April 2024
At our Spring meeting we learned about three incredible charitable organizations all taking place here in the CLE! Presented at the meeting by Natalie Leek was Rising Heights, then Aluminum Cans for Burned Children, presented by Danni Bennett and lastly Jane Cawley presented Shalom and Tranquility Garden Network, for whom the membership voted to support this quarter. The Shalom and Tranquility Garden was created by Ebonie Joiner who has been an advocate for her community and wanted to make a difference (sound familiar?). A mother of two special needs children in a neighborhood with limited exposure to the value of eating home grown food, Ebonie wanted to have a space for all types of families to be educated about nutritious food and healthy eating habits while building community within, and all while sharing in the shalom (peace) the garden brings.
January 2024
We kicked off the first meeting of 2024 with three great member presentations of local charitable organizations. Jennifer Neil presented Trials for Hope, Kassy presented the Young Filmmakers Academy and then Karen Snyder presented 2nd Act for which members voted to support this quarter. Their mission surrounds a collective of artists in recovery that uses theatre, film, and drama therapy to address the impact of substance use. Together they empower diverse and inclusive communities to promote understanding in the face of stigma. They believe in the power of story telling as a powerful tool for positive action and change in our community.
October 2023
For our last meeting of 2023, we learned about three wonderful charities doing impressive work in the CLE! Member and Leader, Kassy Wyman presented the Young Filmmaker's Academy, Katie Holzheimer presented Impact Youth Inc. and Amy McMacken introduced us to Sisters Haven, for whom our chapter voted to support this quarter.
Sisters Haven is a faith-based non-profit, that provides safe housing and a loving community to pregnant women and mothers with children without judgment, at the most vulnerable time of their life. They serve adult women who are experiencing homelessness, poverty and lack a support system to help them through pregnancy. Sisters Haven is currently renovating a home in Cleveland’s Cudell neighborhood. By the end of 2023, it plans to be able to house up to seven pregnant women, who can remain in the home until their child is approximately 9 months old. Women who live in the home will have access to several programs and resources to help ensure a successful pregnancy and develop a plan for eventually becoming self-sufficient and living on their own. There is a critical shortage of housing for pregnant women who are experiencing homelessness, and a desperate need for this program as there is no similar supportive housing community for pregnant women on the west side of Cleveland. Our donation of $10,050 will be supporting the completion and readiness of this renovation home.
July 2023
For our Summer meeting we gathered at the Aviator for some refreshments and to learn about three awesome CLE charitable organizations. Much appreciation goes out to Karen Snyder for presenting 2nd Act, Ellie Bricmont for presenting the Village Project, and Linda Kelly for her presentation of Upcycle Parts Shop - the charity we voted to support this quarter.
Upcycle Parts Shop, a small store front based in Cleveland's St. Clair - Superior neighborhood, is a non-profit, creative reuse center, selling low-cost secondhand supplies, and is a central component of a larger initiative to revitalize this neighborhood. Hands on programming and workshops help serve to build community within the neighborhood while at the same time contributing to the efforts to save our planet. Together within their community and others, they have diverted over 51 tons of material from landfills since opening their shop in 2014. Our donation of $10,050 will go a long way of continuing the good they are doing for the people, the economy and our planet!
April 2023
For our Spring meeting we learned about three wonderful charities. The first presentation was for Trials for Hope, presented by Jennifer Neil, second was for Dec My Room presented by Donna Baltas, and the final presentation by Casey Martin was for Seed Yoga for which our members voted to support this quarter.
Seed Yoga is focused on spreading joy, inner-peace, and love by guiding the practice of yoga, breathwork and meditation within our community. This organization provides free yoga to schools, caregivers of families with special needs and collaborates with mental health partners to bring free yoga to those who would most benefit. As most know, yoga is more that exercise! Our donation of $10,000 will help Seed Yoga increase their free sessions, hire more instructors and start hosting retreats for family caregivers.
January 2023
Our first meeting of 2023 was held at the Aviator Pub & Restaurant in Cleveland and member consensus was that this venue is the perfect place for our meetings in 2023 -we are so grateful to have "landed" this wonderful place! At our first meeting of the year we heard three wonderful presentations from our members. Casey Martin presented Seed Yoga, Ellie Bricmont presented the Village Project and Alane Mastandrea was able to showcase Urban Bridges/dba Envision Cleveland for a second time, and this time our members voted to support this organization.
Our donation of $10,300 will specifically be supporting the Shop Vocational Training center and program located in Cleveland's Mt. Pleasant neighborhood. The center sets out to provide training to people of all ages in construction trades, mechanics, farming, culinary skills and the arts to provide residents greater opportunities for ongoing education, and long-term job success. Their shop on Kinsman Road is currently being renovated and our donation will help support their goals of including a full wood shop, mechanics shop, a small commercial kitchen and studio spaces to be used by people of the neighborhood.
Please check out all of these wonderful charities and see how others are making such a large impact in support our community.
October 2022
For our last meeting of the of 2022 giving season, we learned about three more wonderful charities doing fabulous work in the CLE! Members Lisa Lipker introduced us to Frontline Service, Alane Mastandrea to Urban Bridges dba Envision Cleveland and Gianna Gulasey to Cassidy's Hope Foundation. This quarter our members voted to support Cassidy's Hope Foundation. The mission of the foundation is to bring awareness of childhood cancers and how they differ from adult cancers and how they should be treated and researched as such. This foundation was founded by Cassidy's mother, Pam, who was inspired by her own daughter's journey with cancer to help make a difference in the lives of other families on their own journey with childhood cancer.
Our contribution of $11,000, plus an additional $5000 contribution from the Schulze Family foundation, will support their various programs, fundraisers and grants to support families dealing with childhood cancer. Please check out all of these wonderful charities and see how others are making such a large impact in support our community.
July 2022
For our Summer meeting we gathered in person (hurray!) and learned about three awesome organizations. Much appreciation goes out to Becca Huntington for presenting Seeds of Literacy, Theresa Medsker for her presentation of Women of Hope and Jennifer Neil for presenting The Hood Squad 2one6, for which our membership voted to support this quarter.
The Hood Squad 2one6 is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2020 with the mission of bringing hot showers and food to the unsheltered homeless communities in and around Northeast Ohio. In addition to these services, the organization engages in street outreach and provides much needed warm sub-zero clothing in the winter and functional and clean clothing in the summer. The founder of this organization was himself homeless at one time and has firsthand experience and knowledge of the needs of those living on the streets. Volunteers understand how something as a warm shower, a set of clean clothes and nourishment can inspire hope, dignity and a path forward for community members experiencing tough times. Our donation of $11,700 plus an additional $5000 from the Schulze Family Foundation is dedicated to support all these volunteers helping others!
April 2022
For our Spring meeting we listened to three very wonderful and well prepared presentations. We are thankful to our members Gail Steward for presenting Malachi Center, Donna Baltas for once again presenting Dec My Room, and Jane Cawley for presenting The Shepherd's Well for whom the membership voted to support this quarter. The Shepherd's Well was founded by Jane and offers moms of special needs children a place and opportunity to experience respite in the midst of the challenging demands they face as parents. It allows moms to unwind, rest, and relax and to experience encouragement, support and friendships. The Shepherd's Well retreat gatherings provide an opportunity for moms to relax and get pampered and to nourish mind, body and spirit. Our donation of $11,500 is dedicated to these warrior moms! Enjoy!
January 2022
We kicked off our first meeting of 2022 with three wonderful presentations and thank our members for their efforts in introducing them to us. We learned about Chair-ity from member Barb Piccirilli, Women of Hope presented by Theresa Medsker and The Bridge Avenue School by Alane Mastandrea, for whom the members voted to support this quarter. The Bridge Avenue School (TBAS) is a small private alternative Christian based school located on the near west side of Cleveland. The school's mission is to work with grade school children (5th - 8th) who have been struggling to succeed in a traditional style classroom. Students attending TBAS struggle in many areas, but their primary educational concern is an inability to read. Our donation of over $12,000 will go a long way with supporting the school so they can continue helping these children in our community.
October 2021
For our October meeting we once again met both in person and on Zoom. We heard presentations from three outstanding charitable organizations and are grateful to Donna Baltas for presenting Dec My Room, Theresa Medsker for presenting Women of Hope and Cindy Rios for presenting The Haven Home for whom we voted to support this quarter.
The Haven Home was established as a "family overflow shelter" in 2017 to serve homeless women and their children in Cuyahoga County. The shelter exists to provide temporary emergency shelter until a bed(s) becomes available at a family shelter. Our donation of $11,400 will be vital in supporting this invaluable resource for women and their children in our community.
July 2021
For our July meeting we were successful at incorporating a hybrid model of bringing our members together both in-person and via Zoom. We were introduced to three awesome charitable organizations and are thankful to Gretchen Dupps for presenting the Cleveland Angels, Gail Steward for presenting Malachi Center, and Carol Valley for presenting The Centers for Families and Children.
With voting tallied from both in the room and on-line, members voted to support Cleveland Angels this quarter. The mission statement of the Cleveland Angels is to walk alongside children, youth, and families in the foster care community by offering consistent support through intentional giving, relationship building, and mentorship. Their vision is to ensure that all members of the foster care community has healthy, affirming, and lasting relationships. Our donation of $11,450 will go a long way in helping them attain their vision.
Thank you to all of our presenters, Gretchen, Gail and Carol for taking the time to introduce and educate our membership about these important organizations. Check them out!
April 2021
At our April Zoom meeting we listened to three very compelling and well prepared presentations and we are grateful to our members Lora Garrett for presenting STAR Summer Camp, Gail Spence for Medworks USA and Sarah Longfield for presenting her founding organization, The Caleb Andrew Longfield Foundation. For this quarter the membership voted to support Sarah and The Caleb Andrew Longfield Foundation. The CAL Foundation was founded to support parents who have suffered the devastating loss of a stillborn baby by providing financial assistance in paying medical bills related to the birth of their baby. Our donation of over $11,225 will support this mission of helping ease the financial burden for families with such loss.
Thank you to our awesome presenters and for those submitting charitable organizations into the fishbowl!
January 2021
Making it through our second Zoom meeting with relative ease we heard from three great charities! We listened to presentations from House of Champions presented by Laura Connelly, HOLA Ohio, by Danni Bennett and We Care We Share Ministries presented by Kathleen Fox. The voting was not surprisingly very close between the three, but the majority vote went to WCWS Ministries. We Care We Share serves to support the citizens of Lorain County operating a food pantry and clothing closet and working on a workforce development program which includes a professional computer lab, online training program, and job coaching. Our donation of $11,750 will support their new program called "My House" which will provide services for young men (18-21) touched by foster care. This program will offer transitional housing, mentoring, education, tutoring, and resources to other agencies who can assist.
Thank you to all of the presenters and to all of you who submitted a charity to the “virtual fishbowl”!
October 2020
Well we have our first Zoom meeting in the books, thank you to all who attended!
At our virtual meeting we heard presentations about three great charities, the Caleb Andrew Longfield Foundation, presented by Theresa Lesh HOLA Ohio, by Danni Bennett and Gigi’s Playhouse by Missy Gibel. The voting was really very close between the three, but the majority vote went to Gigi’s Playhouse. The mission and purpose of Gigi’s Playhouse is to change the way the world views Down syndrome, and to send a global message of acceptance that those with Down syndrome are accepted and embraced in their families, schools and communities. Our contribution of $11,400 will help them achieve their ongoing commitment to changing lives by providing free, therapeutic, educational and career training programs for those of all ages.
Thank you to all of the presenters and to all of you who submitted a charity to the “virtual fishbowl”!
