Bay Area Nonprofits - Muttville Print by Rich Borell

SPRING 2016

BAY AREA

501 (c)(3)

NONPROFITS

Muttville Senior Dog Rescue

Creating Better Lives For Older Dogs

CONNECTING VOLUNTEERS & DONORS TO LOCAL NONPROFITS

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

his is such a great, and important, question: Where would we be without our Non-Profits? … I ask it knowingly, and in gratitude, all the time. I believe everyone should, all the time. Our Non Profits do so much in services and are so important in so many ways for our community. The thought of being without is unfathomable. Another great question is: Where would our Non-Profits be without the many, like you, who help in working, giving and volunteering? For this, we are all indeed so fortunate and so grateful. Giving is not just about giving money. Volunteering is BIG, and many are volunteering, helping make such a big positive difference. Plus, the joy is in the giving. About making a difference. There are so many great people, so many great companies, so many great organizations doing such great things and, yet, so much of it is under most people’s radar. They just might not know … Enter Bay Area Non Profits Magazine! There are many great causes and stories, going on all around us, which people would like to learn and know about. So many people are doing so much for our community … and so much of it is without attention … where, otherwise, we all can be inspired by it. Ken Packer Let us all be inspired! Welcome Bay Area Non Profits Publisher & Executive Editor Magazine! May it be a beacon to us all, something ken@svlocalmag.com ken@bayareanonprofits.org special we all will be able to learn and grow from. May everyone and everything in it, be forever an inspiration for us all. The joy is in the giving, and also the helping, knowing we are helping to make a big positive difference … We can help. There are people wanting to create more purpose in their lives, wishing to help make a difference where they can. There are indeed many great causes or agencies, where one might want to assist … or possibly ask about assistance. We look forward to hearing from and sharing with more and more. Together, we can do so much more in making our community greater and stronger, for a better world and a brighter future. Here’s to our Non Profits and everyone in our awesome Bay Area community! Here’s to our Bay Area Non Profits Magazine! Enjoy! All the best,

Ken

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 + IL Postale Italian-American Bistro & Bar La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant LOCAL BUSINESS SUPPORTERS $2,500 + Maggianoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Little Italy PRIVATE SUPPORTERS Borell Family Trust Frank & Ann Ponikvar Karen Flora Ken Packer Bay Area Nonprofits Thanks The Following For Their Generous In-Kind Goods And Services Bay Area Mags LLC Google UPS Store, Santa Clara

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proudly sponsored by

B O R E L L

F A M I L Y

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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

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T H E

proudly sponsored by

B O R E L L

F A M I L Y

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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.

FEATU

S T N E V E • S E T A D P U • RES

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

BAY AREA

NONPROFITS Rich Borell

CEO & Founder

Ken Packer

Chief Financial Officer / Treasurer

Frank Ponikvar Secretary

Pam Seeds

Board Member

Linda Holland

CONNECTING VOLUNTEERS & DONORS TO LOCAL NON PROFITS

Board Member

Bay Area Non Profits is a 501 (c)(3) Registered Non Profit Organization. Reproduction in whole or in part of any text or photographs without the written permission from the CEO is strictly prohibited. The magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork or photographs. The opinions expressed in Bay Area Non Profits Magazine are of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Board Members or Management team. The Magazine assumes no responsibility or liability for claims made by advertisers in the Magazine. All rights reserved. Bay Area Non Profits Board Members, Management Team and Advertisers shall be held blameless for any and all errors, along with any expired dates typing errors or trademark infringements. If any errors are found, we will correct when brought to our attention within 48 hours. For all inquiries, contact us at rich@bayareanonprofits.org

Silicon Valley Non-Profits

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.

QUESTIONS FOR THE CEO / EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Max Duganne BANP: What is BGCSV about and what do you all do?

for our kids, as well as all of us who get to work here.

MD: The Boys & Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley is a tremendous

BANP: How has BGCSV made a difference and what impact

community support system, which focuses on after school en-

do you still wish to see BGCSV make?

richment for kids aged 6-18. As someone who personally grew

MD: The need is always growing, so we must as well. We

up at a Boys & Girls Club, I know the transformative power of

are in an area of the country where the socioeconomic di-

a clubhouse. The mentoring and coaching I received allowed

vide is at its worst. For every Google or Facebook, there

me fill the gaps in what I wasn’t getting

are homeless, jobless and struggling.

in school, and to discover new opportu-

It’s primarily for those people and

nities and interests that would not have

their children that make our pres-

presented themselves had it not been for

ence necessary. I hope to continue

my clubhouse. Now 20 years later, the

to bridge that divide through part-

work we do at BGCSV greatly surpasses

nerships within the valley, which can

what I once received, specifically in the

lead to necessary physical growth for

form of our STEM programming, fine arts

our organization, as well as a way out

programming, Khan Academy partner-

for our youth. The perpetual down-

ship, and vast network of volunteers. I am

ward spiral of poverty in east San Jose

blown away by what we now offer, as we

is a tremendous problem. For most

care for the entire child in a way no other

adults, escaping that reality is almost

afterschool program can.

impossible. That’s why we target the

BANP: What do you love most about

youth of this community, because for

BGCSV and the work you all do?

them, there’s still hope.

MD: As someone from the for-profit fi-

BANP: What is so special about BGCSV

nance world originally, the love I have for going to work every

and how can people make a difference?

day at BGCSV is a love of work I didn’t know possible. I tell

MD: There’s a great quote from Mahatma Gandhi that says,

people I have 2 kids at home and 1,500 at work. I like to finish

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service

every day at one of our 9 clubhouses, reminding myself of the

of others.” I find this so true for myself as well as for our staff

real work that is happening on a daily basis. I love to sit down

and volunteers. We are all fortunate to already know what this

during Power Hour and help a kid with homework, or jump

club can do for kids as well as anyone involved. So I’d offer this

into a STEM class where we work on capturing the speed of

advice to someone looking to make a difference: volunteer!

sound or building a robot, among countless other projects.

It’s no secret that our organization is one that depends great-

I’m a very hands-on manager and always like to have my hand

ly on donations, but I find that one’s time is so much more

on the pulse of our organization and the work we do. But ulti-

valuable. I also find that once a person sets foot into one of

mately, I love the outcomes. I love the stories. I love the con-

our clubhouses, they very quickly decide how much of them-

stant reminder of why we do what we do. BGCSV is a blessing

selves they want to give.

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 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

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 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 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 Nonprofitsâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;San Jose 1400 Parkmoor Avenue Suite 100 San Jose, CA 95126 www.php.com | (408) 727-5775

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

Building Bright Futures for Children with Special Needs!

PHP parents are warriors every day.

AN INTERVIEW WITH

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

services according to researchers from the Center for Disease Control.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

special needs grow into adulthood.

championing their cause.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

the individual and to honor their differences.

exhausted and that’s what PHP does.” BANP: What is it you like to say to potential Donors and Volunteers? Why is That sense of exhaustion is common among the families we serve and it doesn’t

Parents Helping Parents so special?

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

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

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

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

lenges they face. That can make an immeasurable difference.

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

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

A very grown up Joe with his Mom

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

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

sive, and valuing all individuals regardless of their abilities.

security about the future.

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

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

ents and how can people help make a difference?

sponsor, are investments in those big dreams.

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

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

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

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

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

our expertise and experience.

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

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

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

schools and community centers throughout the county.

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

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

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

tive Technology for children and adults with special needs. • Provide the means to research and develop web-enabled products and ser-

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

vices that increase PHP efficacy and efficiency without increasing cost.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHP and we provided over 22,000 direct services.

we value others in the community.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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