BEYOND BASIC VOLUNTEERS
Volunteers are often the lifeblood of nonprofit organizations, but matching the right volunteers and their talents with the right tasks can prove crucial to nonprofits’ success.
Nonprofits have always sought extra hands to help them carry out their missions, especially with tasks that almost anyone could do. However, as demand for services increases and resources are increasingly stretched, charitable organizations may wish to tap into their networks of trained professionals to go beyond what paid staff can accomplish. Skills-based volunteerism draws on the skills, experience, talents and education of volunteers and matches them with the needs of nonprofits, according to the Corporation for National and Community Service. The term and intentional strategy may be a fairly recent development in the nonprofit world. However, the concept has been around for a while.
By leveraging the skills, knowledge and expertise of volunteers, nonprofits can expand their capacity to achieve their mission.
“Really smart directors and CEOs have been doing it a long time,” said Shannon Preston, CEO of the Alabama Association of Nonprofits. “It is typically in the boards or committees where we see it.” For example, marketing committees may oversee public relations and communications services for nonprofits. “They won’t really have the budget to hire that expertise or have it in house,” Preston said. In addition, she also sees web design, IT and technology, and human resources provided through volunteerism.
By leveraging the skills, knowledge and expertise of volunteers, nonprofits can expand their capacity to achieve their mission. In one scenario, individuals contribute their skills to perform a specific function for the nonprofit. In another, a corporation or professional organization takes on a project for the nonprofit and assumes responsibility for its development and management. “One side of that is a corporate decision, a company decision to give back,” Preston said. In the other, nonprofits are “looking for volunteers who have specific skills.”
By considering this concept, leaders can give thought to a different approach to fundraising and stretching budgets, especially in times when giving is down. “When the economy starts to make a turn, we will see that trend in donated dollars,” Preston said. In some cases, needs are increasing as budgets are shrinking. “If we can budget some donated skills in there, it’s a great idea.”
IDEAS INTO ACTION
The River Region United Way is an example of an organization with a successful history of tapping into the services of skills-based volunteers. Brenda Robertson Dennis is Vice President Of Resource Development and through her role works with about 50 volunteers, including executives loaned to United Way by their employers. These professionals assist the 380 workplaces in the River Region conducting internal campaigns to encourage employees to give to the United Way. “Each company has their own campaign kickoff, their own timeframe. We give time to each of these companies,” Dennis said.
The United Way benefits from the support of loaned executives in conducting an effort that would be too large to manage with agency staff alone. In turn, during approximately 15 hours of time donated from August to December, the loaned executives gain experience. “(The employer) will use our program to provide professional development in their organization,” Dennis said.
Ann Cooper, Vice President Of Community Impact at the River Region United Way, works with 360 volunteers each year in her role. Among these, the Community Impact Council is made up of 20 members – mostly professionals from businesses in the River Region – who conduct an annual needs assessment. “These community needs assessments help us know whether or not we’re funding the right thing,” Cooper said. “We consider ourselves problem solvers, not fundraisers.” Accordingly, the needs assessment can help identify the problems that allocations can be directed to solve.
Another volunteer group, the allocations team, is made up of 24 bankers and CPAs. “They vet the organizations that apply for these donations,” Cooper said.
By reviewing applications, financial forms and budgets in the fall, the allocations team works to determine if the organizations are healthy. Then, from January to April, the team conducts one-on-one interviews with the directors of the agencies. “I couldn’t do it without them,” Cooper said.
One of the most important things when working with volunteers is being mindful of their time, Cooper noted. “Because they’re professionals, they’re in demand at their work.” When scheduling meetings, she said, “If I tell them we’re going to get out in an hour, we’re going to get out in an hour.” Also, welcome their input. “If they have ideas, I want to hear them,” Cooper said. “Give them an opportunity to give you feedback.”
The United Way Benefits from the support of loaned executives in conducting an effort that would be too large to manage with agency staff.
Dennis added that it’s important to remember that volunteers are not employees. “Be very clear in your expectations upfront,” she said. Part of that is respecting the word no. “Our role is really heavy. You want to be clear right up front, and be clear if the answer is no.” It may turn out that the volunteer is not in the right role and could be a better fit somewhere else.
BIG GIVE BY THE NUMBERS
We asked some of the River Region’s nonprofits to share the statistics outlining their impact. Added all together, the numbers clearly show that serving community counts.