July 2020
Announcing our Two for One Special‼️
That is, TWO great charities our chapter voted to support for our July meeting. The MetroHealth’s Helping Hand Fund and The Diversity Center of Northeast OH – two great organizations working hard to support Clevelanders during these challenging times. Our chapter donated a combination of $12,050 to support these charities carry out their mission. 🌻
The MetroHealth Helping Hand Fund through the Institute of H.O.P.E., was established to coordinate efforts to assist under served individuals in our community under quarantine or who are at elevated risk of contracting COVID-19. Among the many things donations to this Fund provides is meals for the homeless who are medically quarantined in hotels, youth face masks, care packages for homeless shelters and crisis centers, daily Grab and Go lunches for kids, art supplies and games for kids in shelters (can no longer share), and support for school health sponsored free immunizations and wellness exams via a mobile van.❤️
The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, a long established organization dedicated to eliminating bias, bigotry and racism in our community, advocates for understanding through education and training. They look to invest in our next generation with their School & Youth Program which helps to create school cultures where all students feel empowered, connected, respected, and valued. Donations to the Center will help them create virtual versions of four of their core “YouLEAD” programs. These virtual programs will enable The Diversity Center to continue educational training in a blended manner of online education, and when safe to do so, face-to-face training in schools. The Center expects this enhancement of their School & Youth Program will expand the number of children served.📚💕
April 2020
Our April meeting will forever be memorialized by COVID-19, the pandemic of our time! For our membership, this was our time to SHINE! There was, and still is, so many ways to fulfill our our mission to make a meaningful and positive financial impact in our community. Our members were very responsive and recognized the many charitable organizations that were overwhelmed by the challenges of operating during a pandemic. Without the benefit of an in-person meeting we still succeeded in supporting a local charity in need of our financial support. Our membership considered the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, the Helping Hands Fund-Metro Health Medical Center, and the Domestic Violence & Child Advocacy Center, for whom we voted to support with a $13,000 donation.
DVCAC’s mission is to provide services that foster safety and healing to those affected by child abuse and domestic violence, and to prevent abuse through education, advocacy, and systemic change. All DVCAC programs and services are offered for free. Demand for services has increased significantly amid the COVID-19 crisis. During this time of uncertainty and anxiety, especially economic anxiety, abuse tends to escalate. Many people would reasonably seek refuge at home, but home is not a safe place for everyone. People in domestic violence situations are now isolated at home with their abusers. Children who are home from school are in particular danger as they are forced to spend more time with someone who is abusing them.
Specifically, DVCAC’s is trying to maintain the following crucial services:
January 2020
Our new space for 2020 was packed as we welcomed nine new members and several guests. As we settled into the meeting we learned about three new great charities. Rita Andolsen introduced us to MetroHealth's S.A.F.E. Project, we heard from Jena Olsen who spoke about the International Women's Air & Space Museum and then Karen Snyder presented Improbable Players for whom we voted to support this quarter. Please be sure to check out these awesome organizations and thank you Rita, Jena and Karen for presenting them to us.
Improbable Players uses theater performances & workshops to address addiction, alcoholism and the opioid epidemic. Interestingly, their plays are performed by people in recovery themselves. They perform at schools (6th grade and up), conferences, treatment centers and community events. Their plays are based on true stories and their workshops give students the space and the tools to combat social pressures and find coping strategies that work for them. Our donation of close to $13,150 will certainly help keep these important productions going in our community!
October 2019
At our Fall meeting we learned of three charities doing awesome work here in the CLE and voted to support the Cleveland Rockin' Wildcats presented by Julie Nader. This ice hockey team is a member of the American Special Hockey Association which is composed of children and adults ages 6-40 years old that have all ranges of developmental or physical disabilities and want to play HOCKEY! Being a member of this team provides independence, discipline, socialization, support and lots of long lasting friendships and fun! The team practices together and travels to participate in games and tournaments with other special needs teams. The Cleveland Rockin' Wildcats is not only about hockey but more importantly about having fun, making friends and enjoying times with family. Our donation of $13,550 will help keep players on the ice!
We also learned about Community Service Alliance by member Martha Wright and Malachi Center by member Gail Steward. Please check all of these wonderful charities and thank you Gail, Martha and Julie for sharing these organizations with us!
July, 2019
We heard three great presentations from our members at our July meeting and voted to support the West Side Catholic Center - Nurse Clinic presented by member Patty Cleary. The mission of the WSCC Nurse Clinic is to provide clients served by the WSCC with health care advocacy and education. This is done in numerous ways such as providing blood pressure and glucose screenings as well as distributing free over-the- counter medications as necessary for those in need. We understand that our donation of $13,775 may stock their medical coffers for the next three years!
We also learned about Edna House for Women from Denise Novack and The Turn by Kathy Violand. Please check all of these wonderful charities and thank you ladies for sharing these organizations with us!
April 2019
At our Spring meeting we learned about three wonderful local charities here in the CLE. Our membership voted to support Safe Families for Children presented by member Alana Dennis. The main objectives of Safe Families for Children is to (1) keep children safe during a family crisis such as homelessness, hospitalization, or domestic violence (2) support, and stabilize families in crisis by surrounding them with caring, compassionate community, and (3), reunite families and reduce the number of children entering the child welfare system. Our membership has donated $13,375 so far in support of their mission!
We also learned about Improbable Players presented by Karen Snyder and Brodie's Good Vibe Tribe presented by Traci Tigue. Thank you Alana, Karen and Traci! Please check out these all of these wonderful organizations!
January 2019
We are off to a great start to the year with our first quarterly meeting of 2019! On Thursday three of our members presented three wonderful charities beginning with the Footpath Foundation presented by Mary Macias for which the membership also voted to support this quarter. The Footpath Foundation provides outdoor experiences for kids who live in poverty or in foster care and do not have access to the beautiful nature of Northeast Ohio. Through field trips, nature club, overnight camp and other programs, kids are provided with an opportunity to connect with nature to build their mindsets, build resiliency and escape some of their everyday stressors and hurdles. Our chapter has donated $13,125 so far in helping the Footpath Foundation achieve their mission.
We also enjoyed a presentation from Shari Caruso who presented Special Spaces and from Jena Olsen who presented the International Women’s Art & Space Museum located at Burke Lake Front Airport. Thank you, Mary, Shari and Jena! Everyone, please check out all the wonderful charities!
October 2018
At our last meeting of the year, though lightly attended, we made great progress! We listened to presentations about
three new charities, welcomed five new members and the fishbowl was full! After the presentations we voted to support Cornerstone of Hope presented by member Lynn Robie. The mission of this organization is to provide support, education and hope for those grieving the loss of a loved one. Cornerstone of Hope offers counseling, art therapy, workshops, and support groups and many other resources for those experiencing loss and grief. They also provide resources and educational services for professionals and others in supportive roles such as for staff in school programs. We are delighted to have been able to contribute $14,225 to further their mission.
Also presented at the meeting was The Turn by member Sally Wilson and Eversight by member Kristen Hill. Please check out all of these wonderful organizations and thank you to Lynn, Sally and Kristen for introducing them to us
July 2018
At our annual July Member-Guest meeting we welcomed several new members and learned about three great charities. Our membership voted to support The LD Edge Network presented by member Holly Roe. The LD Edge Network is a network for adults with learning disabilities, offering affordable diagnostic services, workshops, tutoring and other intervention practices to help elevate the educational levels and workplace skills of adults in the Clark Fulton neighborhood of Cleveland. They also offer training and professional development specific to disabilities in adults to the educators who teach them, all with the goal of increasing the employ-ability and quality of life for these adults and their families. Our chapter donated $14,150!
We also listened to member presentations from Mary Jane Miller as she presented Ronald McDonald House (specifically to support the Ronald McDonald Family Rooms in Cleveland areas hospitals) and from Shari Caruso who introduced Special Spaces. Thank you Holly, Mary Jane and Shari for your presentations and I encourage all of you to check out these special charities!
April 2018
At our Spring meeting we learned about three very awesome local charities. The one the received the most votes was actually for a charity that we have learned about before. Thanks to the wonderful presentation by Deb Pence-Meyenberg our Spring donation will go to America Scores Cleveland. America SCORES Cleveland has an innovative tri-curricular approach that teaches kids how physical activity creative expression and teamwork nurtures a strong body, mind and character. Through daily, team-based soccer and writing workshops and annual community service projects, SCORES measurably improves fitness, literacy and communications skills, and empowers kids to create change in their communities. Our chapter has donated $13,900 so far in furthering the mission of America SCORES!
We also learned about GiGi's Playhouse Down Syndrome Achievement Center from Missy Gibel and about the Cleveland Rockin' Wildcats - American Special Hockey Assn. from Julie Nader - thank you ladies, and everyone, please take some time to learn about these wonderful charities as I am sure we will hear from these ladies again!
January 2018
At our first meeting of the year our membership voted to support the Women's Wellness Foundation, presented by member Cindy Rios. The foundation is an all volunteer mission and ministry that serves women in crisis who are reorienting to the community after incarceration and who may also have addiction challenges. In addition to providing invaluable mentoring, programming and hope, the foundation also supports Dinami House, a transitional home for safe and sober living before reentry into the community. Please visit their website to learn more about about all the good that they do and how our donation of $14,875 will be put to good use!
We also heard presentations for Girls on the Run by member Robyn Cutler and the Rocky River Adult Activities Center (PTCU Foundation) by member Maureen Peterson. Thank you ladies - all please check out these awesome charities!
October 2017
What an exciting meeting! We learned about three awesome charitable organizations in our community through our member presentations. The selected charity was Dec My Room presented by Kathi Perry. Dec My Room volunteers personalize the hospital rooms of children who are being admitted into a hospital for a prolonged amount of time. Lucky volunteers get to shop for items that complement the special likes and interests of a child and decorate their hospital room upon their arrival. These items are for them to enjoy during their stay and for them to take home when they leave. Dec My Room is currently funded by grants, and charitable donations so our donation of $14,425 will surely go far in bringing more smiles to the faces of children facing the four white wall of a hospital room!
In addition to our usual meeting we also came together to honor Regina Brett and thank her for helping us launch the first chapter of 100+Women Who Care here in Cleveland -our chapter! From the very beginning Regina has been there, helping to draw together these awesome women through various supportive columns in the Cleveland Plain Dealer and even dedicating a chapter of her book Be The Miracle to our mission. Our chapter honored Regina with a $5000 (member donations) donation to The Gathering Place, a very special place for Regina.
Also presented at the meeting was the Epilepsy Foundation of Northeast Ohio by Amy Kellogg and HUGS (Hope, Understanding, Gratitude and Serenity) presented by Ann Paras. Thank you ladies for your heartfelt presentations!
July 2017
At our Summer meeting our membership voted to support Made By Kids, an organization that was presented by Ms'd Milburn. Made By Kids (MBK) is currently a summer program that provides local area youth with fun, structured and skill-based activities, including art, music, drama, dance, sports, martial arts, inter-generational programs and several other activities. With a focus on youth from low to moderate income families, MBK's mission is to develop and nurture areas of interest, enhance one's ability to learn and explore, provide opportunities and implement achievable goals, and also embrace an inter-generational connection. Our donation of over $14,200 will be invaluable in helping them purchase supplies and technology.
Also presented at the meeting was America Scores Cleveland by Debi Pence-Meyerberg and Girl Scouts of Northeast Ohio by Dani Bennett. Thank you ladies and, everyone, please check out what's going on with these awesome charities!
April 2017
At our Spring meeting the membership voted to support W.A.G.S. 4 Kids, presented by long time member Rina Dabramo. This doggone wonderful organization leverages the talents and capabilities of highly trained service dogs to meet the needs of children with various challenges and/or disabilities in Northeast Ohio. All of the service dogs are currently trained at a local correctional facility by guided inmate trainers and thereafter each placement family receives home transition training and ongoing support for a successful forever home placement. It's a win-win! Our donation of $13,700 will be used to put at least 7 more service dogs to good work!!
Also presented at the meeting was the Kids Book Bank by co-founders Judi Kovach and Judy Payne and the Women’s Wellness Foundation by Cynthia Rios.
Thank you Rina, Cynthia, and team members Judi and Judy for introducing such awesome organizations to our membership – everyone, please check them all out!
January 2017
We packed the meeting room and learned about three fabulous local charities at our first meeting of the year. The Lantern Center for Recovery, presented by Denise Novak won the majority vote, though it was close to a three way tie!. The primary goal of The Lantern is to help men with addictions with their recovery and to help support them and their families. Addiction is powerful, and it is relentless, but it can be treated and The Lantern is there as a powerful resource. The Lantern's program is designed to provide our community with these resources by offering long-term residential care at absolutely no cost to the men who ask for the help which they all deserve. The Lantern's mission is to provide quality sober living to chemically dependent men and to educate and assist people with recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. Our chapter presented $13,700 in contributions to help the Lantern continue their great work!
