NewsAndEvents

Club connection: Student thrives on work with children (The Telegraph)

Kate Kromann — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 15:19:25 GMT

The Telegraph

March 13, 2010

Neha Sharma helps children at the Boys and Girls Club of Alton with their homework. Sharma is studying psychology at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and plans to graduate in December.

After volunteering for the last year and a half with the Boys and Girls Club of Alton, Neha Sharma finds she misses the children when she's not at the club.

"Being involved with the children's growth and monitoring their progress becomes an all-encompassing process that makes the Boys and Girls Club much more than just a place of work," said Sharma, who is volunteering at the club through Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, courtesy of Americorps.

"It becomes a part of your life."

Since August 2008, Sharma has been coming to the club four days a week to help children with homework and other activities.

"I love working with children," she said. "This is a wonderful organization. It provides lots of opportunities to the children to excel in their lives. We try to encourage the children to just believe in themselves."

Sharma is studying psychology at the university and plans to graduate this December. She then plans to pursue her doctorate degree.

"I hope I can stay connected to the club even after I graduate," she said.

During the school year, Sharma is able to volunteer at the club through Americorps. Last summer, the club hired her as an employee to help with its summer activities for its members.

"Working at the club provides me the unique opportunity to practice and apply practically the knowledge gained in college," she said. "It's heartening to see the results of such applied theories."

"Seeing the results gives me tremendous confidence and a sense of satisfaction that is unmatchable. Resolving issues using my educational concepts also helps me in gaining a stronger foothold in my academics."

This semester, Sharma is working with the club's Smart Girls Program, designed to help girls better understand puberty's physical, psychological and emotional changes.

While volunteering at the club, Sharma has found that working with children is more fun than a typical job, which is why she chose a career in child psychology.

"In the Boys and Girls club, I have found the ideal combination of finding work with pleasure," she said. "If you can find the type of work you like to do, then the work and the time spent at it becomes a pleasure.

"This is also a good practical coaching ground for me to practice and to help me better understand the issues that arise among children and learn the proper ways to handle them."

Boys and Girls Club of Alton is one of 42 agencies funded by the Southwest Illinois Division of the United Way of Greater St. Louis. The club has about 1,000 registered children in its program. The money received from United Way is used for the club's general program and its Camp Blackhawk.

http://www.thetelegraph.com/articles/club-37237-children-sharma.html

On the campaign trail (C3 Magazine)

Kate Kromann — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 21:15:41 GMT

C3 Magazine

January 2010

Read online:

http://www.c3magazine.com/97.74.144.143/united_way.html

http://www.c3magazine.com/97.74.144.143/united_way_2.html

Steve Ippolito to chair United Way's 2010 Retirees' Society

Kate Kromann — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 21:08:01 GMT

Steve Ippolito has been named by United Way of Greater St. Louis as its 2010 Retirees’ Society chair. The Retirees’ Society will encourage and recognize retirees who value the importance of philanthropy and who believe in and support the work and vision of United Way of Greater St. Louis. Last year, the Society raised more than $675,000 toward the United Way campaign total of $67.08 million.

Ippolito retired from a 40-year career with Anheuser-Busch InBev in 2005. He began in 1966 and held various positions from “office boy” to director of finance, Busch Creative Services Corp.

When he first began with Anheuser-Busch, Ippolito became involved with United Way’s (then United Fund) fundraising campaigns.

Ippolito believes “If you have kids in school, be involved with the school. If you belong to a church, be involved in that church and if you work for a company, be involved in that company. Just get involved.”

Whenever he was able to help in community efforts through work, Ippolito was sure to be there in some capacity. One of those efforts included leading Anheuser-Busch’s Days of Caring volunteer events through United Way.

Ippolito continues to be involved today. Currently he is parish council president at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Soulard and executive advisory board chairman for School for Professional Studies at Saint Louis University.

“It’s important to help out and get involved with United Way” said Ippolito. “There are so many good organizations in this community and United Way helps fund nearly 200 of them. I’ve worked with many of these agencies because of United Way and I can’t think of a better way to help a lot of people than through United Way.”

“Steve is one compelling person,” said Orvin Kimbrough, senior vice president of United Way of Greater St. Louis. “The Retirees’ Society is just in its second year. Steve will help bring the Society the time and energy it deserves to help it continue to grow and move forward.”

Debra Hollingsworth returns as United Way's 2010 Women's Society Chair

Kate Kromann — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 16:50:47 GMT

Debra Hollingsworth, vice president external affairs, AT&T-Missouri, returns as the 20010 chair of the United Way of Greater St. Louis'Women’s Leadership Society giving initiative. The Society, which has more than 3,000 members, raised more than $5 million in 2009 for United Way.

Hollingsworth, who also chaired the Society in 2009 has been a member of United Way’s Women’s Society since 2001, a member of the cabinet since 2006, and previously served on one of United Way’s allocations panel.

"Chairing the Women’s Society last year was the highlight of my year,” said Hollingsworth. “I was touched by all the truly amazing women in this community who came together to support United Way and help people. United Way does such important work and excited to be in this role again to support such a wonderful organization that touches so many lives.”

