9/28/09 Dinner with Boys Hope Girls Hope

After a warm welcome from Chuck Roth and the Boys and Ladies at the beautiful home of Boys Hope Girls Hope in Baltimore, we got a tour by Charles, a true gentleman, who's living in this "family" since two years. We learned about what it means for these children to live in a safe and cordial environment after getting a taste of the cruelty "out there", and we witnessed the pride that these young boys have in being a part of this strong bond.

Even the chores, that are a must for most teenagers, are taken care of as a part of contributing to this amazing family environment. Further, these young adults, who had such a struggle and pain in their lives prior to coming to this place of joy and laughter, do a 100 hours of community work every year as a thank you for having been given a chance.

Sean Mitton and I are very grateful for the opportunity to learn about this incredible program and the delicious dinner at the large family table where the whole household and Jim Railey, Development Committee Chair were a part of.

After dinner I was impressed how efficient these young adults were with taking care of the dishes and cleaning up the kitchen. However, there is one thing that is the testimonial and proof of success of this program - the laughter of these young adults filling the large kitchen.
Congratulations to Chuck Roth and his Team for successfully creating this family environment, and a special 'Thank you' for letting us be a part of it.

Boys Hope Girls Hope of Baltimore is raising funds for the construction of the Girls Home. To make a donation and being a part of this wonderful project, click here!

WebSite for Boys Hope Girls Hope: http://www.bhghbaltimore.org/

9/28/09 Boys Hope Girls Hope Baltimore, MD

Boys Hope, Girls Hope
300 E. Lombard Street,
Suite 1111
Baltimore, MD - 21202
(410) 244-0000 x36

http://www.bhghbaltimore.org/

Boys Hope Girls Hope is a privately funded, non-profit multi-denominational organization that provides at-risk children with a stable home, positive parenting, high quality education, and the support needed to reach their full potential. We use a holistic approach to provide them with necessary education and life skills to be productive members of the community.

About Boys Hope Girls Hope

Founded in 1977 by Father Paul Sheridan, S.J., Boys Hope Girls Hope is a privately funded, non-profit multi-denominational organization that provides children living in at-risk situations with a stable home, positive parenting, high quality education, and the support needed to reach their full potential. Many of our children come from home environments marked by drug abuse, poverty or neglect, while others come from caring families unable to meet the child’s needs.
We use a holistic approach with the children in our care and provide them with the necessary education and life skills to be productive members of the community. We work to positively impact the community through participation in community service days each month, as well as asking scholars to become involved with a non-profit of their choice. Typically, each scholar completes about 100 hours of community service annually, spending time helping such entities as the Maryland Food Bank, Johns Hopkins’ Children’s House, Food for Thought, Student Sharing Coalition and East Rosemont Neighborhood Association.

Services

The approach utilized by Boys Hope Girls Hope has several unique elements which make it the only program of its kind in the country:

Residential Services

Scholars enter our program between the ages of 10 and 14, and live in our residence through graduation from high school. Placement into our residential program is voluntary on behalf of the child and his/her parent(s) or guardian. This program offers education in first rate schools, a family style home focused on personal development, live-in counselors who provide structure, guidance, and nurturing, room, board, tuition, and a personal allowance, medical services, summer athletic and enrichment programs, and professional counseling.

Partners In Parenting

We work hand in hand with the scholar’s parents, strongly encouraging and valuing their involvement in the BHGH program. Parent participation in their child’s activities and program events, and support of goals and values ensures the best possible experiences for the scholars. Parents maintain custody of their child and BHGH maintains regular contact with parents via scheduled visits and phone calls. Parents are encouraged to attend parent teacher conferences and stay actively involved with the child’s educational development. Students typically visit their homes at least once per month and extended visits occur during holidays and summer months. There are no restrictions against parental contact by phone, letter, or e-mail.


