United Way of Northwest Michigan

Meet Erin!!

2012-02-02T12:02:00.000-05:00

Erin Bernhard is the new AmeriCorps VISTA for The Grand Vision. Although paid by a federal government program she will be working with Amanda and Susan at the United Way Volunteer Center to promote Volunteer Northwest Michigan. Her main objective is to work with the schools in the region to encourage student use of the website for service learning and engagement. She is also focused on promoting the website as a volunteer clearinghouse to local volunteer-run non-profits. Erin is a 2007 alum of Traverse City West Senior High and a recent graduate of the University of Michigan with a BA in English Literature and Language. Prior to her AmeriCorps service, she worked as an intern reporter with the Leelanau Enterprise

Summer Internship

2011-08-02T09:51:00.000-04:00

We were fortunate to have two interns this summer. Here is a short note from one of them, Caron Alpers:

In conclusion of my summer internship, I am reflecting on my placement with this social service organization. United Way of Northwest Michigan has offered me valuable opportunities to gain a feel for what working in the social work field will be like. I have been introduced to, and have gained an appreciation of, many professionally and personally - and have felt part of a professional team. I state with confidence that this committed team is working to ensure equal access to resources for all people. I grew in my understanding of the many resources available to my neighbors - many that I was previously unaware of. I connected, in a variety of ways, to the new 2-1-1 data base and that has been enlightening. This internship has been a valuable learning tool and a motivator to me to continue with my goal.

Community Campaign

2011-07-22T10:41:00.000-04:00

The planning for each year's, "United Way Community Campaign," begins in recruitment and selection of Campaign Division Chairs.

We are pleased to announce that Wes and Arlene Nelson will lead our 2011 Community Campaign. Both together and individually, the couple has made "long-standing and far-reaching" contributions to the area through their work with the National Cherry Festival, Zonta, Rotary, Northwestern Michigan College Scholarship Program, Project 100, the Doula Teen program, the Cadillac Club, and the Navigator Club.

Campaign Division Chairs consists of volunteers from across the community. Each division has a leader to commit to helping raise funds and awareness during the campaign. While many volunteers are very visible, others do a lot of work behind the scenes. Campaign volunteers are critical to our success. We still have a few divisions without leadership, if you are interested in volunteering please contact Michelle Krumm at 947-3200 Ext. 204.

Grace - our summer intern

2011-07-18T11:44:00.000-04:00

Going into my internship with United Way, I didn’t really know what it was or what it did. But after a couple days here, I learned that it’s a huge part of how our Community thrives. It has been such a great experience getting to know all parts that make up United Way and the awesome staff that works so hard to improve our Community. I am extremely blessed to have such a great experience at United Way. I look forward to everyday that I work and still have the rest of the summer to return!

Thank you for everything!!!

Grace Duensing

Grants awarded to local agencies

2011-06-27T12:39:00.000-04:00

Although United Way is probably most known for raising money, the real purpose of United Way is to support area non-profits. One important way we do this is by providing grants. Earlier this month we concluded our grant making for this year. Here's what you, through your contributions, did:

•Helped fund 39 different programs

•Provided 12 programs with more than 75% of what they requested

•Funded 17 programs that had not been funded by United Way in the past

•Impacted people all across the 5-county area

•Funded programs addressing a wide range of needs including health care, housing, food, youth programs, and financial assistance

If you contributed to this year's community campaign you should feel good knowing your single gift to United Way was actually a gift to dozens of programs throughout our community. Giving through United Way is an important part of how our community responds to the needs of our neighbors.

Cherryland Humane Society Needs Your Help

2011-05-27T14:53:00.000-04:00

Taken from a letter sent to residents asking to help keep the Cherryland Humane Society open:

"The Cherryland Humane Society (CHS) has served the area for over 54 years. It has truly been a labor of love for thousands of individuals for over 1/2 a century. We now find ourselves in dire financial straits. If we are unable to raise much needed funds soon, we will be forced to close our doors by early to mid June. For every $20,000 in donations that we are able to raise toward the $200,000 goal, we will be able to operate for an additional month. Because we now find ourselves in a critical situation, we wish to ask for your consideration for providing a tax deductible donation for the work of the CHS on behalf of multitudes of unwanted and homeless pets. Your contribution will impact the future of so many pets that are dependent upon each of us for their well being. We shall be pleased to work with you concerning recognition for whatever financial help that you are willing to provide."

Contributions can be sent to Cherryland Humane Society, 1750 Ahlberg Road, Traverse City, MI 49696. If you wish to discuss your gift or would like additional information please contact Mike Cherry, CHS Executive Director, at (231) 946-5116.

United Way of Northwest Michigan's mission is to efficiently raise and effectively distribute both financial and volunteer resources to support community - determined initiatives that improve the lives of community members.

4th Graders create art to support the Goodwill Inn

2011-05-23T12:28:00.000-04:00

Eastern Elementary School’s “Heroes In Our Community”: Spotlight on 4th Grade “Helping Hands” Team

Eastern Elementary’s 4th graders want to help support the homeless in the Traverse City community. As part of the school’s “Heroes In Our Community” service learning project, the students chose homelessness as their cause to learn about and support. Since early May, the 4th grade “Helping Hands” team has been researching and working with local artist Angela Schuler to create paintings focused on the different types of homes found all around the world. The team finished their paintings last week, and all 5 versions of “Homes Around the World” are now listed on eBay.

100% of proceeds from the sale of these paintings will go to the Goodwill Inn in Traverse City on behalf of the Helping Hands team.

Each version of “Homes Around the World” bears the sub-title of word “home” or “house” in another language.

Online Auctions run through noon on Friday, May 27. To view the paintings online and/or to place a bid, please go to: http://easternpto.weebly.com/helpinghands.html, or go to eBay and search for “Homes Around The World”.

NMC Students take alternative spring break in New Orleans

2011-05-10T12:33:00.000-04:00

by Lisa Perkins
lperkins@record-eagle.com

TRAVERSE CITY - Sand, sun and sandals were replaced by blisters, sweat and a sense of acomplishment for a group of Northwestern Michigan College students who took an alternative spring break trip.

The group of 10 students and two local United Way employees spent the last week of March hanging drywall and installing insulartion while working with the St. Bernard Project to help rebuild homes for families displaced after Hurricane Katrina. "This is something we have wanted to do for several years, but this year everything fell into place," said Michelle Gallagher, coordinator of the trip for United Way of Northwest Michigan. United Way Worldwide has partnered with the St. Bernard Project, bringing volunteers to assist in their efforts since the hurricane devastated New Orleans more than five years ago.

"The impact was more than any of us had anticipated, the neighborhoods are not even halfway rebuild, the amount of homes that are still completely gutted, or just have cement foundations left is amazing," said Gallagher, whose crew worked on two homes during their five-day stay.

AmeriCorps Vista supervisors gave instrucitons to the students who worked on drywalling the home of an older man, Marcel Rivera, whose house had been gutted right down to the studs. At the home of Tonya Scott, the team also learned to install insulation. "People there are still pretty positive for what they have been through. They still want to rebiuld," said Gallagher, who hopes that some of the students she worked with will continue volunteering in their own community.

Mike Foster, a 19-year-old NMC student from Flint, says the trip to New Orleans was an opportunity that dosen't come up every day. "A trip of this magnitude changed my view of volunteering. It is great to work at a soup kitchen for a day, but working for a week on a project like this was really life-changing," said Foster, who plans to continue volunteering by working with Habitat for Humanity. "There is still a lot to do down there, but there is a lot that needs to be done in my hometown too," he said.

Critical Human Service Grants Awarded

2011-04-27T14:15:00.000-04:00

Earlier this month a 13-member Citizen Action Team (CAT) collectively donated over 300 hours to determine how best to support the critical human service programs in our area. After reading the applications, interviewing program staff and volunteers, and working together to discern the most effective use of the donated dollars the CAT recommended and the United Way Board affirmed funding to 23 different programs. A list of those programs is available by clicking here. Here are a few things you should know:

- 27 programs applied

- $250,000 was awarded

- 9 programs received more than 75% of the total ask

- Each of the 5-counties are well represented in the distribution

- 8 of the funded programs had not been funded by United Way in the past

- The funded programs address a wide range of needs including health care, housing, food, and financial assistance.

The CAT did a fantastic job and the community has been well served by their efforts. If you donate through United Way I hope you know this group of volunteers took their job very seriously and worked hard to make sure your gifts will have a meaningful and lasting impact.

The grant cycle continues as we prepare to award grants to area programs serving young people. Applications are due to us by 5:00 p.m. on May 6. The CAT will conduct interviews on June 2 and 3 with award announcements being made the following week. At present we anticipate awarding $110,000 during this cycle.

It’s never too late to give. Gifts and pledges made before June 1 will be added to the youth grant cycle. If you have not given please do so know. Gifts and pledges can be made on-line (create link) or my contacting Kate Kerr (create link) 231.947.320 x203.

The United Way does not exist to raise money. Instead we seek to give donors and efficient and effective way to help others. These grants are one important way we fulfill this mission and improve the lives of others.

Growing Your Partnership

2011-04-26T09:13:00.000-04:00

Partnering with United Way provides an easy, convenient way for you to invest in your community. We want to help you make the most of your investment. When we come together, the possibilites are endless.

Together we can:

• Meet your company's philanthropic goals. We make it easy for your company to get involved and achieve your philanthropic or community based goals.

• Build trust and increase goodwill among customers by giving back to the community.

• Build a positive local image for your company. After all, your company is a member of our community too! And working with United Way will automatically promote your company's efforts, generosity and community support.

• Energize your employees. Focusing your organization toward a common goal helps build morale and teamwork.

• Connect employees to their community. United Way matches employee volunteer teams with great opportunities to help our community.

• Link employees with services. If your employees have a spouse, kids, parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, friends, friends of friends or neighbors then they probably know someone who can benefit from grant funded programs.

You can also take advantage of various other year-round resources available to you and your employees. We can help you access expert speakers, receive information on local issues, link employees to services, network and assist during transitions.

Let us help you craft a strategic plan for community involvement, call 231.947.3200 Ext. 204 or email Michellek@unitedwaynwmi.org. If your company doesn't have an established campaign, it's easy to start one! Call today!

Barefoot in April

2011-04-25T13:43:00.000-04:00

A huge thank you to the thirty-four people who joined us for our One Day Without Shoes walk through downtown Traverse City. Two local schools, Westwoods Elementary and Mill Creek Elementary, went shoeless for the day. This event was a huge success and the impact we made was tremendous. The purpose of the day was to help recognize how small, simple things - such as shoes - can make a tremendous difference in the life of someone. In conjuction with the Day Without Shoes United Way held a shoe drive that helped fill the needs of many in our community and the world around us - we collected over 500 pairs of shoes!

Alternative Spring Break - Marcel's House

2011-04-19T12:08:00.000-04:00

On our first day of work for the St. Bernard Project, we went to the home of Marcel Rivera-Ayestas and spent the day hanging drywall.

Marcel is 61 years old and has dedicated his life to helping those who are less fortunate. "Go for the core of your being," Marcel said, quoting a close spiritual friend. "The core of my being is to help care for God's children."

A native of Honduras, Marcel is a single father to daughter Kayla and son, David. He is a grassroots organizer, mostly for the rights of day-laborers.

Though Marcel works hard to help others, he found himself in need of help after katrina swept through New Orleans in 2005, devastating the city. Marcel left the Sunday before Katrina, after his son, who is studying law in guatemala, implored him to leave. marcel joined the mass exodus out of New Orleans, but not before helping transport hundreds of homeless people from the local homeless shelter to a hurricane shelter. Marcel spent the weeks following Katrina's landfall in a van in a parking garage in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He then temporarily lived in Georgia until he returned to New Orleans in December 2005.

"New Orleans was a war scene out of Honduras," said Marcel, looking up from the craggy street beneath his feet at the at the other crumbling homes neighboring his. "New Orleans was neglected; saving this city and its inhabitants was completely left up to those who remained."

Today, still unable to rebuild his home by himself, Marcel takes up temporary residence in a trailer in Mississippi, commuting to New Orleans to work as a carpenter and to continue grassroots organizing. After Katrina, he continued The Wall, a soup kitchen and homeless shelter that he founded in 2001, despite his own need to return to his home. According to marcel, this monthly-held soup kitchen has fed nearly 1 million people sinced he started it.

"Sometimes all they need is a cup of coffee," Marcel said. "The cup of coffee is like a pebble tossed into a pond, causing cascading ripple effects. It's a small gesture, but it's what this city needs."

Since work has begun on Marcel's house the copper wiring and plumbing has been stolen out of his house twice and just last week another attempt to break into his house was made. He now spends many nights sleeping on the floor of his home which has no running water and electricity just to protect it from being broken into again.

"Right now, it's difficult driving from Mississippi to New Orleans everyday," said Marcel, "but it's because of grassroots efforts like St. Bernard Project that I believe in the power of people and community. I look forward to the day that I can come home."

Alternative Spring Break - House #2

2011-04-18T15:24:00.000-04:00

The house we spent most of the week working on was owned by a woman named Tonya Scott. We spent three days in her 2 story home and were able to get it all insulated, the ceilings drywalled and about half of the walls drywalled.

Here is Tonya's story:

“My life was normal,” Tanya said before pausing to qualify that statement “whatever normal means.” A life-long resident of New Orleans, Tanya worked as a L.P.N. for a V.A. hospital and clinic before the storm. She had what she described as a “basic and comfortable life” filled with work, friends and family.

As news forecasts began to suggest the power of the ensuing storm, Tanya was working 12-hour shifts at the V.A. hospital. In fact, having experienced many storms throughout her life, Tanya professed that she knew very little about the storm’s seriousness or severity until her mother, Audrey, informed her the eve before the mandatory evacuation.

The following afternoon, Tanya sat in disbelief as she watched Mayor Nagin announce the mandatory evacuation on the news. Tanya felt overwhelmed with the inundation of information and silently debated what, if any, course of action to take. Audrey, her mother, had already made the decision to evacuate the area; however, Tanya did not want to make any immediate or rash decisions.

Despite the pressure to evacuate, Tanya continued living her life. On Tuesday, the day of the storm, Tanya dropped her daughter, Nicole, off at work. The next day, Tanya recalls, “the sewers were backed up and the water was nearly chest-high. “Amidst this commotion, Tanya received a phone call from her frightened daughter, Nicole. Nicole expressed her fear that she might die. A week passed before Tanya received word that Nicole was O.K.

Tanya evacuated to Gonzales, LA, a city located in the Ascension Parish. She stayed in Gonzales for one week before relocating to Baton Rouge and then finally settling in Houston, Dallas for several months. In December of 2005, after months of instability, Tanya arrived back in New Orleans hoping to find some equanimity and begin the rebuilding process. Unfortunately, things did not go according to plan.

