Archive | Cause to Promote RSS feed for this section

CASA of Coastal Bend | March Recipient of Cause to Promote

by Shari on March 3, 2012 in Cause to Promote

Last month CASA of Coastal Bend was chosen as the March recipient for Cause to Promote. I had the wonderful privilege of speaking with Lulana Cain, (who is a volunteer and board member for CASA). In case you are not familiar with CASA, it stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates.

Lulana explained to me that CASA are people who volunteer to speak up for severely abused and neglected children that have been removed from their homes and placed in the foster care system. CASA are appointed by a family court judge and investigate and consider all aspects, they do not answer to family members, CPS case workers, attorneys etc.

CASA’s are only for the child and only speak up for what is in the best interest of the child. Having a CASA assigned to a case dramatically reduces the time a child spends in the foster care system, thus eliminating more traumas for the child. Though a child may change CPS case workers, schools, friends, foster homes 3, 4, 5, or 6 times a year – the CASA appointed to the child will never change. They remain the only constant in that child’s life until they find them a safe, protective, loving, and permanent home.

CASA is celebrating its 20th Birthday in the Corpus Christi / Coastal Bend area, and they are turning the Birthday into a fundraiser, so that they may be able to train enough volunteers so that EVERY child in the system will have a CASA! They hope to find sponsors to underwrite the event and the promotional items they receive from Cause to Promote will be used to Spotlight their sponsors in goody bags. CASA of Coastal Bend is the fourth most under served area in the state. They hope to increase their numbers from last year which only provided CASA’s to less than half of the children in the CPS court system.

Since April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, I would like to extend an extra big thanks to all of the CASA volunteers throughout the country who are helping one child at a time in preventing abuse. You guys are real unspoken heros!

Comments { 0 }

Scientific Calculators for Students in Need | Cause to Promote

by Shari on November 4, 2011 in Cause to Promote, Uncategorized

We are so excited to have chosen Cedar Ridge High School for our November recipient for Cause to Promote! Kelly Wedding (a teacher at Cedar Ridge High School) wrote in a couple of months ago inquiring about any misprinted calculators that might be given as a donation. We did not have any to send her, but encouraged her to apply for Cause to Promote.

On her application Kelly wrote that Cedar Ridge High School would like to provide regular or scientific calculators to their high school students who cannot afford them. Cedar Ridge HS serves a population that is about 60% minority and about 60% economically disadvantaged. The $6 scientific calculator the kids need for physics or chemistry is beyond their budget.

Kelly explains that Cedar Ridge High School plans on putting calculators in the hands of students, so they can keep them and use them at home, instead of sharing the few that are allotted to the classroom. This would allow students to get homework done, improve grades, and improve their attitudes about their upper level classes.

I had the opportunity to speak with Kelly on the phone earlier this week and she shared a story about one of the kids who did not get his homework done. She asked him why he did not complete it and he stated “I don’t know” she asked him again and then realized that his clothes were old and he looked as if he was hungry. She said a $6 calculator seems like no big deal to most people, but when you don’t even have money to buy food, it is a big deal. I did my best to stay composed on the phone as I fought back the tears.

To end this blog on a higher note, Kelly did share with me about the excitement that the kids had when they found out they were going to have their own scientific calculators to take home! The quote below is on the signature of Kelly’s email. It is something we should all keep in mind, always.

“Be kinder and more polite than necessary. You don’t know what battles the other person faces and what a difference your interaction makes.”

Comments { 0 }

Giving Back to the Families of Our Fallen Soldiers | A Soldier’s Child Birthday Foundation

by Adelaide Collins on October 24, 2011 in Cause to Promote

Last week we were given the wonderful opportunity to meet with Daryl Mackin, the founder of A Soldier’s Child Birthday Foundation. They were the September recipient for Cause to Promote. A Soldier’s Child is a growing non-profit that honors the birthdays of children who have lost a parent in active duty. The idea was created by Daryl Mackin in November 2007 while preparing for his own son’s 6th birthday party. Daryl was in his office and saw a picture of Mark (a dear friend who was killed in active duty). At that moment Daryl realized that Christian (the son of Mark) would never have another birthday with his own father. In June of 2008 they celebrated their 1st birthday through the organization for Christian (in honor of Mark).

Each year the organization has grown, and in June 2010 they had 40 kids, by Christmas 200, and this year they have up to 500 kids they send presents to. Daryl’s mission is to remember the children. He said “Not many things are done for the kids for the most part they are forgotten.” A Soldier’s Child does not seek out the children because it is such a sensitive time for most families. Mothers are asked to fill out a gift interview form, this helps Daryl and his team shop for toys, clothes, and necessities that child needs. In the middle of every month Daryl and a group of volunteers go gift shopping, wrap, and ship, within those 3 days…quite the impressive and thorough process!

