tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16346980168049916572024-03-06T00:32:08.750-06:00Walker Area Community FoundationVision: Inspiring greatness, compassion, charity and community throughout the Walker County Alabama Area.
Mission: The mission of the Walker Area Community Foundation is to grow and preserve charitable gifts, using the earnings to educate, inspire and advance the community for the greatest common good.Walker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.comBlogger79125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-75600500075160379392015-06-22T09:29:00.002-05:002015-06-22T09:29:20.640-05:00Summer Interns for Walker County
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZr-j3dy009plC5aawtxjPpzc81GGVtdUqYtbr3iMN9N7Cg9q9cZ6IlHPLE2IIgl8kBt71VWzREbQXtBkpIQZNhJK3glOcHCmKxaqEiGCrIr-tgwuDKY7gMLEK2h8kq66n0EGwFahtmro/s1600/interns+2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZr-j3dy009plC5aawtxjPpzc81GGVtdUqYtbr3iMN9N7Cg9q9cZ6IlHPLE2IIgl8kBt71VWzREbQXtBkpIQZNhJK3glOcHCmKxaqEiGCrIr-tgwuDKY7gMLEK2h8kq66n0EGwFahtmro/s320/interns+2015.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">From Left: Emily,
Stephanie, Aundrea, Bullet, Mary Caroline and Jeff</span> <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Cambria;">As the heat index rises, the lightning bugs become aglow,
and an abundance of fresh produce returns to our kitchens, it is clear that
summer is again upon us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For the Walker
Area Community Foundation, the onset of summer signals the arrival of a new
batch of students from The University of Alabama who serve for eight weeks as Jean
O’Connor Snyder Interns.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The internship
is a partnership between Alabama’s New College, David Mathews Center for Civic
Life, and the foundation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The interns,
who spend the summer working for the foundation and various community partners
throughout Walker County, immerse themselves in life in the area. Years past
have brought interns who discover a passion for service in Walker County, and
we hope this year will be no exception.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This summer’s interns have diverse backgrounds and interests, yet their
common denominator is each student’s steadfast dedication to service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We hope that throughout the summer you will
have a chance to meet and get to know the interns on a personal level.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Cambria;">So without ado, here are this year’s interns…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Garamond;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Aundrea Bevis is
a fifth year senior pursuing a double major in Psychology and the Sociology of
Health. She is passionate about health in regards to its social dynamic and is
interested in addressing health disparities in communities due to the class
system. She is especially interested in mental health disparities and addiction
and recovery. Aundrea is originally from Suffolk, Virginia, but her current
hometown is Killen, Alabama. In her free time she likes to cook and run. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Garamond;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Emily Pickert
is a junior at the University of Alabama studying nonprofit management with a
concentration in the arts through New College. She loves the arts, especially
visual arts, and hopes to one day open and run her own organization dedicated
to them. She is incredibly excited to work with Walker County and to learn
about and meet many new people.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Garamond;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Jeff Rogers is
from Birmingham, Alabama.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He graduated
from Mountain Brook High School in 2013 and joined the University of Alabama
Class of 2017, majoring in Chemical Engineering. He is passionate about public
education and hopes to make an impact in shaping the way we interact with
students to make their experience in school more productive and personal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He enjoys reading, golfing, and listening to
music in his spare time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This summer
Jeff will be working with the Walker Area Center for Technology.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<o:p><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></o:p><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Stephanie Ray </span>is from Birmingham, Alabama and is currently pursuing
a dual degree in Elementary and Special Education at the University of Alabama
in Tuscaloosa. She is also studying Nonprofits through New College. She is
passionate about Education and Education policy, specifically concerning
low-SES and at-risk <span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">individuals.
Her dream is to establish a mentoring program and facility for foster youth and
at-risk youth. This summer, she will be working closely with the Walker Area
Community Foundation on connecting nonprofits throughout the area.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Mary Caroline May is a recent graduate of The University of
Alabama, where she pursued an interdisciplinary degree in Community Development
through New College.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her admiration and
passion for Walker County brought her back to Jasper this summer to serve as
intern coordinator after she spent summer 2014 working on the foundation’s
Early Childhood Education initiative.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Mary Caroline is passionate about connecting with people and seeing
communities and individuals develop and realize their goals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She plans to attend The University of Alabama
School of Law in August.<o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 16pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Garamond;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07638168752539608832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-90948011110688047312015-02-24T12:53:00.001-06:002015-02-24T12:53:07.759-06:00What Parents Should Know when Preparing Kids for College
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">How many of us as kids dreamed about all the heroic jobs we
could have when we were older? We wanted to rescue people from harm, care
for animals or maybe be the next President.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><br />
<br />
<br />
How many of us as parents still dream these dreams for our children? We hope
they will do something with purpose and make enough money along the way to
support their family. It is important that we research all the facts first or
we could be in a world of financial trouble with children struggling to find
jobs.<br />
<br />
<br />
Youth Leadership Walker County heard interesting presentations on this
at our recent meeting. I have tried to highlight the "takeaways" from each
panel participant's talk. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><u>Shawna McCullar, the Career Coach for the Walker
County and Jasper City School Systems</u></b><u>. </u><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you aren't doing well on the ACT, take the SAT. ACT tests
for achievement, SAT tests critical thinking. You may do better on one than the
other...and colleges accept both.</span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">30% of the students in a certificate program at our
community colleges already have a 4 year degree</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">60% of the jobs in Alabama require a two-year certificate or associates degree, 20% require no degree / certificate</span> at all and 20% require a four year bachelors degree.</span></span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you do not receive a full-ride from a four year
institution, you will save your family A LOT of money by starting at a
community college<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Students should be looking at the following websites
before choosing their higher education institution:<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><ul type="circle"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><a href="http://www.onetonline.org/"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">http://www.onetonline.org/</span></span></a><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">. According to their
website, "O*NET OnLine is an interactive application for exploring
and searching occupations". <o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level2 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><a href="http://www.alcareerinfo.org./"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">www.alcareerinfo.org.</span></span></a> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">which helps with career planning, financial aide, life after high school and many other resources</span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></ul>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></ul>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>Ronica Raines,</u><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b><b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Bevill Sta</span>te Community College (BSCC),
Director of Alabama Access to Higher Education</u></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Mrs. Raines gave the following thoughts about Dual
Enrollment:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
<ul type="disc"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Students have the opportunity to attend Bevill State
Community College while in high school to simultaneously earn both high
school and college credits <o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Students should first look at the Stars Guide<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span><a href="http://stars.troy.edu/stars.html"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">http://stars.troy.edu/stars.html</span></span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">to find classes that
will transfer but are also needed in their chosen work field.<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Some of these Dual Enrollment classes actually happen
in the high schools, while others occur on the BSCC campus<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></ul>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>LaToya Cosby, BSCC Director of Student Support
Services</u></b><u>. </u><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Ms. Cosby's presentation was full of "takeaways"
that our students learned were necessities when applying for and keeping jobs.
