify outcomes through connections, collective voice, and person-to-person collaboration. Only Thrive includes nonprofits from every sector – from large foundations to small organizations, from human services to the arts and education, hospitals, banks and county departments. Together we form an ecosystem for San Mateo County that gets things done: • for Nonprofits • for Government • for Business • for Everyone BANP: What is it you like to say to potential Donors and Volunteers? Why is Thrive so special?

PCS: You have to experience Thrive. There is nothing quite like it. Nowhere else can you access such a wealth of nonprofits, donors, volunteers and community leaders in one place. We believe that philanthropy and volunteerism should begin at home, and we have unique opportunities, people and resources to address the many challenges we have – RIGHT HERE. Thrive is committed to continue serving nonprofits to strengthen their capacities and achieve their missions. We also want to help local business and community leaders who are looking to make a difference in the world to start right here in their back yards.

Join us—You can be part of Thrive, too, and support us as we gather good people to get good done – right here!

www.ThriveAlliance.org

THE STORE THAT BUILDS

homes & hope

When you support the ReStore by shopping, donating or volunteering, you’re supporting local families.

Your tax-deductible donations of new or gently-used building materials, appliances and furniture help Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco raise funds to build homes and hope in Marin, San Francisco and the Peninsula.

For more details about the ReStore or to get involved, visit our website at

www.habitatgsf.org/restore 1411 Industrial Road, San Carlos, CA 94070 1-800-SHOP-090 | restore@habitatgsf.org

Discover Your Open Space

Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District is right in your own backyard. We offer 26 preserves, 62,000 acres, and over 225 miles of trails, plus hiking and nature programs nearly every day of the week, free of charge! Discover scenic baylands or majestic redwood forests just minutes away from Silicon Valley.

www.openspace.org

FEATU

S T N E V E • S E T A D P U • RES

http://bit.ly/bayareanonprofits www.bayareanonprofits.org

WWW.BAYAREAMAGS.COM IS A PROUD SPONOSOR OF BAY AREA NON PROFITS

San Francisco Non-Profits

I

Introducing San Francisco Non-Profits!

n this day and age, many of us are looking for purpose and asking ourselves how we can help make a difference in our community and our world.

If we were to ask ourselves, where would we be without our Non-Profits, that’s a good question - they do a lot! With them, it’s hard enough in our world. Without them, it would be unthinkable. Indeed, we have many Non-Profits doing great works and they are always looking for people, like you, who can and would like to help.

At the same time, there are many people, like you and me, who wonder what specifically more we can do with our money or, especially, just by volunteering – indeed, what a difference that does and will make.

The greatest gift of all is in the giving and what a big positive difference it makes in the lives of others. In San Francisco Non-Profits, learn about various great people and great organizations doing great things. May it become a growing Resource for you and many others, there’s nothing like teamwork, that can help us all in making a big positive difference for a better community here at Home.

EDUCATION OUTSIDE The Joy of Connecting Urban Children To Nature and Good Food

PATTY UNTERMAN,

Chef and Co-founder of the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market

BANP: What is it about Education Outside that made you want to help bring garden-based education to public-school children? ... What do you do when you volunteer and how long have you been doing it?

Patty: As a chef and founder of the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, food and food issues are very important to me. Knowing where our food comes from, how it’s grown, and developing a palate for fresh produce is critical for our children -- especially those who live in the city and may not have a connection to their food sources. In my years of experience (and as a parent) I have seen that when you engage kids in planting and preparing their own food, they have a whole new outlook on it.

When I learned about what Education Outside is doing to bring these garden experiences to San Francisco’s public schools, I was blown away.

All this great work of connecting urban

up -- and then eating it happily. Seeing these young palates being expanded, and watching children gain a connection to this small patch of green, is just so rewarding.

BANP: Do you recommend or suggest this to others?

At Education Outside, we're committed to advancing science in public schools, outdoors.

Patty: I want everyone to know about this great program reaching

We transform school gardens into lush, living laboratories where learning comes naturally.

14,000 children in San Francisco’s public schools. I was so impressed after my first visit, I decided that I could help by tapping my network of chefs event -- we called it City Picnic. So I reached out and asked more than a dozen local chefs to contribute a dish to Education Outside’s fundraiswhelmingly positive. We just held our second annual very successful, sold-out

pening in my own backyard, and I never

City Picnic event - which just shows how

knew it.

much interest there is - and plan to do it every year.

BANP: What do you love most about what you do when you volunteer? Is there a fa-

BANP: When you volunteer, seeing

vorite “something” you like?

time. It’s a powerful moment, and you can almost see their young minds expanding. Education Outside’s program combines these formative experiences with standards-based science lessons that give children lots of opportunities for hands-on learning. It isn’t just sitting in a classroom and listening to a lecture. Seeing kids experience their education with all their senses is very powerful.

BANP: Is there a particular moment that stands out for you or a particular joy you get when you volunteer?

Patty: A year and a half ago, I first visited an Education Outside school and watched a class harvest, prepare, and then eat this amazing brassica fried rice. These were young kids, picking kale and broccoli, chopping it

14,000 schoolchildren each year.

ing dinner, and the response was over-

hands-on science experiments was hap-

watching a child pick something from the garden and taste it for the first

Our innovative program brings science and nature directly into the hands of more than

and restaurants to support Education Outside with a fun fundraising

children to nature and good food through

Patty: You just can’t beat the experience of

WE BRING SCIENCE TO LIFE IN SCHOOL GARDENS.

what you see and doing what you do, do you often think and hope how others, too, could join in and help make a bigger, more positive difference?