Also presented at the meeting was WAGS for Kids presented by Gina Pilko and Dec My Room by Kathi Perry - thank you to Gina and Kathi - well done! Ladies, please check out these awesome charities!
October 2016
Thank you to all the ladies and guests who were able to come out on a very rainy night to learn about three wonderful charities who are working hard to make a meaning and positive difference in our Cleveland area communities. Member Rina Dabramo presented Royal Family Kids which was very well received by our membership. Royal Family Kids, in conjunction with the Strongsville United Methodist Church provides needy, abused foster children a chance to attend a week long summer camp where they can enjoy a variety of fun camp activities in a safe environment, and just be a kid. Our generous donation of $13,325 will ensure that these kids will have a chance for some summer fun! Thank you!
Also presented at the meeting was Imagination Library presented by Terri Postel and the West Side Catholic Center by member Patty Cleary. Please check out these awesome charities and THANK YOU to our presenters!
July 2016
We enjoyed our annual Member-Guest night at our July meeting and welcomed nine new members to our group! At the meeting we voted to support the Cleveland Furniture Bank's "Beds 4 Kids" program. This program provides free brand new beds to kids in need in Northeast Ohio. Their goal is to provide at least 100 warm beds for the holiday season as well as furniture to families in need. The CFB provides furniture to over 3,000 individuals every year and gives away 75% of the furniture they receive to help families rebuild their lives. With the cost of a singe bed being approximately $100 to purchase, our donation of $13,000 will fulfill their annual goal! Thank you Kathy Guzy (with assistance and encouragement from her sister!) for presenting the Cleveland Furniture Bank to our chapter!
Also presented at the meeting was the Rid- All Green Partnership by Jan Thrope and the Karen P. Nakon Foundation by Rita Andolson. Please take a moment to check out these awesome charities!
April 2016
The charity selected at our April meeting may sound familiar to our members as we voted to support "Ears to You", presented by member Christine Dabramo. Ears To You supports cancer patients of any kind who are undergoing treatment and is dedicated to lifting their spirits by creating a moment of joy and hope through the donation of specially made earrings and hats. Their beautiful creations and thoughtfulness boosts patients self-esteem and provides hope to cancer patients of all ages. Our donation of $12,750 will certainly go a long way in helping this organization spread some hope and joy.
Also presented at the meeting was America SCORES by member Debi Pence-Meyenberg and the Cleveland Furniture Bank by member Kathy Guzy. Please check out these awesome charities and learn how others are making a difference here in Cleveland!
January 2016
Despite the cold weather, we kicked off 2016 with a packed meeting and a great number of charities in the fishbowl! We learned about 3 wonderful local charities, with the winner being "A Night to Shine" presented by member Tracy Smuts. A Night to Shine is a worldwide prom for mentally challenged and physically disabled adults age 16+ that was being hosted by over 200 churches across the US and in 7 other countries on February 12, 2016. In Northeast Ohio the events were held in 3 churches - CVC (Cuyahoga Valley Church), Garfield Memorial and First Christian Church. These events were individually hosted with guests from Northeast Ohio. 100% of the funds raised were used for "A Night to Shine" - with our individual donation of $13,500 going to the CVC event.
Also presented at the meeting was Ears to You by member Rina Dabramo and the Fairview Park Hunger Center presented by Judith Meinart. Please check out all three of these wonderful charities!
October 2015
So we are all getting older, and one day someone may tell us we should no longer be on the road, and even might take our driver's license away! How are we going to get to a doctor's appointment, or to the grocery store, or even to take advantage of other resources available just for seniors? Old Brooklyn seniors in this situation don't have to wait around for their family for a ride if a van from Senior Citizen Resources could show up, and now they will continue to do so with our help. We voted to support Senior Citizen Resources at our October meeting to help them toward their goal of replacing two of their old vans on their last legs. We are hopeful that our donation of $13,300 helps them meet this goal! We would like to thank member Lynn Wieland for introducing us to SCR.
Also presented at the meeting was the Cleveland Dragon Boat Association by member Sally Wilson and HER Ideas in Motion by member Claire Van Antwerp. Please check out all three of these wonderful charities supporting our local Cleveland area!
Lastly a few women asked if I would post the poem that Jeff Griffiths (HONEO) read at our meeting. This poem was recited by Ruby Dee during the 2005 National Memorial Day Concert and has been inspirational for Jeff and his team.
Today
Today is ours, let's live it
And love is strong, let's give it
A song can help, let's sing it
And peace is dear, let's bring it
The past is gone, don't rue it
Our work is here, let's do it
Our world is wrong, let's right it
The battle hard, let's fight it
The road is rough, let's clear it
The future vast, don't fear it
Is faith asleep? Let's wake it
Today is ours, let's take it
July 2015
We celebrated our FIVE YEAR anniversary at our July meeting and also met a major milestone of $250,000 in charitable donations for local Cleveland charities! We also hosted our annual Member-Guest night and welcomed many new members to our group! At the meeting the membership voted to support Hands On North East Ohio presented by a founding 100+ WWC member, Terri Postel. Established in 2007, Hands On Northeast Ohio makes volunteering easy through volunteer-led projects that build volunteer capacity for local organizations. Their mission is to engage individuals and organizations in volunteer opportunities that meet community need and strengthen community involvement. Our donation of $13,440 (+ matching contributions) will help them support their mission. Please check out their website to learn about volunteer opportunities in our own backyard!
Also presented at the meeting was Ears to You by long-time member Rina Dabramo (assisted by her adorable son!) and Women's Outreach /RiversEdge by member Judith Albanese, also a long-time supporter of our group. Many thanks to all who presented and please visit all of their websites to learn more about these wonderful organizations!
April 2015
The charity chosen at our April meeting was Laura's Home presented by Linda Uveges. Laura's Home, a subset of the City Mission, is a "live-in" women and children's crisis program and center serving the west side of Cleveland. At Laura’s Home, their 3-phase program offers an array of services geared at preparing women and children for positive, productive futures. Our donation of $11,700 (+matching donations) will support the families who complete the program as they prepare to transition into employment and safe, independent housing.
Also presented at the meeting was Uniforms for Kids presented by member Carol Lee Diethorn and Transplant House of Cleveland presented by member Joey Frebes. Many thanks to all who presented and please visit all of their websites to learn more about these wonderful organizations!
January 2015
At our annual Member-Guest night we learned about three great charitable organizations with the winner being Our Village Project presented by an original founding member, Ann Paras. The Project's mission is to come together as a community to provide nourishing meals and extended care and services to those experiencing cancer. Our Village Project who with the help of a large team of multi-generational volunteers bring hope and joy to cancer patients and their families by preparing and providing healthful meals and extending services (i.e. such as yard clean up, house cleaning, dog walking, running errands, etc.). What once began in the community of Bay Village has expanding to neighboring communities where the Project has now served over 7,000 meals to 65 families. Our donation of $12,600 (plus matching donations) will support the Village Project's mission to nurture those families. Thank you Ann for sharing Our Village Project with us!
Check out the news release Women's Group Donated $12,200 to Village Project in the Westlake/Bay Village Observer!
We also want to sincerely thank Judith Meinert for presenting the Fairview Park Hunger Center to us and to Katherine Geralds who also shared the mission of Laura's Home with us, thank you ladies! Everyone, please check out these wonderful charities!
October 2014
The winning charity at our October meeting was Recovery Resources of Cleveland presented by member Katie O'Toole Smith. Recovery Resources of Cleveland partners with those who have addictions and mental health challenges and provides a wide range of prevention, intervention treatment and supportive services to help initiate, manage and sustain recovery. Our donation of $12,400 (plus matching donations) will go a long way in their efforts in supporting those with opiate addictions.
Also presented at the meeting was Laura's Home presented by member Katherine Geralds and The Jimmy Malone Scholarship Program presented by member Trish Steele. Thank you so much to all those who have taken the time to research and submit a charity to the fishbowl. Please visit all of their websites and learn more about these worthy organizations.
July 2014
The charity that our membership voted to support at our July meeting is Brandon's Place presented by member Karen Forbes. Brandon's Place is a non-profit organization created for families who lives have been touched by autism, and provides recreational programs for individuals with autism in a warm and safe environment. Their approach at Brandon's Place is to provide this environment where individuals with autism can enjoy direct services and programming that will help build self esteem and confidence. Their vision is to touch the lives of parents globally, ensuring they receive all of the benefits necessary to improve the lives of their loved ones living with autism. We donated $12,500 plus matching charitable contributions for Brandon's Place
Also presented at our meeting was The Art Palance by member Jan Thrope and The Jimmy Malone Scholarship Program by member Gina Pilko. Many thank yous to all who presented and please visit all of their websites to learn more about these wonderful organizations!
April 2014
The winning charity at this meeting was the Carmella Rose Health Foundation presented by an original member, Carol Santalucia. Carol founded this organization in honor of her mother, Carmella Rose, and her journey through an illness that eventually led to her passing. Throughout Carmella's illness, her family realized the importance of a patient's partnership with their caregiver, and the impact of this relationship on health outcomes.
Although Carmella was blessed with adequate insurance and a strong network of family, she still had difficulty navigating the complex healthcare system. Her experiences made it clear to her family and friends that every patient needs help finding the appropriate physical and emotional support during times of illness, as well as tools to stay organized.
The Carmella Rose Health Foundation helps people access quality medical care during their healthcare journey. They provide guidance, patient advocacy resources, information about cancer and other conditions, and referrals to community resources in Northeast Ohio. Thank you Carol for introducing us to a wonderful program in NE Ohio! Our group donated $12,500 (+matching contributions) to help Carol help others!
Also presented last night was the Epilepsy Foundation (North East Ohio) presented by Amy Kellog and Reach Out and Read Greater Cleveland presented by Lynn Wieland. Thank you ladies for your persistence and and efforts in promoting these important organizations.
January 16, 2014
For our first meeting of 2014 - our annual Member-Guest night, our group voted to support Fill This House. This charity was presented by member Dana Hastings and supports those teens aging out of foster care in Cuyahoga County. The charity serves teens who have been living in group homes or numerous foster homes, have few belongings, and very limited support. Generally, at age 18, assistance and custodial rights cease and many foster teens are left to fend for themselves. By raising funds, purchasing items, and conducting collection drives in the corporate and faith communities, Fill This House has the ability to provide newly emancipated youth with household goods, such as towels, dishes, flatware, bedding, pots & pans, toasters, kitchen utensils, etc. Our contribution of $12,875 (+matching contributions) will go a long way in supporting their efforts.
Also presented at the meeting was Hands On Northeast Ohio by Terri Postel. The mission of this organization is to engage Northeast Ohio individuals and organizations in citizen-managed volunteer opportunities that meet community needs, strengthen community involvement, and build capacity of local nonprofit organizations. Also presented was Reach Out and Read Greater Cleveland by Lynn Wieland - a member who also entertained the group with a bit of stand up comedy! Reach Out and Read is an evidence-based nonprofit organization of medical providers who promote early literacy and school readiness in pediatric exam rooms nationwide by giving new books to children and advice to parents about the importance of reading aloud.
Please check out their websites - as they are all very worthy of our attention and consideration. Also, a big THANK YOU to our presenters Dana, Terri and Lynn for their passionate presentations.
At our Spring meeting we learned about three incredible charitable organizations all taking place here in the CLE! Presented at the meeting by Natalie Leek was Rising Heights, then Aluminum Cans for Burned Children, presented by Danni Bennett and lastly Jane Cawley presented Shalom and Tranquility Garden Network, for whom the membership voted to support this quarter. The Shalom and Tranquility Garden was created by Ebonie Joiner who has been an advocate for her community and wanted to make a difference (sound familiar?). A mother of two special needs children in a neighborhood with limited exposure to the value of eating home grown food, Ebonie wanted to have a space for all types of families to be educated about nutritious food and healthy eating habits while building community within, and all while sharing in the shalom (peace) the garden brings.