In one year:
- Number of people served: 311,250
- Number of volunteers: 9,423
- Volunteer hours: 274,800
- Number of employees: 529
The information in “By the Numbers” is approximate and reflects the following nonprofits: Triumph Services, Central Alabama Aging Consortium, Health Services, Inc., COSA, MACOA, The Learning Tree, Salvation Army, Friendship Mission, The Wellness Coalition, River Region United Way, Brantwood Children’s Home, Service Dogs of Alabama, Faith Radio, Rotary Club, Hope Inspired Ministries, CLAS, Baptist Foundation, Kiwanis Child Protect, Children’s Advocacy Center, The Cancer Wellness Foundation, That’s My Child, and The Alabama Kidney Foundation
DOING GOOD: INTRODUCING RIVER REGION NONPROFIT LEADERS
Wellness Coalition Ghandi Daniels
Ghandi Daniels has been with TWC for 17 years, first as a Case Manager, and served for years as the Wellness Programs Coordinator before being named as the Executive Director in 2020. She earned her Bachelor’s in Social Work at Alabama State University (2001) and Master’s in Social Work at Troy University Montgomery (2019). She enjoys being an active member of her community by serving on community boards and being involved in community activities surrounding wellness.
That's My Child Charles Lee
Charles Lee is a local business owner, community activist, motivational speaker, husband to his beautiful wife Mohana Lee of 19 years with whom he has three beautiful children. Lee is dedicated to be the change he wants to see in Montgomery. Growing up in the rough, gang-riddled streets of Chicago inspired Lee to donate his time and effort to create a family-like support system and a “way out” for less fortunate youth. This led to the creation of That’s My Child, which was founded in 2012. Lee is also the founder of That’s My Dog Jr., which is the first ever restaurant operated by teenagers only.
CLAS Vic Wilson, Ed.D.
Vic Wilson is the Executive Director of the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools. He joined the CLAS staff in July of 2017. He has 28 years in public education as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, superintendent and now as the Executive Director of CLAS. Wilson is married to Felecia Dailey Wilson, and they have three children. Aside from spending time with his family, he loves reading, sports and the arts.
RR United Way Ron Simmons
Ron Simmons, IOM, joined River Region United Way as president and chief executive officer in July 2020. A native of Montgomery, Simmons is a 1983 graduate of Sidney Lanier High School. As a graduate of Auburn University at Montgomery, he received a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts with an emphasis in Marketing and Military Science. Simmons was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserves from the AUM ROTC program in 1987. Simmons joined United Way after serving 10 years with the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, most recently as the Vice President of Sales for the Destination Montgomery Convention and Visitor Bureau.
Child Protect Jannah Morgan Bailey
A Montgomery native, Jannah Morgan Bailey has been the executive director of Child Protect, Children’s Advocacy Center since April 2001. In her position, she is responsible for overseeing the day to day management of the agency, public speaking and awareness, fundraising and forensic interviewing of alleged child abuse victims. In 2019, Bailey was elected to the Montgomery Public School Board District 5. She is also an active member of the Montgomery Sunrise Rotary Club, and a graduate of Leadership Montgomery and Leadership Alabama. In 2018, she received the Leading Lady Award for Professional and Community Service from the Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama.
COSA Shereda Finch
Shereda Finch has served as the Executive Director at the Council on Substance Abuse since 2013. Under her leadership, the organization has expanded alcohol and substance abuse prevention and recovery support services in various counties across the state.
Faith Radio Billy Irvin
As Director of Ministry Relations, Irvin is responsible for developing the ministry of Faith Radio through prayer, fundraising, speaking and emceeing at public events, while also making personal visits to churches and individuals throughout the community. While leading Faith Radio in over $800,000 in annual gifts, Irwin participates in the on-air team, regularly sharing stories of God’s faithfulness. He also leads the station’s social media communications, which touch thousands of people each day. Irwin is also involved in many community organizations, serving as President of the YMCA Hitchcock Memorial Award, as well as Board member of the Kiwanis Club of Montgomery and Montgomery Medical Outreach Ministries.
Triumph Services Beth Zaiontz
Beth Zaiontz has been Executive Director since January 2019. She graduated from Auburn University in Montgomery with a B.S. in business and The University of Alabama at Birmingham with a master’s in business administration. Prior to working in the nonprofit sector, she worked for Protective Life Corporation, where she had many roles. Zaiontz has a personal passion and understanding for those with developmental disabilities due to her daughter facing these challenges daily. She has also been very active supporting nonprofits across Alabama.
Central Alabama Aging Consortium Susan Segrest
Susan Segrest has worked with the Central Alabama Aging Consortium since November 1994 and is a certified Ombudsman and State Health Insurance Assistance Program Counselor. She has been Executive Director since June 2014. She is a recipient of the State of Alabama Senior Citizens Hall of Fame Golden Eagle Award and currently serves on the Board of the Southeastern Association of Area Agencies on Aging. She is also a charter member of the Alabama Council for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and chairs the Community and Professional Outreach Committee. Segrest was appointed to the Alabama WINGS (Working Interdisciplinary Networks of Guardianship Stakeholders) task force by Chief Justice Lyn Stuart and continues to work with the group to improve the state’s guardianship system, avoid unnecessary guardianships and to prevent and address elder abuse.