In 2009, more than $33.6 million was effectively invested in 123 of the nearly 200 local United Way agencies that primarily serve women throughout United Way’s 16-county service area.

“Deb brought great energy to the Women’s Society last year and we’re fortunate to have her lead this effort again this year,” said Orvin Kimbrough, senior vice president of United Way of Greater St. Louis. “Deb knows United Way’s importance. Deb has a passion to help people and is willing to take charge and make sure United Way is raising the funds it needs to in order to help as many people in our region as possible.”

Ellen Sherberg, publisher of the St. Louis Business Journal, founded the Women’s Leadership Giving Initiative in 1996 to encourage and recognize women who make leadership gifts of $1,000 or more to United Way of Greater St. Louis.

The Initiative’s “Power of the Purse” theme reflects the reality that women in our community have a strong impact on economic and quality-of-life issues. Each year, more women join the Initiative because they understand The Power of the Purse — and how their power can help others. Since its establishment, the Women’s Leadership Giving Initiative has raised more than $45 million.

To become a member of the 2010 Women’s Leadership Giving Initiative, contact Orvin Kimbrough at (314) 539-4249.

About Debra Hollingsworth

As vice president external affairs, AT&T-Missouri, Debra Hollingsworth manages community relations programs for AT&T and directs public affairs functions for Dave Nichols, president of AT&T-Missouri. Her primary responsibilities are overseeing AT&T Foundation grants and charitable giving programs in Missouri. Since joining the company in 1979, she has held numerous management positions and gained experience in various functions, including marketing, regulatory affairs, network, constituency relations, special services and external affairs.

Her many honors include the 2009 Hellenistic Spirit Athena Award, Zonta Yellow Rose Leadership Award, the 2008 St. Louis YWCA Business Leader of Distinction, the 2008 Missouri Community Colleges Association Distinguished Business/Industry Award, being named one of the 25 Most Influential Business Women in St. Louis in 2004 and in 2008, and being named one of the Most Influential St. Louisans in Business by the St. Louis Business Journal.

Hollingsworth is a graduate of Leadership St. Louis, Greater Missouri Leadership Challenge and serves as chair of the Board of Directors of The OASIS Institute of St. Louis, St. Louis Community College Foundation and vice chair of the St. Louis Minority Business Council. She serves on the Board of Directors of Opera Theatre St. Louis, the University of Missouri-St. Louis Chancellor’s Council, March of Dimes, CharacterPlus, Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, St. Louis Regional Chamber and Growth Association, National Children’s Cancer Society, Girls Incorporated, Regent, Harris Stowe State University, St. Louis Science Center, and the International Institute.

Hollingsworth also leads a bipartisan statewide Mathematics, Engineering, Technology and Science (METS) Coalition focused on improving student achievement and workforce development.

Hollingsworth is a native of Raton, New Mexico. She earned a bachelor’s degree in communications and journalism from West Texas A&M University and a master’s degree from Webster University.

In her personal time, Hollingsworth engages citizens from across the state to support METS initiatives, enjoys traveling with her husband Mark Stacye, and visiting with her two daughters and granddaughters.

United Way names 2010 fundraising campaign chair: Jim Weddle, managing partner of Edward Jones

Kate Kromann — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 15:30:10 GMT

Jim Weddle, managing partner for the St. Louis-based financial services firm Edward Jones, has been named 2010 fundraising campaign chair by United Way of Greater St. Louis. The annual fundraising campaign, which supports nearly 200 local health and human service organizations that help more than 1 million people annually, will officially begin in September.

“Edward Jones is dedicated to personally serving individual investors, so it is only natural we feel a strong commitment to give back to our local community,” Weddle said. “We believe the United Way is the most effective way to support a variety of agencies that directly help so many people. I look forward to chairing this year’s campaign.”

Weddle has served on United Way’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee since 2007. He has also served on the Campaign Cabinet since 2006 and chaired the Alexis de Tocqueville Society giving initiative in 2006. Edward Jones and its associates have supported United Way for more than 40 years.

“It is great to have Jim’s leadership of United Way,” said Gary Dollar, president and CEO of United Way of Greater St. Louis. “Jim understands the importance of helping people by building quality, sustainable lives and being fiscally responsible at the same time. United Way has embraced those values for more than 80 years. Through our volunteers, like Jim, United Way is able to help more than a million people locally.”

In 2009, the United Way of Greater St. Louis campaign was chaired by Hugh Grant, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Monsanto Company. It surpassed its goal by raising more than $67.08 million for the community and its nearly 200 funded agencies, one-time grant opportunities, community initiatives and more. These funds are carefully invested in the community by more than 400 local volunteers.

About Jim Weddle

James D. Weddle, managing partner of Edward Jones, was earning his MBA at Washington University when he was hired in 1976 as a part-time intern in the firm’s Research department. After completing his MBA, Weddle left Research to become a financial advisor in Connersville, Indiana, where he opened the firm’s 200th branch.