Patty: I love how democratic Education Outside is -- they are making these important garden-based learning experiences available to kids at schools all throughout San Francisco. Through our City Picnic events, we’ve introduced hundreds of San Franciscans to Education Outside’s work in San Francisco’s public schools. If we can keep spreading the word, then Education Outside can keep expanding their program so that even more Bay Area kids can have these life-changing experiences.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR WORK: W W W. E D U C AT I O N O U T S I D E . O R G • 4 1 5  3 5 5  6 9 7 9 E X T. 1 5 6 6

EDUCATION OUTSIDE The Joy of Connecting Urban Children To Nature and Good Food

PATTY UNTERMAN,

Chef and Co-founder of the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market

BANP: What is it about Education Outside that made you want to help bring garden-based education to public-school children? ... What do you do when you volunteer and how long have you been doing it?

Patty: As a chef and founder of the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, food and food issues are very important to me. Knowing where our food comes from, how it’s grown, and developing a palate for fresh produce is critical for our children -- especially those who live in the city and may not have a connection to their food sources. In my years of experience (and as a parent) I have seen that when you engage kids in planting and preparing their own food, they have a whole new outlook on it.

When I learned about what Education Outside is doing to bring these garden experiences to San Francisco’s public schools, I was blown away.

All this great work of connecting urban

up -- and then eating it happily. Seeing these young palates being expanded, and watching children gain a connection to this small patch of green, is just so rewarding.

BANP: Do you recommend or suggest this to others?

At Education Outside, we're committed to advancing science in public schools, outdoors.

Patty: I want everyone to know about this great program reaching

We transform school gardens into lush, living laboratories where learning comes naturally.

14,000 children in San Francisco’s public schools. I was so impressed after my first visit, I decided that I could help by tapping my network of chefs event -- we called it City Picnic. So I reached out and asked more than a dozen local chefs to contribute a dish to Education Outside’s fundraiswhelmingly positive. We just held our second annual very successful, sold-out

pening in my own backyard, and I never

City Picnic event - which just shows how

knew it.

much interest there is - and plan to do it every year.

BANP: What do you love most about what you do when you volunteer? Is there a fa-

BANP: When you volunteer, seeing

vorite “something” you like?

time. It’s a powerful moment, and you can almost see their young minds expanding. Education Outside’s program combines these formative experiences with standards-based science lessons that give children lots of opportunities for hands-on learning. It isn’t just sitting in a classroom and listening to a lecture. Seeing kids experience their education with all their senses is very powerful.

BANP: Is there a particular moment that stands out for you or a particular joy you get when you volunteer?

Patty: A year and a half ago, I first visited an Education Outside school and watched a class harvest, prepare, and then eat this amazing brassica fried rice. These were young kids, picking kale and broccoli, chopping it

14,000 schoolchildren each year.

ing dinner, and the response was over-

hands-on science experiments was hap-

watching a child pick something from the garden and taste it for the first

Our innovative program brings science and nature directly into the hands of more than

and restaurants to support Education Outside with a fun fundraising

children to nature and good food through

Patty: You just can’t beat the experience of

WE BRING SCIENCE TO LIFE IN SCHOOL GARDENS.

what you see and doing what you do, do you often think and hope how others, too, could join in and help make a bigger, more positive difference?

Patty: I love how democratic Education Outside is -- they are making these important garden-based learning experiences available to kids at schools all throughout San Francisco. Through our City Picnic events, we’ve introduced hundreds of San Franciscans to Education Outside’s work in San Francisco’s public schools. If we can keep spreading the word, then Education Outside can keep expanding their program so that even more Bay Area kids can have these life-changing experiences.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR WORK: W W W. E D U C AT I O N O U T S I D E . O R G • 4 1 5  3 5 5  6 9 7 9 E X T. 1 5 6 6

SUCCESS STORY

Year Up empowers young adults to go

from poverty to a professional career

IN A YEAR.

WHO ARE WE?

WHO DO WE SERVE?

Since opening its doors in 2008, Year Up Bay Area has served more than 1,100 young adults.

We train 320 students at our San Francisco and Silicon Valley campuses each year.

To qualify, students must:

Year Up’s model combines the development of marketable job skills, an educational stipend, an internship, college credits and support to help place young adults on a viable path to economic self-sufficiency.

WHO ARE OUR PARTNERS?*

• Have a high school diploma or GED • Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident or have legal right to work in the U.S.

* partial listing of Year Up Bay Area’s more than 40 Corporate Partners

OUR IMPACT

360 students

100%

SERVED ANNUALLY

INTERNSHIP PLACEMENT

“I feel powerful,”

says Marla Bell, a San Francisco native and recent graduate of Year Up Bay Area. “I’ve accomplished so much in one year.

Imagine what I’m going to accomplish in the years to come.”

A year ago, Marla was working a dead-end job. Today, she is working full-time at AutoDesk, a software company, as a Training and Organizational Development Assistant.

Before Year Up, Marla considered college, but it was not a feasible option due to financial constraints. She was hungry for an opportunity. That’s when she discovered Year Up. Year Up students attend classes for six months in a rigorous academic setting, learning the technical and professional skills necessary to succeed in entry-level technology-based positions. They then put their newlyacquired skills to work at a six-month internship with some of the top companies in the Bay Area.

• Be between the ages of 18 – 24

• Be highly-motivated to learn technical and professional skills for a career in Information Technology (IT)

Visit yearup.org for more student success stories

94%

WORKING OR STUDYING FULL TIME1

$21.00 $7.25 Federal

Year Up Bay Area Graduate

minimum wage

HOURLY WAGE2

GIVE | VOLUNTEER | HOST | HIRE

Help Us Close The Opportunity Divide!

PLEASE VISIT YEARUP.ORG FOR MORE INFO

1. Weighted average wage of employed Year Up Bay Area graduates from most recent class; minimum wage: http://www.dol.gov/whd/minwage/q-a.htm.

2. Positive Outcomes defined as working or in school full time within 4 months of graduation from program.

Marla majored in Project Management and landed her role at AutoDesk as a Training and Organizational Development Intern where she assisted her team with organization and preparation. “Transitioning from being a Year Up intern to a full-time employee felt like I was taking the training wheels off,” admits Marla. “But I’ve learned that personal growth is endless.”

