FALL 2016
BAY AREA
NONPROFITS Rich Borell Founder & CEO Ken Packer Treasurer Frank Ponikvar Secretary Linda Holland Board Member Advisory Council Members Gay Krause Executive Director Krause Center for Innovation Foothill College Karen Tucker CEO Churchill Club
CONNECTING VOLUNTEERS & DONORS TO LOCAL NON PROFITS
Porcia Silverberg Leadership Development Facilitator & Retreat Convener Rosanne Foust CEO & President, SAMCEDA San Mateo County Economic Development Association
Bay Area NonProfits is a 501 (c)(3) Registered NonProfit 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 NonProfits Magazine are of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Board Members or Management team. The Magazine assumes
Shane Jacksteit Financial Advisor Edward Jones
no responsibility or liability for claims made by advertisers in the Magazine. All rights reserved. Bay Area NonProfits 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
BAY AREA
NONPROFITS Would Like To Extend Our Deepest Gratitude For Our Greatly Appreciated Community Supporters Corporate Supporters $10,000 + Therma Corporation
LOCAL BUSINESS SUPPORTERS $5,000 + Elephant Bar Restaurant IL Postale Italian-American Bistro & Bar La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant
LOCAL BUSINESS SUPPORTERS $1,500 +
Edward Jones, Financial Advisor, Shane Jacksteit Maggiano’s Little Italy
LOCAL BUSINESS SUPPORTERS $500 + Graniterock Heavenly Greens Palo Alto Bicycles
PRIVATE SUPPORTERS Black Angus Steakhouse Borell Family Trust Buca di Beppo Dishdash Restaurant Frank & Ann Ponikvar Ken Packer Lucy Borell Family Trust Outback Steakhouse Scott’s Seafood Marit D’Eliscu Scheiber Patrick Wall Victoria Armigo Timothy Weidman
•
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
• • • COMMUNITY SUPPORTER • • •
The Heart Is In THE SUPPORTING – A Shining Example Is The UPS Store In Santa Clara An Interview With Ravinder Lal, Owner BANP: What is the story behind your store’s supporting of nonprofits and great causes?
BANP: What does your store like to do for Nonprofits and great causes in the community?
RL: A great man once told me,” If you make a little bit of money, you give back a little bit of money; if you make a lot of money, you give back a lot of money. It’s our obligation … there will always be somebody worse off than you.”
RL: There are several ways we like to help nonprofits and great causes. The first way we help is with our time. We volunteer and get involved with community and many causes that are close to our hearts.
I have tried to live my life that way and run my business in the same manner. Let me first say that it was never intentional to be in the position that we are in now. It all started innocently enough when one of our local private schools was doing a shoe drive and they needed to ship all of the shoes they collected to New York, then to be shipped to Africa.
Of course, we make monetary donations, as well, but there is one area that we truly thrive. Six years ago, I turned my little “The UPS Store” franchise into a full service print shop. When we changed our focus to the print business, it really changed how we were able to help nonprofits.
The employee and the director of the school approached me and asked if I could give them a discount on shipping to help with their shoe drive. I thought about it for about two seconds and said, “I’ll ship them for free”. They were so grateful to me for such a small act it was unbelievable. The following day they asked me if I could pick the shoes up at the school and take a few pictures with the 1st and 2nd graders giving me the shoes to send off. I said, “Of course”. Little did I know that when I got there they had a whole presentation set up for me with pictures they drew up for me and they even sang me a song. I was blown away and nearly in tears. I always knew that giving back was the right thing to do, but I didn’t know it could feel so good to give back. Ever since that moment, we have strived to give back to our community in every way possible. We even changed our mission statement to include the phrase: “fulfilling our passion of giving back to our community and helping others help others”.
We began by doing simple things like donating banners for the Cancer Relay for Life. Then it grew to branding events for fundraisers and printing all of the things that go along with that, like signs, programs and tickets. The final thing we started doing was printing newsletters, designing and printing direct mail campaigns and finally helping them with the actual mailing of these items. Besides our expertise in working with nonprofits, they work with us because sometimes we are able to donate product, and graphic design time, and if we can’t donate, then we offer steep discounts and guidance on how to save them money on their projects. It’s really a win-win for everyone. In our hearts, we wish we could donate everything, but unfortunately we are a small business and we do everything in our power to save as much money as possible for the organizations that we work with. We are indeed very grateful for the opportunity that we have to serve our community for which we are very proud of.
Our 2016 Sunnyvale Art & Wine Festival Fundraiser Was A Big Success! Bay Area Nonprofits would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors below. Because of their generous help and support … our 2016 Sunnyvale Art & Wine Festival Fundraiser was extremely rewarding to the many Local Nonprofits - and the many people who will benefit - we help every day!
• Bay Area Mags LLC • Buca di Beppo • Deep Reflections Auto Detail • Dishdash Restaurant • Duxiana • Edward Jones – Shane Jacksteit, Financial Advisor • Elephant Bar Restaurant • Graniterock • Heavenly Greens • IL Postale Italian-American Bistro & Bar • La Fiesta Restaurant • Maggiano’s Little Italy • Palo Alto Bicycles • Scott’s Seafood And to all of the many in community that stopped by our booth and participated in our fundraiser. We wholeheartedly thank you for your generous support of Bay Area Nonprofits and the achieving of our goal of helping many local nonprofits - and benefiting many people in community - all year!
Thank You!
Bay Area Nonprofits
2016 Yearbook Champion!
Congratulations Shane Jacksteit! On behalf of the Board of Directors of Bay Area Nonprofits, we would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Shane Jacksteit for being an honored “Champion of the Year!” in helping us towards our community effort in helping many local nonprofits.
Thank You, Shane Jacksteit! A graduate of Vanguard University of Southern California, I hold a bachelor’s degree in business with an emphasis in organizational management.
I have been active in business and civic affairs in
Sunnyvale for many years. I am a member of the board of directors of the Sunnyvale Silicon
Valley Chamber of Commerce. I am also currently serving as the incoming president of the board of directors for Sunnyvale Community
Services, one of Silicon Valley’s most recognized
and respected nonprofit organizations. This is in
Shane Jacksteit Sunnyvale, CA
addition to my serving the community
as a member of the Sunnyvale Rotary Club, and many other service-oriented leadership roles.
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.
A Stronger Community Is A Huge Win For All of Us! CEN – CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE IN NONPROFITS
Janice Fry, Board Member & Donor BANP: What is it about CEN that helped you in choosing to become a supporter? JF: First, I believe that the nonprofit sector today brings essential programs and services to our community. These programs and services help to fill critical gaps that have a huge impact on the quality of life. And second, I believe in the importance of strong, effective leadership. I have seen, in many different settings, how it can rally enthusiasm, create paths forward and propel great things into motion. I have also seen how debilitating ineffective leadership can be. Based on these beliefs, it was an easy choice for me to become involved with and support the unique efforts of CEN, an organization that strengthens the nonprofit sector by first strengthening those dedicated individuals who lead our nonprofits. BANP: What changes have you seen since becoming a donor and what brings you the greatest joy? JF: I have seen a number of exciting changes that range from new staff members who are bringing new ideas, energy and approaches, to a number of new programs being offered. Our staff does an amazing job of ongoing “needs analysis” to ensure that we can prioritize opportunities for doing the most impactful work. As a result, CEN has begun to address the prevalent needs of the sector’s emerging leaders and now offers a Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program in partnership with local community colleges. We have also deepened our work with nonprofit boards and broadened the spectrum of consulting services offered. And in terms of what brings me the most joy – without a doubt it is seeing leaders who experience CEN programs as helping “transform” their lives and organizations in some positive, meaningful way. BANP: What is your personal philosophy about being able to help a great cause such as CEN?
JF: I dedicated my professional life to a career in Human Resources in technology companies. That experience taught me how very important it is to focus on “building capacity”, especially investing in the development of current and future leaders. Strong leaders are one of the “essential ingredients” for driving quality, growth and impact. CEN embodies this philosophy and is all about building capacity in our nonprofit leaders! BANP: What would you say to others about donating / volunteering, etc., with CEN and in general? JF: In my view, the opportunity to work with and support an organization when I have real passion for the mission is a privilege. Whether we each decide to offer our time and talents or make a donation, it literally “takes a village” to make sure that our nonprofit organizations are healthy and sustainable so that they can keep serving our community in such essential ways. I have served on a number of nonprofit boards and have seen, first hand, how impactful it can be when both individual leaders and boards clarify their roles and have tools to execute those roles with quality. BANP: What do you wish other people knew about CEN? JF: I wish more people understood that supporting CEN is one of the most highly leveraged and highly effective ways of making a difference in our community. As our nonprofit leaders become more effective, their organizations become stronger, and as a result, offer stronger and more effective programs and services. A stronger community is a huge win for all of us! I am so very proud of the work CEN does to help make this happen.