In 1984, Weddle was named a partner in the firm and was invited back to St. Louis, where he assumed a series of responsibilities, including one of the firm’s largest areas, Mutual Fund Sales and Marketing. Weddle then became an area partner, responsible for developing the firm’s growth across the entire East Coast and for coordinating the efforts of all four area teams. While he led the East Coast, the firm expanded from 250 offices to more than 1,000.

Weddle assumed responsibility for managing all of the firm’s branch offices in late 1997. His responsibilities included not only the facilities themselves, but also financial advisors’ compensation, financial advisor leadership development and new office acquisition.

In January 2006, Weddle succeeded Douglas E. Hill as Edward Jones’ fifth managing partner.

A native of Illinois and a graduate of DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, Weddle also graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School’s Securities Industry Institute in 1988. He served as a trustee of the institute from 1989 until 1993, and served on the Continuing Education Committee of the Securities Industry Association from 1994 through 1996.

Weddle is on the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) Board of Governors; on the Board of Directors for Webster University Board of Trustees; a member of the University of Missouri–St. Louis Chancellor’s Council; a member of Washington University’s Olin School of Business National Council; and a member of the Board of Commissioners for the St. Louis Science Center.

Community chest: Volunteer helped decide funding for agencies (The Telegraph)

Kate Kromann — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 15:09:30 GMT

The Telegraph

February 27, 2010

For nearly 10 years, Art Williams worked with other volunteers tasked with the decision of how much money United Way agencies should receive each year.

"It's very rewarding to see how the United Way funds are utilized by these organizations," said Williams, who first came to United Way as a volunteer in 1974 when he moved to the area.

Through his position as refinery manager with the Shell Oil Wood River Refinery, the region's largest contributor to the United Way at the time, he served on the Board of Directors with the River Bend United Way, which was the organization's name at the time before merging with United Way of Greater St. Louis.

Williams said he felt it was his responsibility to work with the United Way because many of Shell's employees and their families found themselves involved with United Way agencies. He retired in 1982 but continued to support the organization.

Years later he was asked to serve on a Community Investment Panel. These volunteers visit agencies, review the agency's operations according to the United Way quality standards and provide recommendations to the agency.

"It has permitted me to see the inner workings of these organizations," said Williams, who recently celebrated his 86th birthday with 26 family members who traveled from all over the United States for a surprise party.

He said he has enjoyed his time volunteering with United Way.

"The United Way encourages people to gain a better understanding of the organization and how it truly is an effective way to contribute to a number of agencies," he said.

While Williams has continued to serve on the same panel during this time, he said he has been able to visit and understand many organizations supported by United Way.

"Each of the organizations we visit provides for a special group or service," Williams said. "United Way helps give these organizations an opportunity to be more effective with their funds by eliminating fund-raising costs that they would otherwise incur."

If you are interested in serving on a Community Investment Panel or want more information, contact the Southwest Illinois Division office at (618) 251-0072.

http://www.thetelegraph.com/articles/united-36681-way-williams.html

Gift distributor: Chairman coordinates United Way funding (The Telegraph)

Kate Kromann — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 16:21:06 GMT

The Telegraph

February 13, 2010

Donating to United Way is the best way to invest in one's community.

"A gift to the United Way means you're helping children and adults in a variety of ways," said Kent Scheffel, the 2010 Community Investment chair for the Southwest Illinois Division of the United Way of Greater St. Louis.

"The United Way is unique because it provides help to so many organizations," Scheffel said. "Donations to the United Way help support more than 40 service providers in the region."

As Community Investment chair, Scheffel will oversee the allocations process, which includes 11 volunteer panels. In 2009, $1.96 million was allocated to the 42 agencies supported through the Southwest Illinois Division.

Through the allocations process, volunteers are tasked with reviewing each United Way-funded agency and determining how much money they will receive in the upcoming year.

"The allocations process is always a challenge because the agencies do great work and definitely need more money," Scheffel said. "The visits to the agencies give people a first-hand look at the needs in the region, and you quickly realize how many additional people could be helped if more funding and services were available."

Scheffel, vice president for enrollment at Lewis and Clark Community College in Godfrey, has been involved with the United Way since the early 1990s and first started volunteering on an allocations panel.

"I didn't recognize how much need exists in our region until I became involved with United Way and had the opportunity to visit different organizations and see the number of people they're serving," he said.

"There are times when you feel busy or overworked, and visiting the agencies and seeing the needs that exist quickly puts life into perspective."

In 2005, Scheffel also served as the chairman of the auxiliary Board of Directors for the Southwest Illinois Division. He serves on the division's executive committee and remains on the Board of Directors.

"The best thing about United Way is the fact that it operates primarily through volunteers, which means that donations are used almost entirely to fund services for individuals," he said.

http://www.thetelegraph.com/articles/way-36133-united-scheffel.html

Good News for a Change: St. Louisans among most generous (KMOV)

Kate Kromann — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 13:20:31 GMT

KMOV - CBS Channel 4

February 11, 2010

St. Louis was recently ranked 8th in the country for generosity in online giving. Click the link to watch the video online: http://www.kmov.com/video/featured-videos/Good-News-for-a-Change-St-Louisans-among-most-generous-84197742.html.