What are<span class="apple-converted-space"><i> </i></span><i>soft
skills</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>and why are they needed?
Good question and one that can be answered in many ways:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
<ul type="disc"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Soft skills are not technical but intangible skills
that define a person <o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hard skill examples:<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><ul type="circle"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">typing, writing, math,
reading and the ability to use software programs;<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></ul>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Soft skills examples: <o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><ul type="circle"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Etiquette, <o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Getting along with
others, <o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Listening <o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Engaging in small talk<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Teamwork<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Communication<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Flexibility<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Patience<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Time management<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Motivation<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></ul>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Soft skills are not easy to come by. They have to be
practiced and honed over the years. Students should start working on these
now!<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Soft skills should be included on cover letters and
resumes as they are just as important now as hard skills.<o:p></o:p></span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></ul>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">At the end of the day, we all want our children to be
successful and we as parents can help. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07638168752539608832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-41054834279764440802014-12-23T11:24:00.000-06:002015-02-18T09:45:57.215-06:00What Do I Receive?<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq-KLxdBGkmCeYZvz0J0n0ZYNlSq56yEQzSaduS7eELnFLr5vYkdrcbf9UcLGlE5sDxJTkA9VmTS8DKvyVCedTOxc-GAUsuznVEpL2Va6xkPYAVxU9OHJi6hoxhmHuAWX01H5pvKcQD8s/s1600/IMG_2551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq-KLxdBGkmCeYZvz0J0n0ZYNlSq56yEQzSaduS7eELnFLr5vYkdrcbf9UcLGlE5sDxJTkA9VmTS8DKvyVCedTOxc-GAUsuznVEpL2Va6xkPYAVxU9OHJi6hoxhmHuAWX01H5pvKcQD8s/s1600/IMG_2551.JPG" height="155" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The opportunity to be with the 40 high school juniors of Youth Leadership Walker County each month is one of the great joys in life for me. They are eager to learn about their community and to develop their leadership skills. The meeting in December is always fun yet a true learning experience.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This was the problem given to them this month: </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;">Pretend you are a family of four and create a budget based on $1,580...about the amount a family at the poverty line brings in each month. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After they grappled with that concept, they participated in the Poverty Simulation conducted by Alabama Possible. I'm telling you, this was EYE-OPENING for our students!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">They became a family of four, or three or six.... </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKE6k32_NYYLYFvBWyw4J9_hiPIl__HHLIHzAqKMBWQTaajlBnyE0vjxFWeUlCBRW3_yP8KPbmI4qF29f0ZI_Z7rZzS6k_Sojnb9nVEhRVDLkXFcI1MZt0xTIsBseV4RsLN_qYTKug2Z0/s1600/IMG_2587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKE6k32_NYYLYFvBWyw4J9_hiPIl__HHLIHzAqKMBWQTaajlBnyE0vjxFWeUlCBRW3_yP8KPbmI4qF29f0ZI_Z7rZzS6k_Sojnb9nVEhRVDLkXFcI1MZt0xTIsBseV4RsLN_qYTKug2Z0/s1600/IMG_2587.JPG" height="209" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">or in some cases a homeless person all by herself...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkt_P8U-yqMaQKn1WaxrmqTmxsgriXJidv4TaiE_hkJMyaexNWA36C7KPGlAZWuZrXJQLDmG3tRHp1SAnUsQuTa3R0b0yZ1VHkEOM_-0iuCZ-nYqZFt6mFQrB2U7dowWpRgS63WkuU-tw/s1600/IMG_2616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkt_P8U-yqMaQKn1WaxrmqTmxsgriXJidv4TaiE_hkJMyaexNWA36C7KPGlAZWuZrXJQLDmG3tRHp1SAnUsQuTa3R0b0yZ1VHkEOM_-0iuCZ-nYqZFt6mFQrB2U7dowWpRgS63WkuU-tw/s1600/IMG_2616.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The simulation is designed to show the life of a distressed family over the course of a month. Students went through 15 minute "weeks" in which they had to work, pay bills and figure out how to make ends meet. They had a few minutes in between each week to plan....</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiommELPgm24r1y8UUhTX4oMtaO3tDo0hi_Mlp9U9kPT5qYz-jjN1fK4CoU0dCAK4Rlgg4MkcgrsJadureUOEmZJ8NX-1QxvfE0PciFSqApXA5xingoQouIJwvNEeuBGpar2C1HI9G94Gg/s1600/IMG_2582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiommELPgm24r1y8UUhTX4oMtaO3tDo0hi_Mlp9U9kPT5qYz-jjN1fK4CoU0dCAK4Rlgg4MkcgrsJadureUOEmZJ8NX-1QxvfE0PciFSqApXA5xingoQouIJwvNEeuBGpar2C1HI9G94Gg/s1600/IMG_2582.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">When the bell rang to "start" the week they did several things based on their scenario. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Some went to school because they were children...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZKwHK5VVgNSF5eZlCAZSwFyB_sp3oysZW0jH3k22sEwYbg2ti_Gu8S2TiIfSd9L-UpB_eP7QrS-QQhbYVjl6yR7_DzyfhiUb0S_pdFxC7aaiWKJhJ0ATPTlaHQ-r1eEwTqQBbYdPtZE/s1600/IMG_2643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZKwHK5VVgNSF5eZlCAZSwFyB_sp3oysZW0jH3k22sEwYbg2ti_Gu8S2TiIfSd9L-UpB_eP7QrS-QQhbYVjl6yR7_DzyfhiUb0S_pdFxC7aaiWKJhJ0ATPTlaHQ-r1eEwTqQBbYdPtZE/s1600/IMG_2643.