Nonprofit Leadership Matters
ship Matters
Nonprof
WE MAKE AN IMPACT • WE EMPOWER THROUGH INFORMATION
WE BUILD COMMUNITY • WE ARE PERSONAL
cated to serving and For over 20 yea leaders providing As theby only organization of its kind in Silicon Valley, CEN has a proven track record in developing highly efstrengthening S d a network of support. fective nonprofit leaders. CEN has been turning good leaders into great ones by providing access to best-inprofessional de class resources and programs, peer support networks, and personal consultation to over 200 Silicon Valley nonprofit organizations. We continually strive to help members of the CEN Community become the most well-respected and effectively managed organizations in Silicon Valley and beyond.
steering the course Today’s nonp our community. Fostering highly effective leaders and vibrant nonprofits toward gr that transform the quality of life in our communities
h the power of great
Join us as we work together to unleash the Join us as we w nonprofit leade power of great nonprofit leadership!
www.CEN.org
Dana Fenwick, CASSY Supporter
BANP: What is it about CASSY that helped you in choosing to become a supporter?
BANP: What do you wish other people knew about CASSY?
DF: The Mission – to de-stigmatize mental health DF: That CASSY is in 44 schools now and should services - is really important considering all the be in 4400 schools! Twenty-percent of our chilpressures there are in growing up today. CASSY’s dren have unmet mental health concerns; that is approach to ensuring youth have access to quality unacceptable and our kids deserve better. CASSY’s and comprehensive mental health support is to de- model works and is changing the way people think liver services in a place that makes sense for them, about mental health support. CASSY’s school and right on school
community
part-
campuses. Pro-
ners value the ser-
viding mental
vices because they
health services
enhance the school
in schools is im-
community, lower-
portant because it’s the way the Mission is brought ing school discipline issues and giving kids the opto life. Year after year, the demand for the services portunity to focus on school. is higher because the walls are coming down. BANP: Why would you recommend CASSY to BANP: What brings you the greatest joy?
someone who is looking to be a donor?
DF: Watching it grow! I’ve been a supporter of the DF: I can’t think of a better use of your investment organization since the beginning and each new and funds if you want to help the mental health wave of development has been great. I’ve watched equation in your community. CASSY provides it expand from one school to eight districts. From youth the metal health services they lack because two staff to fifty-five staff in just seven years. Each of access issues, monetary issues, or other barriers. year brings something new and exciting, whether Mental health support ensures our youth have the it’s additional schools or schools asking for addi- social and emotional support they need to navitional CASSY therapists to support all of their stu- gate life during and beyond their school years. It dents. It’s phenomenal.
just makes sense!
CASSY PARTNERS WITH SCHOOLS TO PROVIDE A MENTAL HEALTH SAFETY NET TO 33,000 YOUTH IN 44 SCHOOLS IN SANTA CLARA AND SAN MATEO COUNTIES PROVIDE 70,000 HOURS OF MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT ANNUALLY
Here to Help Youth CASSY IS A SILICON VALLEY NONPROFIT AGENCY THAT PARTNERS WITH LOCAL SCHOOLS TO SUPPORT STUDENTS’ SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING THROUGH CRISIS INTERVENTION, ONGOING COUNSELING, AND PROACTIVE MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION.
C A S S Y B AYA R E A . O R G • 4 0 8 . 4 9 3 . 5 2 8 9
Every Person Deserves A Safe Place To Call Home Our Mission Is To End Homelessness In Our County
Linda Chin, Board Member
BANP: What is it about HomeFirst that helped you in choosing to
and cleaning items for every client that is placed into permanent
become a volunteer/donor?
housing. It’s incredibly satisfying to re-purpose gently used items that would otherwise be recycled or thrown away, to gladden the
LC: HomeFirst has been a leader in the fight against homelessness
hearts of clients who are immensely grateful for a helping hand.
since it was founded over 35 years ago as the Emergency Housing Consortium. Every or-
BANP: Is there a special experience you
ganization says their donors and volunteers
would like to share?
make a difference – and that’s true – but it’s particularly true at HomeFirst. Unlike many
LC: At the end of the Cold Weather Season,
other nonprofits that already have deep
we hold a huge linen sorting event, where
personal connections to donors – schools,
we sort, fold, and count all the sheets, tow-
medical organizations, religious institutions
els and blankets that are in good enough
– HomeFirst has to work extra hard to at-
condition to be bagged up for use the next
tract donors and volunteers. There are many
season. Volunteers work alongside our New
myths about why people are homeless, and
Start team members, who are clients that
the best way to dispel those myths is to get
are eligible for extended stays at our main
first-hand knowledge about the challenges
shelter in return for helping out with jani-
that homeless people face. It’s easy for peo-
torial, kitchen, and other tasks there. Their
ple to say: “they” should solve homelessness,
stories really bring home the fact that so
when the truth is that it will take a united
many people are just one disaster away
community effort to address both the causes and solutions to this
from homelessness, and yet many of our clients, who have been
urgent issue. Every volunteer and donor at HomeFirst furthers our
homeless for years, display a level of compassion, humor and resil-
mission to end homelessness in our County. Every person deserves
ience that is humbling.
a safe place to call home. BANP: What do you wish other people knew about HomeFirst? BANP: What do you do when you volunteer? LC: We do everything we can to help people overcome the chalLC: I chair the Fund Development Committee on the Board of Di-
lenges that caused their homelessness and prevent them from
rectors, helping HomeFirst staff with both long-term strategy and
dying on our streets. But solving homelessness is not just the com-
immediate implementation of fundraising initiatives. But my fa-
passionate thing to do – it’s also the most effective use of our com-
vorite job is leading a group of volunteers every Tuesday. We sort
munity dollars. Detailed, long-term studies have indicated that the
all the in-kind donations from corporations, hotels, community
top 5% of our chronically homeless population cost $83,000 per
groups, and individuals. Those donations provide urgently needed
year in emergency medical, judicial, and other costs. Housing our
supplies of linens and toiletries for our emergency shelters and our
most vulnerable clients costs just a fraction of that.
outreach programs, as well as for move-in kits of bedding, kitchen,
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
SMYTHE FAMILY FOUNDATION BANP: What is it about BGCSV that helped you in be a key for me to keep the joy in my heart and soul. choosing to become a supporter? BANP: What do you wish other people knew about SFF: This organization changes lives. It provides a BGCSV? safe place for these kids to go after school … where otherwise they would be vulnerable to gang violence,
SFF: Sometimes I’ve heard it said that our clubs are
drug use and other damaging behavior. These kids the biggest secret in the valley. This has to change. are growing up in poor neighborhoods
This organization has been around for over
and in most cases are being raised by
70 years. I think our new CEO, Max Dug-
a single parent working one or two
gane is going to change this. He and
jobs to make ends meet. Many of the
his team will, without a doubt, put the
kids I’ve talked to call the club
Boys and Girls Clubs of Sili-
their home. Some call it their
con Valley on the map and
salvation. That is why I be-
in the news. The “what”?
lieve in this organization.
is well explained in my answer to your first question.
BANP: What brings you the greatest joy? BANP: Why would you recommend BGCSV to someSFF: Interesting question? As far as the clubs are con- one who is looking to be a donor? cerned the greatest joy comes from watching these SFF: Visit the clubs. Go to three or four of the clubs kids develop into contributing members of our com- in Silicon Valley between 3pm-6pm. Listen in on the munity. Watching the lights come on as their lives be- power hour … partake in the various club activities. come more about possibilities and opportunities than Witness firsthand the tremendous difference this orthey’ve ever dreamed. Personally I find joy in many
ganization is having on our underserved youth. Do
things. My family … my wife ... my relationships with
this and I’m pretty sure you will join us in keeping the
friends. Helping others and being of service seems to
dream alive.
A
t Boys & Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley, we dream of a world where every child is given the opportunity to succeed in life and experience a brighter future. Together, we can provide safe and stable environments where hundreds of youth in our community can thrive every day. Across our 9 locations in Silicon Valley we serve about 3,000 members annually, giving them a safe place to learn and grow. Youth Development Outcomes: Through daily participation in quality programs, Club members develop important life skills and attitudes, and gain critical development assets.
Positive Self-Identity Health and Wellbeing Positive Values Commitment to Learning Social Competency Community and Civic Involvement
Key Elements of Youth Development: These key elements drive our efforts and allow us to have a sustained impact on youth.
Safe and Positive Environment Mentoring Relationships with Caring Adults Opportunities and Expectations Goal Setting and Achievement Recognition FUN!