January 2024
We kicked off the first meeting of 2024 with three great member presentations of local charitable organizations. Jennifer Neil presented Trials for Hope, Kassy presented the Young Filmmakers Academy and then Karen Snyder presented 2nd Act for which members voted to support this quarter. Their mission surrounds a collective of artists in recovery that uses theatre, film, and drama therapy to address the impact of substance use. Together they empower diverse and inclusive communities to promote understanding in the face of stigma. They believe in the power of story telling as a powerful tool for positive action and change in our community.
October 2023
For our last meeting of 2023, we learned about three wonderful charities doing impressive work in the CLE! Member and Leader, Kassy Wyman presented the Young Filmmaker's Academy, Katie Holzheimer presented Impact Youth Inc. and Amy McMacken introduced us to Sisters Haven, for whom our chapter voted to support this quarter.
Sisters Haven is a faith-based non-profit, that provides safe housing and a loving community to pregnant women and mothers with children without judgment, at the most vulnerable time of their life. They serve adult women who are experiencing homelessness, poverty and lack a support system to help them through pregnancy. Sisters Haven is currently renovating a home in Cleveland’s Cudell neighborhood. By the end of 2023, it plans to be able to house up to seven pregnant women, who can remain in the home until their child is approximately 9 months old. Women who live in the home will have access to several programs and resources to help ensure a successful pregnancy and develop a plan for eventually becoming self-sufficient and living on their own. There is a critical shortage of housing for pregnant women who are experiencing homelessness, and a desperate need for this program as there is no similar supportive housing community for pregnant women on the west side of Cleveland. Our donation of $10,050 will be supporting the completion and readiness of this renovation home.
July 2023
For our Summer meeting we gathered at the Aviator for some refreshments and to learn about three awesome CLE charitable organizations. Much appreciation goes out to Karen Snyder for presenting 2nd Act, Ellie Bricmont for presenting the Village Project, and Linda Kelly for her presentation of Upcycle Parts Shop - the charity we voted to support this quarter.
Upcycle Parts Shop, a small store front based in Cleveland's St. Clair - Superior neighborhood, is a non-profit, creative reuse center, selling low-cost secondhand supplies, and is a central component of a larger initiative to revitalize this neighborhood. Hands on programming and workshops help serve to build community within the neighborhood while at the same time contributing to the efforts to save our planet. Together within their community and others, they have diverted over 51 tons of material from landfills since opening their shop in 2014. Our donation of $10,050 will go a long way of continuing the good they are doing for the people, the economy and our planet!
April 2023
For our Spring meeting we learned about three wonderful charities. The first presentation was for Trials for Hope, presented by Jennifer Neil, second was for Dec My Room presented by Donna Baltas, and the final presentation by Casey Martin was for Seed Yoga for which our members voted to support this quarter.
Seed Yoga is focused on spreading joy, inner-peace, and love by guiding the practice of yoga, breathwork and meditation within our community. This organization provides free yoga to schools, caregivers of families with special needs and collaborates with mental health partners to bring free yoga to those who would most benefit. As most know, yoga is more that exercise! Our donation of $10,000 will help Seed Yoga increase their free sessions, hire more instructors and start hosting retreats for family caregivers.
January 2023
Our first meeting of 2023 was held at the Aviator Pub & Restaurant in Cleveland and member consensus was that this venue is the perfect place for our meetings in 2023 -we are so grateful to have "landed" this wonderful place! At our first meeting of the year we heard three wonderful presentations from our members. Casey Martin presented Seed Yoga, Ellie Bricmont presented the Village Project and Alane Mastandrea was able to showcase Urban Bridges/dba Envision Cleveland for a second time, and this time our members voted to support this organization.
Our donation of $10,300 will specifically be supporting the Shop Vocational Training center and program located in Cleveland's Mt. Pleasant neighborhood. The center sets out to provide training to people of all ages in construction trades, mechanics, farming, culinary skills and the arts to provide residents greater opportunities for ongoing education, and long-term job success. Their shop on Kinsman Road is currently being renovated and our donation will help support their goals of including a full wood shop, mechanics shop, a small commercial kitchen and studio spaces to be used by people of the neighborhood.
Please check out all of these wonderful charities and see how others are making such a large impact in support our community.
October 2022
For our last meeting of the of 2022 giving season, we learned about three more wonderful charities doing fabulous work in the CLE! Members Lisa Lipker introduced us to Frontline Service, Alane Mastandrea to Urban Bridges dba Envision Cleveland and Gianna Gulasey to Cassidy's Hope Foundation. This quarter our members voted to support Cassidy's Hope Foundation. The mission of the foundation is to bring awareness of childhood cancers and how they differ from adult cancers and how they should be treated and researched as such. This foundation was founded by Cassidy's mother, Pam, who was inspired by her own daughter's journey with cancer to help make a difference in the lives of other families on their own journey with childhood cancer.
Our contribution of $11,000, plus an additional $5000 contribution from the Schulze Family foundation, will support their various programs, fundraisers and grants to support families dealing with childhood cancer. Please check out all of these wonderful charities and see how others are making such a large impact in support our community.
July 2022
For our Summer meeting we gathered in person (hurray!) and learned about three awesome organizations. Much appreciation goes out to Becca Huntington for presenting Seeds of Literacy, Theresa Medsker for her presentation of Women of Hope and Jennifer Neil for presenting The Hood Squad 2one6, for which our membership voted to support this quarter.
The Hood Squad 2one6 is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2020 with the mission of bringing hot showers and food to the unsheltered homeless communities in and around Northeast Ohio. In addition to these services, the organization engages in street outreach and provides much needed warm sub-zero clothing in the winter and functional and clean clothing in the summer. The founder of this organization was himself homeless at one time and has firsthand experience and knowledge of the needs of those living on the streets. Volunteers understand how something as a warm shower, a set of clean clothes and nourishment can inspire hope, dignity and a path forward for community members experiencing tough times. Our donation of $11,700 plus an additional $5000 from the Schulze Family Foundation is dedicated to support all these volunteers helping others!
April 2022
For our Spring meeting we listened to three very wonderful and well prepared presentations. We are thankful to our members Gail Steward for presenting Malachi Center, Donna Baltas for once again presenting Dec My Room, and Jane Cawley for presenting The Shepherd's Well for whom the membership voted to support this quarter. The Shepherd's Well was founded by Jane and offers moms of special needs children a place and opportunity to experience respite in the midst of the challenging demands they face as parents. It allows moms to unwind, rest, and relax and to experience encouragement, support and friendships. The Shepherd's Well retreat gatherings provide an opportunity for moms to relax and get pampered and to nourish mind, body and spirit. Our donation of $11,500 is dedicated to these warrior moms! Enjoy!
January 2022
We kicked off our first meeting of 2022 with three wonderful presentations and thank our members for their efforts in introducing them to us. We learned about Chair-ity from member Barb Piccirilli, Women of Hope presented by Theresa Medsker and The Bridge Avenue School by Alane Mastandrea, for whom the members voted to support this quarter. The Bridge Avenue School (TBAS) is a small private alternative Christian based school located on the near west side of Cleveland. The school's mission is to work with grade school children (5th - 8th) who have been struggling to succeed in a traditional style classroom. Students attending TBAS struggle in many areas, but their primary educational concern is an inability to read. Our donation of over $12,000 will go a long way with supporting the school so they can continue helping these children in our community.
October 2021
For our October meeting we once again met both in person and on Zoom. We heard presentations from three outstanding charitable organizations and are grateful to Donna Baltas for presenting Dec My Room, Theresa Medsker for presenting Women of Hope and Cindy Rios for presenting The Haven Home for whom we voted to support this quarter.
The Haven Home was established as a "family overflow shelter" in 2017 to serve homeless women and their children in Cuyahoga County. The shelter exists to provide temporary emergency shelter until a bed(s) becomes available at a family shelter. Our donation of $11,400 will be vital in supporting this invaluable resource for women and their children in our community.
July 2021
For our July meeting we were successful at incorporating a hybrid model of bringing our members together both in-person and via Zoom. We were introduced to three awesome charitable organizations and are thankful to Gretchen Dupps for presenting the Cleveland Angels, Gail Steward for presenting Malachi Center, and Carol Valley for presenting The Centers for Families and Children.
With voting tallied from both in the room and on-line, members voted to support Cleveland Angels this quarter. The mission statement of the Cleveland Angels is to walk alongside children, youth, and families in the foster care community by offering consistent support through intentional giving, relationship building, and mentorship. Their vision is to ensure that all members of the foster care community has healthy, affirming, and lasting relationships. Our donation of $11,450 will go a long way in helping them attain their vision.
Thank you to all of our presenters, Gretchen, Gail and Carol for taking the time to introduce and educate our membership about these important organizations. Check them out!
April 2021
At our April Zoom meeting we listened to three very compelling and well prepared presentations and we are grateful to our members Lora Garrett for presenting STAR Summer Camp, Gail Spence for Medworks USA and Sarah Longfield for presenting her founding organization, The Caleb Andrew Longfield Foundation. For this quarter the membership voted to support Sarah and The Caleb Andrew Longfield Foundation. The CAL Foundation was founded to support parents who have suffered the devastating loss of a stillborn baby by providing financial assistance in paying medical bills related to the birth of their baby. Our donation of over $11,225 will support this mission of helping ease the financial burden for families with such loss.
Thank you to our awesome presenters and for those submitting charitable organizations into the fishbowl!
January 2021
Making it through our second Zoom meeting with relative ease we heard from three great charities! We listened to presentations from House of Champions presented by Laura Connelly, HOLA Ohio, by Danni Bennett and We Care We Share Ministries presented by Kathleen Fox. The voting was not surprisingly very close between the three, but the majority vote went to WCWS Ministries. We Care We Share serves to support the citizens of Lorain County operating a food pantry and clothing closet and working on a workforce development program which includes a professional computer lab, online training program, and job coaching. Our donation of $11,750 will support their new program called "My House" which will provide services for young men (18-21) touched by foster care. This program will offer transitional housing, mentoring, education, tutoring, and resources to other agencies who can assist.
Thank you to all of the presenters and to all of you who submitted a charity to the “virtual fishbowl”!
October 2020
Well we have our first Zoom meeting in the books, thank you to all who attended!
At our virtual meeting we heard presentations about three great charities, the Caleb Andrew Longfield Foundation, presented by Theresa Lesh HOLA Ohio, by Danni Bennett and Gigi’s Playhouse by Missy Gibel. The voting was really very close between the three, but the majority vote went to Gigi’s Playhouse. The mission and purpose of Gigi’s Playhouse is to change the way the world views Down syndrome, and to send a global message of acceptance that those with Down syndrome are accepted and embraced in their families, schools and communities. Our contribution of $11,400 will help them achieve their ongoing commitment to changing lives by providing free, therapeutic, educational and career training programs for those of all ages.
Thank you to all of the presenters and to all of you who submitted a charity to the “virtual fishbowl”!
July 2020
Announcing our Two for One Special‼️
That is, TWO great charities our chapter voted to support for our July meeting. The MetroHealth’s Helping Hand Fund and The Diversity Center of Northeast OH – two great organizations working hard to support Clevelanders during these challenging times. Our chapter donated a combination of $12,050 to support these charities carry out their mission. 🌻
The MetroHealth Helping Hand Fund through the Institute of H.O.P.E., was established to coordinate efforts to assist under served individuals in our community under quarantine or who are at elevated risk of contracting COVID-19. Among the many things donations to this Fund provides is meals for the homeless who are medically quarantined in hotels, youth face masks, care packages for homeless shelters and crisis centers, daily Grab and Go lunches for kids, art supplies and games for kids in shelters (can no longer share), and support for school health sponsored free immunizations and wellness exams via a mobile van.❤️
The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio, a long established organization dedicated to eliminating bias, bigotry and racism in our community, advocates for understanding through education and training. They look to invest in our next generation with their School & Youth Program which helps to create school cultures where all students feel empowered, connected, respected, and valued. Donations to the Center will help them create virtual versions of four of their core “YouLEAD” programs. These virtual programs will enable The Diversity Center to continue educational training in a blended manner of online education, and when safe to do so, face-to-face training in schools. The Center expects this enhancement of their School & Youth Program will expand the number of children served.📚💕
April 2020
Our April meeting will forever be memorialized by COVID-19, the pandemic of our time! For our membership, this was our time to SHINE! There was, and still is, so many ways to fulfill our our mission to make a meaningful and positive financial impact in our community. Our members were very responsive and recognized the many charitable organizations that were overwhelmed by the challenges of operating during a pandemic. Without the benefit of an in-person meeting we still succeeded in supporting a local charity in need of our financial support. Our membership considered the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, the Helping Hands Fund-Metro Health Medical Center, and the Domestic Violence & Child Advocacy Center, for whom we voted to support with a $13,000 donation.