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></span></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Some went to work and some paid bills or went to the local pawn shop to trade items for cash...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNy2L2dK9fQEFFk2mw6R6sHoyb9u-uFSs_Q7ulh_gRch0McsIRlA7RGgwFh-EwezhMDNkDCmVI4jU7e0jV0DrMd0_DSjx3xR8vXg9XFs7W972pucyR9ZyPBbUTEr0DQqSw03yt2thyX2o/s1600/IMG_2622.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNy2L2dK9fQEFFk2mw6R6sHoyb9u-uFSs_Q7ulh_gRch0McsIRlA7RGgwFh-EwezhMDNkDCmVI4jU7e0jV0DrMd0_DSjx3xR8vXg9XFs7W972pucyR9ZyPBbUTEr0DQqSw03yt2thyX2o/s1600/IMG_2622.JPG" height="180" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Some ended up in jail with "Sheriff Keene"</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0BnzhLP0LgNcO6cANU0dUblhshlKBCk8tRbVK6X_xVtK8CYu6txxpB16QAwf30fVxTWLGVgLlb0sE1KgVjLDDePEBuoPVSTF2K1Cwy-7Y9HNmI2eixbXN2HhpfgyN2f0Bg3D8Wjs8vcc/s1600/IMG_2660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0BnzhLP0LgNcO6cANU0dUblhshlKBCk8tRbVK6X_xVtK8CYu6txxpB16QAwf30fVxTWLGVgLlb0sE1KgVjLDDePEBuoPVSTF2K1Cwy-7Y9HNmI2eixbXN2HhpfgyN2f0Bg3D8Wjs8vcc/s1600/IMG_2660.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And some families were evicted because they did not pay their mortgage on time.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZISfeOdqH5Xez9nydg46HAaUUKKQbTi7pYlyXu_P911To4l-Qh7kl9NPz0bRs0iKRqRWVoRHS1dhvDGcAud5t993oyyeS8CUi_HBtew6qekSV3RKPKNVOCBkBVDt7GyKyzBu7ZerpCFk/s1600/IMG_2628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZISfeOdqH5Xez9nydg46HAaUUKKQbTi7pYlyXu_P911To4l-Qh7kl9NPz0bRs0iKRqRWVoRHS1dhvDGcAud5t993oyyeS8CUi_HBtew6qekSV3RKPKNVOCBkBVDt7GyKyzBu7ZerpCFk/s1600/IMG_2628.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Regardless of the scenario students all agreed that living at the poverty level is no game. It is tough on families. It is confusing. It is scary. It's incredibly hard to work and make all the things happen that must happen in order to make a life for your family. Our students gained a new appreciation for those in need and realized the hardships many of their friends at school go through daily. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So many times when we talk about poverty we think about service. Helping those in poverty becomes an act we perform, an event for an afternoon. But is that really what community service is all about?</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">They discussed what it means to truly be a community servant. Together, they decided that in order for service to work there has to be both "giving" and "receiving". What is an act of kindness or service you have given to your community? Answers come quick... </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #990000;">volunteering</span> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">getting an angel on the angel tree </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">giving to a local charity</span> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">buying supplies for those in need </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The harder questions seems to be, what is an act of kindness or service you have received from your community? Many times we hear, "I haven't received anything". The longer they sit, the more they remember. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #990000;">"My friend helped me with a math problem I was struggling with."</span> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">"My church family cooked dinner for us when my mom was in the hospital." </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">"My friend listened to me when I was struggling with something."</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">"A lady in front of me in the drive-thru line paid for my order. I didn't even know her."</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">When we really begin to think about it, we all give and we all receive. Constantly. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">If we truly believe that, then community service becomes not an act we perform, but the very life in which we live. </span></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07638168752539608832noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-49934719589918328052014-11-18T11:19:00.000-06:002014-11-18T11:19:09.730-06:00Ready to serve
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-layout-grid-mode: char; line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">Introducing our
two newest Board members, Doug Warren and Robbin Reed Allen: </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWmCvFnbftruybfU1gRDmNi9-NfO4xSse9u-X0eSVB41GTzaVwxembdWQKodY0BWRLb5vq_9dNKEfnAoYwE2zsKqvE1zOlkD5zxLG8AhzGoI5jOaGLFfM4EuIb5u8Ev3wZFAyw6szuZYE/s1600/Doug+Warren.head+shot.edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWmCvFnbftruybfU1gRDmNi9-NfO4xSse9u-X0eSVB41GTzaVwxembdWQKodY0BWRLb5vq_9dNKEfnAoYwE2zsKqvE1zOlkD5zxLG8AhzGoI5jOaGLFfM4EuIb5u8Ev3wZFAyw6szuZYE/s1600/Doug+Warren.head+shot.edit.jpg" height="320" width="269" /> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBG3AWibm5G5-vm6nxT_sD17xOJM1tsw-ewZSatmPubnMeCZOKPGJ78mzP8PZEXNJuCu6wyFAm1cSt8-AKmAEzYiTHo_gTIveIB_eN-GdrZ4wtt7Uz21jgIk9-lpgiOHIvQTWmfZGI4bk/s1600/Robbin+Allen.9407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBG3AWibm5G5-vm6nxT_sD17xOJM1tsw-ewZSatmPubnMeCZOKPGJ78mzP8PZEXNJuCu6wyFAm1cSt8-AKmAEzYiTHo_gTIveIB_eN-GdrZ4wtt7Uz21jgIk9-lpgiOHIvQTWmfZGI4bk/s1600/Robbin+Allen.9407.jpg" height="320" width="211" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-layout-grid-mode: char; line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"> Replacing
Pat Willingham on our Board, Doug </span><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Estrangelo Edessa"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">holds a Bachelor of Arts
degree from Auburn University, and received his MBA from the University of
Alabama. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Estrangelo Edessa"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"> In 2009, Doug became
President/CEO of Community Health Systems, Inc., and all its for-profit and
not-for-profit affiliates. He serves on many boards and executive committees.