Marco Lillo VOLUNTEER, Sacred Heart Community Service
BANP: What is it about Sacred Heart Commu- ML: Yes, I had a really nice experience last Christnity Service that helped you in choosing to be- mas. I was shooting family portraits for families come a volunteer? in Sacred Heart. Some of these people did not have money to pay ML: I try to find a good for this job, because place to work in the it’s expensive. I took volunteer program, these photos for free, with nice people and but these families for a great cause. paid me with a beautiful letter, and lots of BANP: What do you love. That is the bigdo when you volungest present from my teer? last Christmas. ML: I photograph BANP: Why would the different internal you recommend Saevents and the images are used in the website cred Heart to someone who is looking to be a and brochures. volunteer? BANP: Is there a special experience you would ML: Because it is a great cause, and a good oplike to share? portunity to help, and work with nice people.
Here at Sacred Heart Community Service, we are determined to create a community free from poverty by creating hope, opportunity, and action. We could not do the work that we do without all the individuals in our community! Whether you are volunteering your time, donating goods, or sharing your family’s experiences, you make Sacred Heart what it is. Thank you for being a part of our community!
DONATE
VOLUNTEER
SERVICES
SACRED HEART COMMUNITY SERVICE 1381 SOUTH FIRST ST. SAN JOSÉ, CA 95110 • T: (408) 278-2160 SACREDHEARTCS.ORG
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
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!
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.
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.
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.
Over the last 5 years, our graduates have earned $43,000,000, spent locally to support the community
MEET Nora Sobolov, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF
• What is JobTrain about and what do you all do? JobTrain began with this vision: when you level the playing field, provide the right supports, and believe in people, everyone has the potential to succeed. JobTrain helps the most needy individuals and families in Silicon Valley to transform their lives from poverty and unemployment to self-sufficiency and sustainable careers. JobTrain does this by providing a range of services including full-time vocational training programs at no cost to the students to prepare them for careers in high-demand fields. Our comprehensive services provide “whole person” support, which means students not only learn skills but they can also access job placement support, counseling, benefits, legal support and job success training. Training programs at JobTrain include Business Administration Skills, Culinary Arts, Laborers Construction Fundamentals, Medical Assistant, Professional Health Care Worker, Project Build/Green Technology/Carpenter Pre-Apprenticeship, and our brand new, Web Developer Coding Bootcamp. In addition, we also provide childcare for children of trainees and the broader community. The JobTrain campus also houses a Peninsula One-Stop Center for job
seekers and Single Stop which helps individuals and families enroll in public benefits such as Cal-Fresh and health care as well as help with legal and immigration issues. We also have GED prep, skills upgrade and English language classes. Our program is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). In JobTrain’s 50 years of serving the San Francisco Bay Area, the organization has a proven track record of helping people transform their financial and personal situations. • What do you love most about JobTrain and the work that you all do? Recently, during our Trainee of the Month program – a time when we celebrate the accomplishments of our students and they, in turn, share their stories – a young man performed a rap poem about his life. He talked about all that he had overcome to join our construction class, his experience with racism, his conflict with the law and his determination to become successful and keep his infant son from experiencing what he had experienced. The students are my inspiration: hearing their stories, seeing them in their red robes at graduation, and listening to students ring the
82%
Graduates Placed in Careers bell to tell everyone in the community that they have a job are what I love most about JobTrain. • How has JobTrain made a difference and what impact do you still wish to see JobTrain make? Since we began in 1965, over 190,000 individuals have benefited from JobTrain’s programs and services. Over the past 5 years, our graduates have earned more than $43,000,000 and the money they earn is spent in the local community, helping to support families and community businesses and institutions. Our strong partnerships with local employers ensure that our programs continue to meet the needs of the current job market. Each vocational training program works closely with a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) who ensures our curriculum is up to date and provides internships and jobs for graduates. We work with over 70 employers which helps to explain our 82% placement rate and close to 90% rate of people working a year later. Plus the Sheriff’s office tells us that those who were previously incarcerated and go through our program go back to jail at a much lower rate.
90%
Placements with Jobs One Year Later quoia Adult School and Cañada College on pathways that allow people to train for better paying jobs immediately but also access college credits to further expand their possibilities.
We have exciting partnerships with the Laborers and Carpenters Unions which provide a road to construction jobs and, with our partners at Goodwill of Silicon Valley, we have opened a second cohort of our Laborers construction program in San Jose. We have just begun a partnership with the Sequoia Union High School District to offer JobTrain programs for students at Redwood High School, a continuation school. And we have just opened our first of many social enterprises with our partner CALSO: WISE SV’s Rendezvous Café and catering, at the Sobrato Center in Redwood Shores.
• What would you like the world to know about JobTrain and how can people help make a difference? JobTrain is uniquely positioned to help those most in need. JobTrain services are free, and to help them remain free, contributions to cover the cost for training our students and providing them the support they need are invaluable and make a lasting contribution to our community as our students move into careers. We also have many volunteers who teach in our Essential Skills program which is quickly becoming the gold standard for other programs like ours. As teachers, mentors and role models, individuals and companies from across the Bay Area help teach skills essential to getting and keeping a job, including one-time volunteers who review resumes or conduct mock interviews. Many others participate as guest lecturers in our programs. • What is it you would like to say to potential Donors and Volunteers? Why is JobTrain so special? It’s important to remember that in the Bay Area, so many people are one paycheck away from homelessness. One of our students, Louisa, had a husband who worked in technology while she provided home-based care. Her husband passed away unexpectedly as did her employer and instantly she had no income and a great tragedy to overcome. JobTrain gave her an opportunity to not only train for a career and find a new pathway, but also a community of support that helped her with the myriad of other challenges that people in her situation face.
JobTrain would like to expand our impact by increasing the number of people who can access our existing programs by taking our programs to locations throughout the Bay Area, through train the trainer, online access and evening programs. The need is great; in fact, we have over 150 on our waiting lists just for our medical assistant and coding boot camp. We are also trying to increase the opportunities for our students. We are partnering with both Se-
And that, in a nutshell, is the magic of JobTrain. Training alone is not enough. We have to create a launch pad for people to move to the next level of employment. We create the winning combination through our program and our ties to many employer partners, volunteers, donors, foundations, community groups, education groups, government and stakeholders. Together, we ensure that those most in need succeed.
Over the last 5 years, our graduates have earned $43,000,000, spent locally to support the community
MEET Nora Sobolov, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF
• What is JobTrain about and what do you all do? JobTrain began with this vision: when you level the playing field, provide the right supports, and believe in people, everyone has the potential to succeed. JobTrain helps the most needy individuals and families in Silicon Valley to transform their lives from poverty and unemployment to self-sufficiency and sustainable careers. JobTrain does this by providing a range of services including full-time vocational training programs at no cost to the students to prepare them for careers in high-demand fields. Our comprehensive services provide “whole person” support, which means students not only learn skills but they can also access job placement support, counseling, benefits, legal support and job success training. Training programs at JobTrain include Business Administration Skills, Culinary Arts, Laborers Construction Fundamentals, Medical Assistant, Professional Health Care Worker, Project Build/Green Technology/Carpenter Pre-Apprenticeship, and our brand new, Web Developer Coding Bootcamp. In addition, we also provide childcare for children of trainees and the broader community. The JobTrain campus also houses a Peninsula One-Stop Center for job
seekers and Single Stop which helps individuals and families enroll in public benefits such as Cal-Fresh and health care as well as help with legal and immigration issues. We also have GED prep, skills upgrade and English language classes. Our program is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). In JobTrain’s 50 years of serving the San Francisco Bay Area, the organization has a proven track record of helping people transform their financial and personal situations. • What do you love most about JobTrain and the work that you all do? Recently, during our Trainee of the Month program – a time when we celebrate the accomplishments of our students and they, in turn, share their stories – a young man performed a rap poem about his life. He talked about all that he had overcome to join our construction class, his experience with racism, his conflict with the law and his determination to become successful and keep his infant son from experiencing what he had experienced. The students are my inspiration: hearing their stories, seeing them in their red robes at graduation, and listening to students ring the
82%
Graduates Placed in Careers bell to tell everyone in the community that they have a job are what I love most about JobTrain. • How has JobTrain made a difference and what impact do you still wish to see JobTrain make? Since we began in 1965, over 190,000 individuals have benefited from JobTrain’s programs and services. Over the past 5 years, our graduates have earned more than $43,000,000 and the money they earn is spent in the local community, helping to support families and community businesses and institutions. Our strong partnerships with local employers ensure that our programs continue to meet the needs of the current job market. Each vocational training program works closely with a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) who ensures our curriculum is up to date and provides internships and jobs for graduates. We work with over 70 employers which helps to explain our 82% placement rate and close to 90% rate of people working a year later. Plus the Sheriff’s office tells us that those who were previously incarcerated and go through our program go back to jail at a much lower rate.