College Support and After Care

All scholars admitted into the program receive after-care services to meet their individual needs. This is typically enacted at the time of high school graduation. These services include: financial assistance for college tuition, room, board, and books, emotional support and mentoring while on campus, temporary housing at BHGH residence during college breaks, assistance in securing internships and employment, follow-up to asses a scholar’s reintegration into the family and community, support and guidance for scholar caregivers, and extension of counseling services.


Emphasis on Education

BHGH provides its scholars the opportunity to attend first-rate local schools.
In addition to their educational demands, all scholars participate in cultural and enrichment activities. Attaining a college education is a priority for the scholars and the BHGH program provides financial assistance to those who wish to pursue further education.


Value-Centered Homes

Our scholars reside in neighborhood environments with caring, supportive counselors who act as role models and confidants. Respect for all individuals is the philosophy of BHGH residences. Scholars pitch in on daily living responsibilities and learn the importance of cooperation and teamwork.


Extra Curricular Activities

Scholars participate in a variety of activities within the community and their educational institutions. These activities enrich their lives and teach valuable life lessons, including leadership, sportsmanship, loyalty, and responsibility. During Summer months, scholars attend enrichment and sports camps such as Center for Talented Youth, Teton Science School, and Camp Miniwanca a four year leadership camp. Scholars older than 16, work part time during the school year and are actively engaged in visiting colleges.


Laying a Moral Framework

Faith and spirituality are two important components of personal development. BHGH scholars are encouraged to explore their faith and understand God’s purpose in their lives. Scholars are required to follow their family’s faith tradition and participate in weekly worship. Positive moral values are exemplified in BHGH residences in hopes the scholars will adopt these principals and enact them in their daily lives.

Interview with Chuck Roth



Interview with Matt

9/26/09 Pennies in Action - Aston, PA

Uschi Keszler presents 'Pennies in Action'!

Aston, PA - a little dot outside of Philadelphia (I could not even find it on the Map), hosts the Hope Bus at IceWorks for the Global Opening and Ribbon Cutting of the Fundraiser for 'Pennies in Action'. Uschi Keszler, world renowned Coach for World and Olympic Skaters, and 2-times cancer survivor put all her efforts into this project to support the Cancer Vaccine Research that could be a life-saving vaccine in the near future.

"We need to raise 25 Million Dollars to make it happen, and I will do whatever it takes to get there!", says Uschi. To read about the incredible story how every penny can make a difference and/or to donate funds toward this incredible cause, please visit: http://www.penniesinaction.org/.

Uschi proved that she's serious about her Global Launch. In a record time, she was able to unite American, Russian and Swiss Athletes to be a part of this launch. Some of the celebrities present at this event were:

World Champion in Ice Dancing Oksana Domnina (RUS), World Silver Medalists Tanith Belbin and Benjamin Agosto (USA), Swiss Champions Leonie Krail and Oscar Peter (SUI).

9/26/09 Global Launch for Pennies in Action in Aston, PA

Pennies in Action
Founder Uschi Keszler

contact@penniesinaction.org

www.penniesinaction.org

The Hope Bus ignites Global Fundraiser for Pennies in Action

Aston, PA — A tiny dot on the map of Pennsylvania will be the location for the launch of a Global Fundraiser for Pennies in Action (http://www.penniesinaction.org/).

In her quest to support research for breast cancer therapy programs that do not damage the immune system, the energetic Founder of Pennies in Action Uschi Keszler, a World and Olympic Coach for Figure Skaters and herself a survivor of breast cancer. has implemented her Pennies in Action Campaign.

Uschi Kesler receiving Hope Certificate for Global Launch, Grandson, Helena Nyman

Pennies in Action T-Shirts and Buttons

Her dream was always to bring this fundraiser to the next level and eventually take it globally. The opportunity opened up a few months ago when she was contacted by the Founder of the Hope Bus, Helena Nyman, who herself was a former coach for Olympic and World Athletes.

Worlds Silber Medailists Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto (US)

After losing touch with each other for over a decade, charity work brought these two go-getters back together. Keszler and Nyman decided to make the seventh stop of the Hope Bus the special milestone to launch the Global Fundraiser for Pennies in Action.
.