Health Services, Inc. Gilbert F. Darrington
Gilbert F. Darrington is a native of Montgomery and holds a M.A. degree in human resources development, B.S. in occupational education, B.S.O.E. in Business Administration/ Healthcare Administration, A.A. in General Studies and an LPN certification. After retiring from 20 years of service in the U.S. Army, Darrington returned to Montgomery, where he worked at Jackson Hospital for 10 years as Director of Human Resources. He became Chief Executive Officer of Health Services, Inc. in October 2015. As the CEO of Health Services Inc., he continues to work closely with healthcare providers, legislators, elected officials and other community partners to provide residents of central Alabama greater access to quality health care.
The Ivy Foundation Dawn Ellis-Murray
Dawn Ellis-Murray is Chairman of The Ivy Foundation of Montgomery, Inc. She is also Executive Director of the National Association of Social Workers Alabama Chapter and a practicing Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker within Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System. She is a Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Beta Nu Omega Chapter, and is engaged in supporting development of young adults for personal and professional achievement. Through The Ivy Foundation, Ellis-Murray has been charged with leading distinguished Alpha Kappa Alpha women who serve on its volunteer Board of Directors to positively impact quality of life for deserving individuals and families throughout Montgomery and the River Region.
Hospital Foundation Patrick N. Wood
A lifelong Montgomery resident, Wood graduated from Huntingdon College in 1988 with a B.A. in Finance while also playing on the golf team. He earned individual All-American status in ’85 and was a member of the three (’85-’87) national championship golf teams. Upon graduation, he spent 1988-1991 playing professional golf. In January 1992, he joined the Jackson Hospital Foundation. Throughout the past 28 years, he has held several positions at the Foundation and was named President in July 2018. During that time, several initiatives have been created to generate millions in philanthropic dollars, most notably the Touchstone Society, Corporate Partners, Scholarship programs and the Healing Arts Collection.
The Learning Tree Dr. Marc Williams
Dr. Marc Williams, Ph.D., BCBA-D has worked for The Learning Tree for more than 15 years and has been the Executive Director since 2011. Williams received his bachelor’s and master’s of arts degrees in psychology from Auburn University. He received his Ph.D. in psychology from Auburn University in 1998 and is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Williams is an active member of the Alabama Association for Behavior Analysis and the Tallassee, Alabama, Rotary Club.
Brantwood Children’s Home Gerald Jones
An Opp, Alabama, native, Gerald Jones graduated Cum Laude with a B.S. in Criminal Justice from Alabama State University. He started his career with Brantwood in June 1994 as a Childcare Worker, working directly with the youth. In 1999, he was voted Childcare Worker of the Year for the State of Alabama. He was promoted to House Parent Supervisor in 2000. In 2009, he was promoted to Youth Service Director. He has served as Executive Director since 2015.
Cancer Wellness Foundation Carol Gunter
Before joining the Cancer Wellness Foundation as Executive Director in January 2020, Carol Gunter retired from the City of Montgomery after 22 years. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in corporate sales, marketing, event management, and, most importantly community involvement and outreach. She’s also active with the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce and the business community.
Baptist Health Care Foundation Tommy McKinnon
With 25 years of experience in strategic marketing, public relations and communications, McKinnon serves as the Vice President of External Affairs for Baptist Health and the Executive Director of the Baptist Health Care Foundation. He oversees the establishment of integrated strategies, plans and programs designed to ensure that all advancement, communication, marketing and public relations efforts are cohesive, consistent and effective in supporting Baptist Health’s mission and goals. He believes in giving back to the community through past and present service on several local and regional boards, including Centerpoint Fellowship Church, Medical Outreach Ministries, the Wellness Coalition, Girl Scouts of Alabama, YMCA Camp Chandler Board and Junior League Advisory Board.
Service Dogs Alabama Frances McGowin, MA
Frances McGowin, MA, is Co-Founder and CEO/ Executive Director of Service Dogs Alabama. She lived in New York City and worked with Ralph Lauren in New York from 1978-1982. In 1982, she moved to Atlanta to work as a Marketing and Sales Associate with Conde Naste fashion publications. After returning to Alabama in 1997, she worked with the Alabama Department of Youth Services, Tutwiler and Kilby prisons, the Alabama Department of Human Resources, and the Alabama Department of Postsecondary Education to develop therapeutic and educational programs for atrisk and incarcerated youth, children with special needs, Foster Care children, and incarcerated adults. McGowin founded the Dogs On Call Therapy Dog program in 2008, where she met Ashley Taylor. The two co-founded Service Dogs Alabama in 2010. McGowin is an avid animal lover and has trained dogs and horses most of her life; she is also an artist and writer.
MACOA Donna Marietta
MACOA Executive Director Donna Marietta has more than 30 years of experience managing nonprofit organizations in Montgomery and Daytona Beach, Florida. Since coming to MACOA in 2012, Marietta has brought financial stability and a business approach to the organization as well as raised revenue through fundraising and fund development. She has been responsible for driving and inspiring passion for the organization with increased programs to accomplish the organization’s important mission. While in Daytona Beach, she was the CEO of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Volusia & Flagler Counties and then the CEO of the North Coastal Division of the Children’s Home Society.