Sisters of Oasis: Siblings help women escape domestic abuse

Kate Kromann — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 14:23:12 GMT

The Telegraph

February 11, 2010

For 32 years, two sisters have been doing their part to help women improve their lives and find the courage to make that first step.

Eilene Taylor and Darlene Sackett, both 80, have been donating their time and energy to the Oasis Women's Center since the agency opened in 1978.

"I have always believed very strongly in the equality and in the worth and dignity of all human beings," said Taylor, a retired teacher.

The same year as the agency's opening, Taylor and Sackett marched with the National Organization for Women, or NOW, with 100,000 other women dressed in white in Washington, D.C., to show support for the Equal Rights Amendment.

"NOW and Oasis had the same goal of empowering women," Taylor said.

The women's first experience with Oasis was painting a room at the agency for NOW.

Sackett said she remembered getting a notice at the school where she was teaching about the need for volunteers to help get Oasis started.

The agency, which is in an undisclosed location, serves as a shelter for women and children who wish to leave an abusive situation and have nowhere to go. It is one of 42 agencies funded by the Southwest Illinois Division of the United Way of Greater St. Louis.

Both women first started volunteering together for four hours every Sunday evening, then the two switched to Saturday mornings. The women answer the phone and take care of clients' needs.

For Sackett, volunteering with Oasis gives her a chance to contribute to the community.

"I want to help provide a safe place for battered women and their children, where they can get counseling and supportive services," Sackett said. "Sometimes (these women) just need someone to talk to about their personal problems. I try to be a good listener and offer them encouragement."

Taylor's daughter, who works with the agency's client services program, has been with the organization for 24 years.

"It's rewarding to be a part of this organization and we are both still healthy enough to continue to help," Taylor said.

Sackett and her husband, Byron, also volunteer in the agency's Caravan Shop, a thrift store whose proceeds go back to Oasis.

But after 32 years, both women agreed not much has changed when it comes to women's needs when trying to leave an abusive relationship. In addition to a safe place to stay, they need emotional support and help in planning their future.

"Sadly, the need is still there. No woman should have to live in fear in her own home," Taylor said. "Oasis has had a positive influence on the lives of many women and children during the last 32 years. I'm very proud to even have been a small part of that."

http://www.thetelegraph.com/articles/women-36135-oasis-taylor.html

Happy National 2-1-1 Day! United Way 2-1-1 celebrates with new announcements and more

Kate Kromann — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 14:24:01 GMT

Here's some of the ways we're celebrating...

New St. Louis United Way partnership reaches out to jobless
By Steve Giegerich
St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Read online: http://interact.stltoday.com/blogzone/stl-jobwatch/uncategorized/2010/02/953

TheUnited Way of Greater St. Louishas scheduled a Thursday press briefing to unveil an aspect of its 2-1-1 emergency call center designed to accommodate unemployed workers in need of housing assistance and other services.

Now in its third year, theSt. Louis-based 2-1-1 center provides guidance to callers with questions about obtaining social services, resources for mental and physical health resources and support programs for children, senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

The St. Louis center, with operators on duty 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, has served callers from Missouri (with the exception of the Kansas City area) as well as Metro East. More than 116,000 residents of the service area reached out to the center last year, a 30 percent increase over 2008.

United Way Vice President Cheryl Polk said a good percentage of the callers were unemployed workers unsure of where to turn as pantries ran low and rents, mortgages and utility bills came due.

“A lot of these people were in need of services for the first time,” said Polk.

The United Way will announce Thursday that it has joined forces with theMissouri Association for Community Actionto address the increased demands placed on the 2-1-1 system by double-digit unemployment.

MACA, based inJefferson City, is a comprehensive provider of social, health, employment and educational services.

United Way 2-1-1 open house

United Way’s 2-1-1 help line is hosting an open house at its call center for partner agencies and agencies interested in learning about 2-1-1.

Also attending the open house are state supporters of 2-1-1 including representatives from McCaskill, Carnahan, and Clay offices and Dr. James R. Kimmey, president and chief executive officer of Missouri Foundation for Health.

Available to all Missouri and Southwest Illinois residents, 2-1-1 is the fast, free, confidential way to find or give help line for health and human services and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Websites are also available:www.211missouri.org orwww.211southwestillinois.org.

“I am proud to support this initiative, which helps people get the right information with one call,” said Congressman Russ Carnahan, a cosponsor of legislation that helped establish the 2-1-1 system. “Too often, people struggle to get the information and answers they need about resources available to them. I’d like to thank the United Way and the Missouri Foundation for Health for providing this valuable service to the community.”

2-1-1 also announced a new partnership with the Missouri Association for Community Action. Through this partnership, 2-1-1 is the place for any unemployed Missourian to call to find information and services to help with healthcare, housing and energy, economic and family security, and food and education.