Marla proudly stood on stage as the Master of Ceremonies with her job offer already in hand. She is dedicated to uplifting her Bayview-Hunter’s Point community and plans to pursue higher education in Africana studies and eventually start her own nonprofit.

Underrepresented youth have even more reason to work harder. It’s difficult to work hard if you don’t have the tools and resources, and

that’s where Year Up thankfully steps in.

San Francisco Campus, 80 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA 94104 | 415.512.7588 Silicon Valley Campus, 100 West San Fernando Street, Suite 103, San Jose, CA 95113 | 408.513.3004

SUCCESS STORY

Year Up empowers young adults to go

from poverty to a professional career

IN A YEAR.

WHO ARE WE?

WHO DO WE SERVE?

Since opening its doors in 2008, Year Up Bay Area has served more than 1,100 young adults.

We train 320 students at our San Francisco and Silicon Valley campuses each year.

To qualify, students must:

Year Up’s model combines the development of marketable job skills, an educational stipend, an internship, college credits and support to help place young adults on a viable path to economic self-sufficiency.

WHO ARE OUR PARTNERS?*

• Have a high school diploma or GED • Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident or have legal right to work in the U.S.

* partial listing of Year Up Bay Area’s more than 40 Corporate Partners

OUR IMPACT

360 students

100%

SERVED ANNUALLY

INTERNSHIP PLACEMENT

“I feel powerful,”

says Marla Bell, a San Francisco native and recent graduate of Year Up Bay Area. “I’ve accomplished so much in one year.

Imagine what I’m going to accomplish in the years to come.”

A year ago, Marla was working a dead-end job. Today, she is working full-time at AutoDesk, a software company, as a Training and Organizational Development Assistant.

Before Year Up, Marla considered college, but it was not a feasible option due to financial constraints. She was hungry for an opportunity. That’s when she discovered Year Up. Year Up students attend classes for six months in a rigorous academic setting, learning the technical and professional skills necessary to succeed in entry-level technology-based positions. They then put their newlyacquired skills to work at a six-month internship with some of the top companies in the Bay Area.

• Be between the ages of 18 – 24

• Be highly-motivated to learn technical and professional skills for a career in Information Technology (IT)

Visit yearup.org for more student success stories

94%

WORKING OR STUDYING FULL TIME1

$21.00 $7.25 Federal

Year Up Bay Area Graduate

minimum wage

HOURLY WAGE2

GIVE | VOLUNTEER | HOST | HIRE

Help Us Close The Opportunity Divide!

PLEASE VISIT YEARUP.ORG FOR MORE INFO

1. Weighted average wage of employed Year Up Bay Area graduates from most recent class; minimum wage: http://www.dol.gov/whd/minwage/q-a.htm.

2. Positive Outcomes defined as working or in school full time within 4 months of graduation from program.

Marla majored in Project Management and landed her role at AutoDesk as a Training and Organizational Development Intern where she assisted her team with organization and preparation. “Transitioning from being a Year Up intern to a full-time employee felt like I was taking the training wheels off,” admits Marla. “But I’ve learned that personal growth is endless.”

Marla proudly stood on stage as the Master of Ceremonies with her job offer already in hand. She is dedicated to uplifting her Bayview-Hunter’s Point community and plans to pursue higher education in Africana studies and eventually start her own nonprofit.

Underrepresented youth have even more reason to work harder. It’s difficult to work hard if you don’t have the tools and resources, and

that’s where Year Up thankfully steps in.

San Francisco Campus, 80 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA 94104 | 415.512.7588 Silicon Valley Campus, 100 West San Fernando Street, Suite 103, San Jose, CA 95113 | 408.513.3004

Love matters.

At GLIDE, we express our love by actively working to break the cycles of poverty and marginalization in our community. We feed the hungry, house the homeless, train the jobless, and are deeply committed to creating social justice for all. But our work depends on your generosity. Please, show your love by donating what you can at glide.org.

Thank you.

Please donate at glide.org Follow glidesf

Help build affordable homes in the Bay Area. HabitatGSF.org

Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco is welcoming volunteers to Habitat Terrace located at 1 Capitol in San Francisco.

Every year, over 10,000 volunteers work on Habitat Greater San Francisco construction sites and provide more than 90% of the labor needed to build a Habitat home. Sign up to be a Habitat volunteer today.

www.habitatgsf.org/volunteer

SERGIO ROMO

Jeremy Affeldt

JOE PANIK

MADISON BUMGARNER

Hunter Pence

Pablo Sandoval MATT CAIN

Buster Posey

For the Love of the Game and Their Community THE SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS COMMUNITY FUND AND THE GIANTS COMMUNITY RELATIONS DEPARTMENT

M

ore than the game’s box score is what we call the game of Life. And, also as big as life, you will find the Giants Community Fund and the Giants Community Relations Department. It is a spirit, an energy. They see it as a proud tradition, a way of showing mutual appreciation, and teamwork, that we are truly together – team and community. This is our special team off the field that always goes to bat for our community, our businesses, our organizations, our non-profits and our youth.

Throughout the year and in many countless ways, it seems as if every day they are out there always hitting a game winning walk off home run and pitching a perfect game. They are angels for all they do and the difference that they make for so many …

Who are these angels? They are Staci Slaughter, Senior Vice President of Communications, Shana Daum, Vice President of Public Affairs and Community Relations and Sue Petersen, Executive Director of the Giants Community Fund, their staffs and all those who are employed by the San Francisco Giants baseball organization.

What they are doing off the field, for our community, as well as on, is a story of champions.

It is all truly a reflection from the top on down,

complete with heart and devotion.

The Giants are enjoying a sell-out every home game in beautiful AT&T Park. Was it really just 15+ years ago, when maybe 5,000-20,000 people would brave the freezing cold and winds of Candlestick Park? Do you believe in miracles, for this was truly one … indeed, how things have miraculously changed.