Hope Inspired Ministries John Bowman
John Bowman was named Executive Director of Hope\ Inspired Ministries in January 2020. He was born and raised in Montgomery and graduated from Carver High School in 1992. He joined the Montgomery Police Department in 1994 to serve the citizens of Montgomery. He served in many capacities including patrolman, detective and Chief of Staff. While a member of the Montgomery Police Department, he faithfully served as a volunteer with Hope Inspired Ministries, mentoring many male students through the program and beyond. He also served on the Board of One Place Family Justice Center and River Region Chaplain Service.
Friendship Mission Tara Johnson Davis
In 2018, Tara Davis became the Executive Director of Friendship Mission. She has been an advocate for the rights and needs of victims of domestic violence, severely abused and neglected children, those suffering from and living with HIV/AIDS and those who have been underserved in various capacities. Previous roles include assisting underserved landowners as State Outreach Director for the Alabama Forestry Commission and being a voice for abused children as State Director for the Alabama Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers.
Alabama Kidney Foundation David Reeves
David Reeves joined the Alabama Kidney Foundation (AKF) in 2018 after 30 years of working with the YMCA in Tennessee, Louisiana, Mississippi, Georgia and Texas. Having worked for the largest nonprofit organization in the nation, he has successfully operated budgets up to $8 million, established effective programs and initiatives, and created and implemented strategic business plans for several YMCA organizations. Before beginning his 30 years serving the YMCA, he lived in Guam for a year working for the DOD.
Salvation Army Lieutenants Bryan and Tonya Farrington
Both were ordained as ministers of the gospel and as Salvation Army officers in June 2016. Their first two years were spent in Birmingham, and they are currently in their third year serving as the Corps Officers of The Salvation Army in Montgomery. God’s call to serve in ministry has been forefront in both of their lives, and as Salvation Army officers, the Lieutenants Farrington seek to make radical followers of Jesus Christ, who love inclusively, serve helpfully,and disciple effectively in the communities where they live.
FUN FUNDRAISING
In 1954, The Kiwanis Club of Montgomery began its annual fundraiser by founding the Alabama National Fair. Each Kiwanian is required to work four shifts at the ANF, and Kiwanians and their spouses provide more than 5,000 hours of service each year at the Fair. Over the last 65 years, the Kiwanis Club, through its Kiwanis Club of Montgomery Foundation, has given almost $9 million to local charitable organizations. As part of its 100th Anniversary in October 2019, the Kiwanis Club of Montgomery gave the Montgomery Zoo $100,000 for a new train.
FEEDING THE NEED
In FY2019, MACOA served 834 clients for Meals on Wheels and the Frozen Meals program by providing 125,139 meals. Its Retired and Senior Volunteer program has 1,259 active volunteers providing 144,713 volunteers hours with a value of $3.4 million in services.
KEEP GOING GOOD
Almost all nonprofits depend on support from businesses and individuals in the community to provide their important services and fulfill their missions. We asked a group of area nonprofits how their funding was faring due to the COVID-19 economic downturn. Of those we asked:
- 24% reported donation were about the same
- 23% reported donations were up
- 53% reported donations were down
RIVER REGION UNITED WAY
Mission: The mission of River Region United Way is to improve lives and strengthen our communities by identifying needs and solving critical problems.
Background: For 97 years, River Region United Way has been “Making Life Better for Everyone.” United Way fights for the health, education, financial stability and basic needs of every person in every community. We battle for all of our neighbors across the River Region – in Autauga, Elmore, Lowndes, Macon and Montgomery counties.
United Way is committed to solving our communities’ most critical problems as we bring together diverse groups of volunteers, donors and community partners. We strive to be an innovative driver of community dialogue by engaging our communities through partnerships and collaboration. RRUW identifies community needs and finds the resources needed to address them. Every year, River Region United Way directly impacts the lives of nearly 130,000 people in our communities (1 out of 3 people).
Leadership:
- Ron Simmons, IOM, President and CEO
- Dr. W. Rhea Ingram, Chair of the Board of Directors
- Bonnie Evans, Community Impact Council Chair
- Mike Hart, 2019-20 Campaign Chair
- Drew Moore, Allocations Committee Chair
CANCER WELNESS FOUNBDATION OF CENTRAL ALABAMA
Mission: The Cancer Wellness Foundation provides supportive services, educational services and assistance to cancer patients in 30 counties throughout central Alabama, including those patients who lack the resources necessary to otherwise receive comprehensive healthcare.
Background: The CWF was founded in 1997 by three oncologists who saw a need for support of cancer patients and their families once they received a cancer diagnosis and the need for funds to directly support the patient.
How We Help: The foundation serves patients with compassion while providing financial assistance to obtain transportation or providing gas vouchers to and from chemotherapy and radiation treatments; obtaining prescription medications for free or at a low cost; giving Chemo Comfort Care bags to all new patients; and advocating on behalf of patients while they negotiate insurance issues and government programs such as Social Security, disability, Medicaid and others.