90%
Placements with Jobs One Year Later quoia Adult School and Cañada College on pathways that allow people to train for better paying jobs immediately but also access college credits to further expand their possibilities.
We have exciting partnerships with the Laborers and Carpenters Unions which provide a road to construction jobs and, with our partners at Goodwill of Silicon Valley, we have opened a second cohort of our Laborers construction program in San Jose. We have just begun a partnership with the Sequoia Union High School District to offer JobTrain programs for students at Redwood High School, a continuation school. And we have just opened our first of many social enterprises with our partner CALSO: WISE SV’s Rendezvous Café and catering, at the Sobrato Center in Redwood Shores.
• What would you like the world to know about JobTrain and how can people help make a difference? JobTrain is uniquely positioned to help those most in need. JobTrain services are free, and to help them remain free, contributions to cover the cost for training our students and providing them the support they need are invaluable and make a lasting contribution to our community as our students move into careers. We also have many volunteers who teach in our Essential Skills program which is quickly becoming the gold standard for other programs like ours. As teachers, mentors and role models, individuals and companies from across the Bay Area help teach skills essential to getting and keeping a job, including one-time volunteers who review resumes or conduct mock interviews. Many others participate as guest lecturers in our programs. • What is it you would like to say to potential Donors and Volunteers? Why is JobTrain so special? It’s important to remember that in the Bay Area, so many people are one paycheck away from homelessness. One of our students, Louisa, had a husband who worked in technology while she provided home-based care. Her husband passed away unexpectedly as did her employer and instantly she had no income and a great tragedy to overcome. JobTrain gave her an opportunity to not only train for a career and find a new pathway, but also a community of support that helped her with the myriad of other challenges that people in her situation face.
JobTrain would like to expand our impact by increasing the number of people who can access our existing programs by taking our programs to locations throughout the Bay Area, through train the trainer, online access and evening programs. The need is great; in fact, we have over 150 on our waiting lists just for our medical assistant and coding boot camp. We are also trying to increase the opportunities for our students. We are partnering with both Se-
And that, in a nutshell, is the magic of JobTrain. Training alone is not enough. We have to create a launch pad for people to move to the next level of employment. We create the winning combination through our program and our ties to many employer partners, volunteers, donors, foundations, community groups, education groups, government and stakeholders. Together, we ensure that those most in need succeed.
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
Making A Positive Difference Providing A Lifetime of Impact For a Child in Foster Care CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of San Mateo County Patrick Goodenough, CASA Volunteer and Donor BANP: What is it about CASA of San Mateo County that made you want to become a CASA Volunteer? What do you do when you volunteer and how long have you been doing it? PG: The role of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) revolves around participating in court decisions relating to the welfare of children placed in foster care. When I retired, I volunteered to teach art to kids who were on probation. Fifteen-yearold Juan’s talent took my breath away and while I was nurturing his art skills our connection deepened. At his request, I took the training to become a CASA Volunteer so I could help Juvenile Court Judges make well-informed decisions about Juan’s home placements, visitation rights with family members, education or anything that impacted his health, safety and general well-being. Now Juan is 23 and out of foster care but our friendship has endured.
he received. The fact that only two weeks later he lost the job represented the other side of the coin. Young people who have experienced crisis and are healing from trauma have large ups and downs. A CASA Volunteer tries to help the child absorb the disappointments. Even though the mentoring relationship can be warm and productive, teens are apt to test adults and the relationship can be fragile. It takes longer to build real trust with a child who has felt abandoned but Juan learned that I would always stand by him. I’ve enjoyed watching him follow his dream to be a professional artist.
BANP: Do you recommend or suggest this volunteer work to others? PG: I encourage others to volunteer. I’ve often heard retired men and women express dissatisfaction with their quality of life. I think working with youth of very different backgrounds can be deeply rewarding. BANP: What do you love most about what Juan repeatedly tells me I’m like a father you do when you volunteer? Is there a fato him. He credits me with proving that vorite “something” you like? relationships can be supportive and endurPatrick Goodenough PG: Through a close, one-on-one relationing. In my experience, the role of a CASA ship, I understood how a history of abuse and neglect led Juan Volunteer led me to self-examination and personal growth. I’ve to make bad choices. He was placed in foster care after experi- learned more from my relationship with Juan then I have in a encing domestic violence and was bounced around to so many lifetime. different group homes. He got involved with the wrong crowd and so ended up on probation for petty crime. I developed re- BANP: What do you wish other people knew about CASA? spect for Juan’s challenges and gained insight into his anxiety PG: I consistently recommend CASA to people seeking worthy about his future. Fortunately, as a CASA Volunteer, I was empow- non-profits to support. The mission is straight forward as it cenered by the courts to offer him stability and hope. I felt that I was ters on children with great need. CASA has had a long history able to use my skills and collaborate with individuals in the child of successfully supporting children in crisis. The organization’s welfare system to make a truly lasting difference. structure is uncomplicated, with just a few employees supervising nearly 300 volunteers. As both a volunteer and a donor, I have BANP: Is there a particular moment that stands out for you or a watched the agency grow and win the confidence of partners in particular joy you get when you volunteer? the community. I’m happy to help spread the word about CASA to PG: One is rewarded in unexpected moments. Juan’s high potential donors so that the organization can realize its vision of school graduation was momentous as was the first paycheck providing a CASA Volunteer to every child who needs one.
MALE MENTORS NEEDED
MALE MENTOR NEEDED Be a powerful voice Be a role model Be an advocate
Be a CASA Volunteer
Take the first step and join us for a brief info session
Empowerment ∙ Encouragement ∙ Achievement
EMPOWERMENT ∙ ENCOURAGEMENT ∙ ACHIEVEMENT CASA of San Mateo County is in critical need of male volunteers to a CASA of San Mateo County is in critical need of male volunteers to advocate for and mentor boys and teens who have been abused or neglected are in the fosterhave care system. and mentor boys and and teens who been abused or neglected and foster care system. What do CASA Volunteers do? They listen first. Then they act. They get to know the child by visiting with them weekly and then inform judges and others of what the child needs. They provide consistent support and make sure the child’s needs are not overlooked and that the child doesn’t get lost in the system. Women are also very welcome to volunteer!
MALE MENTO NEEDED
What do CASA Volunteers do? They listen first. Then they act. They child by visiting with them weekly and then inform judges and other child needs. They provide consistent support and make sure the chi not overlooked and that the child doesn’t get lost in the system.
Empowerment ∙ Encouragement ∙ Achievement
CASA of San Mateo County is in critical need of male volunt Women are also very welcome to volunteer! and mentor boys and teens who have been abused or negle foster care system.
What do CASA Volunteers do? They listen first. Then they ac child by visiting with them weekly and then inform judges a Follow us! child needs. They consistent and make sure Join us for an upcoming Infoprovide Session fromsupport 6-7pm not overlooked and that the child doesn’t get lost in the s
Please email natalie@casaofsanmateo.org Women are also very welcome to volunteer! or visit www.casaofsanmateo.org Follow us! for upcoming dates.
Follow us!
L E G A L A I D S O C I E T Y O F S A N M AT E O C O U N T Y
Justice For All Matters Very Much To Us All
SH: The Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County has made an impact on hundreds of thousands of persons since our founding in 1959. With legal assistance, they were able to overcome legal obstacles and stabilize their lives. Many have achieved wonderful things: they have learned English, graduated from high school, graduated from college, found
An Interview With Stacey Hawver, Executive Director
jobs and helped others. My wish is to be able to expand our services in two im-
BANP: What is the Legal Aid Society of San Mateo Coun-
BANP: What do you love most about the Legal Aid So-
portant areas: to increase resources de-
ty about and what do you all do?
ciety of San Mateo County and the work that you all do?
voted to housing issues, and geograph-
SH: The Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County has been
SH: Justice for all matters very much to me and to the en-
ically, to reach more of the San Mateo
changing lives in our commu-
tire staff at the Legal Aid Soci-
county coastline. With today’s cost of
nity for more than 50 years.
ety of San Mateo County. Our
housing skyrocketing ever higher, we
Our mission is to improve
attorneys are graduates of
see over 100 clients monthly trying des-
access to justice for the poor,
some of the finest law schools
perately to preserve their housing in our
the elderly, veterans, families
in America and approach their
three weekly clinics. Our resources are
in crisis, immigrants: those
work with passion for justice
stretched thin as we try to both provide
who are most in need.
and profound empathy for
direct services and address issues relat-
their clients. Nearly 500 legal
ing to housing on a systemic level. We
In 2015, we helped over
professionals volunteered in
also know that there are low-income residents on the
2,400 clients. More than half
2015. I am proud of our long-
coast in need of legal assistance for a variety of issues.