He is a graduate of Leadership Alabama and a member of several professional and
civic organizations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Robbin has
the distinct privilege of holding the chair held by Mr. John T. Oliver, Jr. for
the past nineteen years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In January 2015,
Mr. Oliver will move to Emeritus Status and will continue to attend our
meetings and share his thoughts with the Foundation board and staff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Robbin
graduated from Walker High School, a</span><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">ttended Walker
College and graduated from the National Center for Paralegal Studies in Atlanta
GA.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">She is now the Corporate Paralegal, Secretary and
Treasurer of Reed Energy, LLC.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>She</span><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Estrangelo Edessa"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
also serves on several boards and executive committees. She is a graduate of
Leadership Walker County and a member of several professional and civic
organizations.</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both Doug and Robbin are ready and willing
to serve their community!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00943741719168815727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-28809438142012307332014-11-18T11:07:00.000-06:002014-11-18T11:07:01.752-06:00Believing every child should go to camp: Jackson Family Fund Established
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;">It is our joy to
share with you the addition of our newest fund, the Jackson Family Fund.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Founded with the belief that orphans and
foster children should be afforded the privilege of attending programs like
Camp McDowell, Nell Jackson along with, Anne and Eddie Jackson and Janet and
Eddie Faught created this fund to provide educational enrichment
experiences.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The donation reflects a
passion for children without parents and to support the ministry of the
Episcopal Church for the same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This fund
will strive to find and assist first children from Walker County and then any
other county to attend similar life changing sessions.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<o:p><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span></div>
</o:p><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Bookman Old Style","serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 200%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00943741719168815727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-25838549030966051942013-09-27T10:51:00.000-05:002013-09-27T10:51:20.409-05:00It’s good to share the good stuff<strong></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8Rx7SahAIA0uG44cnzJAVHTRm6w-ivVpUsUmGnLkJbi8QivOtHjoE265AwY5auw2XpHcF7uWxY_YFAiOCI2AdYcNSBGT7i44OipWeBZixnLVxLZqudHrssth1ZIFFnhnqT_HIhP5n2M/s1600/Connecting+Graphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8Rx7SahAIA0uG44cnzJAVHTRm6w-ivVpUsUmGnLkJbi8QivOtHjoE265AwY5auw2XpHcF7uWxY_YFAiOCI2AdYcNSBGT7i44OipWeBZixnLVxLZqudHrssth1ZIFFnhnqT_HIhP5n2M/s320/Connecting+Graphic.jpg" width="220" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You know, sometimes it’s just good to be able to talk about the good stuff. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During the week after our recent Annual
Luncheon Cristy Moody, Director of Operations shared with our Board of
Directors this statement “I hope you all agree it’s been a good week, a good
month, a good year for our Foundation. “ <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every day we strive to work hard to “connect” the
right people, groups and funding to make your community a better place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our Annual Luncheon gave us an opportunity to
let you know about a few of those connections at work through our speakers
representing three of our ongoing initiatives. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: 125%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 125%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 125%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Connecting Ideas: Jera
Stribling, Alabama Giving<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: 125%; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-armenian-font-family: Cambria; mso-currency-font-family: Cambria; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Cambria; mso-default-font-family: Cambria; mso-greek-font-family: Cambria; mso-hebrew-font-family: Cambria; mso-latin-font-family: Cambria; mso-latinext-font-family: Cambria;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 125%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 125%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Connecting
Philanthropy: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Natalie Adams, New
College, University of Alabama<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: 125%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-armenian-font-family: Cambria; mso-currency-font-family: Cambria; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Cambria; mso-default-font-family: Cambria; mso-greek-font-family: Cambria; mso-hebrew-font-family: Cambria; mso-latin-font-family: Cambria; mso-latinext-font-family: Cambria;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 125%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 125%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Connecting
Leaders: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Edward R. Jackson, WACF Board Member
and Cathy Wright, Clarus Consulting Group <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We
appreciate Jack McNeely, Publisher of the Daily Mountain Eagle, writing to his
subscribers about his opinion of who we are and what we are doing after
attending the luncheon. I thought I would share it with you just in case you
did not see it and thank you Jack for telling “our story”.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Community Foundation ‘connects’ the dots<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">by Jack McNeely<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Publisher, Daily
Mountain Eagle <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><br />
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">I
attended my second annual luncheon of the Walker Area Community Foundation
along with hundreds of other business and community leaders Wednesday, and I
again came away with an uplifted spirit of cooperation and optimism.<br />
<br />
I consider these annual luncheons a pep rally of sorts, a way to energize the
good folks of Walker County. <br />
<br />
The Walker Area Community Foundation was established in 1995. It started with a
$6 million investment from the sale of Walker Regional Medical Center and a goal
to forever help support the charitable needs of the area and improve our
quality of life.<br />
<br />
Today, the Community Foundation has nearly $25 million in assets. Since its
inception, the Foundation has directly invested nearly $10.5 million in
community grants. <br />
<br />
In 2012 alone, the Community Foundation distributed $3,626,636 in community
grants and awarded $22,900 to nonprofits, including our very own Christmas Shoe
Fund.<br />
<br />
A total of 1,101 gifts were made to the Foundation in 2012 from individuals,
families, organizations and businesses. Whether big or small, your
contributions are the lifeblood of the successful foundation.<br />
<br />
This year the Community Foundation has chosen a theme of “Connecting: In a
word, that’s what we do.”<br />
<br />
If you pick up a copy of the Community Foundation’s annual report, you will see
an outstanding drawing by Madison Redmill, who last year as a junior at Walker