“We wanted to let our government officials and their representatives, funder and agencies know what impact 2-1-1 has had on the region and throughout the state on national 2-1-1 day. Our call volume was up more than 30 percent in 2009. Our specialists handled more than 116,000 calls from people looking for assistance. That is up from just 7,800 before we launched 2-1-1 with support from Missouri Foundation for Health in November 2007,” said Cheryl Polk, executive VP and chief strategy and engagement officer with United Way. “We have found tremendous success by forming new relationships with organizations like MACA. Now, 2-1-1 will connect even more people – many who have never needed assistance before – with the right unemployment services for them. This is beneficial for all aspects of Missouri. With thousands of resources available, singling out those that are most appropriate and needed can be a challenge. By calling 2-1-1, people are able to find resources easier than ever before.”

The 2-1-1 call center is staffed by specialists to assist people with finding the information and services needed for health and human services. If for some reason 2-1-1 does not work, please call 1-800-427-4626 for the same quality service.

Bill Obermark, director of social services with Cardinal Ritter Senior Services, will attest that 2-1-1 is “extremely helpful.”

Obermark has known and worked closely with 2-1-1 from its inception as Cardinal Ritter is a United Way partner agency. “We refer people to 2-1-1 all the time,” Obermark said. “Even when we have resources, we may not have all of them. We also get calls from people looking for something we don’t provide and 2-1-1 is where we refer them. 2-1-1 has been a very valuable service.”

Southwest Illinois 2-1-1 anniversary

Also being celebrated today is United Way’s Southwest Illinois 2-1-1 one-year anniversary.

“The average person makes 14 calls before he or she finds the right service,” said Cheryl Polk, executive VP and chief strategy and engagement officer with United Way. “With United Way’s 2-1-1 find or give help line, that’s no longer the case. As February 11 is known as 2-1-1 day, we want to remind people about 2-1-1, the phone help line they can call at any time of any day to be connected with resources and area agencies specific to their needs.”

More than 8,000 calls were placed to 2-1-1 from people in Southwest Illinois in 2009. Those calls resulted in more than 10,000 requests being handled by 2-1-1 call specialists. More than 4,400 calls were from people wanting referrals for assistance with housing and utilities.

2-1-1 has become an asset to Jon Douglas, independent living advocate with LINC, Inc. LINC serves individuals with disabilities throughout the St. Clair, Monroe and Randolph, IL counties.

“2-1-1 is much quicker and easier to use,” said Douglas. “It’s good because someplace has all the numbers for all things and can provide different options for people. If someone is from a small town, they can call and find out where the next nearest service is. It’s also been a great resource for working with the newly unemployed.”

Douglas often calls 2-1-1 himself. “I call it to help my clients find the services they need. 2-1-1 has helped me find better sources for my clients.”

Overall, United Way’s 2-1-1 help line received more than 116,000 calls in 2009 from Missouri and Southwest Illinois residents.

About United Way 2-1-1

2-1-1 is a fast, free and confidential way to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 2-1-1 call centers operate under national standards and are staffed by trained specialists who quickly assess the callers’ needs and refer them to the help they seek. Information is available on a broad range of services, including food banks, affordable housing, health resources, child care, after-school programs, elderly care, financial literacy, and job training programs. 2-1-1 is offered throughout Missouri by United Way of Greater St. Louis and funding is from Missouri Foundation for Health and United Way of Greater St. Louis.

The 2-1-1 specialists help people find health and human service assistance on everything from food and utilities to free tax help, job counseling services, mortgage assistance, health resources, and more. 2-1-1 offers easy access to community-based organizations and government agencies that provide services such as:

Basic human needs resource: food banks, clothing, shelters
Mental and physical health resources: medical information lines, crisis intervention services, support groups, counseling, drug and alcohol intervention, rehabilitation, Medicaid and Medicare, maternal health, children’s health insurance programs.
Employment support: financial assistance, job training, transportation assistance, education programs, Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) filing assistance.
Support for older adults, people with disabilities: home health care, adult day care, congregate meals, Meals on Wheels, respite care, transportation, homemaker services.
Support for Children, Youth and Families: quality childcare, Success by 6, after school programs, Head Start, family resource centers, summer camps and recreation programs, mentoring, tutoring, protective services.
Volunteer/donor opportunities

In emergency situations, people should still call 9-1-1.

United Way of Greater St. Louis operates Missouri 2-1-1, serving 99 counties and Southwest Illinois 2-1-1, serving the counties of Calhoun, Clinton, Green, Jersey, Macoupin, Madison, Monroe, Randolph and St. Clair.

Vital information: Director gets word out for Senior Services Plus (The Telegraph)

Kate Kromann — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 20:04:39 GMT

The Telegraph

January 30, 2010

By enhancing the lives of the people who come to Senior Services Plus with the many programs and services offered, Shawn Carter hopes her job is making a difference.

"Our programs help to enhance and even save lives," said Carter, who serves as the center's community services director.

"I help people because I am informing them of programs and services that can make a huge impact on their lives or the lives of family members."

Carter, who first came to Senior Services Plus in 2007 as the Faith in Action program coordinator, moved into this position last July.

"I felt like I needed a new challenge," she said. Prior to coming to the center, she worked as a travel agent and at Villa Rose Senior Living Community, counseling older adults who were looking at senior housing.