were defined as extremely
term collaborations with our
low income, with over 300
community partners includ-
BANP: What would you like the world to know about
Mateo so special?
having no current income at
ing other nonprofit organiza-
the Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County and how
SH: Equal access to justice is about everyone’s ability
all. Nearly 55% faced housing
tions, hospitals, schools and
can people help make a difference?
to participate in our legal system regardless of how
issues, including the threat
local and state government
SH: There is still poverty in our community despite a
much money they have. The Legal Aid Society takes on
of homelessness, as county
agencies. The Legal Aid Soci-
fast-growing economy; the average annual income
the special responsibility to aid those who are in need,
rents continued to rise at an
ety of San Mateo County is an
of a Legal Aid client in 2015 was $16,000. In order to
but who cannot afford legal services. We are always
unprecedented rate. Hundreds more needed our help to
integral part of making sure that everyone has access to
achieve our dreams of providing additional assistance
seeking volunteers with a legal background; and, of
access healthcare and other safety net benefits to which
justice, regardless of their ability to pay.
in housing, and to reach more clients out on the coast,
course, contributions to the Legal Aid Society of San
we need to hire an additional attorney and a project
Mateo County will help us provide life-changing equal
they were entitled, to be protected from the threat of el-
day, at our website at www.legalaidsmc.org. BANP: What is it you like to say to potential Donors and Volunteers? Why is the Legal Aid Society of San
der abuse or domestic violence, or to get the educational
BANP: How has the Legal Aid Society of San Mateo Coun-
coordinator. While we seek funding regularly, readers
access to justice for thousands in need. To help today
services their children need to succeed in school.
ty made an impact and what do you wish yet to see?
can make an immediate difference with a donation to-
go to www.legalaidsmc.org.
L E G A L A I D S O C I E T Y O F S A N M AT E O C O U N T Y
Justice For All Matters Very Much To Us All
SH: The Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County has made an impact on hundreds of thousands of persons since our founding in 1959. With legal assistance, they were able to overcome legal obstacles and stabilize their lives. Many have achieved wonderful things: they have learned English, graduated from high school, graduated from college, found
An Interview With Stacey Hawver, Executive Director
jobs and helped others. My wish is to be able to expand our services in two im-
BANP: What is the Legal Aid Society of San Mateo Coun-
BANP: What do you love most about the Legal Aid So-
portant areas: to increase resources de-
ty about and what do you all do?
ciety of San Mateo County and the work that you all do?
voted to housing issues, and geograph-
SH: The Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County has been
SH: Justice for all matters very much to me and to the en-
ically, to reach more of the San Mateo
changing lives in our commu-
tire staff at the Legal Aid Soci-
county coastline. With today’s cost of
nity for more than 50 years.
ety of San Mateo County. Our
housing skyrocketing ever higher, we
Our mission is to improve
attorneys are graduates of
see over 100 clients monthly trying des-
access to justice for the poor,
some of the finest law schools
perately to preserve their housing in our
the elderly, veterans, families
in America and approach their
three weekly clinics. Our resources are
in crisis, immigrants: those
work with passion for justice
stretched thin as we try to both provide
who are most in need.
and profound empathy for
direct services and address issues relat-
their clients. Nearly 500 legal
ing to housing on a systemic level. We
In 2015, we helped over
professionals volunteered in
also know that there are low-income residents on the
2,400 clients. More than half
2015. I am proud of our long-
coast in need of legal assistance for a variety of issues.
were defined as extremely
term collaborations with our
low income, with over 300
community partners includ-
BANP: What would you like the world to know about
Mateo so special?
having no current income at
ing other nonprofit organiza-
the Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County and how
SH: Equal access to justice is about everyone’s ability
all. Nearly 55% faced housing
tions, hospitals, schools and
can people help make a difference?
to participate in our legal system regardless of how
issues, including the threat
local and state government
SH: There is still poverty in our community despite a
much money they have. The Legal Aid Society takes on
of homelessness, as county
agencies. The Legal Aid Soci-
fast-growing economy; the average annual income
the special responsibility to aid those who are in need,
rents continued to rise at an
ety of San Mateo County is an
of a Legal Aid client in 2015 was $16,000. In order to
but who cannot afford legal services. We are always
unprecedented rate. Hundreds more needed our help to
integral part of making sure that everyone has access to
achieve our dreams of providing additional assistance
seeking volunteers with a legal background; and, of
access healthcare and other safety net benefits to which
justice, regardless of their ability to pay.
in housing, and to reach more clients out on the coast,
course, contributions to the Legal Aid Society of San
we need to hire an additional attorney and a project
Mateo County will help us provide life-changing equal
they were entitled, to be protected from the threat of el-
day, at our website at www.legalaidsmc.org. BANP: What is it you like to say to potential Donors and Volunteers? Why is the Legal Aid Society of San
der abuse or domestic violence, or to get the educational
BANP: How has the Legal Aid Society of San Mateo Coun-
coordinator. While we seek funding regularly, readers
access to justice for thousands in need. To help today
services their children need to succeed in school.
ty made an impact and what do you wish yet to see?
can make an immediate difference with a donation to-
go to www.legalaidsmc.org.
SAMARITAN HOUSE A Key Principle At Samaritan House Is About
“Neighbor Helping Neighbor”
Patty Hsiu, longtime dedicated Volunteer and Donor, Advisory Council
Member, Development Committee Member and former Board President, on why she supports Samaritan House: BANP: What is it about Samaritan House that made you
PH: I like helping folks that need help. I also like helping
want to choose Samaritan House?
folks that want to give time as their contribution. Teaching
PH: It’s local and helps people that live where I live. The
community members, especially students, about the con-
help that Samaritan House provides is basic: food, shelter,
text of the work they do while volunteering is satisfying. A
medical, etc. I understand and
key principle at Samaritan
see the needs, and feel like I can
House is about ‘Neighbor help-
make an impact. The areas that
ing Neighbor’. I live in a better
Samaritan House covers are im-
community because we have an
portant to the wellbeing to ev-
organization that puts together
ery person and not having these
people that can help with those
things has far reaching conse-
that need it.
quences.
BANP: Is there a particular mo-
BANP: What do you do when
ment that stands out for you or
you volunteer and how long
a particular joy you get when
have you been doing it?
you volunteer?
PH: I currently help with fundraising, recruiting volunteers,
PH: It’s especially fun when other volunteers that I’ve co-
distributing and serving food, and toys, collecting and
ordinated or connected with Samaritan House are grateful
transporting donations, and even photographing events. I
to be able to help. Both the helpers and the helped are
also volunteer on the Advisory Council, the Development
grateful and it’s a wonderful thing.
Committee, and the Main Event Committee. When I was
BANP: Do you recommend or suggest this to others?
the Board President, I helped lead strategic initiatives and
PH: Yes! It’s gratifying and it’s the right thing to do if you
governance. I’ve done some sort of volunteering for Sa-
want to help create a healthy community. And get your
maritan House for about 20 years.
kids involved too; it will stay with them throughout their
BANP: What do you love most about what you do when
lives.
you volunteer? Is there a favorite “something” you like?
Since 1974, Samaritan House has become San Mateo’s leading non-profit that brings a new level of hope, dignity, and empowerment to people living in poverty as they fulfill immediate needs and guide people toward self-reliance. Samaritan House is the largest food distribution agency in the county. Other free services include shelter and housing assistance; medical and dental clinics; clothes for children; personalized case management and much more. The entire community benefits from Samaritan House’s steadfast mission to mobilize all available resources and work hand-in-hand to break the cycle of poverty.
RECEIVED:
650-341-4081 • Mon-Fri, 9:00 – 5:00 • 4031 Pacific Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94403 www.samaritanhousesanmateo.org
SAMARITAN HOUSE A Key Principle At Samaritan House Is About
“Neighbor Helping Neighbor”
Patty Hsiu, longtime dedicated Volunteer and Donor, Advisory Council
Member, Development Committee Member and former Board President, on why she supports Samaritan House: BANP: What is it about Samaritan House that made you
PH: I like helping folks that need help. I also like helping
want to choose Samaritan House?
folks that want to give time as their contribution. Teaching
PH: It’s local and helps people that live where I live. The
community members, especially students, about the con-
help that Samaritan House provides is basic: food, shelter,
text of the work they do while volunteering is satisfying. A
medical, etc. I understand and
key principle at Samaritan
see the needs, and feel like I can
House is about ‘Neighbor help-
make an impact. The areas that
ing Neighbor’. I live in a better
Samaritan House covers are im-
community because we have an
portant to the wellbeing to ev-
organization that puts together
ery person and not having these
people that can help with those
things has far reaching conse-
that need it.
quences.