Brag Lines: The CWF is like no other organization. We are not involved in testing or research. We are dedicated to providing direct patient support once a diagnosis has been made. In 2019, through the patient advocacy program, the foundation provided $15.8 million of medication assistance, 5,500 (unique) rides for patients without transportation to their treatments, more than $80,000 in gas vouchers and almost 900 Chemo Comfort Care Bags. We are a small nonprofit with a limited budget, but we are thankful for the donations and grants and for our business partners and community support that allow us to assist those cancer patients who need our help.
Upcoming Events:
- October - Beat the Odds Virtual Drawdown and Silent Auction
- December - Holidays of Hope
HOW TO GIVE: Wishlist: Chemo Comfort Care Bags (thermometers, tissues, hand sanitizer, crossword puzzles, hard candy, socks, blankets, pill boxes, small lotions, lip balm) gently used wigs, cases of Ensure or Boost and monetary donations.
THE JACKSON HOSPITAL FOUNDATION, INC.
Mission: The Jackson Hospital Foundation, Inc. is organized to serve as an instrument to assist, advance and strengthen Jackson Hospital in its ministry of healing; in its service as a health center for its community; in its provision of the best education possible for students in the various health fields; and in all related health and humanitarian endeavors.
Brag Lines: Jackson Hospital recently celebrated 20 years of providing cardiac surgery in the River Region with a $1.1 million recent addition of four post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) recovery bays, which will give the hospital more flexibility to utilize its six CVICU patient rooms for additional open heart volume. This four-bed unit will provide better continuity of care and careful monitoring of these critical patients.
Upcoming Events:
- September: Montgomery 5K Mustache Run
- October 30: Blasting Through P.A.D. Sporting Clay Shoot
- May 6, 2021: Midtown Gets White Haute at Wynlakes
SERVICE DOGS ALABAMA
Mission: Service Dogs Alabama (SDA) is dedicated to providing fully trained medical and psychological assistance dogs to children, adults and veterans with disabilities, as well as Facility Intervention Dogs in Alabama schools and youth facilities.
Background: The organization dates back to 2010 when Frances McGowin and Ashley Taylor founded the K-9s 4 Kids Service Dog training program. Due to the overwhelming demand for service dogs, the program quickly grew into Alabama’s largest nonprofit specialized dog training organization focused on children and veterans with a broad range of disabilities.
Brag Lines: We have many powerful testimonials from recipients of SDA dogs.
- “Emma (service dog) held the key to unlock the imprisoning power of autism where Gaige was hidden. In the process, she gave us our son back.” – Gaige’s father
- “I had given up hope until I received Toby (service dog). Toby changed everything.” Sgt. Wilson (ret.)
CHILD PROTECT
Mission: The mission of Child Protect is to interview, counsel and be an advocate for children when there are allegations of abuse.
Brag Lines: In spite of the COVID-19 challenges, Child Protect continued serving the child abuse victims in Montgomery. To ensure the children continued with their counseling sessions, Child Protect received a grant from the Central Alabama Community Foundation and the River Region United Way to support the cost of the Zoom video conference program. The transition was seamless and has been vital for the healing process of the children.
April is Child Abuse Awareness Month, and usually, Child Protect holds its annual special event, Barrel of Blues. The agency had to cancel the event, which meant a loss of income of approximately $40,000. With the support of the community, Child Protect raffled off a bottle of 20 Year Double Eagle Very Rare bourbon, and the agency raised $38,450! The lucky winner, Chuck James, took home the big prize. We are grateful for the event sponsors (Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, Auburn University at Montgomery, River Bank & Trust, United Heating & Air, MAX Wealth Management, Jackson Thornton, WSFA-TV, County Commissioner Doug Singleton, Kendall & Samarria Dunson) whose support is helping Child Protect fulfill its mission in these most uncertain times.
Child Protect also partnered with Montgomery Public Schools, the YMCA and Mercy House to provide snacks and information to the children, since they were homebound.
Upcoming Events (in person or virtual):
- October 24 - Harvest Jam with The Shoppes at East Chase
- November 6 - Swingin’ Fore Kids Golf Tournament at RTJ Capitol Hill
HOW TO GIVE: Financial donations of any size help Child Protect with the dayto- day operation, but in addition, the agency needs: Clorox wipes, Lysol, toilet paper, paper towels, individually packaged snacks, bottled water, juice boxes, coffee K-Cups, new stuffed animals, crayons and coloring books
THE COUNCIL ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE
Mission: COSA’s mission is to reduce the incidence and prevalence of the disease of alcoholism, other drug addiction diseases, and related problems.
Background: The COUNCIL ON SUBSTANCE ABUSE (COSA) is a 501 (c)(3) private non-profit organization founded in 1973 to promote the understanding that alcoholism and other drug dependence are preventable and treatable diseases. As a member of the Community Anti-Drug Coalition of America (CADCA), COSA’s programs and services are designed to:
- Prevent or delay the onset of substance use disorders and related behavioral health issues.