The storm waged heavy structural damage on Tanya’s home. Moreover, the aftermath of the storm played a significant role in the deterioration of her health. In early 2006, Tanya moved into a F.E.M.A. trailer. This living arrangement, Tanya believes, led to the worsening of her asthmatic condition. A fact she feels might be correlated to the presence of formaldhehyde, a chemical believed to be found in all new, unused and unventilated F.E.M.A. trailers.

In November of 2008, Tanya developed severe pneumonia that required invasive surgery to remove water from her lungs. Shortly thereafter, following doctor’s orders, Tanya moved out of the F.E.M.A trailer. To make matters worse, the funds Tanya received from the Road Home were used for a forced mortgage payoff. In other words, she now owned a home that she could not afford to rebuild. Moreover, Tanya allocated the remainder of her insurance money to a plumber who never rendered the services she had paid for. While Tanya has suffered a great deal both emotionally and physically, she remains confident and optimistic about her future in New Orleans.

To date, Tanya is excited that her house has begun the early stages of the rebuilding process. When asked what is the first thing she is going to do when she is reunited with her home? “Kiss all the walls, everything!”

Winter WOW Festival

2011-02-14T15:16:00.000-05:00

Hello Festival friends!

As most of you know, the National Cherry Festival is managing the downtown events for next weekend’s Winter Wow!fest. We still have volunteer opportunities available and would love for you to come on out and volunteer for this fun Festival. I’ve listed below a few of the positions we still need help with. There are several other positions you will see when you sign in to the Volunteer Registration Portal that are not listed below. To sign up to volunteer at Winter Wow!fest, please go to: www.cherryfestival.org , click on the Volunteer tab on the right hand side of the page. This will take you directly to the Volunteer Registration Portal. If you have never volunteered for the Cherry Festival, just fill out the brief volunteer registration form and then sign up for the volunteer position you wish to work. If you already have a username and password, just sign in and sign up for the event(s) you wish to volunteer for.

We really appreciate all of your help and support with Winter Wow!fest. We’ll see you next weekend!

(1 slot left) Downtown TC – Parking Lot B – Celebration Central

Beer & Wine Servers [A]

Saturday, February 19, 8:30am - 12:00pm 3 Filled

(3 slots left) Downtown TC – Parking Lot B – Celebration Central

Food and Pepsi Servers [A]

Saturday, February 19, 2:45pm - 6:00pm 0 Filled

(9 slots left) Downtown TC – Parking Lot B – Celebration Central

(Soup’r Bowl) Restaurant Assistant [A, I]

Saturday, February 19, 11:00am - 3:00pm 3 Filled

(2 slots left) Downtown TC – Parking Lot B – Celebration Central

(Soup’r Bowl) Ballot Counter [A]

Saturday, February 19, 11:30am - 3:30pm 2 Filled

(1 slot left) Downtown TC – Parking Lot B – Celebration Central

ID Checkers

Saturday, February 19, 4:45pm - 10:00pm 3 Filled

(2 slots left) Snowball/Softball Tournament at the Civic Center

Beer Serving and Food Handling [A]

Saturday, February 19, 2:45pm - 6:00pm 0 Filled

(2 slots left) Snowball/Softball Tournament at the Civic Center

Beer Serving and Food Handling [A]

Saturday, February 19, 5:45pm - 9:00pm 0 Filled

2-1-1 Up and Running

2011-02-11T10:18:00.000-05:00

'211' service begins Friday

By LINDSAY VanHULLE

TRAVERSE CITY — A new social services hotline is scheduled to roll out Friday.

The line, known as 211, is not automated and will connect callers to people who can offer information on domestic violence resources, food pantries, homeless shelters and other needs.

Rolling out 211 on Feb. 11 is not a coincidence, said Steve Wade, executive director of the United Way of Northwest Michigan.

The "211" number itself won't be available for several months, Wade said, but callers can dial toll-free number (877) 211-5253 or visit www.call-211.org to access the database.

Six counties will be included — Grand Traverse, Benzie, Leelanau, Antrim, Kalkaska and Missaukee. Some service already is provided in Wexford, Charlevoix and Emmet counties. Residents of Manistee County already can dial 211.

Staffers not only will be able to tell callers an organization's location and phone number, but also what documents they need to bring and whether they meet particular income requirements, Wade said.

The service is funded through a mix of private and public funds, including the United Way, Grand Traverse County and $300,000 from Consumers Energy, Wade said.

Citizens Needed for Grant Review

2011-02-09T11:16:00.000-05:00

United Way of Northwest is seeking residents of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Leelanau counties to serve on its Citizen Action Team (CAT). The CAT is the group of citizens who review the various applications for funding, interview the agencies and weigh overall community need as a part of determining how funds will be invested. CAT volunteers receive training before reviewing the requests from local human service nonprofit agencies.

A complete schedule of training sessions and interview dates is available on our website unitedwaynwmi.org. If you have questions or need additional information contact Michelle Gallagher 231-947-3200 x 201, michelleg@unitedwaynwmi.org.

The United Way of Northwest Michigan seeks to efficiently raise and effectively distribute both financial and volunteer resources. The CAT is one of the most effective ways for citizens to help us achieve this mission and serve our community.

Accepting Grant Applications

2011-02-08T10:57:00.000-05:00

Beginning February 7 and running through March 11, 2011 United Way of Northwest Michigan will accept grant applications for their Critical Human Service Grants.

Successful applicants must be a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt health or human service organization and have been in existence for at least two years. Additionally, applicants must provide services directly to persons in one or more of the following counties: Antrim, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau. The grant application is entirely online and qualifying agencies may obtain a username and password by contacting Michelle Gallagher 231-947-3200 x201 or michelleg@unitedwaynwmi.org.

United Way of Northwest Michigan seeks to efficiently raise and effectively distribute both financial and volunteer resources to support community determined initiatives that improve the lives of community members in Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Leelanau counties. Information about United Way can be obtained through their website www.unitedwaynwmi.org or by contacting them directly by either calling 231.947.3200 or emailing info@unitedwaynwmi.org.

Recruiting for Board members

2011-02-02T16:16:00.000-05:00

Interested in utilizing your talent and joining a northwest Michigan nonprofit agency Board of Directors? The United Way Volunteer Center in partnership with NorthSky Nonprofit Network have joined forces to help nonprofit agencies with the essential task of recruiting board members to govern local nonprofit agencies in northwest Michigan. The success of any nonprofit agency is directly tied to the board and the talent and dedication of its members.

Through NorthSky’s Board Governance education series, community members learn what it takes to be an effective board member and how to find a nonprofit board in need of your skills and enthusiasm. Nonprofit boards can also participate in training to understand how to build a better board. Participants will also learn the important aspects of recruiting new board members including how to access the United Way’s pool of trained community members.

NorthSky Nonprofit Network is a nonprofit management support program of Rotary Charities of Traverse City that assists northern Michigan nonprofit organizations in strengthening their capabilities through capacity building and sustainability support. NorthSky provides a wide range of services and resources to help nonprofit organizations deliver programs effectively and efficiently.

To register for the “Board Primer” session contact NorthSky Nonprofit Network at www.northskynonprofitnetwork.org or call (231) 929-3924.

The United Way of Northwest Michigan seeks to efficiently raise and effectively distribute both financial and volunteer resources to support community determined initiatives that improve the lives of community members in Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Leelanau counties. Information about the United Way and board recruitment can be obtained through their website www.unitedwaynwmi.org or by contacting Susan McQuaid, Director by either calling 231.947.3200 or emailing susan@unitedwaynwmi.org.

Alternative Spring Break

2011-01-18T13:46:00.000-05:00

During spring break, hundreds of young adults and student volunteers from across the United States trade swim trunks for tool belts and team up with United Way to make a meaningful impact in communities across the country.

This spring we (Amanda and Michelle) will be taking some students from Northwestern Michigan College to New Orleans to help rebuild houses in Saint Bernard's Parrish. The trip is being funded largely by donations from friends and family. If you would like to help make this trip possible you can donate here. Money donated will be used for housing at the City of Hope and for the cost of transportation to and from New Orleans. Thank you.

Bake Sale Benefit Today at Bill Marsh

2010-12-17T10:28:00.000-05:00

From Ron Smith, HR Director at Bill Marsh:

Well they say “if you build it they will come”; we have built the opportunity to help out a young man and his family and are hoping you have the chance to come participate in the biggest bake sale / silent auction you have ever seen. The cookies, cakes, pies and silent auction item have been flowing through the Bill Marsh doors and we making them available to a generous public at 9am this morning. I would list all the items, but I couldn’t do them justice. We will be open from 9am – 5pm today at the 1621 S. Garfield location. I must say this has been an amazing flurry of activity so far and can not wait to see what happens today. If you are unable to attend today’s benefit and want to participate, we are accepting donations made out to Matt Fruge and sent to the Dealership (attn: Ron Smith), I will put my address below. I also attached a news release that gives you a little back ground on Matt’s situation. Give me a call if you have questions, other wise I look forward to seeing you some time today.

If you have baked goods or silent auction items that you want to donate, we will find room for them and gladly take them today.

www.billmarshbakesale.com

Thank you for all of you that have already made this a huge success and for those that will be here today participate,

Ron Smith, PHR
Human Resources
Director, Bill Marsh Automotive Group

Donations can be sent to:
Bill Marsh Auto Group
Attn: Ron Smith
1621 S. Garfield
Traverse City, MI. 49686

Great Lakes Children Museum

2010-12-15T12:58:00.000-05:00

There are a few time slots where we need volunteers to assist with activities and programming during the last week of December. There are 2 reason why we need a few more volunteers this year…we have scheduled special activities each day during the school break and in order for the museum to reduce expenses, each one of the administration staff had their work week reduced by one day. The last reason necessitates a few more volunteers.

Listed below are the days and times we need volunteers to assist with the activities:

1. Christmas Break Special Activities

Monday, December 27th- - - Feed the Birds
Bring a few feathered friends right up to your window with munchies you make to put outside for them. The birds will love you and so will the squirrels.
First shift (9:30 am to 12:30 pm): need 1 volunteer
Second shift (12:30 to 2:30 pm): need 2 volunteers

Tuesday, December 28th - - - Flakey Fun
Try out some wacky science experiments with snow and ice. And . . . make and take a snowy craft or two.
Morning shift time slot is filled.
Second shift: need 2 volunteer

Wednesday, December 29th - - - Geo Dome Adventure
Help construct a geodesic dome out of newspaper. You will be amazed at just how strong some geometric shapes can be!
First shift (9:30 am to 12:30 pm): need 1 volunteer
Second shift(12:30 to 2:30 pm): need 2 volunteers

Thursday, December 30th - - - Wild and Wintery
Make and take nature crafts that you can only do this time of year.
First shift(9:30 am to 12:30 pm): need 2 volunteers
Second shift (12:30 to 2:30 pm): need 1 volunteers

2. New Years Eve Day Special Activities

Friday, December 31th
Can’t wait until midnight? Countdown to 2011 at Noon amid the Great Lakes Children’s Museum festivities! It’s midnight somewhere in the world. Watch the ball drop and make some noise. New Years activities begin in the Great Lakes Room at 10:00am. (Party hats, noise makers and time capsules) Count down starts at 11:59am.
First shift (9:30 am to 12:30 pm): need 1 volunteer
Second shift (noon to 2:30 pm): need up to 3 volunteers

Kalkaska Community Campaign

2010-10-05T13:57:00.002-04:00

Michigan Schooner Festival

2010-09-02T09:42:00.002-04:00

Over 100 volunteers are needed to assist the Maritime Heritage Alliance during the Michigan Schooner Festival September 10-12 in Traverse City.

The festival will bring together six tall ships in West Grand Traverse Bay of Traverse City. The festival is geared for all ages and offers rides aboard the ships, evening cruises, a “Pancakes with Pirates” breakfast, kid’s activities and “Blue Shadow” will headline the entertainment with a performance on Saturday evening during the Parade of Sails.

Volunteers are needed for registration, kid’s games, cleanup, recycling, passenger/dock assistants and beverage tent.

The Maritime Heritage Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving, interpreting and sharing the maritime heritage of the Great Lakes.
To sign up call Susan McQuaid at the United Way of Northwest Michigan Volunteer Center at 947-3200 Ext. 205 or send an e-mail to susan@unitedwaynwmi.org

Thank You and Thank You!

2010-09-01T14:47:00.003-04:00

As we are just a week away from our 15th Annual Day of Caring we wanted to take a moment and thank some of the people and places who make this day a reality.

Huntington is our Presenting Sponsor, and they have been sponsoring the Day of Caring for 9 years. Our Pancake Breakfast Sponsors are Sara Lee, Elmers, and Sam's Club. In Kind Sponsors include: Michigan Schooner Festival, Morse Moving, Leelanau Roasters, Bay Area Recycling for Charities, and WTCM.

And last but certainly not least are the businesses and agencies who volunteer to fulfill the needs of our area nonprofit agencies on the Day of Caring:

Global Marine Insurance
Faith Reformed Church
Scenic Trails Boy Scouts Council
Consumers Energy
Takeda Pharmaceuticals
Intelligence Agency
Hagery
Fifth Third Bank
Best Buy
Alfie Designs
Huntington
Traverse City Record Eagle
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
ECI
WKLT
La Senorita
Disability Determination Services
Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Services
Traverse City Northstars
Traverse City Rotary Charities
The Young Professionals
The Arbors of Traverse City
United Way Board of Directors
RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program)
Traverse Legal
Great Wolf Lodge
Tom Emling
Tony Ryan - DHS
Meijer
UPS
Sara Lee
Northwest Michigan Works!
Viktor Incentives
US Coast Guard
Dennis, Gartland, & Niergarth
H&R Block
Painting & Decorating Contractors of America
Cherryland Electric
Grand Traverse Industries
TCAPS
Food Rescue
Wells Fargo
Northwestern Michigan College
The Larkin Group
Grand Traverse Heritage Center Board of Directors
Traverse City West High School Band
NMC Dorms

On behalf of United Way of NWMI and all the agencies involved in the Day of Caring.... THANK YOU for all of your time and support.

We'll Make You famous!

2010-08-11T11:51:00.002-04:00

If you volunteer for a nonprofit agency we would like to take a picture of you and use it in our upcoming campaign to appear in the Traverse City Record Eagle and surrounding newspapers.

Photos will be taken on August 25 from 10am to 4pm and Thursday August 26 from 10am to 2pm. Your individual photo shoot will take about 15 minutes and we will give you a black Live United t-shirt to wear (and keep) for the photo.

Please contact Michelle Gallagher for more details and to sign up, 231-947-3200 x 201 or michelleg@Unitedwaynwmi.org

If you would like to see last year's ads, check them out on our website.

It's just so beautiful....

2010-08-06T10:22:00.007-04:00

Do you know this place? It's a place that is rich with history and accomplishment. A place that blesses our senses with music, art and inspiration. A place where people become intertwined with nature, culture and friendship. A place without boundaries. For all of these reasons and more.... I love this place.

If you love this place also, please leave your comments. Up for grabs is a gift card to Auntie Pastas.