DVCAC’s mission is to provide services that foster safety and healing to those affected by child abuse and domestic violence, and to prevent abuse through education, advocacy, and systemic change. All DVCAC programs and services are offered for free. Demand for services has increased significantly amid the COVID-19 crisis. During this time of uncertainty and anxiety, especially economic anxiety, abuse tends to escalate. Many people would reasonably seek refuge at home, but home is not a safe place for everyone. People in domestic violence situations are now isolated at home with their abusers. Children who are home from school are in particular danger as they are forced to spend more time with someone who is abusing them.
Specifically, DVCAC’s is trying to maintain the following crucial services:
- Emergency shelter which operates 24 hours per day 7 days per week and has 46 beds. More than 60% of people in shelter are children.
- Where victims are in high risk categories, DVCAC provides hotel living in order to keep them safe as well as food and transportation where needed.
- Access to the Helpline and therapists, as well as Trauma Therapy and Justice System Advocacy.
- Canopy Child Advocacy Center program.
January 2020
Our new space for 2020 was packed as we welcomed nine new members and several guests. As we settled into the meeting we learned about three new great charities. Rita Andolsen introduced us to MetroHealth's S.A.F.E. Project, we heard from Jena Olsen who spoke about the International Women's Air & Space Museum and then Karen Snyder presented Improbable Players for whom we voted to support this quarter. Please be sure to check out these awesome organizations and thank you Rita, Jena and Karen for presenting them to us.
Improbable Players uses theater performances & workshops to address addiction, alcoholism and the opioid epidemic. Interestingly, their plays are performed by people in recovery themselves. They perform at schools (6th grade and up), conferences, treatment centers and community events. Their plays are based on true stories and their workshops give students the space and the tools to combat social pressures and find coping strategies that work for them. Our donation of close to $13,150 will certainly help keep these important productions going in our community!
October 2019
At our Fall meeting we learned of three charities doing awesome work here in the CLE and voted to support the Cleveland Rockin' Wildcats presented by Julie Nader. This ice hockey team is a member of the American Special Hockey Association which is composed of children and adults ages 6-40 years old that have all ranges of developmental or physical disabilities and want to play HOCKEY! Being a member of this team provides independence, discipline, socialization, support and lots of long lasting friendships and fun! The team practices together and travels to participate in games and tournaments with other special needs teams. The Cleveland Rockin' Wildcats is not only about hockey but more importantly about having fun, making friends and enjoying times with family. Our donation of $13,550 will help keep players on the ice!
We also learned about Community Service Alliance by member Martha Wright and Malachi Center by member Gail Steward. Please check all of these wonderful charities and thank you Gail, Martha and Julie for sharing these organizations with us!
July, 2019
We heard three great presentations from our members at our July meeting and voted to support the West Side Catholic Center - Nurse Clinic presented by member Patty Cleary. The mission of the WSCC Nurse Clinic is to provide clients served by the WSCC with health care advocacy and education. This is done in numerous ways such as providing blood pressure and glucose screenings as well as distributing free over-the- counter medications as necessary for those in need. We understand that our donation of $13,775 may stock their medical coffers for the next three years!
We also learned about Edna House for Women from Denise Novack and The Turn by Kathy Violand. Please check all of these wonderful charities and thank you ladies for sharing these organizations with us!
April 2019
At our Spring meeting we learned about three wonderful local charities here in the CLE. Our membership voted to support Safe Families for Children presented by member Alana Dennis. The main objectives of Safe Families for Children is to (1) keep children safe during a family crisis such as homelessness, hospitalization, or domestic violence (2) support, and stabilize families in crisis by surrounding them with caring, compassionate community, and (3), reunite families and reduce the number of children entering the child welfare system. Our membership has donated $13,375 so far in support of their mission!
We also learned about Improbable Players presented by Karen Snyder and Brodie's Good Vibe Tribe presented by Traci Tigue. Thank you Alana, Karen and Traci! Please check out these all of these wonderful organizations!
January 2019
We are off to a great start to the year with our first quarterly meeting of 2019! On Thursday three of our members presented three wonderful charities beginning with the Footpath Foundation presented by Mary Macias for which the membership also voted to support this quarter. The Footpath Foundation provides outdoor experiences for kids who live in poverty or in foster care and do not have access to the beautiful nature of Northeast Ohio. Through field trips, nature club, overnight camp and other programs, kids are provided with an opportunity to connect with nature to build their mindsets, build resiliency and escape some of their everyday stressors and hurdles. Our chapter has donated $13,125 so far in helping the Footpath Foundation achieve their mission.
We also enjoyed a presentation from Shari Caruso who presented Special Spaces and from Jena Olsen who presented the International Women’s Art & Space Museum located at Burke Lake Front Airport. Thank you, Mary, Shari and Jena! Everyone, please check out all the wonderful charities!
October 2018
At our last meeting of the year, though lightly attended, we made great progress! We listened to presentations about
three new charities, welcomed five new members and the fishbowl was full! After the presentations we voted to support Cornerstone of Hope presented by member Lynn Robie. The mission of this organization is to provide support, education and hope for those grieving the loss of a loved one. Cornerstone of Hope offers counseling, art therapy, workshops, and support groups and many other resources for those experiencing loss and grief. They also provide resources and educational services for professionals and others in supportive roles such as for staff in school programs. We are delighted to have been able to contribute $14,225 to further their mission.
Also presented at the meeting was The Turn by member Sally Wilson and Eversight by member Kristen Hill. Please check out all of these wonderful organizations and thank you to Lynn, Sally and Kristen for introducing them to us
July 2018
At our annual July Member-Guest meeting we welcomed several new members and learned about three great charities. Our membership voted to support The LD Edge Network presented by member Holly Roe. The LD Edge Network is a network for adults with learning disabilities, offering affordable diagnostic services, workshops, tutoring and other intervention practices to help elevate the educational levels and workplace skills of adults in the Clark Fulton neighborhood of Cleveland. They also offer training and professional development specific to disabilities in adults to the educators who teach them, all with the goal of increasing the employ-ability and quality of life for these adults and their families. Our chapter donated $14,150!
We also listened to member presentations from Mary Jane Miller as she presented Ronald McDonald House (specifically to support the Ronald McDonald Family Rooms in Cleveland areas hospitals) and from Shari Caruso who introduced Special Spaces. Thank you Holly, Mary Jane and Shari for your presentations and I encourage all of you to check out these special charities!
April 2018
At our Spring meeting we learned about three very awesome local charities. The one the received the most votes was actually for a charity that we have learned about before. Thanks to the wonderful presentation by Deb Pence-Meyenberg our Spring donation will go to America Scores Cleveland. America SCORES Cleveland has an innovative tri-curricular approach that teaches kids how physical activity creative expression and teamwork nurtures a strong body, mind and character. Through daily, team-based soccer and writing workshops and annual community service projects, SCORES measurably improves fitness, literacy and communications skills, and empowers kids to create change in their communities. Our chapter has donated $13,900 so far in furthering the mission of America SCORES!
We also learned about GiGi's Playhouse Down Syndrome Achievement Center from Missy Gibel and about the Cleveland Rockin' Wildcats - American Special Hockey Assn. from Julie Nader - thank you ladies, and everyone, please take some time to learn about these wonderful charities as I am sure we will hear from these ladies again!
January 2018
At our first meeting of the year our membership voted to support the Women's Wellness Foundation, presented by member Cindy Rios. The foundation is an all volunteer mission and ministry that serves women in crisis who are reorienting to the community after incarceration and who may also have addiction challenges. In addition to providing invaluable mentoring, programming and hope, the foundation also supports Dinami House, a transitional home for safe and sober living before reentry into the community. Please visit their website to learn more about about all the good that they do and how our donation of $14,875 will be put to good use!
We also heard presentations for Girls on the Run by member Robyn Cutler and the Rocky River Adult Activities Center (PTCU Foundation) by member Maureen Peterson. Thank you ladies - all please check out these awesome charities!
October 2017
What an exciting meeting! We learned about three awesome charitable organizations in our community through our member presentations. The selected charity was Dec My Room presented by Kathi Perry. Dec My Room volunteers personalize the hospital rooms of children who are being admitted into a hospital for a prolonged amount of time. Lucky volunteers get to shop for items that complement the special likes and interests of a child and decorate their hospital room upon their arrival. These items are for them to enjoy during their stay and for them to take home when they leave. Dec My Room is currently funded by grants, and charitable donations so our donation of $14,425 will surely go far in bringing more smiles to the faces of children facing the four white wall of a hospital room!
In addition to our usual meeting we also came together to honor Regina Brett and thank her for helping us launch the first chapter of 100+Women Who Care here in Cleveland -our chapter! From the very beginning Regina has been there, helping to draw together these awesome women through various supportive columns in the Cleveland Plain Dealer and even dedicating a chapter of her book Be The Miracle to our mission. Our chapter honored Regina with a $5000 (member donations) donation to The Gathering Place, a very special place for Regina.
Also presented at the meeting was the Epilepsy Foundation of Northeast Ohio by Amy Kellogg and HUGS (Hope, Understanding, Gratitude and Serenity) presented by Ann Paras. Thank you ladies for your heartfelt presentations!
July 2017
At our Summer meeting our membership voted to support Made By Kids, an organization that was presented by Ms'd Milburn. Made By Kids (MBK) is currently a summer program that provides local area youth with fun, structured and skill-based activities, including art, music, drama, dance, sports, martial arts, inter-generational programs and several other activities. With a focus on youth from low to moderate income families, MBK's mission is to develop and nurture areas of interest, enhance one's ability to learn and explore, provide opportunities and implement achievable goals, and also embrace an inter-generational connection. Our donation of over $14,200 will be invaluable in helping them purchase supplies and technology.
Also presented at the meeting was America Scores Cleveland by Debi Pence-Meyerberg and Girl Scouts of Northeast Ohio by Dani Bennett. Thank you ladies and, everyone, please check out what's going on with these awesome charities!
April 2017
At our Spring meeting the membership voted to support W.A.G.S. 4 Kids, presented by long time member Rina Dabramo. This doggone wonderful organization leverages the talents and capabilities of highly trained service dogs to meet the needs of children with various challenges and/or disabilities in Northeast Ohio. All of the service dogs are currently trained at a local correctional facility by guided inmate trainers and thereafter each placement family receives home transition training and ongoing support for a successful forever home placement. It's a win-win! Our donation of $13,700 will be used to put at least 7 more service dogs to good work!!
Also presented at the meeting was the Kids Book Bank by co-founders Judi Kovach and Judy Payne and the Women’s Wellness Foundation by Cynthia Rios.
Thank you Rina, Cynthia, and team members Judi and Judy for introducing such awesome organizations to our membership – everyone, please check them all out!
January 2017
We packed the meeting room and learned about three fabulous local charities at our first meeting of the year. The Lantern Center for Recovery, presented by Denise Novak won the majority vote, though it was close to a three way tie!. The primary goal of The Lantern is to help men with addictions with their recovery and to help support them and their families. Addiction is powerful, and it is relentless, but it can be treated and The Lantern is there as a powerful resource. The Lantern's program is designed to provide our community with these resources by offering long-term residential care at absolutely no cost to the men who ask for the help which they all deserve. The Lantern's mission is to provide quality sober living to chemically dependent men and to educate and assist people with recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. Our chapter presented $13,700 in contributions to help the Lantern continue their great work!
Also presented at the meeting was WAGS for Kids presented by Gina Pilko and Dec My Room by Kathi Perry - thank you to Gina and Kathi - well done! Ladies, please check out these awesome charities!
October 2016
Thank you to all the ladies and guests who were able to come out on a very rainy night to learn about three wonderful charities who are working hard to make a meaning and positive difference in our Cleveland area communities. Member Rina Dabramo presented Royal Family Kids which was very well received by our membership. Royal Family Kids, in conjunction with the Strongsville United Methodist Church provides needy, abused foster children a chance to attend a week long summer camp where they can enjoy a variety of fun camp activities in a safe environment, and just be a kid. Our generous donation of $13,325 will ensure that these kids will have a chance for some summer fun! Thank you!