- Educate and inform the public on substance use disorders and related behavioral health issues.
- Encourage and support proper diagnosis, appropriate treatment and long-term recovery for individuals with substance use disorders and their families.
Upcoming Events:
- September is Recovery Month. Find details on our website.
Contact Us: 334-262-1629 / cosancadd.org
HOW TO GIVE: Cash donations to purchase face masks and printing costs for prevention and recovery tool kits, Gift cards, Van to transport members
THE BAPTIST HEALTH CARE FOUNDATION
Mission: The Baptist Health Care Foundation develops resources that support Baptist Health’s ministry in providing the best quality healthcare services and programs to the people of Central Alabama.
Background: Since 1972, the Baptist Health Care Foundation has assisted Baptist Health in providing comprehensive healthcare for the citizens of Central Alabama. Gifts received have also touched lives in other meaningful ways including scholarships, hospice care, employee emergency benevolence and more.
Impact: The role of our caregivers and all those who make our essential services possible has never been more crucial. The Baptist Health Care Foundation has seen the tremendous support of our communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Baptist Health Team Member Assistance Fund provides immediate financial support for our employees experiencing unexpected challenges. Our team members are working tirelessly to keep our communities safe and serve the most vulnerable during this public health outbreak. We are honored to create a means for our community to show appreciation for the work our healthcare heroes commit to each day. This is an opportunity to honor healthcare professionals who are on the front lines supporting the health and wellbeing of our communities.
Brag Lines: As a part of an ongoing effort in 2020 the Baptist Health Care Foundation has assisted more than 250 healthcare workers with basic needs totaling more than $270,000.
Contact Us: 334-747-4567 / baptistfoundation.org
HOW TO GIVE: Your gracious support and donations during this time of need will go toward supporting our healthcare heroes as they tirelessly care for our community.
MONTGOMERY AREA COUNCIL ON AGING
Mission: The Montgomery Area Council on Aging (MACOA) assists senior citizens by providing services to promote independent living, offering opportunities to enhance quality of life, and increasing awareness of senior issues.
Background: MACOA is Montgomery’s only nonprofit dedicated solely to serving seniors. Meals On Wheels is MACOA’s flagship program, and it meets the growing need to serve food insecure homebound seniors. MACOA delivers 404 hot meals each weekday to client doorsteps. In addition, MACOA serves Autauga, Elmore, Coosa, Montgomery and Tallapoosa counties through a sponsorship program with the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) for these five counties. A total of 144,713 volunteer hours were provided by 1,250 RSVP volunteers in 2019. At the Archibald Senior Center and its second location, MACOA East, 4,043 active and mobile seniors attended educational and enrichment activities.
Upcoming Events:
- October 21 - 19th Annual Swinging Fore Seniors Golf Classic
Contact Us: 334-263-0532 / macoa.org / macoa@macoa.org
THE SALVATION ARMY
Mission: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
Brag Lines: We’ve been serving the River Region community for more than 120 years and still going strong.
- Number of persons housed: 1,336
- Total lodgings: 16,212 Nights
- Meals served: 62,849 Meals
- Vouchers (includes food, clothing, furniture and hygiene kits): 2,543 filled
- Volunteers: 3,350
- September 11 - 3rd Annual First Responders Luncheon to say “Thank You”
- September 14 -Angel Tree registration
COUNCIL FOR LEADERS IN ALABAMA SCHOOLS
Mission: The mission of the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools is to coordinate and facilitate the resources of all members for the advancement of public education. Consistently, CLAS members choose quality professional learning as the most important function of the umbrella organization.
Brag Lines:
- CLAS is the only Alabama association founded by administrators for administrators. We provide professional learning, legal services, communications, advocacy, networking and rewards/recognition programs for close to 4,000 members statewide.
- CLAS is the premier professional organization for school leaders in Alabama. With 11 affiliates, CLAS offers a professional organization for every type of school administrator.
- CLAS Lunch & Learn Webinar Series – begins September 3 and runs monthly throughout the school year.
- CLAS Leadership Institute Series – begins September 9 and runs monthly throughout the school year.
- CLAS New Principals Institute – September 15-16
- CLAS Secretaries Conference – December 1-2
- CLAS Aspiring Administrators Conference – January 23 or February 23
- CLAS Assistant Principals Conference – January 27-28, February 17-18 or February 24-25
- CLAS Culture Training – Two-day event on February 4 and March 4
- CLAS Law Conference – March 3
- CLAS Convention – the largest gathering of more than 1,000 Alabama school administrators occurs June 13-16
- Affiliate Conferences – offered throughout the year
HOW TO GIVE: Join our Corporate Partnership program to gain valuable access to the education community through events, networking opportunities and specially designed sponsorship programs.