Lightening the torches of Hope

Location and Schedule for the Global launch of Pennies in Action is the Ice Works Skating Complex, 3100 W Duttons Mill Rd., Aston PA from 1-6pm Family Fun like old times.

Skaters & Philadelphia Flyers Cheerleaders

Worlds Silber Medalists Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto (USA), World Gold Medalist Ice Dancing Oksana Domnina, Helena Nyman, Uschi Keszler

International Skaters enjoying being a part of the Event and probing their talents as DJs

Showing support for Pennies in Action and celebrating the Global Launch and Hope Bus visit are Iceworks Skating Complex, World Champions in Ice Dancing Oksana Domnina and Maxim Shabalin (RUS), Worlds Silber Medailists Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto (US), Greenridge Fire Co Aston, Philadelphia Flyers Organization, Delco Phantoms, Top Gun black belt Karate Academy, Irish Dancers, Pinnocios Pizza, Coca Cola, Bette's fun place, Parkinsons disease, Blackface (DJ) and the Holiday Inn Express Concordville-Brandywine in Glen Mills who is the Sponsor for the Hotel rooms for the Hope Tour Team.

About Pennies in Action

The vision of Pennies in Action is twofold: First, she hopes to allow everyone, young and old, rich and poor, those with health insurance, and those without, to have ownership in this research. The amount each person gives may be relatively insignificant, for a penny alone has little value, but many pennies make many dollars. The important thing is that the giving should not be burdensome. But success in funding the research and the power to make a difference can come from just a few pennies if everyone takes part in even a small way. A wise man once said that a big number multiplied by a small number is a big number! Secondly, this program has the potential to empower by keeping people informed of both the progress in the research and the advancement in the financial support of the research. Since all those who contribute their few pennies hold a concrete stake in the research that can remove cancer as a threat, Uschi believes that full disclosure must be the norm. To this end, Uschi plans to keep all financial progress clearly in view with an image of pennies joined together end-to-end. If each year 15 million people, just 5 percent of the American population, gave just one penny a month, this important research could be supported and the distance toward the attainment of the goal could be reached. Power to the people comes from a powerful belief in the strength of the combined energy of all those who will benefit

Hope Bus featured on Courier Post Site

The Hope Bus has been featured in the Courier Post:

http://www.courierpostonline.com/article/20090922/GETPUBLISHED/909220368


The Hope Bus Tour Makes a Stop At Ice Works in Aston CourierPostOnline.com Courier-Post
Source: www.courierpostonline.com
On September 26, a Family Fun Day will be had at the Ice Works Skating Complex in Aston, PA. Carnival games and activities for kids will

Hope Bus featured on Richmond Times Dispatch Site

The Hope Bus has been featured on the Richmond Times Dispatch Site:

http://thingstodo.timesdispatch.com/ashland-va/events/show/88687708-sendoff-party-hope-bus


Send-Off Party Hope Bus in Ashland, VA at O Zone on 9/19/09 - timesdispatch.com
Source: thingstodo.timesdispatch.com
Send-Off Party Hope Bus Information: Get event details, driving directions and more. 10am-1pm: Games, Snacks and Fun for the whole Family! Send-off the Hope Bus to its first Phase

Hope in Bloom, Boston, NJ

Hope in Bloom
202 Bussey St
Dedham, MA 02026-2512
(781) 381-3597

http://www.hopeinbloom.org/


Hope in Bloom is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization that plants gardens free of charge at the homes of women and men undergoing treatment for breast cancer. The program operates throughout Massachusetts.

Healing gardens have been proven to be therapeutic sanctuaries offering both comfort and hope to meet the emotional and psychological needs of patients and their families.