How well do you know, or remember, just how close we were to losing the Giants first to Toronto and then a few years later to Tampa Bay? It was extremely close to happening, but thanks to the dedicated and determined efforts of Larry Baer and Peter Magowan for creating a very real “Dream Team” of ownership partners, the San Francisco Giants were suddenly and very fortunately saved. I

SERGIO ROMO

Jeremy Affeldt

JOE PANIK

MADISON BUMGARNER

Hunter Pence

Pablo Sandoval MATT CAIN

Buster Posey

For the Love of the Game and Their Community THE SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS COMMUNITY FUND AND THE GIANTS COMMUNITY RELATIONS DEPARTMENT

M

ore than the game’s box score is what we call the game of Life. And, also as big as life, you will find the Giants Community Fund and the Giants Community Relations Department. It is a spirit, an energy. They see it as a proud tradition, a way of showing mutual appreciation, and teamwork, that we are truly together – team and community. This is our special team off the field that always goes to bat for our community, our businesses, our organizations, our non-profits and our youth.

Throughout the year and in many countless ways, it seems as if every day they are out there always hitting a game winning walk off home run and pitching a perfect game. They are angels for all they do and the difference that they make for so many …

Who are these angels? They are Staci Slaughter, Senior Vice President of Communications, Shana Daum, Vice President of Public Affairs and Community Relations and Sue Petersen, Executive Director of the Giants Community Fund, their staffs and all those who are employed by the San Francisco Giants baseball organization.

What they are doing off the field, for our community, as well as on, is a story of champions.

It is all truly a reflection from the top on down,

complete with heart and devotion.

The Giants are enjoying a sell-out every home game in beautiful AT&T Park. Was it really just 15+ years ago, when maybe 5,000-20,000 people would brave the freezing cold and winds of Candlestick Park? Do you believe in miracles, for this was truly one … indeed, how things have miraculously changed.

How well do you know, or remember, just how close we were to losing the Giants first to Toronto and then a few years later to Tampa Bay? It was extremely close to happening, but thanks to the dedicated and determined efforts of Larry Baer and Peter Magowan for creating a very real “Dream Team” of ownership partners, the San Francisco Giants were suddenly and very fortunately saved. I

don’t think people realize just how catastrophic that would have been, and the ramifications it would have meant, had the Giants been taken from us.

What has come to fruition since: AT&T Park, a most beautiful new ballpark (arguably the best in all of baseball), sellout games, a revitalized SOMA and San Francisco, hundreds of millions of dollars that have gone to benefit local San Francisco and Bay Area community development, non-profits causes and two World Series Championships in three years (when not one in all the years prior since their arrival from New York in 1958); and the outstanding community programs that were born from this.

All this from a vision and great fortitude. From the top on down, led by President and CEO Larry Baer, the current ownership group has instilled a culture, a tradition, a legacy, if you will, BRANDON BELT within the San Francisco Giants organization that is indeed rocksolid and part of their own DNA. They believed strongly in their vision, their dedication and their hard work to build AT&T Park.

They also believed strongly in expressing the gratitude that the entire Giants organization feels for its community. They believe in their responsibility, to carry on the Giants legacy of giving back to the community and in turn the fans who support them. It is truly a love affair between the Giants and the community they serve – and it shows. It is so very evident.

In my conversation with Staci, Shana and Sue, I was enjoying every word they had to say. It was all with such enthusiasm, heart and passion. They love so much what they are doing … and they have each been doing this now for many years. We read in the news all that’s wrong about sports … that’s why I am happy to share this with you, all the GOOD that these Giants do off the field, because we don’t hear this; no, not near enough as we should, if at all.

The Giants take their off the field community programs very seriously. As much as they do well on the field, they do it off the field, as well. This is their arm where they can give back to community … and they do … and they have been doing, year in and year out, all these years, an extraordinary job.

Indeed, the Giants Community Fund and its

Junior Giants Program won a national award called the Steve Patterson Award for Excellence in Sports Philanthropy …becoming the first Major League Baseball team to have ever won this coveted honor.

And the great Giants announcers whose voices we have become so familiar with, and love listening to, are the voice of the Giants on the field, and also for the Giants organization and how it connects with the community off the field.

You will hear how they often talk about the team’s community endeavors and the results will beautifully speak for themselves. The Giants sellout all their games … and beyond the three million guests each year who joyfully are coming to the Giants games, there are hundreds of millions more, together with them in spirit, listening on the radio

Lou Seal

and watching on TV. No question, the Giants and the large community have been and are really enjoying this mutual love affair … and are seeing great direct benefits, and results, as well.

Are you possibly wondering what kind of participation there is by the Giants team, players, coaches and staff off the field? It is all voluntary and it is 100% - where the entire Giants organization, from the top on down - gladly participates. They make guest appearances, where they will visit and speak to schools, hospitals and non-profits. Indeed, they touch community always in a warm and sincere way. They, too, have and share this very special feeling between the team and community.

In addition to the many local causes and nonprofit organizations they help support, they also have been and are involved in helping with great humanitarian causes, such as raising literacy …

and funds to help support the victims of, for example, Katrina, Sandy and the Philippines … and they were the first professional team to help raise funds and build awareness in their support of what has become an annual event: “Until There’s A Cure Day” in the fight against HIV and AIDS. Through its Junior Giants Program, the Community Fund allows more youth to play baseball where it wasn’t possible - building fields, and creating leagues – all free to participate. They find coaches and work closely with the Positive Coaching Alliance, as they help in providing excellent coaching and training. They produce a wonderful handbook each year that is so well thought out and prepared for the parents and their children to read together … and discuss important and meaningful topics like teamwork, character, good health, non-violence and bullying prevention (Strike Out Bullying).

Positive role models do have an important place and do help make a big difference. Here, with the Junior Giants, 20,000 kids a year, more than 200,000 in the 20-plus years, have so benefitted.

Does it make a difference? For these kids, it surely has and still does.