THE WELLNESS COALITION
Mission: The mission of The Wellness Coalition is to provide health and wellness programs to businesses and residents in Montgomery, Macon, Lowndes, Elmore and Autauga counties.
Background: The Wellness Coalition was established by a group of healthcare providers to improve healthcare for persons with chronic diseases and little or no health insurance.
Brag Lines: Established the River Region’s first CDC-recognized Diabetes Prevention Program and helped 70 percent of program participants meet or exceed the program goal of losing 5-7 percent of their body weight. In our most recent fiscal year, we provided Wellness Case Management/Community Health Worker services to 1,383 clients. We also assisted more than 500 medically uninsured patients to decrease their use of the ED for primary care and provided 3,824 chronic disease education individual sessions.
Contact Us: 334-293-6502 / thewellnesscoalition.org
THE LEARNING TREE, INC
Mission: The mission is to provide a warm and loving environment with individualized, empirically validated services and supports for children with significant educational, medical and behavioral
challenges, helping them develop and maintain a quality of life expected by non-disabled members of their family and community.
Background: The Learning Tree was founded in 1983 to provide educational, clinical, consultation and residential services for children and adolescents with developmental disabilities, including autism. Today, more than 700 children and families are served each year from across Alabama.
Upcoming Events:
- October 10 – 7th Annual “Angling for Autism” Bass Fishing Tournament at Wind Creek State Park
CENTRAL ALABAMA AGING CONSORTIUM
Mission: Our mission is to develop, coordinate and support services in the communities in our service area that promote an active and independent lifestyle where those we serve can live and thrive.
Background: CAAC is the Area Agency on Aging for Autauga, Elmore and Montgomery counties. The agency was formed in 1975 and is part of a statewide aging network that provides a variety of home- and community-based services. CAAC provides advocacy, in-home services, community services, education and information.
Brag Lines: During the first eight months of this fiscal year, CAAC has:
- Provided 132,504 meals to 1,214 elderly individuals in Autauga, Elmore and Montgomery counties
- Provided case management for 480 elderly and disabled individuals through the Medicaid Waiver Elderly and Disabled Waiver Program
- Provided Medicare counseling to 2,469 Medicare beneficiaries
- During the COVID-19 pandemic, CAAC, in partnership with the Alabama Department of Senior Services and the USDA, has distributed 6,720 boxes of food (through August) to those in need in our service area.
- October 15 – December 7: CAAC will be hosting Medicare Open Enrollment events.
HOW TO GIVE: Monetary donations to our organization and cleaning supplies for our low-income elderly clients
THAT’S MY CHILD
Mission: to mentor the youth through arts, education and workforce development to end hopelessness and generational poverty.
Contact Us: (334) 239-7434 / THATSMYCHILDMGM.ORG
HOPE INSPIRED MINISTRIES
Mission: Hope Inspired Ministries (HIM) serves low-skilled, poorly educated and chronically unemployed men and women by preparing them to obtain and maintain employment. We do so in a manner that develops individual worth, encourages personal responsibility and promotes the value and honor of work.
Contact Us: 334-649-4330 / HOPEINSPIREDMINISTRIES.ORG
FRIENDSHIP MISSION
Mission: Demonstrating love and compassion in action, Friendship Mission is a refuge for the homeless and hungry, offering shelter for men as well as women and children, and assisting our clients to become self-sufficient.
Contact Us: 334-356-6412 / FRIENDSHIPMISSION.ORG
KIWANIS CLUB OR MONTGOMERY
Mission: For 100 years, the Kiwanis Club of Montgomery has empowered communities to improve the world by making lasting differences in the lives of children.
Contact Us: 334-260-7996 /MONTGOMERYKIWANIS.ORG
THE ALABAMA KIDNEY FOUNDATION
Mission: The Alabama Kidney Foundation serves kidney patients by providing financial assistance, education and support services. The Foundation provides public education to promote organ donation awareness and prevention of kidney disease.
Contact Us: 334-430-8716 / ALKIDNEY.ORG
THE IVY FOUNDATION OF MONTGOMERY, INC
Mission: We strive to improve communities and quality of life throughout the River Region area by commitment to sisterhood, scholarship and social equity.
Contact Us: IVYFOUNDATIONMONTGOMERY.ORG
FAITH RADIO
Mission: Faith Radio’s mission is to serve the Christian community and strengthen the local church and family unit as we provide spiritual encouragement and a personal challenge with a Christ-centered focus through Biblical teaching, relevant information and uplifting music to the Glory of God.
Brag Lines: We often hear testimonials like: “Listening to Faith Radio is like being at a Christian concert all day, with a great mix of Christian music and Bible teaching programs that help me grow spiritually and closer to God.”
WISHLIST:
- Financial gifts to support our commercial-free broadcasts
- Special gifts in memory or honor of someone special
- Donation of an old vehicle you no longer need
TRIUMPH SERVICES
Mission: Our mission is twofold: to assist individuals in their efforts to live independently and to educate the public on the gifts and strengths of people who have developmental disabilities.