Join our growing community and help someone going through a very difficult time





The four words women fear most —“you have breast cancer” are now being heard by one in seven of us. This translates into a new diagnosis every two minutes

Roberta Dehman Hershon, Founder

Hope in Bloom began when Beverly Eisenberg, my friend for almost 50 years, learned she had breast cancer. The idea became a reality when she died from the disease in August 2005.
Beverly loved flowers and took pride in her garden. Together, we spent hours pouring over catalogs, visiting nurseries, selecting plants and digging in the dirt. When she was no longer able to garden, her friends kept her house filled with flowers. She, like so many of us, took pleasure in their quiet beauty.
From left to right: Helena Nyman, Roberta Dehman Hershon, Lillian Lambert at the Jamaica Plain Garden.

We provide indoor and outdoor gardens (container, patio or in-ground) free of charge at the homes of women and men who reside in Massachusetts and are being treated for breast cancer. Each garden is tailored to the recipient’s residential space and lifestyle. Indoor gardens are available year round while outdoor gardens are seasonal. A Hope in Bloom garden can improve the quality of life for patients and their families. We offer people beautiful, tranquil places to sit, reflect and escape from the world of doctors, hospitals and illness. With your support, we can change the landscape for more people living with breast cancer and strive to realize our dream of expanding Hope in Bloom to other states.

Roberta Dehman Hershon, Founder

Interview with Founder Roberta Hershon

Special Thank you to the La Quinta Hotel in Clifton, NJ

Coming soon!

9/24/09 Strong Women, strong Girls Inc

Strong Women, strong Girls
1 Milk St # 300
Boston, MA 02109-5413
(617) 338-4833

www.swsg.org

Welcome!

The mission of Strong Women, Strong Girls is to build upon the lessons learned from strong women throughout history to help girls and young women become strong women themselves. By building communities of women committed to supporting positive social change, Strong Women, Strong Girls works to create cycles of mutual empowerment for women and girls.
Strong Women, Strong Girls has created an innovative after school model that uses the study of contemporary and historic female role models, mentoring relationships with college undergraduate women, and skill building activities to help at-risk girls in grades 3-5 build positive self-esteem and skills for life-long success. In addition to supporting the development of young girls, Strong Women, Strong Girls also emphasizes the leadership and growth of the college women who volunteer as mentors. Strong Women, Strong Girls seeks to build the skills and leadership capacity of these talented young women to engage them as mentors for girls in their communities now and as life-long advocates for women and girls.

College women developing the skills to become change-agents in their communities. Girls gaining role models and the skills they need for future success. By working together we believe they'll change the world. They KNOW they will. Our Mission

Strong Women, Strong Girls is an emerging not-for-profit organization that supports the leadership and self-esteem development of women and girls. The mission of Strong Women, Strong Girls is to build upon the lessons learned from strong women throughout history to encourage girls and young women become strong women themselves. By building communities of women committed to supporting positive social change, Strong Women, Strong Girls works to create cycles of mutual empowerment for women and girls.

To do this, Strong Women, Strong Girls has created an innovative after school model that uses the study of contemporary and historic female role models, mentoring relationships with college undergraduate women, and skill building activities to help at-risk girls in grades 3-5 build positive self-esteem and skills for life-long success.

In addition to supporting the development of young girls, Strong Women, Strong Girls also emphasizes the leadership and growth of the college women who volunteer as mentors. Strong Women, Strong Girls seeks to build the skills and leadership capacity of these talented young women to engage them as mentors for girls in their communities now and as life-long advocates for women and girls.

Strong Women, Strong Girls was founded in 2000 by then-freshman Lindsay Hyde as a student group of the Phillips Brooks House Association at Harvard University. The program began working in two elementary school sites and engaged six college-age volunteers serving as mentors. During the first few years of the program, requests from parents, teachers, and principals supported the rapid growth of Strong Women, Strong Girls in the Greater Boston area.

As a result of the program's success, the demand for Strong Women, Strong Girls programming was far greater than could be accommodated by the volunteer efforts of a single college chapter operating as a student group. To meet the growing demand for Strong Women, Strong Girls programming, in September 2004 the organization incorporated as a not-for-profit agency and hired Lindsay Hyde as the organization's executive director.