High School participated in Youth Leadership Walker County. <br />
<br />
Her artwork reflects the concept of a community that connects leaders, ideas,
partners, philanthropy, nonprofits and generations.<br />
<br />
I have worked with newspapers in several markets the size of Jasper and Walker
County and none have had the luxury of a successful community foundation. <br />
<br />
You should consider yourselves very fortunate to have such a cog that keeps the
wheels of progress moving forward despite what obstacles or pitfalls may be
ahead.<br />
<br />
I applaud Community Foundation President Paul Kennedy, his dedicated staff and
the volunteer board members for their commitment to helping those in need. </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00943741719168815727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-60578299688784602972013-09-05T16:28:00.002-05:002013-09-05T16:28:40.744-05:00Reed Family Fund Established
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNcKNOF59tkpFHANa8UilgUZIQ4KO2_lLPJhYM0JE2juBrdM4il03Mu3Jvqj7jpcRlVk_Z0oI2gwsOh3uFqS9RnPC6oLPRbOMQiatjTKRcyGNfkcz9T7o4Ip2mrAsWsIMKpEu8e41l_Kw/s1600/Page+1.Reed+Family+Picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNcKNOF59tkpFHANa8UilgUZIQ4KO2_lLPJhYM0JE2juBrdM4il03Mu3Jvqj7jpcRlVk_Z0oI2gwsOh3uFqS9RnPC6oLPRbOMQiatjTKRcyGNfkcz9T7o4Ip2mrAsWsIMKpEu8e41l_Kw/s320/Page+1.Reed+Family+Picture.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><strong><o:p></o:p></strong></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Sudie
and Robert Reed are no strangers to the Walker Area Community Foundation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As donors, they have been constant supporters
of the Foundation and its mission for more than a decade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sudie is one of the Foundation’s original
President’s Cabinet members and was instrumental in the programming stages when
the foundation began. In December 2012, the </span><span style="color: #1f497d;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">entire
Reed family</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">, established
our newest Donor Advised Fund.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Reed
Family Fund will support general philanthropy while keeping in mind the
importance of serving the basic needs of Walker County families.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;">We asked
the Reed’s a few questions on why the Walker Area Community Foundation and why
now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We think you’ll appreciate their
responses.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">WACF:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Why did you start the Reed Family Fund?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Reeds</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Walker County has been our home for over 40 years. Through hard work and
a lot of help from the good folks in this area we have realized many
successes. What better way to say thank you to our friends and
neighbors, former employees and business partners, than by setting aside money
that will hopefully benefit the entire community for many years to come.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">WACF:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The Foundation, of course, is thrilled you entrusted us with your
fund.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re curious, why did you choose
a donor advised fund with the Community Foundation over beginning a private
family foundation?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Reeds</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We did consider a private foundation but, in today’s world, red tape,
regulations and requirements are so overwhelming, we were concerned that would
take the “joy” out of our giving. Our community is so fortunate to have
this foundation in place so setting up an advised fund was the better choice
for our family. We believe the Board of Directors will thoughtfully and
successfully manage the money and we have the highest confidence in the awesome
staff that you will help us to see the real needs in our area, to find
opportunities for betterment, and to be in touch with the “great ideas” that
are out there that perhaps just need a boost to get off the ground. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">Upon
voting to accept the fund, John T. Oliver, Jr. founding board member and Past
President of the Foundation responded, “t</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">he Bob Reed family is well known in this
community for their involvement in and contributions to many charitable
institutions and organizations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their
recent gift to the Walker Area Community Foundation is truly amazing and
certainly establishes their family as pioneers in philanthropy in our area, as
well as statewide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am certain that
this wonderful support will inspire others to think in a positive way about giving
back to their community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gifts like this
make me proud to live here.” <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="font-size: large;">We look
forward working with the Reed Family and are so appreciative they chose us as
their partners in doing good for our community.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00943741719168815727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-37764379701243443532012-11-27T11:48:00.003-06:002012-11-27T11:48:19.023-06:00New Board Member!On behalf of the Walker Area Community Foundation Board of Directors:
We are pleased to announce the selection of Abbie Drummond to the Foundation Board of Directors. A Walker County native, Abbie has a deep sense of commitment to her community and has given of her time and service to numerous non-profits in our area. Abbie brings a wealth of knowledge and a vast range of perspective and experience to the Board.
We look forward to serving with Abbie as we continue our work to make Walker County an even better place.
Walker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-3172851193902508242012-11-27T09:15:00.002-06:002012-11-27T09:15:24.425-06:00
Central Alabama Women’s Business Center presents
How to Start a Home-Based Business - FREE Introduction!
Choosing a Business
Little to No Start-Up Costs
No Business Plan
No Loans Necessary
Minimal Licensing
Make Your Own Hours
Date: December 13 – Thursday
Time: 3:00 – 4:30pm
Location: Jasper Public Library - Jasper AL
Pre-Register for the absolutely free informational event:
Call (205) 453-0252 or email octavia@cawbc.org
Come to This Workshop:
If you need extra income
If you need to replace income
If you’ve wondered if you could run a business
Everyone Welcome
The Central Alabama Women’s Business Center is a non-profit organization funded in part by the US Small Business Administration. This presentation is made possible by a grant from The Women’s Fund of Greater Birmingham.