Let’s for a moment talk Junior Giants. What’s it about? How about the 4 Bases of Character Development … 1st Base = Confidence, 2nd Base = Integrity, 3rd Base = Leadership, Home = Teamwork. You can’t score unless you touch All The Bases!

“Entering its 21st season, Junior Giants is a free, non-competitive and co-ed baseball program. Over 20,000 youth across California, Nevada and Oregon participate in Junior Giants. Junior Giants offers equipment, uniforms, enrichment programs and coaches Training. Junior Giants wants to help you lead, succeed and have fun! Anyone can play!”

Through this amazing handbook, in addition to Character Development, there is also Education – The Giants Community Fund is proud to offer a summer reading program for all Junior Giants players. There is also Health – Be A Healthy Junior Giant: Snack smart with healthy snacks, Exercise 30 minutes of physical activity a day, Enjoy a soda-free summer and Protect yourself by using

sunscreen. Then there is Violence Prevention – Where: I pledge to strike out bullying … Peace starts within you …

“I will build peace on the field, at home, at school and in my community each day.” And, then, there’s the Junior Giants Willie Mac Award – This will go to one outstanding Junior Giants player and coach that represents their league, as chosen by their League Commissioner.

The Junior Giants encompasses 87 leagues …

210 cities served … 21,558 Girls and Boys and 2,966 coaches.

George Kontos GREGOR BLANCO “The Giants Community Fund is a public charity with a tie to the great game of baseball, a sport that convenes people of all ages and from all walks of life. The Giants are honored to have played an active role in the community by providing programs for youth since 1991. They work all year-round to ensure that underserved populations are reached with important initiatives in Education, Health, and Violence Prevention.”

I cannot imagine what any of this would have looked like if the Giants were the Toronto Giants or the Tampa Bay Giants … and the San Francisco Giants a thing of the past and none of this - AT&T Park, two World Series Championships, the Giants Community Fund, Community Relations and Junior Giants programs, and the many millions of dollars each year to benefit community and youth programs, making a huge difference for our community day in and day out, all year long, every year - yes, none of this would exist for us today if not for “them” – this, our very special Team.

These are angels and our Giants are indeed Giant … indeed Champions on and also most definitely every year off the field. Far beyond the box score, it’s another walk off winning home run and perfect game the Giants perform in the game of life and what they do for community. Thank you for all that you have done, are doing and will do.

If not for them, it would be a completely different ballgame. There would be no game. Because of them, we are Champion. From the top on down, it is all by design, dedicated to making such a big difference. It really is an entire Team effort and a mutual love affair with the community … that is indeed very special.

don’t think people realize just how catastrophic that would have been, and the ramifications it would have meant, had the Giants been taken from us.

What has come to fruition since: AT&T Park, a most beautiful new ballpark (arguably the best in all of baseball), sellout games, a revitalized SOMA and San Francisco, hundreds of millions of dollars that have gone to benefit local San Francisco and Bay Area community development, non-profits causes and two World Series Championships in three years (when not one in all the years prior since their arrival from New York in 1958); and the outstanding community programs that were born from this.

All this from a vision and great fortitude. From the top on down, led by President and CEO Larry Baer, the current ownership group has instilled a culture, a tradition, a legacy, if you will, BRANDON BELT within the San Francisco Giants organization that is indeed rocksolid and part of their own DNA. They believed strongly in their vision, their dedication and their hard work to build AT&T Park.

They also believed strongly in expressing the gratitude that the entire Giants organization feels for its community. They believe in their responsibility, to carry on the Giants legacy of giving back to the community and in turn the fans who support them. It is truly a love affair between the Giants and the community they serve – and it shows. It is so very evident.

In my conversation with Staci, Shana and Sue, I was enjoying every word they had to say. It was all with such enthusiasm, heart and passion. They love so much what they are doing … and they have each been doing this now for many years. We read in the news all that’s wrong about sports … that’s why I am happy to share this with you, all the GOOD that these Giants do off the field, because we don’t hear this; no, not near enough as we should, if at all.

The Giants take their off the field community programs very seriously. As much as they do well on the field, they do it off the field, as well. This is their arm where they can give back to community … and they do … and they have been doing, year in and year out, all these years, an extraordinary job.

Indeed, the Giants Community Fund and its

Junior Giants Program won a national award called the Steve Patterson Award for Excellence in Sports Philanthropy …becoming the first Major League Baseball team to have ever won this coveted honor.

And the great Giants announcers whose voices we have become so familiar with, and love listening to, are the voice of the Giants on the field, and also for the Giants organization and how it connects with the community off the field.

You will hear how they often talk about the team’s community endeavors and the results will beautifully speak for themselves. The Giants sellout all their games … and beyond the three million guests each year who joyfully are coming to the Giants games, there are hundreds of millions more, together with them in spirit, listening on the radio

Lou Seal

and watching on TV. No question, the Giants and the large community have been and are really enjoying this mutual love affair … and are seeing great direct benefits, and results, as well.

Are you possibly wondering what kind of participation there is by the Giants team, players, coaches and staff off the field? It is all voluntary and it is 100% - where the entire Giants organization, from the top on down - gladly participates. They make guest appearances, where they will visit and speak to schools, hospitals and non-profits. Indeed, they touch community always in a warm and sincere way. They, too, have and share this very special feeling between the team and community.

In addition to the many local causes and nonprofit organizations they help support, they also have been and are involved in helping with great humanitarian causes, such as raising literacy …

and funds to help support the victims of, for example, Katrina, Sandy and the Philippines … and they were the first professional team to help raise funds and build awareness in their support of what has become an annual event: “Until There’s A Cure Day” in the fight against HIV and AIDS. Through its Junior Giants Program, the Community Fund allows more youth to play baseball where it wasn’t possible - building fields, and creating leagues – all free to participate. They find coaches and work closely with the Positive Coaching Alliance, as they help in providing excellent coaching and training. They produce a wonderful handbook each year that is so well thought out and prepared for the parents and their children to read together … and discuss important and meaningful topics like teamwork, character, good health, non-violence and bullying prevention (Strike Out Bullying).