Working together with our outstanding network community partners and supporters, Strong Women, Strong Girls is building communities of strong and successful women today and supporting the strong and successful women of tomorrow.

To learn more about Strong women, strong Girls, click here!

9/24/09 Boston Women's Fund

Boston Women's Fund
14 Beacon StreetSuite 805
Boston, MA 02108
Telephone: 617-725-0035


http://www.bostonwomensfund.org

About the Boston Women's Fund:

BWF Mission


The Boston Women's Fund supports community-based organizations run by women and girls in the Greater Boston Area. We work with low-income women; women of color; women with disabilities; older women; lesbian, bisexual, and transgender women; immigrant and refugee women; and girls who are working to create a society based on racial, social, and economic justice. The Boston Women's Fund raises money from a broad base of donors across economic backgrounds to provide grants and develop programs that strengthen the grassroots initiatives and leadership of women and girls.


Who we are

The Boston Women's Fund is a collaboration of staff, volunteers, donors, and grantees working together for social and economic justice. We focus on women and girls because women and girls continue to experience gender related discrimination, abuse, and disparities.
We provide grants to grassroots organizations run by and for women and girls. We also support grantee organizations through technical assistance and networking forums. We run programs to inspire young women to become philanthropists, develop leadership among young women, and educate the public about injustice. Social, racial, and economic justice is our goal.


BWF Core Values

We believe that change starts at the grassroots level, and systemic change is necessary to achieve social justice.
We believe that power and wealth must be redistributed to attain equity and systemic change.
We believe that the fight for women's rights is an integral part of a larger struggle to end oppression based on race, class, gender, age, religion, ability, or sexual orientation.
We believe that all movements fighting racism must be racially and culturally diverse in both membership and leadership if progressive change is to occur.
We believe that women and girls can and must be leaders within all movements if progressive change is to occur.
We believe that educating and organizing a diverse donor base is a critical strategy for amassing broad support for social-change movements.
We strive to reflect our commitment to shared leadership, equity, and cultural diversity in all aspects of our organization's operations.


How to Get Involved

There are several volunteer opportunities at the Boston Women's Fund. Women and girls interested in social and economic justice can volunteer to serve on our Board or on one of our Committees that include the:

Allocations Committee
Program Committee
Finance Committee
Nominations Committee
Personnel Committee
Development Committee
Publications Committee

We welcome people from diverse walks of life to help us plan various grantee, fundraising and outreach events throughout the year. In the past we have had volunteers host house parties to recruit members to our 2000 Club endowment campaign; help us to plan and carry out our annual fundraising and visibility Take A Stand event; help to organize grantee networking events and collaborate on protests, petitions, educational forums and other movement building activities.

We also look to community members to provide whenever possible some pro-bono technical assistance support to the Fund or to our grantee groups. This helps us tremendously to ensure that we are continually strengthening and growing our social and economic justice movement.

To visit the Boston Women's Fund WebSite, click here!

9/23/09 Little Sisters of the Poor, Somerville, MA

Little Sisters of the Poor
186 Highland Ave
Somerville, MA 02143-1595
(617) 776-4420

www.littlesistersofthepoor.org

About the little Sisters of the Poor:

Mission of Hospitality

In 1939 the future Pope John XXIII was so struck by what he witnessed in one of our homes that he wrote to the Vatican: “Every day I witness with my own eyes the edifying spectacle of the survival of the spirit of simplicity, humility and inexhaustible and trusting generosity that the Little Sisters still offer today in Constantinople… It is as though certain traits of their blessed Mother Foundress shine in each one of them.” Thanks to Jeanne’ presence among us, we are able to continue her spirit as we pursue our mission of hospitality today.

Author and Speaker Lillian Lambert tells the Seniors of the Little Sisters of the Poor about how she overcame her obstacles in life. Please visit Lillian's WebSite at: www.LillianLincolnLambert.com


Helena Nyman and Lillian Lambert talk to the Seniors and let them be the Stars of the Day by conducting interviews to learn about their life stories.