Walker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-79058847675384124982012-11-13T07:55:00.002-06:002012-11-13T07:55:35.592-06:00Just recruited New College Students for the Summer 2013 term. Any nonprofit looking for assistance from the best and the brightest needs to contact the Foundation staff ASAP.Walker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-11233550817168522532011-01-06T08:40:00.002-06:002011-01-06T08:42:39.195-06:00IRA Holders Can Still Make 2010 Charitable Distributions thru January 2011!!!IRA Holders Can Still Make 2010 Charitable Distributions<br /><br /> Note: The following discussion is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice. For specific information about provisions of the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010 affecting charitable contributions, consult your tax adviser or attorney.<br /><br />Persons aged 70½ or older can again enjoy tax savings by making charitable gifts directly from their Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), thanks to a provision of the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010, which was signed into law December 17, 2010. The act also allows charitable distributions made from an IRA in January 2011 to be declared as 2010 gifts, should the IRA holder wish to do so.<br /><br />The December 17, 2010, law extends legislation originally adopted in 2006 and extended in 2008 (that extension expired December 31, 2009). For a charitable gift made from an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) not to be taxed as income, the following must be true:<br /><br /> * the gift was made in 2010 or 2011;<br /> * the IRA holder is age 70½ or older;<br /> * the gift totals $100,000 or less each year;<br /> * the charity that received the gift is eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions;<br /> * the charity is not a section 509(a)(3) supporting organization; and<br /> * the withdrawal goes directly from the IRA to the charity.<br /><br />The donor does not need to itemize his or her taxes to benefit from the distribution. If the donor does itemize, however, he or she cannot also take the distribution as a deduction.<br /><br />(Source Guidestar.com)<br />full story @ http://www2.guidestar.org/rxa/news/articles/2011/2010-ira-charitable-distributions.aspx?hq_e=el&hq_m=886571&hq_l=5&hq_v=1b8a1dae07Walker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-17972563262610862142010-11-02T15:20:00.001-05:002010-11-02T15:22:33.561-05:00Free Continuing Education, Focus on ADD/ADHDRE: Free Continuing Education, Focus on ADD/ADHD<br /> <br />WATCH 2010 and Glover Drug are proud to announce that they have worked in collaboration to organize a free educational seminar on ADD/ADHD In Jasper at the CHS Building November 4th at 6:30 p.m.<br /> <br /> The speaker for this event is the recognized author and professor of psychology at Lee University, Dr. Heather Quagliana. Dr. Quagliana’s areas of clinical specialty include Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), disruptive behavior disorders, childhood trauma, autism, and expressive therapies with children. Dr. Quagliana has presented and published her research in these areas of specialty. A professional with as much experience and expertise as Dr. Quagliana will be a great resource for teachers, parents, and medical workers in Walker County. <br />The program is scheduled to take place on November 4 at 6:30 p.m. at the Community Health Systems Activity Center (CHS) 204 East 19th Street downtown Jasper.<br /> ADHD, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a problem with inattentiveness, over-activity, impulsivity or both. It often goes undiagnosed in young children. It is especially difficult to identify because normal hyperactivity is often characteristic of young children. Jennifer Weathers, an RN at Glover Drug, is responsible for envisioning this educational event. When asked what the chief purpose of it is, she responded saying, “Our primary goal of the event is to provide educators that are in the classrooms with our children information that can help them excel at their jobs.” This program is open to everyone but is specifically tailored to meet the needs of teachers, parents and medical professionals. The specific objectives of this session are to…<br />• Educate professionals about the symptoms and presentation of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and disruptive behavior problems in children and adolescents<br /> <br />• Identify the neurobiological origins associated with the development of ADHD and further understand the diagnostic issues associated with disruptive behavior problems in children and adolescents<br /> <br />• Discuss current intervention strategies including therapeutic and classroom/school-based interventions<br /> <br />• Understand behavior modification in the treatment of ADHD in multiple contexts <br /> <br />• Emphasize the importance of multidisciplinary approaches in the treatment of ADHD and disruptive behaviors<br />Glover Drug and WATCH 2010 are hoping to get a large turnout for this program. Hopefully, depending on how this initial seminar goes, there will be several more like it in the future. <br /> <br /> Your Contact: <br />Jennifer Starnes Weathers RN<br />Glover Drugs<br />Bus: (205) 304-4485<br />E-mail: jennifer@gloverdrug.com <br />Web Page: www.gloverdrugs.com <br /> <br />Or <br />Will McCollum<br />AmeriCorps – VISTA / WATCH 2010<br />Mobile: (205) 302-0001<br />wmcollum@wacf.org<br />http://watch2010.walkerweb.net/Walker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-90643634709434531962010-10-25T11:52:00.001-05:002010-10-25T11:54:00.146-05:00Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham is announcing a new grantmaking strategyThe Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham is announcing a new grantmaking strategy and process for 2011 with a series of meetings to inform you, our nonprofit partners. We want to make sure that our past and prospective grant applicants understand the rationale behind the new strategy and the changes in our process.<br />We have scheduled informational sessions throughout the five counties we serve as well as two conference calls. Pick your date and place from the list below and complete your online registration through EventBrite.<br /><br />To prepare for the sessions, please go to http://www.foundationbirmingham.org/results for more information about our new Results Framework, our four targeted results and associated strategies.<br /><br />Your partnership is so important and we look forward to these meetings with you.<br />James McCrary, Senior Program Officer<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Thursday, Oct. 29, 2010 (lunch provided)<br />http://infosession102910wc.eventbrite.com<br />Walker Area Community Foundation<br />800 West 7th Street<br />Jasper, AL 35501<br />12:00-1:30 p.m.</span><br /><br />Conference call on Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2010, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. http://infosession120810.eventbrite.com<br />Conference call on Monday, Dec. 13, 2010, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. http://infosession121310.eventbrite.comWalker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-83862690361726802722010-05-19T19:30:00.002-05:002010-05-19T19:36:35.152-05:00United Way of Central Alabama - Service OpportunityGood Morning, <br /><br />Thank you to everyone who has had an opportunity to register to serve as a 2010 United Way Visiting Allocation Team (VAT) volunteer. To date, we have 162 of the 600 volunteers needed by August 20th. If you haven’t registered, please click the link below and take a few minutes to complete the registration form. <br /><br />http://www.uwca.org/RegisterVAT/index.htm<br /><br />We look forward to working with each of you this Fall. Please continue to support our recruitment efforts by placing the aforementioned link on your Facebook page and/or emailing the information below to others who may be interested.<br /><br />Sonya King<br />Vice President, Agency Impact <br /><br />-------------------------------------<br /><br />UNITED WAY OF CENTRAL ALABAMA - VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY<br /><br />Each year over 600 community volunteers participate in the United Way of Central Alabama’s annual Allocations Process as Visiting Allocation Team (VAT) volunteers. Through this citizen review process, United Way campaign dollars are distributed to partner agencies and initiatives throughout the United Way service area. Ideal volunteers should have a strong desire to make an impact in our community and the flexibility to attend a few week day meetings this Fall. <br /><br />To register and/or obtain additional details, please visit www.uwca.org. The website provides a full description of the roles and responsibilities of a VAT volunteer, the 2010 Allocation time line, a downloadable recruitment flyer, and our on-line registration form. If additional assistance is needed, please contact Sonya King at 205-458-2063 or via email at vat@uwca.org.