"I have always enjoyed working with and meeting new people. Many of the people I have had the privilege of meeting and working with at the center have come through great adversity. They inspire me."

As community services director, Carter is responsible for making the community aware of Senior Services Plus' programs and services.

"I also coordinate the extended stay and day trips and oversee special events," she said. "I oversee production and distribution of our newsletter, the SSP Companion, and often give presentations about our services to groups who are interested in learning more about SSP."

More than 600 seniors depend on SSP for Meals on Wheels each day. Some 300 seniors get homemaker services from the center's Community Care Program, which helps them remain in their homes. More than 100 Foster Grandparents are mentors to youths in area schools.

"Our information and assistance counselors spend countless hours with clients who need help to find community resources," Carter said. "We have over 600 people who are utilizing our Wellness Center through exercise classes or use of the fitness equipment.

"We give people hope and help make their lives richer in ways that are immeasurable."

Senior Services Plus Inc. is one of 42 agencies funded by the Southwest Illinois Division of the United Way of Greater St. Louis. United Way funds assist with many of the center's programs, including the Foster Grandparent Program; Community Care Program; congregate meals; Faith in Action; Information and Referrals; Meals on Wheels; program and activities; transportation; and Wellness Center.

http://www.thetelegraph.com/articles/services-35632-community-center.html

Fun and Fundraising (St. Louis Beacon)

Kate Kromann — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 16:42:15 GMT

St. Louis Beacon

January 28, 2010

Letter to the editor: Live the Dream - Live United

What an incredible day Martin Luther King, Jr. Day was with nearly 1,200 people of all backgrounds and ages volunteering through United Way of Greater St. Louis at 20 neighborhood projects. Volunteering on this day was especially important as it honored Dr. King by answering his call to serve others.

Inspired by the life and legacy of Dr. King, Jr., United Way's "Live the Dream -- Live United" is an intergenerational, interfaith, multicultural project to engage volunteers during the year throughout metro St. Louis.

Deemed a day on, not a day off, these volunteers cleaned and painted schools, places of worship and other facilities, did modest weatherization of some homes, beautified neighborhoods and led financial education sessions in neighborhoods mostly in north St. Louis. Afterward, volunteers began a dialogue on many of Dr. King's principles related to improving St. Louis.

Mark your calendars for the next "Live the Dream -- Live United" volunteer and discussion event on Saturday, April 24. In the meantime, if you're interested in becoming involved, please contact United Way's Volunteer Center at 2-1-1, 800-VOLUNTEER or visit the website at www.stl.unitedway.org.

Dr. King said, "Everyone can be great because everyone can serve."

Thanks to all of our volunteers and partners for a tremendous day of giving of yourself to others.

Evan Krauss
Volunteer Center
United Way of Greater St. Louis

http://www.stlbeacon.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=12634&Itemid=72

Help wanted: Groups seek donations for rebuilding Haiti over short and long term (The Beacon)

Kate Kromann — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 14:39:32 GMT

By Elia Powers

The St. Louis Beacon

In the 10 days since a 7.0 earthquake wreaked havoc on Haiti, St. Louis residents have opened their wallets to a range of national relief organizations that have regional branches here. On Friday, representatives from many of those agencies gathered at the United Way of Greater St. Louis to make a plea for continued donations.

After a disaster like the one that hit Haiti, at least half of the money given to support relief efforts typically comes within the first few weeks, said Gary Dollar, president and chief executive officer of the United Way of Greater St. Louis, which supports many of the agencies that provide disaster response.

Added Barry Rosenberg, executive vice president of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis: "Our experience is that attention spans tend to be short. There's a tremendous outpouring at first, but what's important to keep in mind is that this is a long-term reconstruction effort. The needs won't go away quickly."

Thus the call for support as week two of collections comes to an end -- with a bang, courtesy of a telethon hosted by St. Louis' favorite actor of the moment, George Clooney.

While people might consider donating canned food, emergency kits or even their volunteer time, the agency representatives overwhelmingly said that money is what's most needed for the time being.

Dollar said that donations in many cases are being used to pay for supplies that agencies have already bought and begun to distribute to people in Haiti. "The money's not going to sit there unused," he said. "There's such a great need."

In some cases, donations are also going toward long-term recovery efforts. The American Red Cross, for instance, reports than in the first week of the Haiti response effort, it has spent or committed $34 million (about one-fourth of what's been pledged or received nationally). Half of what has been committed or spent is being used to deliver food and water to earthquake survivors, the Red Cross reports. The rest is going toward logistical support, and buying and distributing other supplies.

With so many organizations to choose from, it can be a daunting task to decide where to donate. Dollar offered this advice: "Choose what you are comfortable with and all I would say is make sure [the organization] has a history of disaster relief."

To help sort through who's doing what and who needs what, here's a quick breakdown of the agencies that were represented at the news conference:

AMERICAN RED CROSS, ST. LOUIS CHAPTER

Service provided: First aid, food, water and other basic supplies are now reaching survivors outside the capital city. Responders are treating injuries and performing surgeries. Other efforts include purifying the water supply, providing pre-packaged meals, delivering tents and shelter supplies, and providing blood and blood products for Haitian medical evacuees.