Modern Art made by the Seniors

Spanky, the Hope Dog visits with the Seniors

On hearing about the upcoming Canonization, Cardinal Francis George, O.M.I., reflected, “As the Church anticipates the canonization of Jeanne Jugan, the Foundress of the Little Sisters of the Poor, we might recall the words of Pope John Paul II at her beatification: ‘God could glorify no more humble a servant than she!’ The quiet but eloquent radiance of her life continues to shine out in the lives of the Little Sisters of the Poor today.

These residences are icons of mercy where Christ is welcomed and served in the elderly poor with the utmost respect for their dignity. May God be praised and may the entire Church rejoice at the public proclamation of the extraordinary holiness of Jeanne Jugan.” Nothing means more to us than continuing the spirit and work of Jeanne Jugan in the world today – welcoming the needy elderly into our homes, forming one family with them, enabling them to enjoy life and caring for them with love and respect until the moment God calls them home!

The care of the dying has always been the summit of our apostolate and it is an ever more powerful witness of the culture of life. By the look in his eyes or by the silence of his whole being, the elderly person who is near death asks us this question: “Does my life still have any value? Is it worth living?” To each person we respond with a resounding yes!

Fast facts about the Little Sisters of the Poor today:

• currently 2,700 Little Sisters;
• over 13,000 elderly residents currently served;
• 202 homes;
• 32 countries;
• 31 homes in North America and 8 in Oceania (Our most recent foundations: Bolinao, Philippines (2007); Tacna, Peru (2006); Manila, Philippines (2004); Jabalpur, India (2004); Cartago, Colombia (2003); and Kwanju, South Korea (2000)
• Our homes are open to needy seniors 60 years and older
• We welcome the elderly regardless of race, religion or national origin
• As Little Sisters we profess vows of chastity, poverty, obedience – and a special 4th vow of hospitality
• By this vow we dedicate our whole lives to the service of the needy elderly
• We are grateful for the support of over 2,000 lay members of the Association Jeanne Jugan around the world
• Just as Jeanne Jugan did, we rely on God’s Providence – manifested through the generosity of good people in the community – for the survival of our mission

9/23/09 Harvard Business School, Boston, MA

The Hope Bus Team has the special privilege of a Tour at Harvard Business School in Boston by Mr. James Aisner - Director of Media Relations at Harvard Business School.


It is a very special and nostalgic day for one of our Hope Team Members - Lillian Lincoln Lambert - who was the 1st African-American Woman graduating from Harvard Business School.

Lillian Lambert & James Aisner

Helena Nyman in the Auditorium where some of the most influential Leaders in the World got their education.

From left to right:
T. Patterson, P. Smith, J. Aisner, L. Lambert, H. Nyman



Interview with Jim Aisner, Director of Media Relations at Harvard Business School.



Interview with Lillian Lincoln Lambert who graduated from Harvard Business School as the 1st African-American Woman 40 years ago.

9/22/09 Children's Village, Dobbs Ferry, NY

Children's Village
Dobbs Ferry, NY
(914) 693-0531‎

www.childrensvillage.org


A special 'Thank you' to Ms. Candida Fitts, responsible for Volunteers and Mentoring for the wonderful Tour at Children's Village in Dobbs Ferry, NY!

The Hope Team, consisting of 5 Hope Ambassadors, was in for a surprise during the tour at the Village. From the description on the WebSite, we were aware of some of the programs that the Village provides, but all the words on the WebSite do no justice to what we were about to experience.

Besides an outstanding school program, the boys from the village get the opportunity to a first class sports program, job preparation and to recreational activities. One thing that I became aware of very quickly was the discipline and the politeness of the boys in the village. They seemed to be very grateful for what the staff and the village had to offer. Another great concept was the housing environment. Between 12 and 15 young men manage a household and learn about responsibility. (Frankly, this actually would be a great idea for most young people in order to make the transition from "home" to "independence" smoother.)




During our walk, I couldn't miss the sign on a house that said 'Culinary Institute'. When Ms. Fitts saw my question on my face, she responded very quickly that the young boys can get trained in culinary to prepare them for a job.