The unique thing about this organization is the emphasis they place on wrapping the gifts. Each gift is wrapped in purple paper, lined with silver and gold ribbon which Daryl says symbolizes “Royalty.” Through the interview I learned about a shell that is found on the Florida beach called a Spiny Dye Mirax. The mollusk of this shell produces a purple dye. The purple die in the shell ties back to the idea of the wrapping that the child inherited royalty. The shell is placed on the box along with a scroll that is stamped with a waxed crown. Their goal is to adopt these children and continue to bless each birthday until they are adults. Daryl was proud to announce that he had never missed a birthday!

Daryl and is members of volunteers continue to gain and bless children as the years go on. They now offer a week long summer camp and hope to form a scholarship program for these children. What he is doing is a true reflection on his character. He has impacted so many lives around the United States and his faith shines through each gift. It was a delight to meet he and his co-worker Clayton Ledford. For more information visit their website www.asoldierschild.org.

“We are Warriors. We fight and sometimes die so that our families don’t have to”.

-Sgt. Mark Andrew Golczynski

Daryl and Clayton with the Cause To Promote swag they won!

Comments { 0 }

PALS Tours | October Recipient for Cause to Promote

by Shari on October 6, 2011 in Cause to Promote

A little about the mission of PALS Tours:

PALS Tours is a four-day program that aims to provide adults with Down syndrome an opportunity to increase independence through the development of life skills while exploring a new city. Through a variety of fun and educational activities, they strive to create and foster friendship amongst all participants and mentors that can be relied on year round. Together, they work to not only support the Down syndrome community but also give back to the greater communities which they are visiting.

How PALS Tours plans on using the products to promote their cause:

One of the big initiatives is to promote being active and making healthy choices. As a result they are making wellness kits for all of their participants and staff that include pedometers to track steps, water bottles and other materials. They are hoping to develop healthy habits throughout the program that participants will continue throughout the year!

You can read more about PALS Tours by clicking here.

If you are a 501C3 Non-Profit (or have applied to be one) and would like to be considered for our Cause to Promote Program, click here.

Comments { 0 }

Pretty in Pink | Here’s to Mom!

by Adelaide Collins on September 29, 2011 in Cause to Promote

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness month. This October we celebrate 25 years of awareness, education, and empowerment. The American Cancer Society has made great improvements in treatment and early detection saving millions of woman from breast cancer today.

This blog hits close to home for me. My life and my families lives changed dramatically and unexpectedly in July when we found out my mom, Barbara Collins, was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer. She was in Nashville and told me that she had to go to the doctor due to an unusual lump. That lump lead to multiple other appointments which eventually lead to the conclusion that she had cancer. Next step, she was scheduled for a double mastectomy removing both of her breasts in my hometown, Kerrville, TX.

Honestly, everything happened so quickly, my parents were in-and-out of doctors offices, and we never really had time as a family to sit down and talk about it. Confused and worried I went home to be with her during the week of her surgery, it was important for me to know that she knew I was there for her, even if I was sitting in the waiting room. I’ve watched her make tremendous strides to recovery. She recovered from her surgery well and was able to enjoy being at my sisters wedding before starting chemo.

Because this type of cancer is so aggressive it is imperative to start treatment immediately, it can spread like wild fire, she had her first round the Monday after our family trip to New Orleans for Hattie (my sister’s) wedding. She chopped her hair, dyed it platinum blonde, and was ready to begin this new stage of her life.

She writes a blog sharing her story with others, she wrote, “I am blessed to be living in an age where technology is what it is, medicine is what it can be and reconstruction of the anatomy is bionic.” (http://madreminutes.blogspot.com/) As she fights I fight with her through prayer and support.

Mom and her new "do"

To raise awareness I encourage you to wear a pink ribbon or use other products that support the cause during Breast Cancer Awareness Month or throughout the year. This is a great way to honor survivors and those who are still fighting. Participate in activities that bring awareness about the disease, honor cancer survivors, and help save lives.

As a reminder for woman do monthly breast checks, don’t overlook something that seems unusual. I will proudly wear a ribbon for my mom and those who continue to fight and have survived!

Comments { 2 }

A Soldier’s Child | September Recipient for Cause to Promote!

by Shari on September 1, 2011 in Cause to Promote

A little about the mission of A Soldier’s Child:

Their mission is to serve the children of fallen military personnel who have given their lives on active duty while defending the United States of America. With humbleness of heart they aim to honor the memory of the parent by giving a meaningful gift to his/her children on their birthday every year up to age 19. They have also started a summer camp experience and have partnered with other groups to provide college scholarships.

How A Soldier’s Child Plans on using the products to promote their cause:

They would like to promote and bring awareness to their cause. They attend events throughout the year and spend about $150 on gifts for each child for their birthday. Various promotional items could be part of what is used with the child’s gift when age appropriate.