Also presented at the meeting was Imagination Library presented by Terri Postel and the West Side Catholic Center by member Patty Cleary. Please check out these awesome charities and THANK YOU to our presenters!
July 2016
We enjoyed our annual Member-Guest night at our July meeting and welcomed nine new members to our group! At the meeting we voted to support the Cleveland Furniture Bank's "Beds 4 Kids" program. This program provides free brand new beds to kids in need in Northeast Ohio. Their goal is to provide at least 100 warm beds for the holiday season as well as furniture to families in need. The CFB provides furniture to over 3,000 individuals every year and gives away 75% of the furniture they receive to help families rebuild their lives. With the cost of a singe bed being approximately $100 to purchase, our donation of $13,000 will fulfill their annual goal! Thank you Kathy Guzy (with assistance and encouragement from her sister!) for presenting the Cleveland Furniture Bank to our chapter!
Also presented at the meeting was the Rid- All Green Partnership by Jan Thrope and the Karen P. Nakon Foundation by Rita Andolson. Please take a moment to check out these awesome charities!
April 2016
The charity selected at our April meeting may sound familiar to our members as we voted to support "Ears to You", presented by member Christine Dabramo. Ears To You supports cancer patients of any kind who are undergoing treatment and is dedicated to lifting their spirits by creating a moment of joy and hope through the donation of specially made earrings and hats. Their beautiful creations and thoughtfulness boosts patients self-esteem and provides hope to cancer patients of all ages. Our donation of $12,750 will certainly go a long way in helping this organization spread some hope and joy.
Also presented at the meeting was America SCORES by member Debi Pence-Meyenberg and the Cleveland Furniture Bank by member Kathy Guzy. Please check out these awesome charities and learn how others are making a difference here in Cleveland!
January 2016
Despite the cold weather, we kicked off 2016 with a packed meeting and a great number of charities in the fishbowl! We learned about 3 wonderful local charities, with the winner being "A Night to Shine" presented by member Tracy Smuts. A Night to Shine is a worldwide prom for mentally challenged and physically disabled adults age 16+ that was being hosted by over 200 churches across the US and in 7 other countries on February 12, 2016. In Northeast Ohio the events were held in 3 churches - CVC (Cuyahoga Valley Church), Garfield Memorial and First Christian Church. These events were individually hosted with guests from Northeast Ohio. 100% of the funds raised were used for "A Night to Shine" - with our individual donation of $13,500 going to the CVC event.
Also presented at the meeting was Ears to You by member Rina Dabramo and the Fairview Park Hunger Center presented by Judith Meinart. Please check out all three of these wonderful charities!
October 2015
So we are all getting older, and one day someone may tell us we should no longer be on the road, and even might take our driver's license away! How are we going to get to a doctor's appointment, or to the grocery store, or even to take advantage of other resources available just for seniors? Old Brooklyn seniors in this situation don't have to wait around for their family for a ride if a van from Senior Citizen Resources could show up, and now they will continue to do so with our help. We voted to support Senior Citizen Resources at our October meeting to help them toward their goal of replacing two of their old vans on their last legs. We are hopeful that our donation of $13,300 helps them meet this goal! We would like to thank member Lynn Wieland for introducing us to SCR.
Also presented at the meeting was the Cleveland Dragon Boat Association by member Sally Wilson and HER Ideas in Motion by member Claire Van Antwerp. Please check out all three of these wonderful charities supporting our local Cleveland area!
Lastly a few women asked if I would post the poem that Jeff Griffiths (HONEO) read at our meeting. This poem was recited by Ruby Dee during the 2005 National Memorial Day Concert and has been inspirational for Jeff and his team.
Today
Today is ours, let's live it
And love is strong, let's give it
A song can help, let's sing it
And peace is dear, let's bring it
The past is gone, don't rue it
Our work is here, let's do it
Our world is wrong, let's right it
The battle hard, let's fight it
The road is rough, let's clear it
The future vast, don't fear it
Is faith asleep? Let's wake it
Today is ours, let's take it
July 2015
We celebrated our FIVE YEAR anniversary at our July meeting and also met a major milestone of $250,000 in charitable donations for local Cleveland charities! We also hosted our annual Member-Guest night and welcomed many new members to our group! At the meeting the membership voted to support Hands On North East Ohio presented by a founding 100+ WWC member, Terri Postel. Established in 2007, Hands On Northeast Ohio makes volunteering easy through volunteer-led projects that build volunteer capacity for local organizations. Their mission is to engage individuals and organizations in volunteer opportunities that meet community need and strengthen community involvement. Our donation of $13,440 (+ matching contributions) will help them support their mission. Please check out their website to learn about volunteer opportunities in our own backyard!
Also presented at the meeting was Ears to You by long-time member Rina Dabramo (assisted by her adorable son!) and Women's Outreach /RiversEdge by member Judith Albanese, also a long-time supporter of our group. Many thanks to all who presented and please visit all of their websites to learn more about these wonderful organizations!
April 2015
The charity chosen at our April meeting was Laura's Home presented by Linda Uveges. Laura's Home, a subset of the City Mission, is a "live-in" women and children's crisis program and center serving the west side of Cleveland. At Laura’s Home, their 3-phase program offers an array of services geared at preparing women and children for positive, productive futures. Our donation of $11,700 (+matching donations) will support the families who complete the program as they prepare to transition into employment and safe, independent housing.
Also presented at the meeting was Uniforms for Kids presented by member Carol Lee Diethorn and Transplant House of Cleveland presented by member Joey Frebes. Many thanks to all who presented and please visit all of their websites to learn more about these wonderful organizations!
January 2015
At our annual Member-Guest night we learned about three great charitable organizations with the winner being Our Village Project presented by an original founding member, Ann Paras. The Project's mission is to come together as a community to provide nourishing meals and extended care and services to those experiencing cancer. Our Village Project who with the help of a large team of multi-generational volunteers bring hope and joy to cancer patients and their families by preparing and providing healthful meals and extending services (i.e. such as yard clean up, house cleaning, dog walking, running errands, etc.). What once began in the community of Bay Village has expanding to neighboring communities where the Project has now served over 7,000 meals to 65 families. Our donation of $12,600 (plus matching donations) will support the Village Project's mission to nurture those families. Thank you Ann for sharing Our Village Project with us!
Check out the news release Women's Group Donated $12,200 to Village Project in the Westlake/Bay Village Observer!
We also want to sincerely thank Judith Meinert for presenting the Fairview Park Hunger Center to us and to Katherine Geralds who also shared the mission of Laura's Home with us, thank you ladies! Everyone, please check out these wonderful charities!
October 2014
The winning charity at our October meeting was Recovery Resources of Cleveland presented by member Katie O'Toole Smith. Recovery Resources of Cleveland partners with those who have addictions and mental health challenges and provides a wide range of prevention, intervention treatment and supportive services to help initiate, manage and sustain recovery. Our donation of $12,400 (plus matching donations) will go a long way in their efforts in supporting those with opiate addictions.
Also presented at the meeting was Laura's Home presented by member Katherine Geralds and The Jimmy Malone Scholarship Program presented by member Trish Steele. Thank you so much to all those who have taken the time to research and submit a charity to the fishbowl. Please visit all of their websites and learn more about these worthy organizations.
July 2014
The charity that our membership voted to support at our July meeting is Brandon's Place presented by member Karen Forbes. Brandon's Place is a non-profit organization created for families who lives have been touched by autism, and provides recreational programs for individuals with autism in a warm and safe environment. Their approach at Brandon's Place is to provide this environment where individuals with autism can enjoy direct services and programming that will help build self esteem and confidence. Their vision is to touch the lives of parents globally, ensuring they receive all of the benefits necessary to improve the lives of their loved ones living with autism. We donated $12,500 plus matching charitable contributions for Brandon's Place
Also presented at our meeting was The Art Palance by member Jan Thrope and The Jimmy Malone Scholarship Program by member Gina Pilko. Many thank yous to all who presented and please visit all of their websites to learn more about these wonderful organizations!
April 2014
The winning charity at this meeting was the Carmella Rose Health Foundation presented by an original member, Carol Santalucia. Carol founded this organization in honor of her mother, Carmella Rose, and her journey through an illness that eventually led to her passing. Throughout Carmella's illness, her family realized the importance of a patient's partnership with their caregiver, and the impact of this relationship on health outcomes.
Although Carmella was blessed with adequate insurance and a strong network of family, she still had difficulty navigating the complex healthcare system. Her experiences made it clear to her family and friends that every patient needs help finding the appropriate physical and emotional support during times of illness, as well as tools to stay organized.
The Carmella Rose Health Foundation helps people access quality medical care during their healthcare journey. They provide guidance, patient advocacy resources, information about cancer and other conditions, and referrals to community resources in Northeast Ohio. Thank you Carol for introducing us to a wonderful program in NE Ohio! Our group donated $12,500 (+matching contributions) to help Carol help others!
Also presented last night was the Epilepsy Foundation (North East Ohio) presented by Amy Kellog and Reach Out and Read Greater Cleveland presented by Lynn Wieland. Thank you ladies for your persistence and and efforts in promoting these important organizations.
January 16, 2014
For our first meeting of 2014 - our annual Member-Guest night, our group voted to support Fill This House. This charity was presented by member Dana Hastings and supports those teens aging out of foster care in Cuyahoga County. The charity serves teens who have been living in group homes or numerous foster homes, have few belongings, and very limited support. Generally, at age 18, assistance and custodial rights cease and many foster teens are left to fend for themselves. By raising funds, purchasing items, and conducting collection drives in the corporate and faith communities, Fill This House has the ability to provide newly emancipated youth with household goods, such as towels, dishes, flatware, bedding, pots & pans, toasters, kitchen utensils, etc. Our contribution of $12,875 (+matching contributions) will go a long way in supporting their efforts.
Also presented at the meeting was Hands On Northeast Ohio by Terri Postel. The mission of this organization is to engage Northeast Ohio individuals and organizations in citizen-managed volunteer opportunities that meet community needs, strengthen community involvement, and build capacity of local nonprofit organizations. Also presented was Reach Out and Read Greater Cleveland by Lynn Wieland - a member who also entertained the group with a bit of stand up comedy! Reach Out and Read is an evidence-based nonprofit organization of medical providers who promote early literacy and school readiness in pediatric exam rooms nationwide by giving new books to children and advice to parents about the importance of reading aloud.
Please check out their websites - as they are all very worthy of our attention and consideration. Also, a big THANK YOU to our presenters Dana, Terri and Lynn for their passionate presentations.
October 18, 2013
Our October meeting was very emotional and was well attended! Emotional, partly because we had members from the Special Stars come to say thank you to the membership for our donation to their group and also because the presenter of this meeting's selected charity burst into tears (running mascara!) as we announced her charity. Pass the tissues please! The selected charity is Forever Home Adoptions presented by member Tracy Smuts. This organization is a Christian based adoption agency founded in 2008 and was licensed in July 2011 by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services to participate in adoption work. Forever Home Adoptions, providing services to families in Northeast Ohio, is an agency that operates free of any fees. Their expenses associated with the work they do is entirely covered through donations and grants and now our donation of $11,925 plus matching contributions will her Forever Home Adoptions carry on.
Also presented at the meeting was the Cuyahoga County Community Gardens presented by Katherine Geralds and the local chapter of Reach Out and Read Greater Cleveland presented by Lynn Wieland. Please take a few moments to learn about these wonderful charities, and thank you Katherine and Lynn for your wonderful presentations.
July 18, 2013
We are happy to report that the summer meeting produced a bowl-full of charitable submissions! After three awesome presentations of new charitable organizations, our membership chose to support a group by the name of Special Stars which was presented by Carol Valley (with moral support from her sister Cheryl!). Special Stars is a recreational organization for adults and children with special needs. The organization was started in 1987 with just 50 members and has grown now to an average membership of 250. Funding for Special Stars has come from the members themselves ($1 annually!), fundraisers, private donations, raffles, candy sales and the United Way. Our donation of $12,775 (+matching contributions) will go towards funding the membership so that they may continue to participate and enjoy activities together, and with each other, all year round, especially during the holidays.