Needs: Financial donations to theAmerican Red Cross International Response Fund.

How to donate:Onlineor by calling 1-800-Red-Cross, or give $10 by texting "HAITI" to 90999.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF ST. LOUIS

Service provided: Through Catholic Relief Services, providing food, medical supplies and other goods.

Needs: Financial donations

How to donate: Catholic Relief Services is accepting donationsonline, over the phone at 1-800-736-3467 or by mail at CRS, P.O. Box 17090, Baltimore, MD 21203-7090.

CHURCH WORLD SERVICE

Service provided: Distributing water, blankets, hygiene and baby carekitsand medicine boxes.

Needs: Financial donations, and hygiene and baby care kits.

How to donate: Call 314-252-3298

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY, ST. LOUIS

Service provided: Locally, $50,000 has been designated to be used toward earthquake response. Projects include clearing the way for home repair and construction, providing shelter kits designed to help families and neighborhoods make immediate repairs to damaged homes, and constructing small transitional shelters.

Needs: Financial donations

How to donate: Text "Habitat" to 25383 to make a $10 donation, which will be added to phone bill or give through Habitat'swebsite.

INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTEOF ST. LOUIS

Service provided: Connects agencies to St. Louis-based Haitians and provides access to resources for Haitians who need language assistance. The Haitian community in St. Louis is fewer than 1,000 people, said Anna Crosslin, president and CEO of the International Institute.

“The first stage was people clearly frantic to find out what the status of their family and friends was overseas," Crosslin said. "My sense is that most of them have located (family and friends) or know what their status is. Families are coming in now, it’s been a week and their families haven’t found food or water. The trauma is clearly there. We can try to help them get to the right kind of agencies in the community that are working overseas as first responders.”

JEWISH FEDERATION OF ST. LOUIS

Service provided: Funds given to a partner agency, theAmerican Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, to provide aid, relief and reconstruction. The JDC leads theJewish Coalition for Disaster Relief, which works with the Israeli government and Israel non-governmental organizations to assistance, including a mobile field hospital.

Needs: Financial donations

How to donate: Donations to theHaiti Emergency Relief Fundgo to the international relief efforts.

LUTHERAN CHURCH - MISSOURI SYNOD - WORLD RELIEF AND HUMAN CARE

Service provided: Working to assist a partner church, the Lutheran Church of Haiti, in helping victims, by sending emergency medical teams and providing water, food and medical supplies. The church is providing pastoral support and care for clergy and professional church workers in Haiti. Help is also being given to injured Haitian refugees in the Dominican Republican.

Needs: Financial donations that pay for purchase and shipments of emergency supplies; individuals who want to volunteer can learn morehereandhere.

How to donate:Online.

PRESBYTERIAN DISASTER ASSISTANCE

Service provided: Working through the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A) to provide emergency food, water, shelter, medical supplies, personnel and spiritual counseling to Haitians. Legal services and application funds are available for people who are seeking temporary protective status.

The Rev. Dr. Paul T. Reiter, executive presbyter of Presbyterian Giddings-Lovejoy and a member of the national response team of the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, said that one family he knows reports that it lost 28 family members in the earthquake.

Needs: Financial support and health, baby and hygiene kits

How to donate:Information on kitscan be found here. Gifts can be made by calling (800) 872-3283 or sending checks to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, P.O. Box 643700, Pittsburgh, PA 15264-3700

THE SALVATION ARMY

Service provided: The St. Louis chapter is raising funds and has sent three staff members to aid disaster victims. Relief efforts focus on distributing meals kits to families in Port-Au-Prince, serving water to survivors and assisting people who are temporary living on a soccer field behind the Salvation Army compound in Haiti. Nationally, focus is on administering medical aid, and delivering supplies and meals.

Needs: Financial donations

How to donate: Text "HAITI" to 52000 to donate $10 to the Salvation Army's relief efforts; or visit thewebsite; or mail check to the Salvation Army Midland Division, Haiti Earthquake Relief Fund, P.O. Box 21787, St. Louis, MO 63109-0787; or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY.

UNITED METHODIST COMMITTEE ON RELIEF

Service provided: Sending donations through theUnited Methodist Committee on Relief. CollectingFestival of Sharinghealth kits, medicine boxes and clothing for children, to be picked up Feb. 2 at locations across the region.

Needs: Financial donations for kits

How to donate: Visitwebsitefor more information

UNITED WAY 2-1-1

Service provided: 24-hour call center fields inquiries about Haiti -- specifically how local residents can help and how help can be obtained. Information is available about health resources, elderly care, job training programs and more.