Day of Caring

2010-07-27T15:04:00.002-04:00

This year marks our 15th Annual Day of Caring, which will be held (rain or shine) on Thursday September 9th.

We will kick off the day with a pancake breakfast, starting at 8am at the Open Space. We'll get you well fed and reved up to go out and spend the day working on your special project. We do have quite a few projects already submitted, check it out on our website and be the first to sign your team up! http://www.unitedwaynwmi.org/DOCProjects.html

Remember, not all projects need to be done on the 9th, but we would still love to have you join us for breakfast, no matter what day you are doing your volunteer project.

On Wednesday September 15th we will be having a Thank you party, in conjunction with Business After Hours at Mt. Holiday. We hope you can attend and help us celebrate all the great work that was done on the Day of Caring.

If you have any questions please contact Susan McQuaid 231-947-3200 x 205 or email her susan@unitedwaynwmi.org.

Habitat for Humanity - The Womens Build

2010-07-19T11:40:00.007-04:00

After just about giving the answer away last week, I got a correct guess. My last vacation was with Habitat for Humanity. I spent a rainy Tuesday helping to build a house for a hard-working mother and her two daughters. Last fall Habitat for Humanity received a large donation from the estate of Sandra Schlueter. Sandra was a dedicated Habitat for Humanity volunteer and one of the first women officers in the US Air Force. In memory of Sandra, Habitat for Humanity dedicated the Women Build Project. Women from our area have come together to build a house just outside of Maple City. It was amazing to be a part of it, even though it was just one day. I worked with a great team of women lifting and raising the roof trusses, they were heavy! Habitat hopes to have the house completed by late August so the new homeowner and her daughters can be settled in before the school year begins.

Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit our community needs now more than ever. Their purpose is to help deserving families obtain quality, low cost homes. Partner families invest hundreds of hours, also known as sweat equity, into their home and into homes of other partner famiies. Their mortgages are interest free and go directly into a revolving fund that helps Habitat for Humanity build additional homes. It's a great concept, and one that is making a tremendous impact in Northern Michigan.

Habitat uses volunteers in every portion of their existance. Every home is built under volunteer manpower - and you don't have to be knowledgeable about construction to help. I did it and I really have no idea how to build things, just ask my husband. In addition to building homes Habitat for Humanity runs a retail store they have dubbed "ReStore". They accept donations of used building materials and sell them back to the general public. At "ReStore" volunteers are needed to help pick up donations, stock goods in the store, handle the cash register and anything else that may come up during the day. Habitiat for Humanity would not be in existence if it were not for its volunteers.

If I have in some way peaked your interest in volunteering for Habitat for Humanity please contact Carrie Ullery-Smith at cullerysmith@habitatgtr.org. Carrie would be delighted to help you become involed with the Habitat for Humanity community. And if you are a woman there is still time to help with the Womens Build Project. Trust me, you won't regret volunteering!

Lastly, congratulations to the new homeowner. It was wonderful to meet you. May you enjoy many happy years in your new home. Check out some of the touching notes volunteers wrote on the walls of the home while it was being built. Don't you just love it?

Day of Caring 2010

2010-07-15T13:13:00.002-04:00

The 15th annual Day of Caring is Thursday, September 9, 2010 and we have teamed up with The Grand Vision! We have also added the first Youth and Family Day of Caring on Saturday September 11, 2010 in partnership with Faith Reformed Church.

We’ll start with a Community Pancake Breakfast at the Open Space at 8:00 am on Thursday September 9 for those teams participating on that day. We’ll also kick off the Youth and Family Day of Caring on Saturday September 11 with a pancake breakfast at Faith Reformed Church for those youth and family teams participating that day. Following the breakfasts, teams will spread out across northwest Michigan to do a day of service.

The Grand Vision will team up with the United Way for the 15th annual Day of Caring. The Grand Vision is a transparent process led by citizens who are willing to make things happen. It’s built upon a basic belief that the citizens of the region can make decisions today to create the region of tomorrow. We are so pleased to join forces to promote our shared vision of citizen action through volunteerism. To find out more, visit www.thegrandvision.org.

Faith Reformed Church is partnering with the Day of Caring for our first Youth and Family Day of Caring. Their volunteers are always open to exploring new ideas or partnerships with other individuals and/or groups who are looking to improve the welfare of the people who live in and around the Grand Traverse area. For more information contact Karin Stevens, Director of Children’s Ministries and Volunteer Development, at karins@faithreformedchurchtc.org.

Ripe for the picking!

2010-07-09T08:24:00.004-04:00

Nope, I'm not talking about cherries, although they certainly are ripe for the picking! I'm talking about the prize for the person who correctly guesses my destination. The prize is really quite fabulous and I would love someone to have it, and then tell everyone they know where they got it. Would you all be willing to do me a favor? Will you share this blog on your facebook page? It's easy to do, just click the share button in the upper right corner. My goal in writing this blog is to build awareness for the United Way and the Volunteer Center, educating people about various non-profits in our community and motivating them to volunteer their time and effort. Our community is chock full of hard working, vibrant people who want to have meaningful volunteer experiences, and we at the United Way want to help people find those opportunities. We have partnerships with over 200 non-profits in the surrounding five counties... we know what kind of volunteers they need and can pass that along to you. It's what we are here to do and we love to do it!

That being said I am going to throw out another clue on my last experience. Take a good look at this picture, the clue is screaming at you!

Inspiration, rain and fancy saws

2010-06-29T14:42:00.004-04:00

I'm off to my next destination... one of my favorites. Only because I have been active with this organization since high school. I love the work of all non-profits, really, I do. Now on to the fun part - can you guess where I went and what I did?

I can't wait to read your guesses! The winner this time around gets a TART Smart Commute Reflective Arm or Ankle Band, just like the one I have on (and no, I don't ride in my heels!)

We have a winner!

2010-06-24T08:25:00.009-04:00

Finally, a guess... and a correct one! I went to the TART Office and spent some quality time in their building. Are you familiar with the TART organization and what they do? I am sure you are at least familiar with the trails themselves as they are such a vibrant part of our community. Every day hundreds of people use the trails that cross thru Traverse City and bring people in from Acme and Suttons Bay. Not only does TART raise funds to build these trails, they advocate for healthy lifestyles, outdoor recreation and alternative transportation. Each year they hold great events such at the Tour de Tart -a ride from Traverse City to Suttons Bay, Smart Commute week - a week of finding a way to commute other than using your vehicle, and Tails to Trails - a 5k dog and owner walk. Each event promotes their
mission and raises awareness for the TART organization.

The day I visited I helped assemble a large mailing for their summer campaign. A great group of volunteers and myself stuffed, sealed and labeled over 5,000 pieces of mail. It was a big job, but it was a necessary job.

Since TART is a non-profit, they rely on donations from individuals heavily. They also rely upon the time and effort of their volunteers. Volunteers assist with office duties, such as the mailing I helped with, they help plan and implement the events mentioned previously, they help direct TART by serving on their board of directors, they help clean and maintain the trails. Along with many more things. TART is always in need of volunteers and many of their opportunities are family friendly.

My volunteer experience at TART was almost too good. They had a fabulous lunch, delicous deserts and yummy soda. To top it off they had a massage therapist come in and give chair massages to the volunteers. Seriously. I absolutely took part in the massage.

If you are interested in helping TART through volunteering please visit their website at www.traversetrails.org or call them at 941-4300. They would love to have you, and I am sure that you will love volunteering for them.

I'm eager to share my next destination with you - and in similar fashion I will have an awesome freebie for whomever guesses correctly! Stay tuned for the next piece, I will be posting it next week.

Clarification and one last clue

2010-06-15T08:18:00.011-04:00

I feel that I should clarify just who is on this awesome vacation. It's not Steve.

And it's not Michelle.

It's me... Amanda.

Yes. I am vacationing and waiting to give out this lovely prize. I am (not) waiting patiently. To speed the process up a bit I am throwing one last clue your way. Does this picture make it easier?

Do you know where I went on the first stop of my vacation? I'm not good at keeping surprises, sooner or later I'm going to give in and just share the awesome pictures and ideas I have about my first stop just because I couldn't wait any longer. I really, really want to give away a prize first though. So take a stab, any guess is better than no guess!

FREE!!.. Lions Youth Football Camp

2010-06-07T16:08:00.002-04:00

United Way of Northwest Michigan, in partnership with the Detroit Lions is giving away two scholarships to the Detroit Lions Football Camp, to be held here in Traverse City. The camp will run from 8:30am to noon June 28 – July 1 at Traverse City West Junior High.

The Lions Youth Football Camp is open to boys and girls ages 6-14, kids will be grouped based on age and skill level. The Camp is non contact and designed to improve, beginning, intermediate, or advanced skill levels. Fundamentals of all positions on offense, defense and special teams will be taught, in addition to life skills such as teamwork, communication, sportsmanship, and the importance of education.

Winning one of the scholarships is easy, simply drop off any non-perishable food item(s) to the offices of United Way of Northwest Michigan, 521 S Union Street, and you can fill out a registration form and be entered to win. The food drive and registration will begin Monday June 7 and run through Friday June 11. Our offices are open from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm and food items can be dropped off at any point during those hours. The winners will be drawn and notified on Monday June 14 (need not be present to win).

Vacation Ramblings

2010-06-04T11:10:00.013-04:00

I started my vacation last Friday and loved it. I'm the kind of gal that appreciates small things. I love the smell of rain, the neatness of books lined up on a shelf and the thought of having chickens. I'm not allowed to have chickens in my subdivision so I only get to enjoy the thought of them. Have you heard about the company that rents chickens? Super cool, and I am super sad that I can't rent some. Moving on. The location I visted was just that kind of place. It helped me focus on the small things. The company and conversation were simple and the reason I chose to visit was simple. I liked it and I wanted to learn more about it. I would love to share it with you... but I am going to hold out until one of you guess where I went. I have posted a different picture to entice you. I don't think any of you need a hint, this clue should give it away. The prize is still up for grabs - a coveted Live United T-shirt. It's the United Way's signature shirt and it's awesome. Now take a guess - I'm waiting!

Smart Commute Week

2010-06-04T08:43:00.003-04:00

Smart Commute Week - Smart Commute Week - June 7-11, 2010

www.smartcommutetc.com

What is Smart Commute Week?
The goal of Smart Commute Week is to promote alternative ways to get around town. Smart commuting includes bicycling, walking, carpooling or taking BATA. The purpose of Smart Commute Week is to promote alternative transportation and to educate area residents of the benefits of a smart commute. Smart commuting includes many benefits for your health, for the environment and for your pocket book. Smart Commuting increases our mobility with less pollution.

What is your commute costing you?
In addition to saving cash, did you know that you could keep approximately 19 pounds of CO2 emissions out of the atmosphere for each gallon of gas you don't use? Saving money and reducing the impact driving your car has on the environment is easier than you think. Use this Commute Cost & Carbon Emissions Calculator to calculate the financial and environmental benefits of alternative transportation.

Lost Generation

2010-05-27T16:33:00.000-04:00

This is great! A palindrome video, check it out.

Detroit Lions Youth Football Camp

2010-05-24T14:20:00.002-04:00

2010 SUMMER FOOTBALL CAMPS

Coming to Traverse City June 28 - July 1. Scholarships are available!!

All-pro Punter, Nick Harris will be there!!!

•Boys & girls ages 6-14 are eligible to participate and will be grouped based on age and skill level
•Youth camps are non-contact and designed to improve beginning, intermediate, or advanced skill levels
•Fundamentals of all positions on offense, defense and special teams will be taught in addition to life skills such as teamwork, communication, sportsmanship and the importance of education.

For more information or to sign up go to their website: www.detroitlions.com

That's it! I'm going on vacation.

2010-05-18T19:13:00.017-04:00

I'm going on a long vacation. I'm a little burnt out and I think some time out of the office will help, I am sure you understand. Do you ever feel like your ability to be productive ends when your to-do list gets past ten items? When did we stop living in the moment and start living in chaos? When you look back at each day do you feel satisfied? Most days I don't, and I really want to change that. I know what makes me happy... why did I ever think that I couldn't do what makes me happy everyday? What kept me from realizing and living my dreams? I know the answer to that... I did. I am the only one keeping myself from being who I want to be and doing what I want to do. It's time for that to change. I love to help people. I want to visit Nicaragua with my church and help build an orphanage. I want to help my fellow community members grow out of poverty and realize their dreams. It's simple, I just want to help and it doesn't really matter where. Therefore, I am going on vacation. I am going to do what I want to do. Do you want to come on vacation with me? You're welcome to come, but if you don't I'll warn you now. I'm not sending postcards. I'm going to leave today and I already know where I am going first. This vacation is going to about living your dreams. Can you want to guess where I am going? I'll give you a hint. See if you can guess from the picture below and to make it even better I'll give away a prize for to the first person who gets it right. The first person to guess correctly will win a lovely, highly coveted Live United T-shirt.

Free Beach Bums Tickets!

2010-05-12T10:13:00.002-04:00

We are going to be giving away several sets of Beach Bums tickets. In order to win them you have to be a fan of our Facebook page. Each week for the next month we will be drawing names from our Facebook fans, so join us on FB and WIN WIN WIN!

Join Here!

Also...

Because you all are such great volunteers we would like to invite you a Beach Bums game on Wednesday, June 23rd. The game will be dedicated to celebrating volunteerism, the time and effort you give and the difference you make in the lives of people you serve. The United Way is offering you tickets at a reduced rate – they are just $5 for a seat back chair. You are welcome to buy tickets for your entire family, bring everyone along to enjoy in the fun. To make the deal even sweeter you can also purchase a food voucher for a hot dog and a bag of chips for only $2.50! These prices are 50% off of the normal pricing. If you have never been to a Beach Bums game now is the time – you won’t find a better deal. There will be lots of giveaways and a raffle. To reserve tickets at these prices please email Amanda Hilt Amanda@unitedwaynwmi.org or stop into the office before Monday, May 17th. The tickets need to be pre-paid by this date. We hope all of you can make it; we can’t wait to celebrate with you.

Earth Day

2010-04-16T14:37:00.001-04:00

On Saturday April 24th there are several events that surround the celebration of Earth Day, see below for the details.

United Way of Northwest Michigan needs volunteers to help with the cleanup of an illegal dump site located in our community. The event will be held from 10am until 1pm, the location is still tentative (unfortunately we have lots to choose from). Interested volunteers are asked to dress appropriately, adult sized work gloves will be provided. In the spirit of Earth Day, Bay Area Recycling for Charities will be present to take any material that can be recycled. Volunteers of all ages are welcome. If you are interested in helping with this event please contact Amanda Hilt at 231-947-3200x206 or Amanda@unitedwaynwmi.org.

Little Artshram is holding their annual Earth Day Parade which will begin at 1pm, leaving from Central Grade school. This year’s theme is Pedal Power. The parade will wind through downtown Traverse City and end at the Hannah Park (next to the Heritage Center). There will also be a community picnic and puppet theatre to enjoy afterwards. If you would like to be involved in the parade please contact Penny at info@littleartshram.org, workshops are being held on April 10th, 11th, 17th and 18th from Noon until 5pm at the Little Arthsram studio located in building #36 on the State Hospital grounds.

The Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy is hosting a dune restoration bucket brigade at the Arcadia Dunes from 9am until 1pm. This project will involve some heavy lifting. For those interested in less physical work they will need volunteers to plant trees, do trail maintenance and clean up a historic dump site. Volunteers of all ages are welcome to come and enjoy the day. Bring your water bottle… light snacks and additional water will be provided. If interested please contact Lee Maynard by phone or email at 231-929-7911 or lee@gtrlc.org.

TART Trails will be holding trail cleanup work bees at two locations on the Leelanau Trail, the Boardman Lake Trail and the 3 Mile Trail from Parsons Road south from 9am until 12pm. Interested volunteers of all ages are welcomed to come with gloves, trash bags, brooms and loppers. Anyone available to help can contact Missy Luyk for more details at missy@traversetrails.org

The Goodwill Run for Shelter needs volunteers to help with route direction for the runners and basic cheering for all of the participants. Volunteers aged 8 and older are welcomed to help with this event. The race begins at 9am and starts at Willow Hill Elementary school. If you are interested please call Karl from Greenlight Marketing at 231-995-0619.

Imagine...

2010-04-09T11:00:00.002-04:00

I received this in an email from a co-worker this morning and I think it is worth sharing...

If you could fit the entire population of the world into a village consisting of 100 people, maintaining the proportions of all the people living on Earth, that village would consist of:

57 Asians
21 Europeans
14 Americans (North, Central and South)
8 Africans

There would be:

52 women and 48 men
30 Caucasians and 70 non-Caucasians
30 Christians and 70 non-Christians
89 heterosexuals and 11 homosexuals

6 people would possess 59% of the wealth and they would all come from the USA.

80 would live in poverty
70 would be illiterate
50 would suffer from hunger and malnutrition
1 would be dying
1 would be being born
1 would own a computer
1 (yes, only one) would have a university degree

If we looked at the world in this way, the need for acceptance and understanding would be obvious. But, consider again the following:

If you woke up this morning in good health, you have more luck than one million people, who won't live through the week.
If you have never experienced the horror of war, the solitude of prison, the pain of torture, were not close to death from starvation, then you are better off than 500 million people.
If you can go to your place of worship without fear that someone will assault or kill you, then you are luckier than 3 billion (that's right) people.
If you have a full fridge, clothes on your back, a roof over you head and a place to sleep, you are wealthier than 75% of the world's population.
If you currently have money in the bank, in your wallet and a few coins in your purse, you are one of 8 of the privileged few amongst the 100 people in the world.
If your parents are still alive and still married, you're a rare individual.

Work like you don't need the money.
Love like nobody has ever hurt you.
Dance like nobody is watching.
Sing like nobody is listening.
Live as if this was paradise on Earth.

Free Community Meal

2010-03-25T09:12:00.002-04:00

When: Sunday, March 28 & Sunday, April 25
Time: 5:30pm
Where: Bellaire Senior Center

Join your neighbors for a great, free meal and a fun night out!
Food donated by local restaurants and a SUNDAE BAR for dessert

This is a free meal for one and all, and the general idea behind it is we'd like to provide a good hot meal and a fun night out to those in Antrim County that could use it. We've been putting on the meal for about 6 months now. Restaurants in the area have provided most of the food, and we're averaging around 50 guests.

A Day Without Shoes!

2010-03-24T09:53:00.003-04:00

On April 8, United Way of Northwest Michigan is going barefoot for One Day Without Shoes. It might be cold, it'll probably be uncomfortable, and our feet will certainly get dirty, but by doing so, we’ll help raise awareness of the impact a simple pair of shoes can bring to a person’s life.

We hope that you will join us for our barefoot walk through downtown Traverse City on April 8. We will be meeting at the United Way of Northwest Michigan offices at noon. We’ll leave from the United Way and walk down Union Street to Front street then walk down Front Street to Cass and back to the United Way offices on Union.
In addition to our barefoot walk we will also be hosting a shoe drive April 5 through the 9. Bring new or gently used shoes to the United Way offices at 521 S Union Street. Donations will be accepted Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

One Day Without Shoes is an annual event that was started by TOMS Shoes in which students, friends, parents, strangers, and co-workers host or join barefoot events. Some go barefoot for an hour, some for the whole day, but all become a part of a greater movement toward change.

This April 8, please lead by example by going barefoot, and help mobilize our community to be a part of One Day Without Shoes.

Free Pistons Tickets!!

2010-03-23T10:15:00.002-04:00

For those who’ve given – of their time, their wisdom, or their compassion – the Pistons want to give back to you. As part of the Pistons’ season-long commitment to giving back to the communities across Michigan and beyond where their loyal fans live and work, the Pistons are rewarding volunteers and mentors through the “Helping Hand” program. All who have participated in volunteer activities since Jan. 1, 2009 – or those who agree to volunteer in their community before April 12 – will be rewarded with a free ticket to any one of three Pistons home games.

“Being good neighbors is part of the fabric of the Pistons family,” said Alan Ostfield, president and CEO of The Palace. “We took that core principle from our late owner, Mr. Davidson, one of the greatest philanthropists our region has ever known, and try to live it every day and every season.”

“From our recent Pistons Care telethon that raised well over $400,000 to feed Michigan families in need to our ongoing efforts to outfit Michigan schools with books and computers, we never forget that it’s important to give back to the areas that make what we do possible. Recognizing those volunteers who share that belief with a free ticket to a Pistons game is a small way to acknowledge their efforts.”

The Pistons.com/helpinghand Web page lists volunteer opportunities in Metro Detroit and statewide. After completing a day of service, participants can log onto the Web page or redeem their free ticket for April 2, April 7 or April 12 games at The Palace for service days from Jan. 1, 2009-April 12, 2010. In addition, volunteers can purchase additional 200-level tickets for $5 or upgrade to a 100-level seat for $25. Visit Pistons.com/helpinghand, call (248) 377-0100 or visit The Palace box office to take advantage of these special ticket offers.

Fans can also submit volunteer stories for a chance to be honored or honor someone they know during the April 12 Pistons vs. Toronto Raptors season finale and Fan Appreciation Night at The Palace. The online submission form also can be found on Pistons.com/helpinghand.

The gift of tickets to volunteers continues the Pistons community night program that for the 2009-10 season has included fund-raising for the Karmanos Cancer Institute for Breast Health Awareness in October, honoring America’s military service personnel on Veteran’s Night in November, benefiting St. Vincent de Paul during December Pistons games, providing shoes for Detroit-area children as part of the Samaritan’s Feet charity in January, celebrating Black History Month with various outreach efforts in February, and hosting the Pistons Care Telethon to benefit the Food Bank Council of Michigan in March.

Be Counted!

2010-03-09T11:27:00.003-05:00

In March of 2010, census forms will be delivered to every residence in the United States and Puerto Rico. When you receive yours, just answer the 10 short questions and then mail the form back in the postage-paid envelope provided. If you don't mail the form back, you may receive a visit from a census taker, who will ask you the questions from the form.

The majority of the country will receive English-only materials. Households in areas with high concentrations of Spanish-speaking residents may receive a bilingual (English/Spanish) form.

Any personal data you provide is protected under federal law. If you have questions about the census or need help completing the form visit the United Way on Monday, Wednesday or Friday between March 19 and April 16. A census worker will be at United Way (521 S Union St) on these days between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Did You Know?

-In 2008,$16 billion in federal assistance was allocated using data from the Census.
-For every 100 missed people in the count, a community could lose $1.2 million over a 10-year period.

Vote For Your Favorite Snowman

2010-03-08T11:19:00.002-05:00

Help pick the winner! Vote for your favorite Live United Snowman each snowman picture has a number on it, simply email me the number of the snowman you think is the most creative. Voting ends Thursday 3/11 at midnight. Winners announced on Friday 3/12. Email votes to michelleg@Unitedwaynwmi.org. Please vote only one time.

Slide-A-Thon

2010-03-08T10:37:00.001-05:00

At Great Wolf Lodge – Traverse City, we put fun first. On Friday, March 26, 2010 we’re planning on some record-setting fun: We’re going to attempt to break the Guinness World Record for “Longest Distance Water Sliding in 24 Hours in Multiple Venues.” All 11 Great Wolf Lodge locations will simultaneously participate in the record-breaking attempt. The Great Wolf Lodge “World’s Largest Waterslide-a-thon” will take place over 24 consecutive hours with one designated slide per resort. Every slider who descends the designated slide will count toward breaking the record for longest distance traveled on waterslides over a 24 hour period.

Participants in the Great Wolf Lodge “World’s Largest Waterslide-a-thon” will be asked to donate $1 per slide or $10 unlimited, with proceeds from the company’s U.S. locations going to Big Brothers Big Sisters. Great Wolf Resorts will be matching each donation, up to $50,000. Funds raised at the lodge level will go to their local chapters. Matching funds from Corporate will be donated to the National program. Along with this we are sending a sponsorship form to help collect these donations.

We need your help! Please contact Jenn Gillner at Great Wolf Lodge Traverse City to schedule your participation in this one of a kind event. One hour time slots are available with a group maximum of 40 participants.

231-499-8770 or jgillner@greatwolf.com

We look forward to your help in the World’s Largest Slide-a-thon Event!

Fun and Easy Fundraising Idea

2010-03-05T08:50:00.002-05:00

We're always looking for new ways to raise money. La Senorita Mexican Restaurants has a new program called the "Give Back Fiesta" that looks like a simple way to raise some extra money for your nonprofit organization.

"La Senorita has a long standing tradition of being a local favorite. The La Senorita Gives Back Fiesta program is our way of thanking the local communities for their patronage. It is La Senorita's privilege to give something back to the local communities and to support your good work."

Let La Senorita help make your fund raising easy, while promoting a fun filled Fiesta for families, friends and co-workers! Many organizations have raised more money in one day through the La Senorita Gives Back Fiesta program than they did all year with other fund raising programs.

The La Senorita Gives Back Fiesta program is easy to promote and administer. On an agreed upon date, your organization is invited to come to a specific La Senorita restaurant. Your organization will earn 20% of the total guest checks of your organization's supporters. All your supporters have to do is turn in the Gives Back Tokens when they pay. You will earn 20% on lunch, dinner, food, alcohol, Fiesta To Go and gift card purchases. All you have to do is promote the La Senorita Gives Back Fiesta in advance and pass out the Gives Back Tokens. La Senorita will provide you with a kit with ideas on how to make the most of your Fiesta. Your check will be mailed to you within three weeks!

For more information on this program contact your local restaurant. In Traverse City call Michael Jackson, Garfield location, at 947-8820 or Lura Reude, US 31 location, at 946-4545.

Fundraiser at Lil Bo

2010-03-04T11:55:00.002-05:00

Party at Lil Bo Pub & Grill

Monday March 15, 2010

5pm to 9pm

It's a fundraiser for Third Level Crisis Center's Transitional Living Program

Monday raised will go to transitional living apartments where youth coming out of foster care or homelessness can live while they learn skills to live independently.

The goal is to raise $7000.00 for two units by October 1, 2010.

The cost is a $5 donation at the door. Lil Bo is donating 50% of sales, 25% tips, all money raised from a silent auction and raffle will go to the Transitional Living Program

For more information contact:

Third Level
231-922-4800

spiotowski@thirdlevel.org

Our first Snowman!

2010-02-23T15:11:00.003-05:00

You can submit your Live United snowman photo to michelleg@unitedwaynwmi.org

Snow Day with United Way!!

2010-02-22T15:07:00.002-05:00

United Way of Northwest Michigan announces a winter fun raiser. “A Snow Day with United Way” is trying to see how many snowmen our community can build. Build a snowman with United Way will not only give people a reason to get outside but will also help raise awareness one snowman at a time.

A Snow Day with United Way snowman building contest will run through Friday, March 5. People wishing to participate should build a snowman that incorporates the “Live United” slogan. Ten random entrees will be awarded a $10 Wilderness Crossing gift certificate. A grand prize of a $100 gift certificate to Wilderness Crossing will be awarded to the builder of the most creative snowman. To enter submit a picture of your snowman to the United Way through Facebook or email them to michelleg@unitedwaynwmi.org. Entrees will be received until midnight on Friday, March 5. Help remind the community to Live United and have some fun with A Snow Day with United Way. The entries will be posted on the United Way Facebook page and on our website www.unitedwaynwmi.org.

United Way of Northwest Michigan seeks to efficiently raise and effectively distribute both financial and volunteer resources to support community determined initiatives that improve the lives of community members in Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Leelanau counties. Information about the United Way can be obtained through their website www.unitedwaynwmi.org or by contacting them directly by either calling 231.947.3200 or emailing michelleg@unitedwaynwmi.org.

RAOK - Day Four!

2010-02-19T13:20:00.002-05:00

No - I'm not tiring of being kind. I'm still loving every minute of it. It's been a great week and I have made great progress in being gracious, humble and all around good. Yesterday I smiled at every person I saw - seriously. And just about everyone smiled back, I guess it really is contagious. No face masks needed, bring on the smiles!

Steve continued on his quest of kindness by delivering treats to his sons elementary school. Michelle K and her son baked cookies delivered them to a neighbor and Susan is showing us all up by devoting her whole weekend as a volunteer for the Comedy Festival.

Got anything to share?

RAOK - Day Three

2010-02-18T13:43:00.002-05:00

It's becoming a way of life for me, not to say that I wasn't a kind person beforehand. I has just been very uplifting to plan something for the next day that is completely selfless. I've also been waiting for the perfect opportunity to do something immediate. To see a need and do it, no planning involved. I just haven't seen it yet - or maybe I am not looking hard enough. Enough babble, on to my Deeds o' the Day. On Wednesday I delivered goodies to the office staff at my childrens elementary school (Yeah Westwoods)! My youngest two had a hard time letting go of the goodies, but they did - without bribery.

Michelle G picked up and delivered two loads of goods to the Salvation Army and Melissa treated herself to a much needed stress reliever that was long overdue.

Did you do something? Will you share?

RAOK - Day Two

2010-02-17T10:38:00.002-05:00

Day two of RAOK week. Can you hear my mischevous cackle? Mua haa haa. Still tons of fun, still tons of deeds to be done. Curious as to what I did? I, Amanda, left my husband a little love note. I'm surely not the romantic type, so this was stepping way outside of the norm for me. The funniest part is that he never saw it! Oh well. Still glad I did it.

Steve was back at it as Mr. Kindness as he helped someone to their car with packages and shoveled the sidewalk at his church. Michelle Krumm dusted the snow of strangers cars for them and gave much needed love (in the form of treats) to her pooch at home.

What did you do? We are anxious to hear!

RAOK Week - Day One

2010-02-16T13:29:00.006-05:00

Day one of Random Acts of Kindness week went exceedingly well. We are so excited to share some of our Monday activities with you and would love it if you shared your good deeds with us also.