BANP: Is there a particular mo-
BANP: What do you do when
ment that stands out for you or
you volunteer and how long
a particular joy you get when
have you been doing it?
you volunteer?
PH: I currently help with fundraising, recruiting volunteers,
PH: It’s especially fun when other volunteers that I’ve co-
distributing and serving food, and toys, collecting and
ordinated or connected with Samaritan House are grateful
transporting donations, and even photographing events. I
to be able to help. Both the helpers and the helped are
also volunteer on the Advisory Council, the Development
grateful and it’s a wonderful thing.
Committee, and the Main Event Committee. When I was
BANP: Do you recommend or suggest this to others?
the Board President, I helped lead strategic initiatives and
PH: Yes! It’s gratifying and it’s the right thing to do if you
governance. I’ve done some sort of volunteering for Sa-
want to help create a healthy community. And get your
maritan House for about 20 years.
kids involved too; it will stay with them throughout their
BANP: What do you love most about what you do when
lives.
you volunteer? Is there a favorite “something” you like?
Since 1974, Samaritan House has become San Mateo’s leading non-profit that brings a new level of hope, dignity, and empowerment to people living in poverty as they fulfill immediate needs and guide people toward self-reliance. Samaritan House is the largest food distribution agency in the county. Other free services include shelter and housing assistance; medical and dental clinics; clothes for children; personalized case management and much more. The entire community benefits from Samaritan House’s steadfast mission to mobilize all available resources and work hand-in-hand to break the cycle of poverty.
RECEIVED:
650-341-4081 • Mon-Fri, 9:00 – 5:00 • 4031 Pacific Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94403 www.samaritanhousesanmateo.org
FEATU
S T N E V E • S E T A D P U • RES
http://bit.ly/bayareanonprofits www.bayareanonprofits.org
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.
Muttville BANP: What is it about Muttville that helped you in choosing to become a Volunteer? SM: I was familiar with Muttville through the Menlo Charity Horse Show. I have been volunteering for that event for 14 years and Muttville has attended for quite a few years. Many of my friends have adopted dogs from Muttville. It didn’t occur to me to adopt a dog until one of my friends was doing a fund-raiser and the recipient was Muttville. I got on their web-site and the first picture I saw was “our dog”. My stepson had introduced us to Pit Bulls and we fell in love with them. Our precious dog is somewhere between 7 - 10 and we think might have been used for fighting. She had had numerous teeth removed before we adopted her and had severe ear infections, causing her ears to become “cauliflower ears”. She has painful arthritis and numerous abrasions,
cated with me via email, so I hadn’t met them. We at-
we assume from other animals.
tended their annual Gala and were overwhelmed with the caring and true passion for Muttville. I am so im-
BANP: What brings you the greatest joy?
pressed with their caring for these special animals and for the smiles these wonderful creatures bring to all of
SM: Muttville found our dog (Mollie) in Los Angeles on
us who adopt them.
the streets, so we don’t have any idea of what her his-
BANP: Why would you recommend Muttville to some-
tory might be. All we know is how loving she is. She is
one who is looking to be a donor?
not fond of other animals, but cannot be without human touch. We have never experienced such love for an
SM: I think it is so important for dog lovers to know
animal before. Mollie gets into your soul. Her eyes tell
about Muttville and how crucial it is for us to take them
you everything.
in. Adopting an older dog has so many rewards. I truly feel that these dogs know they have been rescued.
BANP: What do you wish
Since we adopted Mollie, the increase in hearing about
other people knew about
people rescuing a dog has been so inspiring. Sherri
Muttville?
asked her Gala audience how many of us had adopted a dog....she paused and asked.....”how many dogs have
SM: Sherri and Kristen communi-
rescued you?” That says it all.
Muttville’s mission is to provide rescue, foster, adoption, and hospice for senior dogs, and support and education for the people that love them.
Photos courtesy Jane Goldman and Patty Stanton. ©2016 Muttville MUT T VILLE IS A 501(c)(3) NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION. TAX ID: 26-0416747 Headquarters: 255 Alabama St., San Francisco, CA 94103
AMANDA HEIER
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER SAN FRANCISCO GENERAL HOSPITAL FOUNDATION BANP: What is San Francisco General Hospital Foundation about and what do you do? AH: Our mission statement is broad – “to promote excellence in research, education and care for all at Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center.” To do that, we take diverse approaches to support the work of the hospital – from our recently completed Capital Campaign, which raised a historic $141 million, to our Hearts Grants program, which gives approximately $500,000 each year to hospital programs to help them meet their needs, everything from state-of-theart technology to teddy bears and stools for a children’s waiting room. Since 1994, we’ve raised over $220 million to support the hospital, its staff and its patients. BANP: What do you love most about San Francisco General Hospital Foundation and the work you do? AH: Our office is close to the hospital, and when we are on the hospital campus we are continually inspired by the work of the staff and gratified to see the grateful, often emotional, responses of the patients. We know the hospital is the safety net for the city, treating one in eight San Franciscans each year, and it’s incredibly rewarding to know that our work makes a difference in people’s day to day lives, especially our most vulnerable patients. We have a talented and dedicated board and staff, and for a small group, we produce amazing results. All of this makes me feel I am at the center of positive change and energy. BANP: How has San Francisco General Hospital Foundation made a difference and what impact do you still wish to see San
Francisco General Hospital Foundation make? AH: In 2008, the city passed a bond measure that allowed for construction of our beautiful new hospital building. The city also identified additional funds earmarked to equip the new building, but not the total amount needed, so the task of raising the funds to fully equip and furnish this state-of-the-art structure fell to us. The task was daunting, but through dedication of our Capital Campaign team and the incredible generosity of our donors, we were able to raise everything needed to allow the hospital to open on time in May, which will affect tens of thousands of San Franciscans and visitors to our beautiful city. We are able to make a great impact on the San Francisco community and northern San Mateo County, by helping to support so many health programs on campus at Zuckerberg San Francisco General that are national models and centers of excellence. BANP: What is so special about San Francisco General Hospital Foundation and how can people make a difference? AH: Again, we operate with a very small staff, a diverse and talented group from a variety of backgrounds who share the desire to use our skills to make a difference. We’re always grateful to receive donations of any amount. Or, if anyone wished to volunteer a few hours a week at the hospital, that would be much appreciated as the need is great. While the Foundation is the fiscal manager for the hospital’s Volunteer Services program, any questions regarding volunteer opportunities would ideally be directed to the Volunteer Coordinator. I am sure your readers would find the energy at the hospital is amazing, and the work highly rewarding.
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
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.
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
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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.
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.
Drivers for Survivors Paul Andrus (Financial Advisor, New York Life)
BANP: What is it about Drivers for Survivors that helped you
bumping his head. The amount of love and care she showed
in choosing to become a volunteer?
for him will always stick in my mind. What a lucky guy! The
PA: In life, we all go through hard times at some point. My
client and I would often talk about economics, biographies,
son, Tio Andrus, has Special Needs and needs back surgery on
technology and his grandchildren’s sport activities on our 25
a regular basis. Shriner’s has been a big support in our lives.
minute drive from Fremont to Santa Clara. The last day of his
I’ve found that I can give back in ways that fit into my life,
treatment, his dear wife teared up when I dropped them to
work and children’s lives. Through Rotary, I became aware of
their home. I was shocked to see this big, burly guy tear up as
Sherry’s organization and have enjoyed
well. I couldn’t help it and got teary my-
being a volunteer for four years now.
self. It makes me feel the same way just writing this now. They are amazing peo-
BANP: What do you do when you volun-
ple and I was lucky to have been driving
teer?
them to their treatments. It was a bless-
PA: I will reach out to the volunteer co-
ing in my life to see that kind of caring
ordinator at Drivers for Survivors and
and love between this couple... honestly
find a patient that I can drive on a reg-
– I was the lucky one to drive them.
ular basis. I can usually handle between one and two drives per week. This way,
BANP: Why would you recommend
it offers some continuity and relation-
Drivers for Survivors to someone who is
ship building time between the driver,
looking to be a volunteer?
myself, and the patient, Drivers for Survi-
PA: Many of us in life find our ‘passions’
vors Client. I frequently drive patients to
and pursue them. Some of us get lost in
their cancer treatments – many of which
the day to day routine of making a dol-
must find rides every day of the week
lar, rushing through traffic to get home
for a 3 – 5 week period of time. This can
and handle the business of our daily
be very difficult on the patient and their
lives. Too many of us don’t realize that
family without the support of organiza-
in one short moment, it all can change.
tions such as Drivers for Survivors.