Needs: Financial support

How to donate: For disbursement to other agencies, send checks to United Way of Greater St. Louis - Haiti Relief, 910 N. 11th St., St. Louis, MO 63101

http://www.stlbeacon.org/content/view/14413/482/

Charities challenge St. Louisans to aid Haitians after quake (St. Louis Post-Dispatch)

Kate Kromann — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 20:14:19 GMT

By Tim O'Neil

St. Louis Post-Dispatch

January 22, 2010

Representatives of 10 major local charities gathered today to seek more donations for relief services in Haiti and to remind people that assistanc will be needed for many months, if not years.

They met at the downtown headquarters of the United Way of Greater St. Louis. Most of the agencies need cash donations, calling money the most efficient way to help the many efforts underway in the devastated country.

They challenged St. Louisians to pick their favorite charity and help.

"We are not in competition," said Maj. Randall Polsley, general secretary for the Salvation Army in St. Louis. "We can’t all go to Haiti, but we can make a gift and pray. And when (the agencies) pool our resources, great things can happen."

Gary Dollar, United Way president, said the 10 agencies present aren’t the only ones funneling money and help from St. Louis to the people of Haiti.

"The best thing you can go is respond with money," Dollar said. "There is a great need for money to support the services that are underway right now."

Present today, along with their suggestions for help, were:

-- American Red Cross St. Louis Chapter. Donate money through 1-800-RED CROSS (733-2767),www.redcross.org, or text "HAITI" to 90999 to donate $10.

-- Catholic Charities of St. Louis, on behalf of Catholic Relief Services nationwide. Donate money through 1-800-736-3467,www.crs.org, or mail to CRS, P.O. Box 17090, Baltimore, Md., 21203-7090.

-- Church World Service. Donate money or hygiene kits through 314-252-3298. (Call or go towww.churchworldservice.orgto learn details of kits.)

-- Habitat for Humanity. Donate money throughwww.habitat.orgor text "Habitat" to 25383 to donate $10.

-- International Institute of St. Louis, which is assisting an estimated 1,000 Haitians living in the St. Louis area. Donate through 314-773-9090 orwww.iistl.org.

-- Jewish Federation of St. Louis, on behalf of American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee. Donate money throughwww.jewishinstlouis.org/Haiti.

-- Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, on behalf of LCMS World Relief and Human Care. Donate money through 1-888-THE-LCMS (843-5267) orwww.lcms.org.

-- Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. Donate money or hygiene and baby kits through 1-800-872-3283 or mail to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, P.O. Box 643700, Pittsburgh, Pa. 15264-3700. (Call or go towww.pcusa.org/pda to learn details of kits.)

-- The Salvation Army. To donate, call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769),www.salvationarmyusa.org, text HAITI to 52000 to donate $10, or mail to Salvation Army Midland Division, Haiti Earthquake Relief Fund, P.O. Box 21787, St. Louis, Mo., 63109-0787.

-- United Way of Greater St. Louis. Mail to United Way of Greater St. Louis, Haiti Relief, 910 North 11th Street, St. Louis, 63101.

http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/stories.nsf/stlouiscitycounty/story/5EC79FC9F2C574C0862576B3006808A2?OpenDocument

Center stage: CEO finds day care work rewarding (The Telegraph)

Kate Kromann — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 16:19:53 GMT

The Telegraph

January 16, 2010

For Keith Neuber, his position at Alton Day Care and Learning Center is just like a hobby that gives him perspective in his life.

"You cannot control the circumstances of your life, but you always get a chance at how you look at them," said Neuber, who has served as the chief executive officer for the day care since May 1998. "I learned a long time ago that life is all about perspective."

Neuber came to the day care after serving as a consultant to the center for three years, assisting them with an enhancement grant to help improve the quality of services.

His intention was to stay at the center as CEO for three years.

"Well, 11 years later, I'm still here," Neuber said.

About 130 children are enrolled at the center, which has services for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years.

While the day-to-day operations are handled by the center's assistant director, Betty Wesbrook, and Millie Turner, who is the center's data manager, Neuber said his role is more about making sure the wheels keep moving and the center stays afloat.

Neuber's job is professional training and consulting through his business, I.K.A.N. Presentations, which takes him all over the country.

"My most-requested motivational lecture is titled 'If You're Not Having Fun, You're Doing it Wrong,'" he said.

He said a majority of his presentations are regarding safety training in the cement and coal industry.

"Safety is really an attitude, not just a procedure," Neuber said. "It has more to do with developing a safety attitude."

At the day care, Neuber switches gears and deals more with issues regarding state funding, grant writing and overseeing the center's operations.

"What is great about the children here is regardless of what you do, you are always special to them," he said.

"I enjoy children, but the people in this industry are a special group because they do something that most people could not do - being around children day in and day out."

Neuber said one of the hardest things to recognize about working for a day care is the incredible impacts on children that often are never seen.

"You've created the future by what you've done and most of the time, we never know it. Only those who stay around long enough actually get to see those impacts and the differences they made," Neuber said. "I think that's why we show up every day for too little money and against the odds because we do make a difference."

Alton Day Care and Learning Center is one of 42 agencies funded by the Southwest Illinois Division of the United Way of Greater St. Louis. The funds are used for the day care's scholarship program, which helps families become more self-reliant.

http://www.thetelegraph.com/articles/day-35056-neuber-center.html