You can read more about A Soldier’s Child by clicking here.

If you are a 501C3 Non-Profit (or have applied to be one) and would like to be considered for our Cause to Promote Program, click here.

Comments { 0 }

The Temporary Tattoo Project | Great Success!

by Shari on August 4, 2011 in Cause to Promote, Uncategorized

The Temporary Tattoo Project was the July recipient for our Cause to Promote Program. TTTP was formed by Givology as a creative fundraiser that partnered with 5 tattoo artists to design temporary tattoos to raise money to provide education to children in Kenya.

The event was held on July 27th in New York, the good news is that the tattoos can still be purchased and this will continue the fundraising efforts towards such a great cause!

Below are some photos from the event that show the amazing creativity in each tattoo.

Black & White Version of the Tattoos

Comments { 0 }

Wisconsin Rapids Family Center, Inc. is the August Recipient for Cause to Promote!

by Shari on August 1, 2011 in Cause to Promote, Uncategorized

A little about the mission of Wisconsin Family Center:

The Family Center, guided by survivor voices, works through education and community involvement to eliminate violence and provide safety for all people victimized by abuse.

How Wisconsin Rapids Family Center plans on using the products to promote their cause:

During the month of October, they will be holding many events to coincide with Domestic Violence Awareness month. They would like to be able to promote their cause at these events to help raise awareness and educate their community about the cycle of abuse. A family fun day will allow them to use many of the products in a fun and interactive way. A candle light vigil will be held one evening to remember those who lost their lives due to domestic violence. The entire community will be invited to all of the events in October. They plan to incorporate all products in each event during DV month.

If you are a 501C3 Non-Profit (or have applied to be one) and would like to be considered for our Cause to Promote Program, click here.

Comments { 0 }

Using Cool Swag to Raise Money for Charity

by Shari on July 8, 2011 in Cause to Promote, Uncategorized

Today I came across a charity that sold really cool t-shirts and tumblers to raise money for orphans. It reminded me that people love buying stuff, especially when they can feel good knowing that their purchase is helping the greater good.

What a novel idea to use cool swag to raise money for charity, not to mention it brings attention to the name of the cause.

There are a couple things to keep in mind when raising money for charities with promotional items or swag as I prefer to call it. Choose eye catching products such as bracelets, t-shirts, hats and stickers (which are all top sellers). If you are selling t-shirts, choose a few styles that will appeal to the crowd buying them and be sure to be extra creative with the logo – it is best to have a few design options to choose from.

USimprints also offers a discount to Non-Profits. So here’s to promoting great causes!

Comments { 0 }

Givology is the July Recipient for Cause to Promote!

by Shari on July 1, 2011 in Cause to Promote, Uncategorized

A little about the mission of Givology:

Launched in March 2008 by students at the University of Pennsylvania, Givology is an Internet online giving marketplace for education that leverages small dollar donations to support grassroots projects and student scholarships in the developing world. As a P2P community at the forefront of the internet microphilanthropy revolution, Givology partners with NGOs and schools throughout the world and connects internet donors to grassroots causes. Through donor message functions, open blogging, and frequent student updates, Givology democratizes philanthropy by introducing choice, transparency, and information sharing in education philanthropy. In particular, they aspire to do the following:

Create an online community for giving – to connect our donors to high-impact investments in education
Serve as an online hub for grassroots education organizations that do transformational work in the community
Leverage small dollar donations to improve access to quality education in developing countries
Raise funding and support to enable our global partners to scale and expand their impact
Spread awareness and generate research about problems in education delivery
Share information and promote cross-cultural relationships through blogging, messaging, and social media

How Givology plans on using the products to promote their cause:

As a young organization, Givology strives to have creative campaigns to promote our cause and plans to use Promotional Temporary Tattoos for a campaign called The Temporary Tattoo Project. The Temporary Tattoo Project is a creative fundraiser partnering with 5 tattoo artists to design temporary tattoos and provide education to children in Kenya. Robyn Fukumoto and Lauren Sauma are hosting this Givology event to benefit Flying Kites, a non-profit Givology partner endeavoring to change the standard of care provided to the poorest of orphans in Kenya by setting them up with high quality education, amazing housing and a community raised in giving back. The 5 selected artists have each been paired with a child and designed a temporary tattoo for Givology to sell and raise money to support the children. The tattoos be presented at the launch event on July 27th, 2011. All proceeds from the event will directly aid Flying Kites in their mission to provide quality education to underprivileged students and communities in Kenya. We hope to have over 400 people attend the launch on July 27th, 2011, and raise $2,000 for each child. After the launch event, the tattoos will be sold for several months on the e-commerce store and around New York City at pop up stores in various indoor and outdoor locations.

If you are a 501C3 Non-Profit (or have applied to be one) and would like to be considered for our Cause to Promote Program, click here.