Also presented at the meeting by Janice Bubnick was Metro Health Child Life, who is in need of tumbleforms and other necessary items for helping a child's hospital stay be less scary by providing access to enjoyable activities. Lastly we heard from Gina Pilko who presented the E-Prep and Village Prep Schools. These high performing and rigorous schools are part of the Building Excellent Schools network and they are seeking funding for additional classroom spaces due to growing enrollment.
April 18, 2013
We had a great turn out last evening for our meeting, perhaps it was the great weather! The fish bowl was plentiful and we learned about three well deserving charities. Our presenters were "gold stars" and were up to the podium for their first time.
Christine Dabramo kicked off the evening with her presentation of Guidestone which is the old Berea Children's home, whose legacy is serving the needs of families and children for the last 150 years. Next up was Ann Paras who presented the Village Food Project established in September of 2010 serving nurishing meals to those families experiencing a cancer crisis, and finally Robin Kaufman rounded out the presentations by presenting Blessing House to our group. Blessing House is a Children's Crisis Care Center providing safe shelter and care for children whose parents find themselves in a situation where they need immediate care for their children, whatever that crisis may be.
While all of the presentations were wonderful, the membership voted to support Guidestone at this meeting. In 1960 the agency shifted its focus to serving children and youth needing specialized therapeutic programs. Our donation of $13,700 (+ matching corporate contributions) will be used for providing some of these much needed therapeutic programs not covered by other sourced funds. Think yoga, martial arts, etc. and other physical progams for the children
January 17, 2013
Our first meeting of the year was very exciting! We signed up 16 new members and had at least 15-20 guests checking out how we get things done! The chosen charity was The Rainey Institute presented by Rina Dabramo with strong support from her Mom, Christine. The Rainey Institute is dedicated to positive change for Greater Cleveland’s youth and families through education and participation in the visual and performing arts. Children ages 3 and up attend Rainey after school, on Saturdays, and during the Summer to explore music, dance, drama, sewing and art. They develop their artistic abilities and their character. Rainey students learn to be leaders and positive role models. They are prepared to be “on stage” at all times, enabling them to succeed in school and in life. Our group donated $13, 875 (+matching corporate contributions) to the Rainey Institute!
Other charities presented was the Lantern Center for Recovery presented by Patty Noble and Recovery Resources of Cleveland presented by Katie O'Toole Smith.
October 18, 2012
Our October meeting was one not to miss! We celebrated our $100,000 mark with cake, we hosted Cleveland columnist and author Regina Brett for a book signing, we heard from Mike Biedenbach from the Golden Age Centers of Greater Cleveland present a very emotional and heartfelt thank you, and Jan Thrope, due to her commitment and tenacity finally won over support for her charity, Another Chance of Ohio - Janie's Home. Janie's Home is a safe haven for families fleeing from domestic violence. This east side home needed funds to complete work done in the basement and improvements on the third floor. Our group was able to provide Janie's home with more that $11,675+ matching contributions, to get this work done!
Also presented at the meeting was the Village Food Project by member Mary Lou Kennedy and HandsOn Northeast Ohio presented by Terri Postel. Please check out these websites to learn more about these wonderful organizations!
Regina Brett's Sunday Column October 21, 2012
July 19, 2012
The July 19th meeting marked our ninth meeting and the beginning of our third year of charitable giving in the Cleveland Metropolitan area. At this meeting we heard from three members who have previously had the stage in making their appeal of support for a local charity close to their heart. For those who are charter members you may remember that Carol Dayton had been a presenter at our very first meeting. Carol had another chance last Thursday and made a winning presentation for the Golden Age Centers of Greater Cleveland. Our donation of $11,625 +matching contributions will be put to good use in helping to end hunger of our low income senior citizens by providing over 10,000 nutritious meals. This organization teams with the volunteers of the Meals on Wheels Association.
Also presented at the meeting were heart felt presentations by Amy Kellogg for the Epilepsy Foundation and Jan Thrope for Another Chance of Ohio. Please check out these wonderful charities and be sure to thank Amy and Jan for their continued efforts in presenting these needs to us.
April 19, 2012
This was our eighth meeting and marked an end to our second full year of charitable giving! At this meeting we heard from three seasoned members of our group, all presenting wonderful organizations in need of funding. The winning charity was presented by Mim Conway who showcased her Dream On Kids via the Dream on Foundation . In 2008, The Dream On Foundation adopted all the first graders at Hannah Gibbons- Nottingham School in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. Mim and her group of volunteers is shepherding these "at-risk" students from first grade through their timely graduation from high school in 2020. Those who graduate from high school on time will receive scholarships for college or post secondary education with the mission to eventually lead to post graduation employment. An unanticipated risk to the success of this program is getting these children back and forth from their new school(s). Our funds ($12,200 plus matching gifts) , along with a grant and some additional fundraising will provide this transportation via chartered vans and drivers. As these kids are only in the 4th grade at this time it is too young to expect them to take public transportation. Filling this gap ensures consistent and safe transportation for these kids!
Also presented at the meeting was Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cleveland by Lisa Stumpf and Women's Outreach/River's Edge presented by Judy Albanese. Please check out these websites and learn more about these wonderful missions!
January 19, 2012
Well just like our meeting last January old man weather (vs Mother Nature!) decided to come for a visit and blow snow all over our roads again to make it almost impossible to get out of downtown! But we did have a good showing despite the weather and we did have a lot of guests come to see how we get business done. I think we must have made a good impression because we had 20 new members sign up, so a big thank you to all our members that recruited their friends and family to come visit with us. For this, our seventh meeting, the membership voted to support The Gathering Place, presented by member Serina Peck. The mission of The Gathering Place is to support, educate and empower individuals and families touched by cancer through programs and services provided free of charge. There are two locations in Cleveland, one on the west side in Westlake and the other on the east side in Beachwood. Our funds ($11,375 + Matching gifts) will be used to buy new synthetic wigs for those men, women and children who have lost their hair from chemotherapy, which for some may the most stressful part of their treatment.
Also presented at the meeting were two other wonderful local charities, first MedWorks presented by Joy Freda and Another Chance Ohio presented by member Jan Thrope. Keep on trying gals!
October 13, 2011
Our sixth quarterly meeting included 3 wonderful presentations from members of our group. The voting was very close, however the majority voted to support the organization Honor Flight Cleveland. This organization began in 2007 and its mission is to fly as many elderly WWII veterans or other terminally ill veterans to visit the war memorials in Washington DC, FREE OF CHARGE (approx $250 value). Their vision is to honor the veterans who have proudly served our county and give them a chance to see the memorials that were constructed in their honor. They are in need of funding for their next flight which is scheduled for November 9th so it is perfect timing that they got the nod at this meeting. Had we not voted to support this group the next flight would not have been until May 2012 and unfortunately some of our veterans may not make it that long. So far we have collected $11,000 (plus additional matching contributions for Honor Flight Cleveland!
Also presented at the meeting was two other fabulous organizations, first The Dream On Foundation presented my Mim Conway and MedWorks presented by Joy Freda. Please check them out!
WEWS NEWS ARTICLE - NOVEMBER 2011
http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/cleveland_metro/cleveland-veterans-take-honor-flight-before-vets-holiday
July 21, 2011
Our fifth quarterly meeting of 100+ Women Who Care - Cleveland Metro was a HOT day in Cleveland! Literally, we had not seen such a hot day here in July in the previous 16 years! But we ventured our in our air conditioned cars, to the air conditioned Marriott and voted to support the St. Aloysius Pre-School Project that was submitted by Katie Holzheimer. St. Aloysius, a catholic parish in the Glenville neighborhood of Cleveland has been working hard to convert their on-campus convent into both a pre-school and an aftercare center for the children of the neighborhood. The center will be open hopefully by the end of the year to all kids ages 3,4 and 5 in the neighborhood, not just to catholic families. The 100+ WWC group turned over $10,625 to a very excited and grateful, Sr. Jean. The funds will be used to finish outfitting the building with new windows.
Also presented at the meeting was the Harmony Park project, presented by Jan Thrope and the Epilepsy Association presented by Amy Kellogg.
April 21, 2011
Our fourth quarterly meeting was a huge success with the addition of 16 new members. Even though many of our members were off on spring break (somewhere sunnier than here!) we were still successful in collecting $12,000 for winning charity Maggie's Place. Julie O'Boyle, board member and volunteer presented the charity and shared her passion for this community that provides houses of hospitality for expectant women who are alone or living on the streets. This community provides for the immediate physical and emotional needs of their mothers through a loving home, nutritious food, clothing, and support. Maggie's Place also connects the mothers to the appropriate agencies and resources including prenatal care, health insurance, low-cost housing and educational programs.
Also at the meeting we heard from Stacy Reid as she represented the Northern Ohio Chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and from Joan Ticherich who introduced the Cleveland Pregnancy Center to the membership.
Presentations were well done by all!
January 20, 2011
Our third quarterly meeting arrived amid wintry snow and driving conditions but that did not deter some brave women from venturing out to attend the meeting. At this meeting we raised $12,725 to support Girls with Sole based in Rocky River. Liz Ferro, founder and executive director of the organization, presented the charity herself and shared her mission of using fitness and wellness to empower the minds, bodies, and souls of girls who have experienced abuse of any kind, or who are at risk. Liz, who personally experienced sexual abuse as a child, credits athletics and fitness for giving her the self-esteem and inner strength needed throughout her life to overcome difficult times and view herself and her body as purposeful and important. Liz's vision to help girls like her or those who are at risk, gave rise to Girls With Sole.
Also at Thursday's meeting we heard from member Jan Thrope who introduced the Rainey Institute to us and was also featured in Sunday's Cleveland Plain Dealer. Lastly, member Pamela Maidens presented the Catholic Community Connection and their good work in caring for the caregiver. Great presentations by all!
Please click on the link below to view a thank you letter from Liz Ferro
Thank you Letter from Liz Ferro
October 21, 2010
The second quarterly meeting of 100+ WWC Cleveland - Metro was a great success due to the many caring women who came out to support our group! At this meeting we raised $11,000 for Malachi House of greater Cleveland. Malachi House serves people who are terminally ill, without cost or regard to gender, race, religion or national origin. The home ministers to those in need of a caregiver, who have limited or no financial resources, and are in need of spiritual, emotional, and physical support. Malachi House allows the terminally ill to live out their days as happy and as comfortable as possible. With the help of countless volunteers and donations from organizations in the private sector such as our group, Malachi House, is able to meet the needs and provide a home and comfort for those in our community in their final days.
The other two charities that were presented at the meeting was the Gathering Place, presented by Regina Brett
and St. Agatha-St. Aloysius preschool presented by Katie Holzheimer. The school needs new windows.
July 22, 2010 - Inaugural Meeting
At our inaugural meeting held on July 22, 2010 100+ WWC Cleveland-Metro raised $9,450.00 for the Nurturing Independence Aspirations (NIA) program of the YWCA Greater Cleveland Chapter. The NIA program offers life coaches and classes in life skills, parenting, career development and GED preparation for young women ages 14-24 who are preparing to or who have aged out of foster care. The YWCA is currently building Independence Place, which will have 23 efficiency apartments to house young women who have become homeless after aging out of the foster care system. The funds raised by 100+ WWC Cleveland-Metro will specifically be used to purchase linens, kitchenware and other household items. When a young women moves on to an independent apartment or house she will be able to take these things with her, and then the process repeats.
Also presented at the meeting were two other wonderful charitable organizations serving Cleveland. The First Tee of Cleveland presented by Irene Dooley and the Domestic Violence Center, with an emphasis on elder abuse presented by Carol Dayton.
Presentations done well by all!
Please click on this link below to view a letter of Thanks from Barbara Danforth of the YWCA. If you have any questions about Independence Place, please send a message to Ms. Danforth at [email protected]
Danforth Letter
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We are happy to report that the summer meeting produced a bowl-full of charitable submissions! After three awesome presentations of new charitable organizations, our membership chose to support a group by the name of Special Stars which was presented by Carol Valley (with moral support from her sister Cheryl!). Special Stars is a recreational organization for adults and children with special needs. The organization was started in 1987 with just 50 members and has grown now to an average membership of 250. Funding for Special Stars has come from the members themselves ($1 annually!), fundraisers, private donations, raffles, candy sales and the United Way. Our donation of $12,775 (+matching contributions) will go towards funding the membership so that they may continue to participate and enjoy activities together, and with each other, all year round, especially during the holidays.