What fun. I, Amanda, love helping people, doing nice things for others and seeing their reactions. It is such a great way for me to break the monotony and remember that the world does not revolve around me and my family – who knew?! On Monday we (my lovely kiddos and I) baked a nice big batch of brownies, cut them into cute little hearts and packaged them up. Then we secretly delivered them to our neighbors. We took dinner to our nanny, delivered flowers to the hospital and loved every single second of it. I can’t wait to do more!

Michelle Gallagher helped a friend build a difficult spreadsheet for an upcoming project. Steve took time from his day to play football in the snow with his son (probably one of the best RAOK’s possible) and Susan gave an open parking spot to other people behind her. Let’s all give ourselves a pat on the back!

More to come tomorrow!

Random Acts of Kindness Week

2010-02-15T10:24:00.000-05:00

February 15 – 20 is Random Acts of Kindness Week. The United Way of Northwest Michigan is asking everyone to get involved. The staff of the United Way has pledged to perform good deeds throughout the week and we have asked our partner agencies to do the same. Acts of kindness can be as simple as putting a treat on your co-workers desk, giving someone a compliment or shoveling your neighbor’s sidewalk. Imagine what a difference we could make if we all did something nice, every day.

Let us know if someone did something nice for you or if you performed a Random Act of Kindness. We will be posting our deeds on our blog - http://unitedwaynwmi.blogspot.com/.

Looking for a few good people!

2010-02-08T11:57:00.001-05:00

We have some exciting event coming up here in Traverse City. These are great opportunities to be involved with, please read below for the details.

I am sure you have all heard about the Comedy Festival that is being held next weekend – so awesome! Just like the Film Festival, the Comedy Festival will be run entirely by volunteers – and that means you! The volunteer opportunities are listed in detail online, where you can sign up also. Please visit the State Theatres volunteer website to view and sign up for opportunities. Please note that the final volunteer schedule and sign-up will not begin until Wednesday, February 10th.

Sunrise Rotary needs help with their Shoes & Snacks Fundraiser next weekend. Everyone is invited to Timber Ridge campground on Saturday, February 13th from 2pm until 4pm to enjoy the beautiful snowshoeing terrain and have some great snacks. All of the proceeds benefit their Backpack for Kids program which provides backpacks full of school supplies to area children. Volunteers are needed to help with registration, clean up, trail monitoring and snack distribution. If interested in helping please contact Jessica Luckey at 932-6238.

Lastly, the Winter Wonderfest is still looking for a couple of volunteer to help at the beer tent and with the Sup’r Bowl. See below for the specific shifts and contact Kathee McCafferty if you are able to help.

Sup’r Bowl
Monitor loading and unloading of vendors – 10:00am until 11:30am
Event tear down – 3:15pm until 4:15pm
Beer Tent
ID checkers – 6:45pm until 9:00pm
Clean up - 5:30pm until 9:00pm
Event tear down - 8:45pm until 10:00pm

Family Volunteering Opportunities

2010-02-04T15:54:00.001-05:00

Andres Place, a non-profit dedicated to enrich the lives of people with physical, emotional and cognitive challenges through the therapeutic and social enrichments of the arts, is holding a Valentines Open Skate on Saturday, February 13th from 3pm until 6pm. Dress up in a costume from your favorite era as places will be awarded for first, second and third places. Come out and skate along with nostalgic music, have your pictures taken and pass love notes… it is bound to be a good time. Volunteers are needed to judge the costumes and help in the gift shop. Are you available to lend a hand? If you are please contact Michelle at 231-709-9152.

The Chamber of Commerce is looking for someone to help at the front desk to greet visitors, answering phones, maintaining brochures, mail, copying and light administrative work. The Chamber would love to have someone who could volunteer on a regular basis, every morning or every afternoon would be ideal. This opportunity would be perfect for someone looking to build their resume, or a college student looking for a great work experience and the opportunity to learn about how the Chamber of Commerce assists with growing business and building community.

Give Kids A Smile

2010-01-20T12:16:00.002-05:00

Give Kids a Smile Day is a day of free dental cleanings, exams, and x-rays for children that do not have dental insurance. Dentists offices throughout the community will be participating during the months of January and February. For a complete list please contact Arlene at the United Way offices 947-3200 x 208.

Friday, February 5th from 9am until 4pm
Garfield Dental Group, Dr. Ronald C. Chao
2815 N. Garfield, Traverse City, MI 49686
Please call 231-947-4380 for an appointment.

Habitat Home Rehab Project Fundraiser

2010-01-08T09:52:00.005-05:00

2010 Habitat Home Rehab Project Fundriaser

Host: TAAR & the Home Builders Association

Location: Williamsburg Dinner Theatre

When: Friday February 12, 2010 at 6:00 pm

Phone: 231-941-4663

Share a night out with the one you love

Support Habitat for Humanity - Grand Traverse Region by joining TAAR and the Home Builders Association for a Valentine's weekend fundraiser, benefitting HFH-GTR's first ever GREEN rehab project.

Your evening will include: dinner, entertainment, a live auction, a silent auction, and the satisfaction of knowing you've helped one family in need realize their dream of home ownership.

Tickets are $55/person or $100/couple. For reservations please call: 231-941-4663.

VASA Looking for Volunteers

2010-01-04T14:42:00.002-05:00

The 2010 North American VASA Cross-country Ski Race is searching for volunteers to assist in both indoor and outdoor tasks for this year’s weekend events February 12-13-14th. Examples of volunteer jobs are: ski the course the morning before the race to smooth the ski tracks and remove fallen branches, pack skier registration bags, act as crossing guards at snowmobile crossings, pass out water at aid stations, help with the awards ceremony, help clean-up after the race, and more. Most activities will take place at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort at 4050 E. Hammond Road in Traverse City on both Saturday and Sunday February 13 and 14, 2010.

Volunteers are encouraged to sign up via the internet at http://www.vasa.org/ and click on the volunteer link, or for more information call Lisa Taylor, Race Director, at 631-2195.

Ending Homelessness

2009-12-17T16:24:00.005-05:00

Every night in the United States nearly 750,000 men, women, and children have no safe place to sleep. Shelters are full to overflowing and agencies are running out of the money that they need to help families who are struggling.

This isn't a "big" city issue, its an "every" city issue and it doesn't seem to be getting any better, especially here in Michigan where the economy is having a tough time recovering. It is important that as a community that we not only understand the reasons that people are homeless but that we also take small steps to reach out and help those who have found themselves in a shelter or on the streets, and also reach out to those who may be on the verge of losing their home. The National Alliance to End Homlessness has a fantastaic website with interactive data tools and Fact Sheets and activities for students from Kindergarten through High School. Take a minute and check out their website. For more local information on homelessness you should visit the Goodwill website. If you are interested in volunteering at a shelter or a food bank visit 1800Volunteer.org, there are many opportunities right here in Northern Michigan for you to give a bit of your time. If you would like to help financially you can visit Unitedwaynwmi.org and fill out our secure online pledge form. You may think that your one hour or one dollar won't make a difference, but to someone who has nothing, it makes a big difference. Happy Holidays!

December Volunteer Opportunities

2009-12-08T12:17:00.003-05:00

Holiday Bottle Drive
Yep, those bottles are a pain. They are messy, they take up room, and they are no fun to return. Let’s put a spin on this messy situation. Each year we are bombarded with ways to donate during the holiday season—Coat drives, mitten drives, Toys for Tots -the list keeps on going. How about we pool all of our returnable items, have the kids help us return them, and then buy items to donate? We can let the kids make the decisions on where to donate and even how we donate the proceeds. Contact me if you would like to get together and do this. I think it could be a fun, low key way to let our kids be the decision makers, and provide them with the knowledge of just what is needed in our community.

Calling all Cookie Makers
‘Tis the season of cookie baking! Why not make a couple extra dozen while you are at it? The TART trails like to provide cookies to the VASA users during the winter season and most of the treats are supplied by volunteers like you! If you have a dozen or two to spare, please contact Pam Darling at the TART office. Their phone number is 231-941-4300.

Community Meals
Would you be interested in helping deliver a Christmas day meal to an elderly person or shut in? The community Meals Program has delivered over 6,000 meals to our community members since 2000. Meal delivery will begin at 11:15am on Christmas day, and will be distributed throughout the Grand Traverse region. Take the kids out with you. It will be a great experience for them. This one fills up fast so call Sandra now at 263-7130.

Salvation Army Bell Ringers
We see them every year—those dedicated people ringing bells all over our
community. The Salvation Army Red Kettle campaign kicks off November 20th at various locations throughout our community. The shifts are only two hours long, and the kids are more than welcome to come out and give you a hand. You can view all of the shifts and sign up on the Salvation Army’s website.

Maple Syrup Lovers Unite!
Are you interested in earning delicious, locally-made maple syrup for yourself, your family, or your friends? Then please consider volunteering with the Friends of the Wagbo Sugar Bush! Volunteers are need to help with firewood processing, line reparation, and sugar shack organization. The tentative schedule for workdays is Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at the Wagbo Farm, but call ahead at
231-536-0333 to make sure someone will be there. Sounds awfully yummy!

Jingle Bell Run
Families are needed to help with this years Jingle Bell Run. This event is a fun, non-timed event that everyone can enjoy! Assistance is needed with registration, clean-up and much more. The run will be held on Sunday, December 20th starting at 5:30 at the Park Place Dome. Please let me know if you are
interested in helping—and if you want to participate in the run please click here!

Contact me to take advantage of any of these volunteer opportunities. You can reach me at:
amanda@unitedwaynwmi.org or 231-947-3200 x 206

Go To Disney!!

2009-12-08T12:10:00.000-05:00

Hopefully many of you have heard about the Give a Day Get a Disney Day program by now. If you haven’t, please let me give you a brief explanation. Disney is working with the HandsOn Network to connect volunteers with the needs of our community. In an effort to inspire volunteerism Disney is thanking those who volunteer by giving them a free ticket good for one day to a Disney World or Disney Land theme park. It’s pretty amazing, but there are some simple stipulations.

The first thing we all need to do is register with the Give a Day, Get a Disney Day program. You can use the following link to do so - http://www.handsonnetwork.org/disney/faq#faqsix. Registration is very simple and will take you just a couple minutes. Please register your organization now – you can only do so through the end of the month! You have to be registered in order for your volunteers to receive the free day at Disney!
The above link has all of the information you will need regarding the program – who is eligible, frequently asked questions, and much more. Please let me know if you have any questions, I am happy to help.

Amanda Hilt
Volunteer Center Coordinator, United Way of Northwest Michigan
amanda@unitedwaynwmi.org
231-947-3200 x 206

All In The Family

2009-11-20T11:06:00.003-05:00

What a week – phew! This is the time of year where my days seem to get busier and busier; there are holidays to plan for, parties to attend and decorations to hang. I challenged myself earlier this year to engage my family in volunteer activities at least once a month. At first I thought it would be difficult to get three children pumped up and out of the house to do something that didn’t involve a new toy or candy, but it wasn’t. They have learned to love volunteering and we have had some awesome experiences. I find that we are volunteering as a family almost every weekend.

There are plenty of family friendly volunteer activities – you just have to know where to look for them. Earlier in the summer I created a family volunteering group called Doing Good Together – Families Making a Difference. I send out a monthly newsletter highlighting several family friendly volunteer activities that you can be involved in. If you would like to me to add you to the list please let me know. We also have a Facebook group that you are welcome to join. Updates during the month are posted on Facebook along with pictures, fun facts and much more.

Tomorrow is National Family Volunteering Day. We will be celebrating our community and our families by stuffing toiletry bags for Safe Harbor. Safe Harbor is a program supported by local churches to provide overnight shelter to homeless members of our community during the winter months. There will also be a holiday craft table for the younger members of our families to create cards for the participants of Safe Harbor. Please come and join us at The Presbyterian Church from 10am until 12pm for fellowship and a rewarding volunteer opportunity.

Have a great weekend – and please remember to check your 1800volunteer account for new volunteer opportunities!

Amanda Hilt
Volunteer Center Coordinator, United Way of Northwest Michigan
amanda@unitedwaynwmi.org
231-947-3200 x 206

Give While You Shop

2009-11-17T15:38:00.001-05:00

Please make every gift count this holiday season. More than 1,300 top stores including Amazon, Toys R Us, Best Buy, Apple, Gap and more will donate a percentage of virtually every sale to the United Way of Northwest Michigan. Just go to GoodShop.com, designate us as the cause you support and then click over to your favorite store. You pay nothing extra - and you can even save money as GoodShop lists thousands of money-saving coupons and free shipping offers. Or, add our toolbar to your browser at http://www.goodsearch.com/toolbar - and your purchases will count even if you forget to go to GoodShop first! There's no easier way to support us this holiday season! Please spread the word.

Family Volunteer Opportunity

2009-11-12T09:47:00.002-05:00

Join me in celebrating Family Volunteering Day on Saturday, November 21st. We will be celebrating our community and our families by stuffing toiletry bags for Safe Harbor. Safe Harbor is a program supported by local churches to provide overnight shelter to homeless members of our community during the winter months. There will also be a holiday craft table for the younger members of our families to create cards for the participants of Safe Harbor. Please come and join us at The Presbyterian Church from 10am until 12pm for fellowship and a rewarding volunteer opportunity.

Contact Amanda to learn more about how your family can earn a free day at Disney World by volunteering in your community! amanda@unitedwaynwmi.org 947-3200 x 206

November Volunteer Opportunities

2009-11-05T14:55:00.003-05:00

Family Volunteer Day is Saturday November 21st!

Baskets of Bounty
Thanksgiving is a time of year for families to sit together and discuss the things that they are grateful for while enjoying a traditional Thanksgiving meal. It is perhaps the most opportune time for parents to talk to children about what they are thankful for and the importance of giving. There are many families who will not have the opportunity to celebrate this holiday, as they might like to, and some live in our own town. Your family can make a difference by assembling a holiday basket for them to enjoy. Many local agencies are distributing baskets to area families. If your family would like to put together a basket please contact me for a list of local agencies that could use your help. You could even put together a basket with your neighbor, relatives or church group.

Candy Overload?
Does your Halloween candy go uneaten? Do you end up eating it instead of the kids (I do)? How about making some cute treat bags filled with your excess
Halloween candy and delivering them to local homeless shelters, nursing homes or food pantries. Everyone loves a special treat and this would be a great way to talk about giving—and prevent cavities. Your dentist will be proud!

Community Meals
Would you be interested in helping deliver a Thanksgiving day meal to an elderly person or shut in? The community Meals Program has delivered over 6,000 meals to our community members since 2000. Meal delivery will begin at 11:15am on Thanksgiving day and will be distributed throughout the Grand Traverse region. Take the kids out with you, it will be a great experience for them.

Salvation Army Bell Ringers
We see them every year—those dedicated people ringing bells all over our
community. The Salvation Army Red Kettle campaign kicks off November 20th at various locations throughout our community. The shifts are only two hours long and the kids are more than welcome to come out and give you a hand. You can view all of the shifts and sign up on the Salvation Army’s website.