One moment changes our lives forever as we know it. Because I’ve experienced this, I woke up and realized that what
BANP: Is there a special experience you would like to share?
brings value to my life is not making money. It is sharing and
PA: That’s a hilarious question. I’m not kidding when I say ev-
creating experiences for myself, my family and those I can
ery patient I drive has an amazing and interesting story. But,
care about by doing charitable works like this. The emotional
that said, there is one elderly Filipino couple I was driving last
paycheck is substantial and fills any void – I mean any void.
November/December of 2015. The wife was so incredibly
If you are looking for something to bring you meaning in life
attentive and loving with her dear husband. I usually hold
– here is a choice for you. Make time for what matters in life
open the car door and help the client get seated and get their
and begin creating meaning for yourself and others. You will
seatbelt for them. This client’s wife was doing all that and
be shocked what you get out of it.
covering his head as he got into the car to protect him from
“Making a difference, one survivor at a time.” Drivers for Survivors provides free transportation service and supportive companionship for ambulatory cancer patients, from suspicious findings through treatments, in Fremont, Newark and Union City. This service is provided to all medical-related doctor appointments for those undergoing cancer diagnosis and treatment within a 60 mile radius from DFS Fremont headquarters, freeing them to focus on their health and essential treatment.
39270 PASEO PADRE PKWY, #355 • FREMONT, CA 94538 • PHONE: 510-579-0535 WWW.DRIVERSFORSURVIVORS.ORG
KAVERI RANGARAJ
RETIRED REGISTERED NURSE, LIFE ELDERCARE VOLUNTEER AND FUNDRAISER BANP: What is it about LIFE ElderCare that helped you in
BANP: Why would you recommend LIFE ElderCare to some-
choosing to become a volunteer?
one who is looking to be a volunteer?
KR: When I retired, I knew I wasn’t done using my knowl-
KR: Volunteering gives you a chance to get out of the ‘me’
edge and skills. I offered to help out at my former employer,
mindset. We take so many things for granted. I am doing
but then I saw LIFE ElderCare’s ad for volunteers and it just
this out of my belief in service to others and compassion. I
clicked with me! LIFE ElderCare does great work and they’ve
think about how helpful it is from the client’s point of view.
been doing it for a long time so
If you have the privilege to drive
they’ve made a big difference in
now, what have you got to lose? It
our town. I wanted to make a dif-
is so gratifying to see how you can
ference with the elderly, too, and
make a little difference in their life.
I understand the issues they face.
It gives a good perspective and
I really like how LIFE ElderCare is
makes me happy. We are all here
so efficient, and so personally car-
on earth to help each other and
ing at the same time, with me and
you will see what a positive differ-
with the clients. Meals on Wheels
ence it makes in your life!
and volunteer transportation (VIP Rides) and their other programs
BANP: What do you wish other
are just what a lot of people need
people knew about LIFE ElderCare?
right now. I’m really glad to be part
KR: I really look forward to going.
of it.
It’s very gratifying on both sides. These are people whose minds are
BANP: What do you do when you volunteer?
working well, but their body is not. VIP Rides, and all of LIFE
KR: I am a volunteer with the VIP Rides program so I give
ElderCare’s programs (Meals on Wheels, Friendly Visitors,
rides to elders who have no one else to help them and take
Fall prevention) help with the dignity of living, of staying in
them where they need to go. But I don’t just give a ride to
their own home, and keeping their independence. They ar-
a medical appointment or to the store; I help them shop,
en’t independent in the lonely sense of the word- they can
provide support during a doctor’s visit, make sure they are
keep their own place to live and the lives they are used to,
settled in at home safely, and always also simply lend an ear.
but also can be connected to other people and not be lone-
I think the seniors like to talk to me, as I’m non-judgmental.
ly. It keeps their sanity, also. Many people who move into
They can express their feelings, vent, and have social inter-
assisted living are frustrated that they can’t keep living at
action while they get their important errands done.
home. My experience has been very good with LIFE Eldercare. I love it a lot.
MEALS ON WHEELS, RIDES, COMPANIONSHIP, FALL PREVENTION
PROVIDING FREE, SIMPLE, AND IMPORTANT SERVICES FOR SENIORS WHO PREFER TO REMAIN LIVING AT HOME.
510-574-2090 • www.LifeElderCare.org
Patricia Gangwer, Volunteer
BANP: What is it about the Read-Aloud Volun- BANP: Is there a special experience you would teer Program that helped you in choosing to be- like to share? come a volunteer? PG: The mother of one of my former reading PG: Reading aloud to a child is one of the most buddies told me that her son George is now rewarding things one can
reading his Read-Aloud
do. Research has shown
program books to his baby
that there is a powerful and
sister and she loves it! I told
lasting impact when a child
the mother how happy that
is read to on a regular basis.
made me feel, to know that
Comprehension,
vocabu-
the joy of reading is being
lary and language skills all
passed on in the family –
increase for the participat-
what a perfect outcome of
ing student, which is won-
the program!
derfully positive, but the
BANP: Why would you rec-
bond of caring and trust
ommend the Read-Aloud
that is established is price-
Volunteer
Program
to
less.
someone who is looking to be a volunteer?
BANP: What do you do when you volunteer?
PG: Reading aloud to someone is such a gift,
PG: I read books to 2 students for 30 minutes and very gratifying. I love children’s literature, so each, once a week. I keep a log of all books read, the pleasure of reading it aloud is as much mine and every other week, each child is given a book as the student’s. For just one hour a day, once of their choice, to keep at home and build a a week, you can truly make a difference in the home library.
lives of children.
THE READ-ALOUD VOLUNTEER PROGRAM is a non-profit organization that recruits and places adult volunteers to read one-on-one with children in Richmond and San Pablo Elementary schools. READ-ALOUD houses a core collection of books at each school and provides a home-library of books for each of the children. Volunteers receive training and an overview of the program. We are funded through donations from individuals, foundations, community service groups, corporate grants and contracts.
GOALS OF THE PROGRAM: • Provide one-on-one reading aloud experiences for children • Improve the child’s reading and comprehension • Build a personal library of quality books for each child to enjoy • Instill the joy of reading and love of books in the children • Encourages children to see themselves as readers and not just reading books • Children know that their ideas and interests are supported by caring adults • Children see themselves as competent and capable, and full of wonderful ideas • Meaningful relationships are at the heart of learning!
READ-ALOUD VOLUNTEER PROGRAM 13831 San Pablo Ave., Building #5 San Pablo, CA 94806 info@read-aloud.org • 510-237-0735
READ-ALOUD.ORG
D
O
N
O
R
Kristie Roeth L
a f a y e t
t e ,
C A
BANP: What is it about Agape Villages that helped you in
KR: There are many foster agencies in the Bay Area and
choosing to become a supporter?
I would just like people to know that Agape Village is a very competent and personable foster agency that is ded-
KR: I became a donor to Agape Village because I am im-
icated to the well-being of their clients. They are available
pressed with their personal and supportive care of their cli-
24/7 for their families and children, and their diligence and
ents. They are dedicated to these children and care about
dedication to their families is indicated by their remark-
their futures and how they are being cared for in the pres-
able programs that they offer, such as: a Girls’ Group which
ent. They are on call at all
is a forum for foster girls
times and it brings me joy
that allows them to make
to hear how they are there
friends and share their com-
when needed, to rescue
mon experiences with one
children that are in a crisis
another. There is also an
situation. They develop re-
Enrichment Program that
lationships with these chil-
Apage offers which allows
dren and the foster families
the children to participate
and make sure they are do-
in extracurricular activities
ing well.
that helps to introduce new skills, hobbies and adven-
BANP: What brings you the
tures.
greatest joy? BANP: Why would you KR: I have been a registered
recommend
nurse working in a high
lages to someone who is
risk labor and delivery unit for 30 years and have taken care
Agape
Vil-
looking to be a donor?
of many mothers that are not able to care for their babies. Whether it be drugs, a mental condition or something else,
KR: I would recommend someone to become a donor be-
these mothers do not go home with their babies, for the
cause of the dedication of this agency and the personal one
babies’ safety. What brings me the greatest joy is that many
on one relationships they develop with their clients. Their
of these children are placed in Agape Villages foster family
caring comes from the heart and the employees are very
Agency, and I am so thankful that they are receiving the love,
happy doing what they are doing: saving children from at
comfort and care that they deserve. My job has made me
risk living situations. Agape Villages provides support and
see the importance of foster care. It is vital for these children
services for their foster parents as well as the children that
that are removed from their own parents, because of abuse
they serve. Their foster parent support meetings are con-
and neglect, are provided with a second chance in life. And
ducted once a month, which provide, information, resourc-
have the opportunity to be apart of a loving, nurturing family
es, support and a safe place for foster parents to not only
that will be there support system for a lifetime.
exchange common concerns, and issues, but to share their success stories as well.