Contact Us: 205-581-1000 / WWW.TRIUMPHSERVICES.ORG
BRANTWOOD CHILDREN’S HOME
Mission: Our mission is serving youth through a caring, therapeutic environment where hurts are healed; hope is nurtured.
Contact Us: 334-265-0784 / BRANTWOODCHILDRENSHOME.ORG
NONPROFITS IN THE RIVER REGION Get connected with nonprofit chamber members
21 Dreams Arts & Culture - 21dreamsmgm.org
A+ Education Partnership - aplusala.org
A-KEEP (Alabama-Korea Education and Economic Partnership) - akeep.org
AGAPE - agapeforchildren.org
Air Force Sergeants Association-Chapter 444 - hqafsa.org
Alabama Center for Dispute Resolution - alabamaadr.org
Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind - aidb.org
Alabama Kidney Foundation, Montgomery Chapter - alkidney.org
Alabama Network of Children's Advocacy Centers, Inc. - alabamacacs.org
Alabama Technology Foundation - alabamatechnologyfoundation.org
Alabama Technology Network -atn.org
Alabama World Affairs Council - alwac.org
Alzheimer's Association - alz.org
American Cancer Society - cancer.org
American Heart Association - heart.org/en/affiliates/alabama/montgomery
Arthritis Foundation - arthritis.org
Camellia Bowl -camelliabowl.com
Central Alabama Aging Consortium -centralalabamaaging.org
Central Alabama Community Foundation - cacfinfo.org
Central Alabama Crime Stoppers - 215stop.com
Central Alabama Works! -centralalabamaworks.com
Child Evangelism Fellowship of Central Alabama - cefcentralalabama.org
Child Protect - childprotect.org
Common Ground Montgomery - cgm.life
Coosa-Alabama River Improvement Association, Inc. - caria.org
Council on Substance Abuse - cosancadd.org
Dexter Avenue King Memorial Legacy Center -dexterkingmemorial.org/about/legacy-center
Disability as an Ability Toward Success: Moms on the Move - datsmom.org
Disabled American Veterans -dav.org
Family Sunshine Center - familysunshine.org
Friendship Mission, Inc. - friendshipmission.org
Gathering of Eagles Foundation - goefoundation.org
Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama Inc. - girlscoutssa.org
Goodwill Industries of Central Alabama - algoodwill.org
Hispanic Outreach Leadership & Action (HOLA) - holamontgomery.org
Hope Inspired Ministries, Inc. - hopeinspiredministries.org
Joy To Life Foundation - liveheregivehere.org
Liberty Learning Foundation - libertylearning.org
Montgomery AFCEA Chapter - afceamontgomery.org
Montgomery Area Business Committee for the Arts - mabca.org
Montgomery Area Food Bank - montgomeryareafoodbank.org
Montgomery Bicycle Club - mgmbikeclub.org
Montgomery CARES-100 Black Men Connection - montgomery100.org
Montgomery Education Foundation - montgomeryed.org
Montgomery Humane Society - montgomeryhumane.com
Montgomery Rotary Club - montgomeryrotaryclub.com
Muscular Dystrophy Association, Inc. - mda.org
NAMI Alabama - NAMIAlabama.org
National Association of Social Workers - Alabama Chapter - naswal.org
Nikki Mitchell Foundation - nikkimitchellfoundation.org
Pens Up Guns Down - pensupgunsdown.org
Public Relations Council of Alabama-Montgomery Chapter - prcamontgomery.org
Renascence, Inc. - halfway-home.net
River Region United Way - riverregionunitedway.org
S.A.F.Y. of America, Inc. - safy.org
Salvation Army - salvationarmyalm.org/montgomery
Serquest - facebook.com/myserquest
Service Dogs Alabama - ServiceDogsAlabama.org
Shepherds Ministries, Inc. - facebook.com/ChaplainHolly
Sun Belt Conference - sunbeltsports.org
That's My Child - thatsmychildmgm.org
The Arts Council of Montgomery - artscouncilmontgomery.org
The Baptist Foundation of Alabama - tbfa.org
The Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central Alabama - cancerwellnessfoundation.org
The Dannon Project - dannonproject.org
The Judge Frank M. Johnson, Jr. Institute - thejohnsoninstitute.org
The King’s Canvas - thekingscanvas.org
The Learning Tree, Inc - learning-tree.org
The Wellness Coalition -thewellnesscoalition.org
Triumph Services, Inc. - triumphservices.org
Tukabatchee Area Council/Boy Scouts of America, Inc. - tukabatcheebsa.org
United Cerebral Palsy of Central Alabama - ucpalabama.org
United Methodist Children's Home - umch.net
VOICES for Alabama's Children - alavoices.org
Women of Refined Gold, Inc. - womenofrefinedgold.org
Y.E.S. Inc. - yeseep.org
YMCA of Greater Montgomery - ymcamontgomery.org