Positive role models do have an important place and do help make a big difference. Here, with the Junior Giants, 20,000 kids a year, more than 200,000 in the 20-plus years, have so benefitted.

Does it make a difference? For these kids, it surely has and still does.

Let’s for a moment talk Junior Giants. What’s it about? How about the 4 Bases of Character Development … 1st Base = Confidence, 2nd Base = Integrity, 3rd Base = Leadership, Home = Teamwork. You can’t score unless you touch All The Bases!

“Entering its 21st season, Junior Giants is a free, non-competitive and co-ed baseball program. Over 20,000 youth across California, Nevada and Oregon participate in Junior Giants. Junior Giants offers equipment, uniforms, enrichment programs and coaches Training. Junior Giants wants to help you lead, succeed and have fun! Anyone can play!”

Through this amazing handbook, in addition to Character Development, there is also Education – The Giants Community Fund is proud to offer a summer reading program for all Junior Giants players. There is also Health – Be A Healthy Junior Giant: Snack smart with healthy snacks, Exercise 30 minutes of physical activity a day, Enjoy a soda-free summer and Protect yourself by using

sunscreen. Then there is Violence Prevention – Where: I pledge to strike out bullying … Peace starts within you …

“I will build peace on the field, at home, at school and in my community each day.” And, then, there’s the Junior Giants Willie Mac Award – This will go to one outstanding Junior Giants player and coach that represents their league, as chosen by their League Commissioner.

The Junior Giants encompasses 87 leagues …

210 cities served … 21,558 Girls and Boys and 2,966 coaches.

George Kontos GREGOR BLANCO “The Giants Community Fund is a public charity with a tie to the great game of baseball, a sport that convenes people of all ages and from all walks of life. The Giants are honored to have played an active role in the community by providing programs for youth since 1991. They work all year-round to ensure that underserved populations are reached with important initiatives in Education, Health, and Violence Prevention.”

I cannot imagine what any of this would have looked like if the Giants were the Toronto Giants or the Tampa Bay Giants … and the San Francisco Giants a thing of the past and none of this - AT&T Park, two World Series Championships, the Giants Community Fund, Community Relations and Junior Giants programs, and the many millions of dollars each year to benefit community and youth programs, making a huge difference for our community day in and day out, all year long, every year - yes, none of this would exist for us today if not for “them” – this, our very special Team.

These are angels and our Giants are indeed Giant … indeed Champions on and also most definitely every year off the field. Far beyond the box score, it’s another walk off winning home run and perfect game the Giants perform in the game of life and what they do for community. Thank you for all that you have done, are doing and will do.

If not for them, it would be a completely different ballgame. There would be no game. Because of them, we are Champion. From the top on down, it is all by design, dedicated to making such a big difference. It really is an entire Team effort and a mutual love affair with the community … that is indeed very special.

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Volunteer your time.

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Help us make someday today. o utatl l s .o rg/ gba o rc al l4 0 8.4 9 0 .2 6 6 6 .

Greater Bay Area Chapter San Francisco Office 221 Main Street, Ste. 1650 San Francisco, CA 94105 Silicon Valley & Monterey Bay Office 675 N. First Street, Ste. 1100 San Jose, CA 95112

BAY AREA

NON PROFITS

East Bay

Non-Profits

I

Introducing East Bay Non-Profits!

n this day and age, many of us are looking for purpose and asking ourselves how we can help make a difference in our community and our world.

If we were to ask ourselves, where would we be without our Non-Profits, that’s a good question - they do a lot! With them, it’s hard enough in our world. Without them, it would be unthinkable. Indeed, we have many Non-Profits doing great works and they are always looking for people, like you, who can and would like to help.

At the same time, there are many people, like you and me, who wonder what specifically more we can do with our money or, especially, just by volunteering – indeed, what a difference that does and will make.

The greatest gift of all is in the giving and what a big positive difference it makes in the lives of others. In East Bay Non-Profits, learn about various great people and great organizations doing great things. May it become a growing Resource for you and many others, there’s nothing like teamwork, that can help us all in making a big positive difference for a better community here at Home.

DO GOOD

BY DONATING YOUR GOODS!

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Teaming Up to Make a Difference The Oakland Athletics Community Fund and the Athletics Community Relations Department

Throughout the years, the Oakland A’s have dedicated themselves to bettering the community in which they play. From providing tickets to underprivileged children, stressing the importance of education through reading, math and science programs, and raising funds, the A’s philanthropic spirit is unmistakable, and they are constantly finding creative and innovative ways to give back.

Founded in 1981, the Oakland A’s Commu Fund’s mission is to support charitable organity nizations in improving the quality of life for people throughout the Bay Area. Specifically, the fund endeavors to improve educational programs, aid the underprivileged, assist in crime and drug prevention, promote health awareness, and champion children and senior welfare. The Community Fund believes in the need to invest in the community’s future.

Leading the charge is Detra Paige, Director of Community Relations. Now approaching her 18th season with the A’s, Detra plays a large role in planning fundraising events and implementing various programs – her favorites being the A’s Annual Bowling Bash, Golf Classic, and the Energize Your Field field renovation program. Additionally, Detra receives and reviews donation requests sent to the A’s Community Fund, and works with Ken Pries, VP of Communication and Broadcasting, to deliver donations totaling $600,000 annually.

A’s outfielder Josh Reddick shows off his skills at the A’s Bowling Bash event

Josh Phegley meets with children with Immuno Thrombo Cyto Penia Purpura (ITP)

Sonny Gray with Make-a-Wish kid Hunter

Detra is passionate about her job, and when

asked what the best part of it is, she replies, without a doubt, when she is able to put a smile on a child’s face. Detra accomplishes this in many ways; through care packages, organizing baseball clinics, providing those in need with game tickets and introducing children to their favorite players.