BANP: What do you wish other people knew about Agape Villages?
Shaping Lives for a Lifetime Providing care for children and families for over 40 years.
Agape relies on support from the community - find out about Agape!
Healing Hearts & Building Families 3160 Crow Canyon Place, Suite. 120 •San Ramon • 925.866.3020
www.agapevillages.org
HERS Breast Cancer Foundation There Just Isn’t Another Place Like It
Nancy Little, Volunteer and Donor BANP: What is it about the HERS Breast Cancer Foundation
cheon. As a breast cancer survivor I sat at a table full of the
that helped you in choosing to become a volunteer?
most amazing people that support this organization. One group makes breast prosthesis and is so passionate to help
Nancy Little: I currently have breast cancer and was look-
women regain their sense of self. The other group at my ta-
ing to find some way to help an organization that deals with
ble was a high tech marketing group that usually engages in
breast cancer patients. Upon first meeting Dr. Vera Packard,
high tech promotion, but has added the HERS Breast Cancer
their director, I could just feel her passion
Foundation to their list of clients because
for helping these patients. I also then be-
they see how wonderful the work they do
came a client and experienced their caring
is as well. There were people who support
way of serving patients first-hand as well.
this local SF Bay Area organization from
There just isn’t another place like it.
Alaska, Georgia and New York to name just a few. Just listening to their enthusiasm I
BANP: What do you do when you volun-
came away feeling like I had just partici-
teer?
pated in something big and really had to become a donor as well.
Nancy Little: I am a former accountant and they were looking for someone to help out
BANP: What do you wish other people knew
with their database at the time, so that put
about the HERS Breast Cancer Foundation?
my skills to work in addition to helping a wonderful organization that serves breast
Nancy Little: I would like more breast can-
cancer patients in a very caring manner. Kind of the perfect
cer patients to know they exist! I was first diagnosed with
match for me! They are very good at matching the skills the
breast cancer in 2001, then was diagnosed with metastasis
volunteers have and what they need help with. They are the
in 2010, and it took me looking for a place to volunteer in
most caring group of people I have ever worked with in all my
2013 for me to even find out about this wonderful organiza-
experiences. They appreciate their volunteers and you feel
tion that serves breast cancer patients! Oncologists, chemo
like you are helping them to help others. I have also helped
infusion rooms, nurse navigators at hospitals, etc. should all
out with other fundraising events and worked with their high
know about them and pass the word. Wigs, Lymphedema
school student volunteers.
garments, bras & breast prosthesis are things that are needed while the patient undergoes treatment as well as long term
BANP: What is it about the HERS Breast Cancer Foundation
follow up care afterwards. It’s tough to go out and research
that helped you in choosing to become a supporter?
where to go during that time. The services provided by the HERS Breast Cancer Foundation just aren’t found all in one
Nancy Little: After I became a volunteer and also a client, I
place anywhere else. This organization has to keep going! I
was invited to their “People With Purpose” fundraising lun-
know they appreciate every dollar.
As a non-profit organization, HERS Breast Cancer Foundation serves all women healing from breast cancer regardless of their financial status. We provide post-operative camisoles, breast forms for partial and full mastectomies, bras designed to support breast forms, compression garments, and wigs.
HERS stands for Hope, Empowerment, Renewal and Support. We are here to provide HOPE to all breast cancer survivors so that they never have to feel embarrassed of their body. We EMPOWER survivors so they feel proud of their “new normal” after the devastating diagnosis of breast cancer. We help in the RENEWAL of their self-image, and SUPPORT them so they can have confidence and thrive.
W E
H A V E
3
P R O G R A M
S T O R E S
L O C A T E D
A T :
FREMONT: Washington Hospital – 2500 Mowry Save, Suite 130 • 510-790-1911 STANFORD – Stanford Cancer Center – 875 Blake Wilbur Dr. Suite CC2102 • 650-497-6046 PLEASANTON – Stanford Health Care Valley Care – 5725 W. Las Positas Blvd. Suite 270 • 925-734-3315
KRISTIN GOLDTHORPE,
BOLDLY ME DONOR & VOLUNTEER
Chair of Partnerships at Boldly Me
Program Manager at Stanford University Distinguished Careers Institute BANP: What is it about Boldly Me that helped you in choos-
kids on the right path early in their lives, it will make a big
ing to become a supporter?
difference for them individually later in life, as well as for the
KG: There are many worthwhile organizations in the Bay
community at large. This is a very worthwhile investment.
Area. Deciding which one(s) to invest your time and mon-
I would also like to point out that Boldly Me is a very well
ey can be overwhelming. Having
managed
organization.
Alanna
been born and living with a visible
Powell brings incredible manage-
difference all my life, I immediately
ment skills from her experience in
connected with Boldly Me’s mis-
high tech. She has recruited top-
sion and vision to build self esteem
notch volunteers who enthusiasti-
and public awareness for those
cally donate their expertise. Boldly
who feel different. I love that Bold-
Me has low overhead and keeps
ly Me is an inclusive organization
careful watch on expenses.
- anyone can participate at many BANP: Is there a special experi-
different levels.
ence you would like to share? (or) BANP: What do you wish other
Why would you recommend Boldly
people knew about Boldly Me?
Me to someone who is looking to
KG: The Boldly Me program has
be a volunteer?
a direct effect on young lives -
KG: When I transitioned from donor
changing their perspectives and
to volunteer, I told Alanna I was in-
attitudes. They learn that they are
terested in doing art with the kids.
not alone, that “everyone struggles,” and most importantly
Immediately she asked me to create a story/activity book to
they learn coping skills. The results are remarkable - sus-
explain the concepts of the “love cup” and “love languages”
pension rates have dropped significantly and youths have
at the first grade level. This assignment came with two art-
abandoned suicide plans after being exposed to the Boldly
ists - recent high school graduates who had been through
Me program.
the Boldly Me program. It has been so much fun collaborating with these young ladies. We even incorporated our last
BANP: Why would you recommend Boldly Me to someone
meeting with a trip to the Cantor art museum to enjoy our
who is looking to be a donor?
mutual love of art.
KG: I highly recommend others to support Boldly Me be-
Working with the Boldly Me community, especially the
cause it a “grass roots” organization making a significant
youth, will make you feel like a kid again.
difference at a critical point in children’s lives. If we can get
Leadership Development • Classes in Self Esteem & Communication Physical Well Being and Financial Stability • Fun Physical Activities Personal, Transitional Consultations • Recreational Events • Retreats Mentorship • Award-winning Service Satisfaction Guarantee
39120 ARGONAUT WAY #545 FREMONT, CA 94538
WWW.BOLDLYME.ORG
Alanna Powell
Executive Director and Founder of Boldly Me
VANESSA FRANKLIN V O L U N T E E R
BANP: What is it about Beat The Streets that fers a scholarship for those who were previous helped you in choosing to become a volun- school drop outs, and those who want to get teer?
back into school.
Vanessa: The goal that
BANP: Why would you
beat the streets had to
recommend
serve the community is
Streets to someone who
what attracted me to the
is looking to be a volun-
organization. I loved Tra-
teer?
cy’s vision, the founder.
Vanessa: At Beat the
Beat
The
streets Inc., we are a famBANP: What do you do
ily. We all share the same
when you volunteer?
goal, to see our youth
Vanessa: I lead seminars
thrive, and to serve at risk
in educational resources,
community members as
tutor children and also
best as we can. I would
lend a hand in fundraising.
recommend
beat
the
streets for those who truly BANP: Is there a special experience you would like to share?
want to make an impact on the community. I don’t feel that I am just a volunteer at beat the streets inc, I feel that I am
Vanessa: One very special experience of mine truly apart of team. While beat the streets inc. with beat the streets is the 10th anniversary has opened the door for me to give back to my celebration, along with our a bbq that took community, I have also gained so much knowlplace last summer to honor those who had just edge, so many skills and most importantly I graduated high school, and those who have have gained everlasting relationships and famgone back to school. Beat the streets Inc. of- ily members.
BEAT THE STREETS, INC. IS A NONPROFIT RESOURCE CENTER FOUNDED IN 2005 BY A SINGLE MOTHER IN AN EFFORT TO MOTIVATE THE YOUNG ADULTS IN HER NEIGHBORHOOD TO ACHIEVE A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA, SEEK HIGHER EDUCATION, AND GAIN WILLFUL EMPLOYMENT.
• EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT SERVICES • VOCATIONAL SUPPORT SERVICES • LIFE SKILLS SERVICES
WWW.BEATTHESTREETSCA.ORG • PHONE: 925-481-2104 2800 SYCAMORE DR. STE. 8 ANTIOCH, CA 94509