The Turkey Trot
Would your family be interested in helping with the fun and always awesome
Turkey Trot? Volunteers are needed on November 25th and 26th for various duties such as preparing goody bags, assisting at the post-race food table, helping at a water station or cleaning up after the race. There are many ways to be involved, and this is a great excuse to spend part of the day outside.

Contact Amanda Hilt to take advantage of any of these volunteer opportunities. You can reach her at: amanda@unitedwaynwmi.org or 231-947-3200 x 206

Please remember that these opportunities are available for families with children of all ages.

Fun Stuff To Do

2009-10-27T11:22:00.002-04:00

I think we can easily say that Fall is here. It’s okay. Fall means that Halloween is near and it’s one of my favorite holidays. I have included a couple of upcoming fall activities that will be a lot of fun, put them on your calendar now!

The Gathering Place, located at 10579 Main Street in Honor, is hosting a Slightly Haunted House and is geared for younger children. Admission is free, snacks and refreshments will be provided. The Haunted House is open from 3pm until 7pm on Halloween Day. For more information please call The Gathering Place at 231-325-3720.

An evening of award winning short films in honor of National Domestic Violence Month will be presented by the Women’s Resource Center. The films will be shown on Tuesday, October 27 at 7pm at Central United Methodist Church (222 Cass Street, Traverse City). A reception with refreshments will be held after the presentation. For more information please call the Women’s Resource Center at 231-941-1210.

Westwoods Elementary school is holding a Rake-a-thon through the months of October and November. Sign up your to have your lawn at home or at your business raked for a low price – starting at just 30! Proceeds benefit the Westwoods PTO and will be used to purchase classroom supplies. If you would like to have your lawn raked please email Adam or Lisa Warren at tc_warren@charter.net.

Please don’t forget to log into your 1800volunteer account and check out all of the new volunteer activities that have been posted.

Holiday Volunteer Projects

2009-10-19T10:03:00.002-04:00

A couple of weeks back I asked for you to send me your seasonal wish lists consisting of all your volunteer needs for the holiday season. Thank you to everyone that has responded. These projects will be posted through various avenues – email, the Record Eagle, Facebook… just to name a few. If you haven’t sent them my way yet please do so by the end of next week. I can’t wait to get working on them.

I would also like to volunteer myself to each of you. I would love to come to one of your board meetings and speak to you about 1800volunteer and how to better utilize it. 1800volunteer is an amazing tool with many different facets. It can help you track your volunteers, email them as a group or individually, and recruit more volunteers. It has so much to offer. Volunteers are a huge asset to each of our organizations. Just think how much each of us could grow with the help of more volunteers! I would love to help all of you. If you are interested my offers please send me an email and I will be in touch.

-Amanda Hilt
947-3200 x 206
amanda @ unitedwaynwmi . org

Knitting Group Begins

2009-10-13T10:28:00.003-04:00

Last year we started a Thursday night class to teach people how to knit. We had so much fun with it that we are going to do it again this year!

Starting on Thursday October 15, we will be hosting Learn to Knit classes here at the United Way offices, 521 S Union Street. All ability levels are welcome to join us. If you've never done it before, our instructor Lynda, will get you started. If you haven't knitted in a long time she can get you back on track. If you have some questions about a project you're working on, Lynda can answer those for you, or if you just want to spend some time with a great group of people then you should join us on Thursday nights.

The class is absolutely free and we have plenty of yarn for you to use, you just need to bring your own needles. If you would like to join us, please RSVP to Michelle Gallagher at 947-3200 x 201 or michelleg@unitedwaynwmi.org.

Happy Knitting!!

Day of Caring Projects -

2009-09-01T14:19:00.002-04:00

If you are interested in signing up to help with one of these projects or would like more details about any of the projects listed, please contactSusan McQuaid: susan@unitedwaynwmi.org or 231-947-3200 x 205

Alliance for the Great Lakes – September 19th – “Adopt a Beach”
American Red Cross – donate and prepare gift baskets for returning service men, women and families.
American Red Cross – donate and prepare disaster kits for families who have had a fire or other disaster.
Bay Area Recycling for Charities – help with recycling at the DOC Thursday Sept. 10 from 7:30 am to 1:30 pm (a zero waste event)
Blair Township- Sat. Sept. 12 – Family Fun Day – set-up, run games, help serve food, help prepare food, clean-upBoys and Girls Club – set-up and organize greenhouse, organize club site, administrative office assistance, mentoring students at noon time
Boy Scouts Camp Greilick – Tear off shingles and possibly replace any plywood sheeting (that needs it) on the Trading Post building.
Father Fred Foundation – Help with the Father Fred Food Drive at all Spartan Stores Saturday Oct. 10.
G. T. Heritage Center – Sept. 17, 18, 19 – Heritage Days – Teams to assist school groups – guides, food service, performers, clean-up
Goodwill – Fall exterior cleanup and winter prep-late October at the Goodwill Inn
Goodwill – Labor Day weekend – make community meals or box lunches for Sun. Sept. 6 and Mon. Sept. 7 for homeless (regular meal providers don’t provide Labor Day weekend meals)Leelauau Historical Society – Landscaping and gardening
Michigan Schooner Festival – Sept. 11, 12 and 13 – various volunteer slots – Open Space (see www.michiganschoonerfestival.org)
Northwest Food Coalition – collect nonperishable food for 38 food pantries
Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency – Landscaping
Old Town Playhouse – cleaning in preparation of opening season inside and out (including windows)
Paperworks Studio – power wash and paint East Side of the building
Pregnancy Care Center – Light landscaping clean up and outside window cleaning
Sunrise Rotary Club – “Backpacks for Kids” program - Collect school supplies for elementary school children and help “Stuff the Bus” at the Open Space on the Day of Caring
Third Level Crisis Intervention Center – Painting project at Pete’s Place.

Be in a National United Way Ad!

2009-08-20T09:29:00.003-04:00

How do you LIVE UNITED?

It's easier than you think! Grab a camera and make a short video. You can use a camcorder, a cell phone, a digital camera, a computer, or anything else that records video. Stories will be based on substance, not production quality, so don't sweat the details.

1. Its Easy!

Record your story in a video no longer than 2 minutes.
Upload the video between now and September 30th. Upload Here
Get your friends, families, and co-workers to go online and vote for your story.

2. You could be featured in United Way’s national ad campaign in 2010! Just submit your video to the LIVE UNITED Story Search, then get your friends to vote for you!

3. Your story can inspire others. When you share your passion with the world, that passion can spark the ideas and interest of others. What better way to LIVE UNITED than to fan the flames of the movement?

If you need help or have questions please let me know I will be happy to help in any way that I can! michelleg@unitedwaynwmi.org

Drive Drive Drive!

2009-08-10T14:05:00.004-04:00

The upcoming Day of Caring isn't ONLY about volunteering its also about helping out others who are less fortunate than you.

On September 10 at the Open Space we will be holding three drives.

A blood drive. The "Blood Bus" will be at the Open Space from 7:30am to 9:30am.
A food drive. The food drive truck will be at the Open Sapce from 7:30am to 1:30pm. All donations will benefit the Northwest Food Coalition which helps stock over 30 local food pantries.
Stuff the Bus! From 7:30am to 1:30pm Sunrise Rotray will have a school bus that they will be filling with school supplies for children who's families are unable to purchase them the things they need to start the school year off right.

So if you can donate to any or all of these drives please stop by the Open Space on Thursday September 10th.

Updated Project List

2009-08-10T10:55:00.002-04:00

14th annual Day of Caring
Thursday September 10, 2009
Project List, as of August 10, 2009

Addiction Treatment Center – painting front porch at Dakoske/Phoenix and new carpet at Outpatient Client
Alliance for the Great Lakes – September 19th – “Adopt a Beach”
Big Brothers/Big Sisters – Office supply scavenger hunt
Blair Township- Sat. Sept. 12 – Family Fun Day – set-up, run games, help serve food, help prepare food, clean-up
Boys and Girls Club – set-up and organize greenhouse, organize club site, administrative office assistance, mentoring students at noon time
Cherry Knoll Elementary School- plant perennials, cleanup and spruce up upper playground
Doula Teen Program of the Women’s Resource Center – Baby supply drive in front of WalMart on Sept. 10
Eastern Elementary School – clean up front garden and landscaping
Foster Grandparents/Senior Companions – supply lunch for an in-service training
G. T. Co. Family Court – Juvenile Division – Collect items for “Goodie Bags”. These coloring books, crayons, snacks, etc. are distributed to children waiting for their parents who are seeing their Probation Officer.
G. T. Heritage Center – Sept. 17, 18, 19 – Heritage Days – Teams to assist school groups – guides, food service, performers, clean-up
G. T. Heritage Center – Sept. 10 – Paint stairwell, walls near stairwell and Community Room walls
G. T. Regional Land Conservancy – trail building, maintenance, planting, installation of sign, invasive species removal
Goodwill – Fall exterior cleanup and winter prep-late October at the Goodwill Inn
Goodwill – Labor Day weekend – make community meals or box lunches for Sun. Sept. 6 and Mon. Sept. 7 for homeless (regular meal providers don’t provide Labor Day weekend meals)
Jubilee House – windows scraped and painted
Leelanau Baby Pantry – Suttons Bay – Clean the old house where the pantry is located. Windows need washing, cob webs need to be taken care of and general cleaning needed.
Michigan Schooner Festival – Sept. 11, 12 and 13 – various volunteer slots – Open Space (see www.michiganschoonerfestival.org)
Northwest Food Coalition – collect nonperishable food for 38 food pantries
Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency – Landscaping
Old Town Playhouse – cleaning in preparation of opening season inside and out (including windows)
Paperworks Studio – power wash and paint East Side of the building
Pregnancy Care Center – Light landscaping clean up and outside window cleaning
Sunrise Rotary Club – “Backpacks for Kids” program. Collect school supplies for elementary school children and help “Stuff the Bus” at the Open Space on the Day of Caring.
Tart Trails – trail maintenance and tree trimming
Traverse City Area Public School – Students in Transition Program – personal hygiene and gift card drive (for new clothes)
Traverse City Area Public School – West Middle School – Weed and fix up courtyard between 6th grade wing and library
T. C. Senior Center – Volunteers needed to assist with the 30th annual Senior Games. Volunteer for the Bike Race, Swimming, the 5K or Mile Walk in a variety of positions.
Tri-County Coalition for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (TCCPCAN)- Oct. 3 – “Cycle for Solutions” bike ride- volunteers needed at road crossings, the turn-around and for registration.
Traverse Health Care Coalition- Toothbrush and toothpaste drive for elementary students
Willow Hill Elementary School – before Sept. 3 Open House, clean and landscape grounds

Our list of projects available for adoption changes every day! For more information please contact Susan McQuaid at susan@unitedwaynwmi.org or 947-3200 Ext. 205. You can also see a complete list of projects on our website: www.unitedwaynwmi.org/DOCProjects.html

Join us at Left Foot Charley!

2009-08-07T09:26:00.001-04:00

United Way's annual workplace campaign is the most effective way to organize your company around helping to improve the community you work and live in. If you're interested in finding out more information about how you can start a United Way campaign, learn a fresh approach or just network with your peers.

Join us for learning, sharing and fun.

August 27 4:00 PM
Hosted By: Left Foot Charley
806 Red Drive-In the Village of Grand Traverse Commons

We will explore best practices, find out what's new at United Way and of course sample some wonderful local wines. So join us. Be the bridge from your employees to your community.
LIVE UNITED.

Volunteer groups needed for annual Day of Caring

2009-07-22T12:07:00.003-04:00

Now is the time to sign up to help area non-profit agencies!

More than 35 area non-profit agencies and organizations have identified projects they need help with for the 14th annual United Way of NW MI. Day of Caring coming up Sept. 10, and dozens more are expected to submit requests.

Now it’s the community’s turn.

Groups representing businesses, schools, families, neighborhoods and others are being asked to come forward and adopt a project for this annual community-wide celebration of volunteerism. Last year, nearly 80 projects were adopted by community groups, making for participation by approximately 800 volunteers.

“Right now, we’re looking for volunteer teams from companies, schools, service organizations, families,” said Susan McQuaid, director of the Volunteer Center at United Way of Northwest Michigan. “The needs are bigger than ever with our non-profits – so big, I truly believe many haven’t submitted projects yet because they don’t have the funds to buy the supplies they need to get the jobs done. “I think there are many who would love to say, ‘Yes, we’d love to have our porch painted,’ but they can’t afford the paint.”

A sampling of projects needing volunteer support this year includes preparing meals for the homeless the Sunday and Monday of Labor Day weekend, when regular staff is off; assembling gift baskets for military returning from deployment; collecting nonperishable food for 38 food pantries; a baby supply drive for the Doula teen parent program; a toothbrush and toothpaste drive for elementary students; cleaning carpets and other maintenance for the Women’s Resource Center and its Helen’s House shelter; and dozens more.

The Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, which needs a team this year to work on trail building, maintenance, planting and other tasks, has participated in the Day of Caring in previous years. Volunteer Program Coordinator Rolf VonWalthausen said the organization relies on this annual boost of volunteer manpower. “We depend almost wholly on volunteers to help carry out the management plans on our preserves, and in many cases, there are projects that can’t be done by a single volunteer or even a couple,” he said. “We don’t have the capacity to do it without these large groups.” In the past, he said, Day of Caring volunteers have performed major trail maintenance, installed boardwalks, removed entire fields of invasive species, distributed gravel on parking lots and handled other infrastructure improvements. “The groups seem to have a really fun time,” VonWalthausen explained. “They’re enjoying being outdoors, working hard and helping each other accomplish a common goal. Usually by the end of the day they’re hugging each other, congratulating everybody on work well done. “It’s a real spirit of cooperation.”

Teams are asked to sign up soon so that they can be matched with the projects of their choice. There are also opportunities for individuals and organizations to adopt a project by providing funding for supplies and equipment for cleaning and repairs when agencies don’t have the funds themselves.

To view a list of available projects so far, visit http://unitedwaynwmi.org/DOCProjects.html. To find out more about the Day of Caring, sign up to volunteer, register a project or make donations to support a project, call McQuaid at 231-947-3200, Ext. 205, or email to susan@unitedwaynwmi.org.

Part-time Position Available

2009-07-20T15:29:00.002-04:00

Position Title: Volunteer Development Specialist PART-TIME; NON-EXEMPT
Reports to: Senior Adult Development Manager
Location: Traverse City Area
Salary: $13.00 per hour; Average 20 hours per week

Position Summary:
The Volunteer Development Specialist is responsible for screening and tracking prospective volunteers. This includes ensuring volunteers have flexible adult learning opportunities to carry out their assignments; assessing volunteer developmental needs; recruitment and management of adult learning facilitators and coaches for assigned volunteer pathways.