Also presented at the meeting by Janice Bubnick was Metro Health Child Life, who is in need of tumbleforms and other necessary items for helping a child's hospital stay be less scary by providing access to enjoyable activities. Lastly we heard from Gina Pilko who presented the E-Prep and Village Prep Schools. These high performing and rigorous schools are part of the Building Excellent Schools network and they are seeking funding for additional classroom spaces due to growing enrollment.
April 18, 2013
We had a great turn out last evening for our meeting, perhaps it was the great weather! The fish bowl was plentiful and we learned about three well deserving charities. Our presenters were "gold stars" and were up to the podium for their first time.
Christine Dabramo kicked off the evening with her presentation of Guidestone which is the old Berea Children's home, whose legacy is serving the needs of families and children for the last 150 years. Next up was Ann Paras who presented the Village Food Project established in September of 2010 serving nurishing meals to those families experiencing a cancer crisis, and finally Robin Kaufman rounded out the presentations by presenting Blessing House to our group. Blessing House is a Children's Crisis Care Center providing safe shelter and care for children whose parents find themselves in a situation where they need immediate care for their children, whatever that crisis may be.
While all of the presentations were wonderful, the membership voted to support Guidestone at this meeting. In 1960 the agency shifted its focus to serving children and youth needing specialized therapeutic programs. Our donation of $13,700 (+ matching corporate contributions) will be used for providing some of these much needed therapeutic programs not covered by other sourced funds. Think yoga, martial arts, etc. and other physical progams for the children
January 17, 2013
Our first meeting of the year was very exciting! We signed up 16 new members and had at least 15-20 guests checking out how we get things done! The chosen charity was The Rainey Institute presented by Rina Dabramo with strong support from her Mom, Christine. The Rainey Institute is dedicated to positive change for Greater Cleveland’s youth and families through education and participation in the visual and performing arts. Children ages 3 and up attend Rainey after school, on Saturdays, and during the Summer to explore music, dance, drama, sewing and art. They develop their artistic abilities and their character. Rainey students learn to be leaders and positive role models. They are prepared to be “on stage” at all times, enabling them to succeed in school and in life. Our group donated $13, 875 (+matching corporate contributions) to the Rainey Institute!
Other charities presented was the Lantern Center for Recovery presented by Patty Noble and Recovery Resources of Cleveland presented by Katie O'Toole Smith.
October 18, 2012
Our October meeting was one not to miss! We celebrated our $100,000 mark with cake, we hosted Cleveland columnist and author Regina Brett for a book signing, we heard from Mike Biedenbach from the Golden Age Centers of Greater Cleveland present a very emotional and heartfelt thank you, and Jan Thrope, due to her commitment and tenacity finally won over support for her charity, Another Chance of Ohio - Janie's Home. Janie's Home is a safe haven for families fleeing from domestic violence. This east side home needed funds to complete work done in the basement and improvements on the third floor. Our group was able to provide Janie's home with more that $11,675+ matching contributions, to get this work done!
Also presented at the meeting was the Village Food Project by member Mary Lou Kennedy and HandsOn Northeast Ohio presented by Terri Postel. Please check out these websites to learn more about these wonderful organizations!
Regina Brett's Sunday Column October 21, 2012
July 19, 2012
The July 19th meeting marked our ninth meeting and the beginning of our third year of charitable giving in the Cleveland Metropolitan area. At this meeting we heard from three members who have previously had the stage in making their appeal of support for a local charity close to their heart. For those who are charter members you may remember that Carol Dayton had been a presenter at our very first meeting. Carol had another chance last Thursday and made a winning presentation for the Golden Age Centers of Greater Cleveland. Our donation of $11,625 +matching contributions will be put to good use in helping to end hunger of our low income senior citizens by providing over 10,000 nutritious meals. This organization teams with the volunteers of the Meals on Wheels Association.
Also presented at the meeting were heart felt presentations by Amy Kellogg for the Epilepsy Foundation and Jan Thrope for Another Chance of Ohio. Please check out these wonderful charities and be sure to thank Amy and Jan for their continued efforts in presenting these needs to us.
April 19, 2012
This was our eighth meeting and marked an end to our second full year of charitable giving! At this meeting we heard from three seasoned members of our group, all presenting wonderful organizations in need of funding. The winning charity was presented by Mim Conway who showcased her Dream On Kids via the Dream on Foundation . In 2008, The Dream On Foundation adopted all the first graders at Hannah Gibbons- Nottingham School in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. Mim and her group of volunteers is shepherding these "at-risk" students from first grade through their timely graduation from high school in 2020. Those who graduate from high school on time will receive scholarships for college or post secondary education with the mission to eventually lead to post graduation employment. An unanticipated risk to the success of this program is getting these children back and forth from their new school(s). Our funds ($12,200 plus matching gifts) , along with a grant and some additional fundraising will provide this transportation via chartered vans and drivers. As these kids are only in the 4th grade at this time it is too young to expect them to take public transportation. Filling this gap ensures consistent and safe transportation for these kids!
Also presented at the meeting was Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cleveland by Lisa Stumpf and Women's Outreach/River's Edge presented by Judy Albanese. Please check out these websites and learn more about these wonderful missions!
January 19, 2012
Well just like our meeting last January old man weather (vs Mother Nature!) decided to come for a visit and blow snow all over our roads again to make it almost impossible to get out of downtown! But we did have a good showing despite the weather and we did have a lot of guests come to see how we get business done. I think we must have made a good impression because we had 20 new members sign up, so a big thank you to all our members that recruited their friends and family to come visit with us. For this, our seventh meeting, the membership voted to support The Gathering Place, presented by member Serina Peck. The mission of The Gathering Place is to support, educate and empower individuals and families touched by cancer through programs and services provided free of charge. There are two locations in Cleveland, one on the west side in Westlake and the other on the east side in Beachwood. Our funds ($11,375 + Matching gifts) will be used to buy new synthetic wigs for those men, women and children who have lost their hair from chemotherapy, which for some may the most stressful part of their treatment.
Also presented at the meeting were two other wonderful local charities, first MedWorks presented by Joy Freda and Another Chance Ohio presented by member Jan Thrope. Keep on trying gals!
October 13, 2011
Our sixth quarterly meeting included 3 wonderful presentations from members of our group. The voting was very close, however the majority voted to support the organization Honor Flight Cleveland. This organization began in 2007 and its mission is to fly as many elderly WWII veterans or other terminally ill veterans to visit the war memorials in Washington DC, FREE OF CHARGE (approx $250 value). Their vision is to honor the veterans who have proudly served our county and give them a chance to see the memorials that were constructed in their honor. They are in need of funding for their next flight which is scheduled for November 9th so it is perfect timing that they got the nod at this meeting. Had we not voted to support this group the next flight would not have been until May 2012 and unfortunately some of our veterans may not make it that long. So far we have collected $11,000 (plus additional matching contributions for Honor Flight Cleveland!
Also presented at the meeting was two other fabulous organizations, first The Dream On Foundation presented my Mim Conway and MedWorks presented by Joy Freda. Please check them out!
WEWS NEWS ARTICLE - NOVEMBER 2011
http://www.newsnet5.com/dpp/news/local_news/cleveland_metro/cleveland-veterans-take-honor-flight-before-vets-holiday
July 21, 2011
Our fifth quarterly meeting of 100+ Women Who Care - Cleveland Metro was a HOT day in Cleveland! Literally, we had not seen such a hot day here in July in the previous 16 years! But we ventured our in our air conditioned cars, to the air conditioned Marriott and voted to support the St. Aloysius Pre-School Project that was submitted by Katie Holzheimer. St. Aloysius, a catholic parish in the Glenville neighborhood of Cleveland has been working hard to convert their on-campus convent into both a pre-school and an aftercare center for the children of the neighborhood. The center will be open hopefully by the end of the year to all kids ages 3,4 and 5 in the neighborhood, not just to catholic families. The 100+ WWC group turned over $10,625 to a very excited and grateful, Sr. Jean. The funds will be used to finish outfitting the building with new windows.
Also presented at the meeting was the Harmony Park project, presented by Jan Thrope and the Epilepsy Association presented by Amy Kellogg.
April 21, 2011
Our fourth quarterly meeting was a huge success with the addition of 16 new members. Even though many of our members were off on spring break (somewhere sunnier than here!) we were still successful in collecting $12,000 for winning charity Maggie's Place. Julie O'Boyle, board member and volunteer presented the charity and shared her passion for this community that provides houses of hospitality for expectant women who are alone or living on the streets. This community provides for the immediate physical and emotional needs of their mothers through a loving home, nutritious food, clothing, and support. Maggie's Place also connects the mothers to the appropriate agencies and resources including prenatal care, health insurance, low-cost housing and educational programs.
Also at the meeting we heard from Stacy Reid as she represented the Northern Ohio Chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and from Joan Ticherich who introduced the Cleveland Pregnancy Center to the membership.
Presentations were well done by all!
January 20, 2011
Our third quarterly meeting arrived amid wintry snow and driving conditions but that did not deter some brave women from venturing out to attend the meeting. At this meeting we raised $12,725 to support Girls with Sole based in Rocky River. Liz Ferro, founder and executive director of the organization, presented the charity herself and shared her mission of using fitness and wellness to empower the minds, bodies, and souls of girls who have experienced abuse of any kind, or who are at risk. Liz, who personally experienced sexual abuse as a child, credits athletics and fitness for giving her the self-esteem and inner strength needed throughout her life to overcome difficult times and view herself and her body as purposeful and important. Liz's vision to help girls like her or those who are at risk, gave rise to Girls With Sole.
Also at Thursday's meeting we heard from member Jan Thrope who introduced the Rainey Institute to us and was also featured in Sunday's Cleveland Plain Dealer. Lastly, member Pamela Maidens presented the Catholic Community Connection and their good work in caring for the caregiver. Great presentations by all!
Please click on the link below to view a thank you letter from Liz Ferro
Thank you Letter from Liz Ferro
October 21, 2010
The second quarterly meeting of 100+ WWC Cleveland - Metro was a great success due to the many caring women who came out to support our group! At this meeting we raised $11,000 for Malachi House of greater Cleveland. Malachi House serves people who are terminally ill, without cost or regard to gender, race, religion or national origin. The home ministers to those in need of a caregiver, who have limited or no financial resources, and are in need of spiritual, emotional, and physical support. Malachi House allows the terminally ill to live out their days as happy and as comfortable as possible. With the help of countless volunteers and donations from organizations in the private sector such as our group, Malachi House, is able to meet the needs and provide a home and comfort for those in our community in their final days.
The other two charities that were presented at the meeting was the Gathering Place, presented by Regina Brett
and St. Agatha-St. Aloysius preschool presented by Katie Holzheimer. The school needs new windows.
July 22, 2010 - Inaugural Meeting
At our inaugural meeting held on July 22, 2010 100+ WWC Cleveland-Metro raised $9,450.00 for the Nurturing Independence Aspirations (NIA) program of the YWCA Greater Cleveland Chapter. The NIA program offers life coaches and classes in life skills, parenting, career development and GED preparation for young women ages 14-24 who are preparing to or who have aged out of foster care. The YWCA is currently building Independence Place, which will have 23 efficiency apartments to house young women who have become homeless after aging out of the foster care system. The funds raised by 100+ WWC Cleveland-Metro will specifically be used to purchase linens, kitchenware and other household items. When a young women moves on to an independent apartment or house she will be able to take these things with her, and then the process repeats.
Also presented at the meeting were two other wonderful charitable organizations serving Cleveland. The First Tee of Cleveland presented by Irene Dooley and the Domestic Violence Center, with an emphasis on elder abuse presented by Carol Dayton.
Presentations done well by all!
Please click on this link below to view a letter of Thanks from Barbara Danforth of the YWCA. If you have any questions about Independence Place, please send a message to Ms. Danforth at [email protected]
Danforth Letter
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