Detra also works closely with the A’s alumni, including Hall of Famer, Rickey Henderson. She recalls that in his last season as an Oakland Athletic, Detra’s first, Henderson sponsored a program for elementary school children called “Rickey’s Heroes”. One game each homestand, Henderson invited 4 elementary students and their teacher, from an Oakland public school, to a weekday afternoon game at the ballpark. The group was invited to meet with Henderson on the field where they took photographs with the player, received autographs and A’s swag, and watched the A’s take batting practice.

Afterwards they were taken to Henderson’s family suite to watch the game and enjoy a catered lunch.

Henderson did this ten times during the season and his enthusiasm for working with youth truly left an impression with her.

Teaming Up to Make a Difference The Oakland Athletics Community Fund and the Athletics Community Relations Department

Throughout the years, the Oakland A’s have dedicated themselves to bettering the community in which they play. From providing tickets to underprivileged children, stressing the importance of education through reading, math and science programs, and raising funds, the A’s philanthropic spirit is unmistakable, and they are constantly finding creative and innovative ways to give back.

Founded in 1981, the Oakland A’s Commu Fund’s mission is to support charitable organity nizations in improving the quality of life for people throughout the Bay Area. Specifically, the fund endeavors to improve educational programs, aid the underprivileged, assist in crime and drug prevention, promote health awareness, and champion children and senior welfare. The Community Fund believes in the need to invest in the community’s future.

Leading the charge is Detra Paige, Director of Community Relations. Now approaching her 18th season with the A’s, Detra plays a large role in planning fundraising events and implementing various programs – her favorites being the A’s Annual Bowling Bash, Golf Classic, and the Energize Your Field field renovation program. Additionally, Detra receives and reviews donation requests sent to the A’s Community Fund, and works with Ken Pries, VP of Communication and Broadcasting, to deliver donations totaling $600,000 annually.

A’s outfielder Josh Reddick shows off his skills at the A’s Bowling Bash event

Josh Phegley meets with children with Immuno Thrombo Cyto Penia Purpura (ITP)

Sonny Gray with Make-a-Wish kid Hunter

Detra is passionate about her job, and when

asked what the best part of it is, she replies, without a doubt, when she is able to put a smile on a child’s face. Detra accomplishes this in many ways; through care packages, organizing baseball clinics, providing those in need with game tickets and introducing children to their favorite players.

Detra also works closely with the A’s alumni, including Hall of Famer, Rickey Henderson. She recalls that in his last season as an Oakland Athletic, Detra’s first, Henderson sponsored a program for elementary school children called “Rickey’s Heroes”. One game each homestand, Henderson invited 4 elementary students and their teacher, from an Oakland public school, to a weekday afternoon game at the ballpark. The group was invited to meet with Henderson on the field where they took photographs with the player, received autographs and A’s swag, and watched the A’s take batting practice.

Afterwards they were taken to Henderson’s family suite to watch the game and enjoy a catered lunch.

Henderson did this ten times during the season and his enthusiasm for working with youth truly left an impression with her.

Detra is not the only member of the A’s organization making an impact off the field. In 2015, A’s players, coaches and staff made 120 community-related appearances on behalf of the baseball club. One strong example is A’s catcher, Stephen Vogt. Vogt works hard on and off the field, and was a 2015 AllStar and won 5 awards (Dave Stewart Community Service Award, Jim “Catfish” Hunter Award, Heart and Hustle award, A’s nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award and the Good Guy Award) during the 2015 season as a result.

Vogt and his wife have a passion for working with children who have special needs. He has partnered with the School of Imagination and Happy Talkers program in Dublin, and there could not be a more perfect fit. The Vogts created the “Vogt Family Fund” to serve S.O.I. families in need of financial assistance. The Fund has raised over $40k.

“My wife, Alyssa, and I are so excited to be involved with the School of Imagination and Happy Talkers in Dublin. We love the ability to not only spend time with but help these kids feel important every time we get to go there. The School of Imagination helps children with all types of disabilities—from autism to social issues—come to a school and be accepted for who they are, receive the best evaluation and get put into a program that will help them eventually get into a public school. We are excited to spend the time with them, and look forward to bringing more awareness to this school and other kids with special needs.”

The School of Imagination is a small inclusion school for elementary level students. Vogt frequently visits with the students at the school, and he participates in their daily activities, including sensory activities, reading and outdoor play. Additionally, Vogt hosts the students and their families at A’s games, where they are invited onto the field early to watch Vogt take batting practice with the team, get autographs and take photos.

Vogt’s work with the School of Imagination is just one of the programs the A’s community team implements to help better serve the Bay Area. From tickets to player appearances to fundraisers, the A’s sponsor a wide variety of charitable programs with the goal to touch the lives of as many people as possible, and the A’s seek to have programs in which anyone can be a part of.

One of the A’s most successful fundraisers is the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Day. This special day is a celebration of survivorship, honoring those who have courageously battled breast cancer and to raise funds to support research, education, advocacy and free services for cancer patients and their families throughout the Bay Area. In 1998, A’s President, Michael Crowley and his wife Kathy played key roles in implementing this inspirational event to the Oakland Athletics and the community.

The creation of Breast Cancer Awareness Day begins with a story of survivorship.

Kaki Saxon Moyce, dear friend of Kathy Crowley, was first diagnosed in October of 1995 after finding a lump during a self exam. After her battle with cancer, Kaki is now a two time cancer survivor. Kaki represents all the stories of the thousands of survivors that have celebrated with the A’s over the past 17 years.

The A’s were one of the first Major League clubs to fundraise for a women’s health cause, and the 2015 season was the 17th anniversary of the event. Over the years this event has raised over $1.5M for breast cancer education and research through the sales of special ticket packages, commemorative pins, hats, jerseys, an A’s autographed quilt raffle, player autograph sessions, pledges, and fan & sponsor support, and this year’s event raised over $75,000.