Major Accountabilities:
Develop and direct a competent and motivated volunteer learning corps to ensure a quality volunteer experience and retention of facilitators and coaches. Facilitate the growth of a volunteer-driven learning development and delivery system.
Responsible for monitoring a strong adult education program in conformity with Council goals, policies and standards, and in accordance with standards established by GSUSA.
Implement council adult education curriculum and provide innovative learning opportunities for volunteers on a continuous basis, using a wide variety of methods and locations.
Increase resources and develop relationships with outside businesses and individuals to supplement the training program.
Ensure management of record keeping system for maintaining training records and volunteer participation.
Implement strategies to develop and retain a pluralistic adult membership, thereby ensuring the effective delivery of services to the community.
Other duties as assigned.

Position Requirements:
Bachelor's Degree in related field or equivalent experience
Demonstrated knowledge and experience in delivering adult learning strategies, adult education, and effective volunteer management systems
Experience in supervision and management of volunteers
Ability to plan, organize, and implement a multi-faceted workload, handle pressure and meet deadlines
Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communications skills
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and evenings, and travel throughout council jurisdiction
Proficiency of Microsoft Office Suite, email and internet applications and research
Demonstrated commitment and ability to interact with diverse populations
To apply for this position, submit a cover letter and resume or an Application for Employment to
Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore, Attn: Human Resources, via E-mail hr@gsmists.org, fax 616-784-8187, or mail 3275 Walker Avenue NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49544.
EOE Committed to Diversity and Equality

NMTA Recruits Drivers

2009-07-20T08:47:00.000-04:00

The Northwest Michigan Transportation Alliance is being revived to provide safe and affordable transportation to a growing number of people in need.

NMTA was formed several years ago to serve low-income senior citizens in the five-county Grand Traverse region with transportation to non-emergency medical appointments. A collaboration of multiple human services agencies, NMTA was disbanded about a year ago due to lack of funding and staff support.

Now, through Americorps VISTA, a new manager has been hired and area agencies are once again laying the groundwork to revive the program serving Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Benzie, Antrim and Kalkaska counties. Angela Carter of Traverse City will direct the program out of the Disability Network office at 333 E. Front St. in Traverse City.

“The idea is to deliver safe and affordable transportation to senior citizens in need, to help them maintain independence, community involvement and access to vital health services,” said Susan McQuaid, director of the Volunteer Center at the United Way of Northwest Michigan and NMTA advisory committee.

NMTA will rely on volunteer drivers who will receive a small stipend for mileage. Those using the service will pay a nominal fee to defray expenses. Volunteer drivers are needed, and recruitment is underway.

To find out about becoming a driver, to inquire about receiving services from NMTA or other information, call 947-3200, Ext. 205.

ShareCare

2009-07-13T09:17:00.002-04:00

Volunteers pay it forward
Some eventually end up on receiving end

A movie made the concept of “paying it forward” a household word. In real life, it happens all the time – especially when it comes to volunteering. Older adult volunteers often find that the people they are serving were once volunteers helping other seniors just like themselves.

Retired and Senior Volunteer Program members, who are 55 and older, often donate their time to help senior citizens. RSVP’s Tuesday Toolmen do home repairs and install safety devices like ramps and shower grab bars for older adults who can’t afford to pay for the work to be done themselves. Sometimes, the toolmen find that the clients they serve were at one time RSVP volunteers.

ShareCare of Leelanau, which provides services to help the elderly remain in their own homes, has about 100 volunteers, most of them 55 and older. It’s common for those who once provided the assistance to eventually end up on the receiving end. “It isn’t unusual to have somebody who starts out volunteering and then end up needing help,” said Deb Wetherbee, ShareCare office manager. “They probably started with us when they were younger and have stayed with us into their older age.”

ShareCare was started 15 years ago by a group of Leelanau County couples who recognized that with their children scattered across the United States, they wouldn’t have family to depend on if it got to the point that they needed help to continue living independently. A 76-year-old woman named Jo who asked that only her first name be used here can identify with that, having relocated to Leelanau County with her husband 11 years ago from Indiana. “A lot of people up here have lived here all their lives for multiple generations and they have 47 nieces and nephews, and children,” Jo said. “Then there are the perma-fudgies, like us, who, while we have fantastic neighbors, they go south for the winter, have their own lives and their own problems.”

When Jo and her husband moved to northern Lower Michigan, she decided to volunteer as a driver for ShareCare, taking an older man who couldn’t drive in the winter to a couple of doctors’ appointments. Then Jo’s husband was seriously injured falling off a ladder five years ago. She had to stop volunteering to care for him through multiple surgeries. He now uses a walker and his mobility is limited.

Along the way, Jo had a meltdown -- she calls it her “sinking spell” -- trying to do it all. Enter ShareCare, the organization she had joined to help – now helping her and her husband. “While I didn’t need anything but basically bed rest, we both needed to continue eating and my husband needed to get to doctors’ appointments,” she said. “They came up with immediate help for seeing we had food, we had somebody to help clean, somebody to help my husband if I wasn’t up to doing that, seeing that somebody could take him to someplace that I ordinarily would have done. “It seemed so reassuring to know that yes, you don’t have to call your children that are six and seven hours away and have extremely busy lives, with their children, and work, and say, ‘We need your help.’ While, bless their bones, they both came up for a few days, they can’t stay. That’s where ShareCare is just so important.”

Jo is hoping that her husband will progress to the point that by this fall, she will be able to throw her name “back in the pot” to be a volunteer driver. She wants to be able to start helping others again, saying, “It’s sort of like that ‘It takes a village’ thing.”

Posting for the Film Festival

2009-07-07T11:02:00.001-04:00

I already blogged this last week, but Jane sent out another email so I am re-posting again to help them out.

To All Volunteers,

We are still in need of several items, if you would like to donate any of these, please let me know. They can be dropped off at the TCFF Office.
Thank you, Jane Klegman Inkind Donations Manager.

15 Flashlights- both large and small, for use in the Open Space and at all the indoor Venues
Batteries for the flashlights- all sizes
10 First Aid Kits- w/ Bandaids ( all sizes), Triple Antibiotic ointment, Ace bandage, gauze, tape, cold pack
100 blank Mini DV tapes100 plus blank CD'sa Mini DV Tape Deck for playing and importing footage to a MAC/PC computer
200 plus Glow Sticks for Open Space - the short thick kind
Cargo Van ( borrowed)

Green Cuisine

2009-06-30T09:19:00.001-04:00

Volunteers are needed for Green Cuisine, which is being held at Food For Thought near Honor on July 15.

Described as "the annual celebration of local food, living and sustainability," the event focuses on green and sustainable lifestyle, business and culinary excellence in the region. More than 1,000 people are expected to attend, with events including a Green Fashion Show and Luncheon to include all local ingredients. Little Artshram is one of the organizations that will benefit from Green Cuisine. Volunteers are needed for shifts that run between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m., for jobs that include dishwashing, bussing, routing traffic, badge registration and greeting.

If you can volunteer, please contact the United Way office and leave a message at 947-3200, Ext. 208 and someone will call you back, or email to kathy@unitedwaynwmi.org. Thanks!

Traverse City Film Festival

2009-06-29T09:57:00.002-04:00

The Traverse City Film Festival (TCFF) is celebrating its 5th year in 2009! This year's festival will run from July 28th thru August 2nd. As in the past the TCFF relies heavily on volunteers and donated items to keep the festival running smoothly. Following is a list of items that the TCFF needs donated and/or to borrow for this year's festival. If you can help them out please contact Jane Klegman (jane@traversecityfilmfestival.org).

15 Flashlights
10 First Aid Kits
Homes or Condos Downtown 3 bedrooms-We are looking for houses or condos downtown TO RENT, hopefully at discounted rates. We need these places for the week before and the week of festival, through August 4. We also need one place for just the week of festival.
Bicycles to borrow for Crew
100 blank Mini DV tapes
Blank CD's
A Mini DV Tape Deck for playing and importing footage to a MAC/PC computer
Vacuum cleaner for the City Opera House ( borrowed)
Refrigerator for box office ( borrowed)
Glow Sticks for Open Space
Cargo Van ( borrowed)

United Way receives $36,000 Rotary grant

2009-06-24T14:24:00.001-04:00

TRAVERSE CITY – The United Way of Northwest Michigan has been awarded a $36,305 grant by Rotary Charities of Traverse City.

The funds will be used to support the United Way Volunteer Center’s youth and families initiative. The program recruits and matches young people and families with volunteer opportunities in a roster of 220-and-growing non-profit agencies in the Grand Traverse region. "Our continuing goals are to increase the recruitment of youth and family as volunteers and to develop our capacity to use the Internet in this recruitment effort,” said Steven Wade, United Way executive director. “We have implemented a variety of efforts to connect with this population – and with good reason. Our hope is that young people, starting with early volunteer opportunities now, will embark on a lifelong pattern of giving to their community through volunteerism.”

The United Way has built a Volunteer Youth Web page that is now one of the primary tools used in the recruitment of youth and family, Wade said. There’s also a blog to encourage conversation about volunteer experiences among young volunteers, with links to social networking sites.
The United Way also manages the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, linking people 55 and older with volunteer opportunities in area organizations and agencies. Combined, the volunteer recruitment efforts are designed to support community non-profits – many of which find themselves even more strapped for help as they are overwhelmed by demand in the current economy.

“Many of the non-profits with whom we work have limited resources and their capacity to manage volunteers, or even to identify quality volunteer opportunities within their organization, is quite limited,” said Wade. “That’s where, with support from this grant, we can really make a difference.”

The United Way of Northwest Michigan seeks to efficiently raise and effectively distribute both financial and volunteer resources to support community-determined initiatives that improve the lives of residents in Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Leelanau counties. Information about the United Way and volunteering can be obtained through the Web site, www.unitedwaynwmi.org, by calling (231) 947-3200 or emailing info@unitedwaynwmi.org.

FREE FOOD!

2009-06-23T15:22:00.002-04:00

Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) volunteers: Turn in hours and eat!

Several area businesses have donated gift certificates to be used as a bonus for RSVP volunteers turning in their hours each month.

Being able to tally and report all of the hours RSVP volunteers give back to the community is essential not only for the program’s funding, but to be able to show the important role retired and senior volunteers play in supporting the 200-plus nonprofit organizations where they work. To provide a little extra incentive for volunteers to turn in those hours, there will be monthly drawings among those who submit hours. Starting in July, RSVP will draw names from those submitting monthly hours and give away two prizes.

So far, Casciano Traverse City (Burger King), Ponderosa Steakhouse, Mancino’s, Firefly, Bubba’s and Mackinaw Brewing Company in Traverse City, along with Giovanni’s in Interlochen, have contributed gifts. Thanks to all of these businesses for helping support our volunteers and RSVP!

Who's The Boss?

2009-06-22T14:44:00.004-04:00

It might be the best job she ever had.

And she doesn’t even get paid for it.

Jeannette Hans0n makes the 27-mile round trip from her home in Elberta to The Gathering Place in Honor six days a week. On Monday through Friday, she comes to volunteer. On Saturday, she comes as a guest, for breakfast.

The Gathering Place is the Benzie County Council on Aging’s senior center and meal site. Located in a shopping center in what used to be a restaurant, The Gathering Place hosts as many as 130 older adults on weekdays who come for fun, activities, meals and camaraderie.

A 15-year RSVP member and volunteer, Jeannette sits at the welcome desk, greeting people and collecting money (seniors make voluntary donations of $3 for lunch). She does secretarial work, helps with the newsletter and does just about anything else that is needed. “They call me the boss,” she laughs.

Before she retired, Jeannette worked in a bar, and in a sewing factory. She likes what she does now the best. “If I didn’t do this, I’d just sit at home,” she says. “I wouldn’t get out at all. We have a lot of fun here."

Why Education Matters Part III

2009-06-18T11:39:00.001-04:00

Rigorous studies show a strong link between more education and reduced rates of violent crime (Lochner 2004). A one-year increase in the average level of schooling in a community is associated with almost a 30 percent decrease in the murder and assault rates (Lochner 2007), results which are particularly reliable through high school. Of course, one important reason is that more school generally brings higher wages and expanded job opportunities and thus less incentive to engage in criminal activities. However, wages and jobs are not the end of the story. Classrooms help instill values that oppose criminality and socialize students to become better citizens. In many cases, schooling may also teach patience, reduce tolerance for risk-taking, and provide a supervised environment that tempers negative interaction among young people. And finally, youth who leave school early risk being influenced by a more negative set of peers, while those who stay are more likely to build a constructive social network and set off on a path toward productive work experiences.

The physical and emotional scars to families due to violent crime run deep; and the price of reduced productivity and decreasing property values in American communities is steep. Compared to incarceration, educational outlays are a far cheaper and more productive investment. Public costs for one year in prison are $24,000, while public outlays to educate a K-12 student are $9,000, on average. While additional funding for education does not automatically
guarantee decreased crime, the numbers point to the tremendous potential to expand young people’s choices and opportunities while simultaneously building greater security in our communities.

Why Education Matters part II

2009-06-16T11:22:00.002-04:00

The value of education to individuals and to society goes far beyond increased income potential. Higher educational attainment is linked to a host of beneficial behaviors and good health outcomes, including greater life expectancy overall as well as a larger percentage of years spent in good health and with adequate mobility. Better educated people practice healthier behaviors, are more informed consumers of medical services, and are more likely to adhere to treatment regimes. More education is also associated with more robust mental health - greater personal happiness, more stable family relationships, more self-esteem and self-awareness, a greater sense of self-determination, and greater ability to adjust to change. Better educated people
are also more effective in supporting healthy outcomes for their children.

Life Expectancy

Life expectancy in the U.S. is 77.8 years at birth, with great variation by education, gender and ethnicity. Those who acquire education beyond high school have an average life expectancy that is seven years longer than those whose education stops with high school (Meara, Richards, and Cutler 2008); the lifespan gap between those two groups increased 30 percent from 1990 to 2000 (Singh and Siahpush 2006). People with more education tend to earn more, and thus have greater resources to pay for quality healthcare. In addition, more educated people behave in ways that help maintain health — applying critical thinking skills, adhering to treatment regimens and better managing chronic conditions, using newer and more effective drugs, and sharing more resilient outlook to cope with stress, avoid depression and hostility (Lleras-Muney 2005).

Why Education Matters, Part I

2009-06-15T15:11:00.003-04:00

The Common Good Forecaster is a tool that breaks down, by county, the level of education of residents, the median income, and the % of people living below poverty. To check it out for yourself go to www.liveunited.org/forecaster/. The people living in poverty statistic is based on the number of adults over the age of 25 who are below the federal poverty threshold.

Here is what it says about some of the counties in Northwest Michigan.

Leelanau County:
Median Income: $30,297
People living in poverty: 5.1%
Unemployment rate: 5%

Grand Traverse County:
Median Income: $29,477
People living in poverty: 6.7%
Unemployment rate: 5.3%

Antrim County:
Median Income: $25,089
People living in poverty: 10.4%
Unemployment rate: 7.2%

At this time information is not available for Benzie or Kalkaska Counties through this particular forecasting tool.