<br /><br />Registration Deadline: August 20, 2010Walker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-16204445079830835542010-04-29T14:41:00.001-05:002010-04-29T14:41:54.231-05:00Foundation Endowment earns more than $2 million dollarsNews Release for Immediate Use <br />Walker Area Community Foundation<br />Jasper (Walker County), AL – USA<br /><br />Foundation Endowment earns more than $2 million dollars<br />The news is great on the performance of the Foundation’s endowment. At the most recent meeting of the Walker Area Community Foundation the Board of Directors learned from Canterbury Trust Company, that the Foundation’s portfolio has exceeded the benchmarks and performed in the top of its class. The Foundation has earned 27% in the calendar year ending 2009. We started the year at $8,902,413 and ended the year at $ 10,909,980. According to John T. Oliver, Jr., President of the Foundation, “The Community Foundation has weathered the worst economic recession since the 1930’s and has emerged as a strong and vibrant foundation and public charity”.<br /><br />The investments are strong and the Foundation is healthy and growing. Community contributions have been strong through the economic recession and the basic needs of many of the nonprofits providing essential services have been met by grants from the Foundation’s Community Fund. The Foundation closed out the year with $465,970 of grant monies invested in 63 programs to benefit the people of Walker County and the surrounding area. <br /><br />The Board is also elated to report that the interior of the Bankhead House & Heritage Center at 800 West Seventh Street is complete. They are especially proud that no money from the endowment (the grant making portion of the Foundation) was used for the restoration. The Board thanked Mr. Oliver for his exceptional service raising private funds to complete this project outside of the normal work and apart from the budget of the Foundation. The $1,050,000 investment in downtown Jasper is a landmark for the Community Foundation as we now have a permanent home for the Heritage, Arts, and nonprofit business of Walker County.<br /><br />The exterior of the Heritage Center is on track for completion in 2010.<br /><br />To learn more about the exceptional work of the Community Foundation join with us on May 7, 2010 for our Annual Luncheon. Tickets are $15 each and can be purchased by calling (205)302-0001. Congressman Robert Aderholt is the keynote speaker.<br /># # #<br />Paul W. Kennedy<br />Walker Area Community Foundation, Bankhead House & Heritage Center<br />800 Seventh Street West, Jasper, AL 35501, (205) 302-0001 o, (205) 300-4062 m<br />pkennedy@wacf.org, www.wacf.orgWalker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-77819352134368155892010-03-30T16:25:00.000-05:002010-03-30T16:27:06.760-05:00(ADECA) Toolbox for Successful Grants workshopAnyone interested in grantwriting needs to attend this workshop.<br />Paul Kennedy<br /><br />On Tuesday, June 15, 2010, the CEDS Committee will host the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) Toolbox for Successful Grants workshop from 8:30am-12:30pm. Please save the date and spread the word to your respective communities that registration will open up in early May. <br /><br /><br />Thank you,<br /><br />Yvonne Murray<br />Economic Development Specialist<br />Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham<br />1731 1st Avenue North, Suite 200<br />Birmingham, Alabama 35203<br />Main: (205) 251-8139<br />Direct: (205) 264-8428<br />Fax: (205) 264-8480<br />Http://www.rpcgb.org/RPCEDWalker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-47753100590816132472010-03-25T19:09:00.001-05:002010-03-25T19:09:50.237-05:00"Export 101 - How to Achieve Global Success""Export 101 - How to Achieve Global Success"<br />sponsored by the Interstate 22 Alliance (representing Fayette, Franklin, Marion, Lamar, Walker and Winston Counties) in cooperation with Bevill State Community College and the Alabama Development Office Trade Division. This 1 hour workshop is being presented on March 31, 2010 at 1 p.m. at BSCC in Jasper (see attached flyer for details).<br />Please help disseminate this message and attached flyer to as many businesses, industries and individuals as possible so that we might facilitate learning and expanding of business into new markets and in turn grow jobs in northwest Alabama.<br /><br />http://www.interstate22alliance.comWalker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-33177921030144938152010-03-25T19:07:00.000-05:002010-03-25T19:08:46.109-05:00Alabama Strengthening Communities ProjectThe Walker County Non-Profit Council has been selected to participate in the <span style="font-weight:bold;">Alabama Strengthening Communities Project!!!!</span> This group includes those that submitted applications:<br /><br />The Arc of Walker County (lead applicant)<br />Capstone Rural Health Center<br />Celebrate Recovery<br />Concerned Citizens for Our Youth (Beacon House)<br />Durrs-Christ Connection<br />Equines Assisting Special Individuals (EASI)<br />Girl Scouts of North Central Alabama<br />Greater Jasper Area Ministerial Association (GJAMA)<br />Jasper Area Family Services Center<br />Literacy Council – Walker County Chapter<br />Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) Walker County<br />Walker Area Community Foundation<br />Walker County Children’s Policy Council<br />Walker County Human SocietyWalker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-91901850550049273952010-03-24T18:58:00.002-05:002010-03-24T19:00:23.287-05:00$1 Million to Start Regional Loan Fund For Energy-Saving MeasuresADECA<br />February 3, 2010<br /><br />Riley Awards $1 Million to Start Regional Loan Fund For Energy-Saving Measures<br /><br />MONTGOMERY— Gov. Bob Riley has awarded a $1 million economic stimulus grant to help businesses and governments in five central Alabama counties make upgrades that save energy and cut utility costs. <br /><br />The grant, awarded to the St. Clair County Commission, will start the Regional Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Fund for Bibb, Blount, Chilton, St. Clair and Walker counties. Low-interest loans made through the fund will help local governments and businesses finance energy-saving improvements to their facilities. Utility-bill savings can then be used to repay the loan.<br /><br />“Increasing the energy efficiency of our buildings is a good investment for taxpayers, Alabama businesses and the environment,” Riley said. “The projects made possible by this cooperative financing effort will pay huge dividends for many years to come.”<br /><br />Projects eligible for loans include purchase and installation of energy-efficient equipment, windows and doors; installation and use of renewable energy technologies; and projects that reduce environmental waste.<br /><br />St. Clair County officials estimate that 10-20 loans will be made from the initial funding with more financing available as loans are repaid. The Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham will administer the loan fund.<br /><br />Riley awarded the grant as part of $9.6 million in grants to be awarded under the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program. The program helps governments and nonprofit groups improve the energy efficiency of buildings and vehicles, reduce fossil fuel emissions and create or retain jobs.<br /><br />The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the award from funds made available to the state by the U.S. Department of Energy as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.<br /><br />St. Clair County is serving as the chief fiscal agent for the grant. Riley notified Stan Batemon, chairman of the St. Clair County Commission, that the grant had been approved.