Breast Cancer Awareness day festivities begin with an exclusive invite for survivors to attend a pre-game party that features interactive booths and demos and opportunities to share their stories with other survivors and their guests. Survivors are given a commemorative pink jersey to wear during the event. In addition, they are provided with lunch and other A’s goodies.

Pre-game ceremonial activities include a check presentation and ‘The Gift of Faith’ award. In 2004 the A’s started “The Gift of Faith” where they anually donate $5,000 to a local grassroots breast cancer charity in memory of longtime KTVU Channel

2 reporter Faith Fancher. Fancher inspired many with her courageous and dignified battle with breast cancer and used her story to encourage other women who are struggling with the disease.

During the main event, survivors are led onto the field sporting their pink A’s jerseys and carrying balloons where they form the ‘human’ pink ribbon in dedication of hope and survival. At the conclusion of this event, the A’s wives release white doves as a symbol of hope while the survivors simultaneously release their pink balloons into the sky.

The Oakland Athletics are proud to give these women a day to shine and celebrate life and continue to grow the event each season.

The A’s and the A’s Community Fund also hosts other fundraising events throughout the season, including the Bowling Bash, Golf Classic, Root Beer Float Day, and more. Each season, thousands of requests flood the community department, and the front office staff works hard to collaborate with as many charitable groups as possible. Making connections and lifelong fans is one of the A’s overarching goals as a long-standing Bay Area community member. The A’s remain dedicated to serving as many in the Bay Area as possible, and hope to continue to find partners to team up with to make a difference.

Detra is not the only member of the A’s organization making an impact off the field. In 2015, A’s players, coaches and staff made 120 community-related appearances on behalf of the baseball club. One strong example is A’s catcher, Stephen Vogt. Vogt works hard on and off the field, and was a 2015 AllStar and won 5 awards (Dave Stewart Community Service Award, Jim “Catfish” Hunter Award, Heart and Hustle award, A’s nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award and the Good Guy Award) during the 2015 season as a result.

Vogt and his wife have a passion for working with children who have special needs. He has partnered with the School of Imagination and Happy Talkers program in Dublin, and there could not be a more perfect fit. The Vogts created the “Vogt Family Fund” to serve S.O.I. families in need of financial assistance. The Fund has raised over $40k.

“My wife, Alyssa, and I are so excited to be involved with the School of Imagination and Happy Talkers in Dublin. We love the ability to not only spend time with but help these kids feel important every time we get to go there. The School of Imagination helps children with all types of disabilities—from autism to social issues—come to a school and be accepted for who they are, receive the best evaluation and get put into a program that will help them eventually get into a public school. We are excited to spend the time with them, and look forward to bringing more awareness to this school and other kids with special needs.”

The School of Imagination is a small inclusion school for elementary level students. Vogt frequently visits with the students at the school, and he participates in their daily activities, including sensory activities, reading and outdoor play. Additionally, Vogt hosts the students and their families at A’s games, where they are invited onto the field early to watch Vogt take batting practice with the team, get autographs and take photos.

Vogt’s work with the School of Imagination is just one of the programs the A’s community team implements to help better serve the Bay Area. From tickets to player appearances to fundraisers, the A’s sponsor a wide variety of charitable programs with the goal to touch the lives of as many people as possible, and the A’s seek to have programs in which anyone can be a part of.

One of the A’s most successful fundraisers is the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Day. This special day is a celebration of survivorship, honoring those who have courageously battled breast cancer and to raise funds to support research, education, advocacy and free services for cancer patients and their families throughout the Bay Area. In 1998, A’s President, Michael Crowley and his wife Kathy played key roles in implementing this inspirational event to the Oakland Athletics and the community.

The creation of Breast Cancer Awareness Day begins with a story of survivorship.

Kaki Saxon Moyce, dear friend of Kathy Crowley, was first diagnosed in October of 1995 after finding a lump during a self exam. After her battle with cancer, Kaki is now a two time cancer survivor. Kaki represents all the stories of the thousands of survivors that have celebrated with the A’s over the past 17 years.

The A’s were one of the first Major League clubs to fundraise for a women’s health cause, and the 2015 season was the 17th anniversary of the event. Over the years this event has raised over $1.5M for breast cancer education and research through the sales of special ticket packages, commemorative pins, hats, jerseys, an A’s autographed quilt raffle, player autograph sessions, pledges, and fan & sponsor support, and this year’s event raised over $75,000.

Breast Cancer Awareness day festivities begin with an exclusive invite for survivors to attend a pre-game party that features interactive booths and demos and opportunities to share their stories with other survivors and their guests. Survivors are given a commemorative pink jersey to wear during the event. In addition, they are provided with lunch and other A’s goodies.

Pre-game ceremonial activities include a check presentation and ‘The Gift of Faith’ award. In 2004 the A’s started “The Gift of Faith” where they anually donate $5,000 to a local grassroots breast cancer charity in memory of longtime KTVU Channel

2 reporter Faith Fancher. Fancher inspired many with her courageous and dignified battle with breast cancer and used her story to encourage other women who are struggling with the disease.

During the main event, survivors are led onto the field sporting their pink A’s jerseys and carrying balloons where they form the ‘human’ pink ribbon in dedication of hope and survival. At the conclusion of this event, the A’s wives release white doves as a symbol of hope while the survivors simultaneously release their pink balloons into the sky.

The Oakland Athletics are proud to give these women a day to shine and celebrate life and continue to grow the event each season.

The A’s and the A’s Community Fund also hosts other fundraising events throughout the season, including the Bowling Bash, Golf Classic, Root Beer Float Day, and more. Each season, thousands of requests flood the community department, and the front office staff works hard to collaborate with as many charitable groups as possible. Making connections and lifelong fans is one of the A’s overarching goals as a long-standing Bay Area community member. The A’s remain dedicated to serving as many in the Bay Area as possible, and hope to continue to find partners to team up with to make a difference.