Now, lets take a look at these numbers again and assume everyone actually graduates from High School:

Leelanau County:
Median Income: $31,177
People living in poverty: 4.4%
Unemployment rate: 5.2%

Grand Traverse County:
Median Income: $30,234
People living in poverty: 5.5%
Unemployment rate: 5.5%

Antrim County:
Median Income: $25,833
People living in poverty: 9.3%
Unemployment rate: 8.3%

25 Things About Fundraising

2009-06-02T10:41:00.002-04:00

Easier Said Than Done : 25 Random Things About Fundraising
Here’s some stuff you might not know about an old friend.
By Jeff Brooks
May 1, 2009

If fundraising were a person, and he or she was on Facebook, I’d tag her/him with the nasty “25 Random Things” meme. We’d learn some surprising things about fundraising. But since fundraising itself is a mute nonentity, I’ve taken the job upon myself …

1. The oldest recorded fundraising appeal was written by St. Paul around A.D. 55. It’s an appeal to a group of church members in Greece to help impoverished church members in Jerusalem. The appeal is a masterpiece of donor-centered fundraising, spending most of its words describing the benefits of giving.
2. Race and ethnicity are not good predictors of charitable giving. Age and sex, however, are strong predictors: Women give more than men, and older people give more than younger people.
3. Someone who regularly attends a house of worship is twice as likely to give to charitable causes as someone who seldom or never does. The churchgoer gives 100 times as much to charity per year — including 50 times as much to nonreligious causes.
4. Measuring by percentage of gross domestic product, the United States gives more to private charity than do any of the world’s nations. The U.S. is followed by Israel, Canada and Argentina. The most generous European nations — Spain, Ireland and the U.K. — give less than half of what the U.S. gives on a percentage basis.
5. The most read part of a fundraising letter is the P.S. That’s why the professionals always use the P.S. to restate the letter’s call to action, rather than for the traditional afterthought.
6. Mail recipients spend more time looking at the back of the envelope than the front. Think about it: You have to face the back toward you in order to get the envelope open. A tricky way to take advantage of this is to put the recipient’s address (or the window that displays it) on the flap side of the envelope.
7. A pleasant orange scent applied to a direct-mail package does nothing to improve fundraising results.
8. More often than not, an envelope with no message on the outside gets better fundraising results than one with a message. I don’t think this is because nothing is better than something, but because most teasers are so lame we’re better off without them.
9. Most enclosures added to direct-mail packages suppress fundraising results. One of the smartest tests you can do is to remove enclosures. It not only lowers cost, but very often also improves response.
10. Direct-mail testing does not yield universal principles. It only tells you specifically what happened in your test. Only a fool or a charlatan will claim otherwise.
11. The more recently a donor gave, the more likely it is she’ll give now. “Resting” donors from opportunities to give for some period after they’ve given is one of the most revenue-negative strategies around.
12. When donors are offered choices — about how you communicate with them, where their money goes or almost anything else — their giving measurably increases. Even when they don’t exercise any of the choices offered (as most don’t), their giving is greater than the giving of those not offered any choices.
13. Typos improve fundraising results. I’m sorry, but I can’t prove that. Seriously, I can’t count the number of times we discovered an egregious typo, then waited in horror for donors to voice their wrath and confusion by not responding in droves … only to experience instead an unusually high level of giving.My theory: Once someone finds a typo, she pays a lot more attention — and that dramatically improves the chance she’ll be moved by your message and give.
14. The working poor are the most generous Americans, giving the greatest portion of their incomes to charity of all U.S. economic groups.
15. Wealthy Americans follow in generosity, giving slightly less than the poor do on a proportional basis.
16. The rest of us? We’re way behind. But there are so many of us that the bulk of charitable giving comes from middle-class donors.
17. Donors are all-around excellent people. They are significantly more likely than nondonors to give blood, help the homeless with food or money, give up their seats to others, give directions to strangers, or return mistaken excess change to cashiers.
18. Donors also are more tolerant and open-minded than nondonors. They are less likely to be prejudiced against members of other races and religions. Compared to nondonors, they have a more favorable opinion of all kinds of groups, including labor unions, big business, environmentalists, feminists, welfare recipients, Congress and the military.
19. There is no objective evidence that there is any such condition as “donor fatigue.” Donors give extraordinarily in times of extreme need, like the Indian Ocean tsunami or Hurricane Katrina. “Fundraiser fatigue,” however, is all too real. Fundraisers routinely grow tired of urgent messaging and drift away from it, then blame the resulting drop in response on the donors. This unfortunate habit costs the nonprofit world billions of dollars a year.
20. The return on investment for charitable giving is $3.75 to the dollar. That is, for every dollar a donor gives to charity, she eventually becomes $3.75 wealthier. It’s not clear whether the dollar given directly causes the $3.75 return, but the correlation between the two is so strong and consistent that it’s obvious they are connected.
21. A dollar given to charity doesn’t just enrich the donor; it also adds more than $19 to the gross domestic product. That’s an almost unbeatable level of economic stimulus. Giving is patriotic!
22. Givers are more happy than nongivers. They’re 43 percent more likely to say they are “very happy.” Nongivers, on the other hand, are three and a half times as likely to say they’re “not happy at all.”
23. Givers are more healthy than nongivers. They are 25 percent more likely to say their health is excellent or very good than are nongivers.
24. Being a donor can transform your life.
25. So can being a fundraiser.

A Volunteer's View

2009-05-28T09:47:00.004-04:00

Hi Everyone..........Arlene Koons here. I want to talk to you about volunteering. About a year ago, I "discovered" RSVP, a volunteer organization connected with United Way that helps to furnish volunteer help to various organizations in the 5 county area. I have done many fun things like working on the Parade of Homes, the Habitat Garden show, gift wrapping at the Mall at Christmas time for Habitat, helping with many mailings for various clients, working on the Give Kids a Smile project, which meant helping some of our local dentists give free dental checkups for school children around the area, etc., etc. I knew I could say no if the assignment was not to my liking, but it seems that everything I was asked to do turned out to be so much fun and so satisfying. I have met many wonderful people who are also giving of their time and talents. I have been asked how I can find the time to do this, but what I might say to those people who ask is, "just try it" and since time can always be changed around, they might be pleasantly surprised as to how much pleasure is derived from helping others. I am fully convinced that what I give comes back to me in the form of people helping me out with their helping hands. It is a wonderful feeling!!!!

I don't always have money to give, but I certainly have my time to give and I do that freely because that is my way of LIVING UNITED and giving back to my community.

Give5 Northwest Michigan!

2009-05-27T11:13:00.006-04:00

Watch the video! Give $5 then pass this on to 5 of your friends and ask them to do the same. For just $5 and 5 minutes of your time, we can make a huge difference in this community.

Go to www.unitedwaynwmi.org and click on Give5 to donate $5.

Thank you to our friends who volunteered their time to take part in the making of this video:
Brian Sweebe
Arlene Koons
Lindsay Wolff
Tia Mannor
Jamie Sitek
Bill Wadsworth
Steve Wade
Christie Ward
Susan McQuaid
Michelle Gallagher
Wayne Westcott
Mary Gillette
and L.I.A.A. for letting us use their video editing equipment.

Our New R.S.V.P. Coordinator

2009-05-22T12:12:00.001-04:00

I’ve just started at the United Way NW Michigan as the new part-time RSVP coordinator. While I’m still getting my feet wet here in the office, I’m looking forward to visiting the organizations where RSVP volunteers work, and to getting to know our volunteers. During my 16 years as one of the editors at the Record-Eagle, I interacted with many agencies and community volunteers. It will be fun now to see and talk with many of you again as I get to know better what you do and how you do it. Please don’t hesitate to give me a call at 947-3200, Ext. 207, email me at Kathy@unitedwaynwmi.org, or stop in and say Hello if you’re near the office.

How Mark Lives United

2009-05-20T14:43:00.002-04:00

My first involvement with United Way was in 1981. My first real job out of college allowed for me to give by payroll deduction. It didn't seem like very much money and it was my first involvement with charitable giving. It made me feel like I was giving back and it still does.

When my children (twins) were born they were premature and in the hospital for 3 months. While making our multi-daily visits to the the neo-natal clinic, my wife and I became friends with other families visiting their new born babies under special care. Some were from out of town but were able to stay because of agency assistance. Many of those agencies were supported by United Way donations. At that time it really struck me what a difference United Way was making for those specific people. That made it real to me for the first time. I was not able to contribute by payroll deduction with my employer at that time and I felt a hole inside because I wasn't. Whether it wasn't convenient or I didn't get a solicitation in the mail, or whatever excuse I used at the time, it wasn't good enough at that moment and I promised myself that I would change that. That was 13 years ago and I have been involved since.

I was very proud when our current United Way President, Mike Hill asked me to join the Board of the United Way. I realize now that the work that the United Way does enables agencies that are at "Ground Zero" for many people that are in the fight of their life to survive. Whether it is agencies that provide food, clothing, and shelter or whether it is helping people cope that are at the end of their rope, I can help. And by telling the United Way story I can help others feel the same way. It takes a lot of courage to work at an agency that helps people deal with the hardships that they are enduring. Maybe there are others that are like me and want to help but find it difficult to be in the trenches.

United Way is how I participate and Live United.

Sincerely,
Mark Eckhoff
President, Fifth Third Bank

Y.A.H.O.O.

2009-05-19T09:59:00.002-04:00

This a great group started by students at NMC, in just their first year of existence they have done a lot of good throughout the community. Look for big things to come from them in the years to come. If you would like more information about Y.A.H.O.O please contact Emily at sportshorty21@fastmail.net

Y.A.H.O.O. or Young Adults Helping Others Out, is comprised of high school students, college students, and community members. We currently have about 50 members and are always looking for new faces!

In the past we have volunteered at:

Birchwood Nursing Home (painted wooden angels with the residents during the holidays) Munson Manor Hospitality House (we baked cookies for the residents twice, and also provided a meal) Adult Work Center (we chaperoned their dance at the civic center, and also helped with their carnival) Safe Harbor (we stayed and visited with the people) Salvation Army (we conducted a can drive during the holidays to help the Salvation Army's food pantry; we also received a $2,000 grant from the Student Government Association to buy toys for their toy drive) We hosted an "ENVIRONMENT DAY" at NMC to promote being green Traverse City State Theatre

Upcoming Events:

Bayshore Marathon
Goodwill Inn
Cherryland Humane Society
IdleWild renovation

Y.A.H.O.O. members volunteer because we understand the importance of volunteering. We know that many of these non-profit organizations could not be a helpful resource to needy families and individuals unless they have volunteer help. We also understand that to be beneficial members of the community we must give back to the community through volunteering. The members of this group are always busy planning their next big project or fundraising to give back to these non-profit organizations.

When You See A Need

2009-05-18T12:26:00.003-04:00

Like many, my first brush with United Way was through a payroll deduction plan on my first job. It didn’t mean too much, because United Way didn’t have a face for me. Even after I stopped working, United Way was still just a deduction on my husband’s paycheck.

It was after retirement in Traverse City that United Way became personal. In the Greater Grand Traverse Area, the community support for those in need is far-reaching. United Way is moving steadily toward its original concept of “one place to give” and its role as the primary community support system outside of government programs. Recently, United Way gave $325,000 to 33 agencies, which is part of the over $624,889 being invested in the community this year.

The financial support role of United Way can be significantly strengthened by a major expansion of the Volunteer Program to provide community support for worthy projects. Volunteer a few hours of time, one project at a time, or on a regular basis to make life a little bit better for someone else. Local help for local people is the United Way focus.

When you see a need, it’s hard to keep your hand down.

Barbara Rowlett
Secretary, United Way Board of Directors

2-1-1

2009-05-04T09:15:00.000-04:00

http://bit.ly/tmyaI

Hiring RSVP Coordinator

2009-04-27T12:50:00.003-04:00

RSVP COORDINATOR
Volunteer Center at the United Way of Northwest Michigan:
Coordinator of Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP)Part-time, seven month position responsible for developing and promoting various RSVP volunteer initiatives working with local nonprofit agencies, educational institutions and business to develop, promote and match people with meaningful volunteer opportunities across northwest Michigan. Bachelor's degree preferred in volunteer management, community development, or public relations. Must be efficient with computer programs.
Send resume by May 1st 2009 to: info@unitedwaynwmi.org

Thank You!

2009-04-21T19:04:00.002-04:00

This week is National Volunteer Week. It’s a week to recognize, celebrate, and encourage volunteerism!

We at the Volunteer Center at the United Way of Northwest Michigan want to THANK YOU for your volunteer efforts in our community. Giving your time and talents to those individuals, organizations or issues in need not only creates healthier, more vibrant communities for us all, but actually creates a healthier you!

Check out our Top 10 Ways to Give Back for some new ideas and then pass it on!

Top 10 Ways to Give Back to Your Community

1. Visit www.unitedwaynwmi.org, click on Volunteer Center and create your volunteer account. This helps you to stay informed about current needs, events and new volunteer opportunities in our 5 county area.

2. Contact your county’s Commission on Aging to find out how you can help your elderly neighbors in need with raking, mowing, shoveling, gardening, etc.

3. Identify the needs of an organization such as a food pantry, baby pantry, Goodwill Inn, or Third Level Crisis Center and organize a food or personal care drive among your family and friends. Every little bit that you can collect helps!

4. Many nonprofits do large fundraising events/parties/galas and need lots of volunteers to help them run smoothly. Contact your favorite nonprofit to see if there are events that you can be a part of, or call your Volunteer Center for ideas.

5. Beaches, nature preserves, hiking trails…Is outdoor work your thing? From beach clean-ups to trail building, there’s lots to do and new places to explore. Contact your county’s Conservation District or your local Land Conservancy. Your Volunteer Center can help you with contact information and many other outdoor ideas.

6. Support music and the arts by getting involved in one of our great arts organizations. Whether concerts, plays, film or art showings, volunteers are needed to usher, build sets, plan events, act, or perform!

7. If animals are your passion you might consider the Humane Society or other animal rescue organizations. Training your dog to be a “therapy dog” for hospice or nursing home work is another option. How about the Watershed Center to capture and identify invertebrates to determine the health of our local streams.

8. Spring Break, holidays, family vacations…Make yours alternative! Help to serve a community holiday dinner. Alternative Spring Breaks can be life changing--many universities offer their own, or try www.liveunited.org/asb/. Give voluntourism a try, for a great experience abroad.

9. Visit a nursing care facility to take seniors for walks, read or play cards. “Adopt” just one or two residents to visit every week, growing relationships that give both ways.

10. And finally…Take a look around. Do you see a neighbor who needs a hand, a child who would love to have some time with you? Do you have an idea for solving an unmet need in your community? We all have answers, start reaching out and talking to others. Grab the chance to create your own project to better your community!

Thank you for taking the initiative, taking the risk and getting involved!
Have a great week!