<br /><br />Contact: Mike Presley, Larry Childers<br />For more information, visit: http://www.adeca.alabama.gov/Walker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-3952915911683605012010-03-23T10:48:00.000-05:002010-03-23T10:49:23.516-05:00Health Network Addresses 65th out of 67 ranking for Walker County<a href="http://www.countyhealthrankings.org/alabama/walker"></a><br />http://www.countyhealthrankings.org/alabama/walkerWalker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-42780310693226062802010-03-19T14:56:00.001-05:002010-03-19T15:02:25.939-05:00CNS - VISTA Position approved for WACFThe Walker Area Community Foundation has just received authorization to bring on a fifth VISTA. We are looking for a talented, highly motivated individual to assist in the development of greater capacity in the Walker County Area. If you or someone you know is interested in one year of service (with some benefits beyond the exceptional experience they will receive), please call me ASAP.<br /><br />For more information on the Program, eledigibility, etc, check out the link to the CNS website at:http://www.nationalservice.gov/about/programs/americorps_vista.aspWalker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-60778862741381014052010-03-15T17:22:00.000-05:002010-03-15T17:23:42.137-05:00Sherer Family Foundation Fund established at WACFPress Release - For Immediate Use<br />Walker County - Jasper, Alabama, USA<br /><br />We are pleased to announce the establishment of the Sherer Family Foundation Fund as a component fund of the Walker Area Community Foundation in Jasper, Alabama.<br />Endowed by Dr. and Mrs Jerald M. Sherer of Jasper, Alabama, the fund will be dedicated to support the aesthetic enhancement of our city and surrounding areas.<br /><br />Community Foundation President John T. Oliver, Jr. said "An endowed fund is a lasting legacy that addresses the needs of today and the challenges of tomorrow. We are very grateful to the Sherer Family for the trust they have placed in the Foundation. By establishing this very generous Designated Fund, the Sherer's are enabling improvements and benefits for our community for generations to come."<br />This fund is the latest to be established under the Community Foundation's portfolio.<br /><br />For more information on the Walker Area Community Foundation, its funds and Programs, please contact our staff at (205) 302-0001 or visit us on the web at www.wacf.org<br /><br /><br />Contact:<br />Paul Kennedy<br />Executive Director<br />(205) 302-0001 w<br />(205) 302-0424 f<br />(205) 300-4062 m<br />pkennedy@wacf.orgWalker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-7973437677368726742010-02-22T18:04:00.000-06:002010-02-22T18:05:18.287-06:00Walker Area Community Foundation Grant Applications AvailablePress Release for Immediate Use<br />February 22, 2010<br /><br />Jasper, AL<br /><br />Walker Area Community Foundation Grant Applications Available<br /><br />The Walker Area Community Foundation announces its Spring Grant Cycle. Grant applications are available for 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organizations only. Applications are due no later than March 1, 2010. If you applied for a grant in September of 2009, you must wait until September 1, 2010 to apply again. To review our grant guidelines, please visit our website www.wacf.org. <br /><br />Paul W. Kennedy<br />Job Title: Executive Director<br />Company: Walker Area Community Foundation<br />POB 171<br />Jasper, AL 35502-0171<br />Bankhead House & Heritage Center<br />800 Seventh Street West<br />Jasper, AL 35501<br />Bus: (205) 302-0001<br />Bus Fax: (205) 302-0424<br />E-mail: pkennedy@wacf.orgWalker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-91425979713021998582010-01-11T12:01:00.003-06:002010-01-11T12:07:18.463-06:00Dramatic Performance opportunity - Walker CountyDear Educators:<br />The WACF gave a grant to the UAB Children’s Theater to bring live dramatic performances to students in Walker County. We have 3 performance openings yet to be booked. Below are the schools that have booked performances and at the bottom are the dates and shows that are available. Please distribute this widely and encourage your schools to make use of this offer. Your point of contact for all of the details is:<br />Melissa "Mel" Christian<br />Program Manager<br />Theater UAB<br />ASC 257<br />1530 3rd Avenue South<br />Birmingham AL 35294-1263<br />Bus: (205) 934-3237 dir<br />Bus 2: (205) 934-3236<br />Bus Fax: (205) 934-8076<br />E-mail: cmel@uab.edu <br />Web Page: http://theatre.hum.uab.edu/ <br /> <br />Walker Area Foundation Grant Funded Performances<br /> <br /># Shows Booked <br />1 Oct 31 Amazing Traveling Aesop Show 1:00pm <br />1 Jan 15 Amazing Traveling Aesop Show 1:30pm <br />1 Feb 26 Kids on The Block Bullies & School Safety 1:30PM <br />1 Feb 26 The Women of Shakespeare 1:00pm<br />1 April 2 The Women of Shakespeare 10:00AM <br />2 APRIL 9 BOOKENDS TOM SAWYER 10:00am & 1pm <br />1 April 23 Amazing Traveling Aesop Show 9:00am <br />1 April 23 Amazing Traveling Aesop Show 1:00pm <br /> <br />To book 12 we still need to book three more. <br />I have dates available for the following:<br />Friday, Feb 12 Kids on the Block 10am or 1pm<br />Friday, Feb 19 Kids on the Block 10am or 1pm<br />Friday, Mar 19 Kids on the Block 10am or 1pm <br />Friday, Mar 19 Shakespeare Ensemble 10am or 1pm<br />Friday, Mar 26 Kids on the Block 10am<br />Friday, Apr 2 Shakespeare Ensemble 1pm <br />Friday, Apr 2 Kids on the Block 10am or 1pm<br />Friday, Apr 2 Aesop 10am or 1pm<br />Friday, Apr 16 Shakespeare Ensemble 10am or 1pm<br />Friday, Apr 16 Kids on the Block 10am or 1pm<br />Friday, Apr 23 Shakespeare Ensemble 10am or 1pm<br />Friday, Apr 23 Kids on the Block 10am or 1pmWalker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1634698016804991657.post-79192242512246646772009-10-27T16:34:00.002-05:002009-10-27T16:37:20.580-05:00EXTREME MAKEOVER: Home Edition - Walker County - Nominate TodayThis just in from the Mayor's Office (thank you Laura)<br /><br />ABC’s EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION<br />SEARCHING FOR DESERVING FAMILIES IN<br />ALABAMA!<br /><br />Do you know someone whose home deserves an Extreme Makeover? If so, the producers of ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition want to hear from you! Ty Pennington and his crew have been all across the map and they are ready to drive that famous bus into your neighborhood. <br /><br />What does it take to be picked for an Extreme Makeover? <br />We are in search of deserving families and deserving people -people who have amazing strength of character and who put their own needs aside to help others. Whether it’s a mom, a soldier, a teacher, or a fireman, we think a deserving family, are families who inspire those around them. In addition, the producers are looking for families whose houses need major alterations or repair-homes that present serious problems for the family and affect the family's quality of life. <br /><br />To be eligible: A family must own their own single family home and be able to show producers how a makeover will make a huge difference in their lives. <br />Interested families or those who wish to nominate another family should: <br />e-mail a short description of their family story to – <br />CastingAlabama@gmail.com <br /><br />Nominations/submissions must include: <br />1 The names and ages of each member of the household <br />2 A description of the major challenges within the home. <br />3 Explanation of why this family is deserving, or a positive role model in <br />their community. <br />4 Photos of the family and a photo of the home <br />5 Don’t forget to include a contact phone number. <br /><br />Please send story submissions as soon as possible! <br />For more information on how to apply please visit our website at: <br />http://abc.go.com/primetime/xtremehome/index?pn=applyWalker Area Community Foundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12402117571955835601noreply@blogger.com0