We also were treated with a visit to the canine training area and the barber shop where we could witness these young men in training.

After that, we were accepted into a "household" where we could observe the dynamic of the young team supporting each other with home work, chores, and playing games. I was fascinated by the harmony and the hunger for learning!

When we continued our tour, we passed a large bus that served as a computer training lab. Again, this valuable resource was used not only to have a computer lab, but the young team learned to provide computer services and to make money with these services. How brilliant!

Before resuming our trip to Boston, we made one last visit to a group of young boys who worked on the curriculum 'trust' out in the nature in form of games. They readily invited us to be a part of it, and for a few moments, I was a girl.

I am forever grateful for this amazing tour and the kindness I received from Ms. Candida Fitts, the staff and the young men at the Children's Village.

Mission of the Children's Village:

Our mission is to work in partnership with families to help society’s most vulnerable children so that they become educationally proficient, economically productive, and socially responsible members of their communities.

Our Values

Behind this mission lie three core beliefs: First, all children and youth need connections to adults, preferably family members, who believe in them and will remain connected throughout their lives. Second, education, appropriate social behavior, and job skills are essential to functioning independently in society. And third, every human being has strengths and the desire to make his or her life happy and fulfilling; with support and the tools to overcome obstacles, most can and will succeed.

About the Children's Village

Residential Programs

Residential School
Provides a structured, educationally enriched program for youth with behavioral and/or emotional problems

Residential Treatment Facility
Treats children with serious mental health problems

Crisis Residence
An alternative to psychiatric hospitalization for youth in temporary crisis.

Foster Boarding Homes
Finds loving temporary homes for children

Supported Housing
Provides supervised apartments for older youth who are homeless or transitioning from foster care

Sanctuary Shelter
Provides short term shelter for runaways and street-involved youth

Transitional Residence for Alien Children
Keeps minors who are awaiting immigration status decision safe and helps acclimate them to the US


Community Programs

Multi-systemic Therapy
Seeks to keep troubled teenagers at home by providing intensive support to families

OPTIONS Education and Employment Center
Helps older youth become independent through education and job readiness

Pathways to Adulthood
Helps foster youth develop concrete independent living skills

Street Outreach
Goes into the urban centers of Westchester County to engage street-involved youth

WAY Program
Provides 5 years of support to youth leaving CV's residential programs.


Children’s Village recruits foster and adoptive families for children leaving our residential programs, as well as for families or infants and sibling groups referred to us. For foster homes, we specialize in recruiting foster families in the Bronx and Harlem neighborhoods from which most of the children come and provide training and ongoing support.

http://www.childrensvillage.org/

Driving in NYC

Driving through the traffic of NYC made me appreciate the light traffic of my "home town" Richmond, VA. We should send the programmers of Mapquest to NYC to experience how their estimated 40 minutes turn into 90 minutes or more... ;-)

To all my friends who heard me complain about the tolls in Richmond, VA - I take it back after spending a fortune for our multiple commutes between NJ and NYC.

Driving in Brooklyn around midnight was a true adventure. Luckily, my co-pilots Jackie Davis and Spanky - the Jack Russell were great navigators. Tom Tom wasn't able to deal with all the road blocks.

About the Ronald McDonald House of New York

At Ronald McDonald House of New York, Inc., we support each family and coordinate emotional and physical services, psychological care, ministry support, wellness programs, tutors, music, art, transportation, activities for siblings, holiday and birthday parties and camaraderie for parents struggling with their child’s cancer diagnosis. These services are a part of the fabric of Ronald McDonald House of New York and are provided to families at a nominal fee that is no more than $35 per night. With each family that arrives, there is a uniting Hope and a common search for health and healing.

(The picture and text above have been taken from the WebSite of the RMDH of New York. To visit the Official WebSite, click here!)

I have been very touched during Ralph Vogel's tour at the RMDH. The Tour started on the 3rd floor where I was introduced to the family rooms. Each room looks like a Hotel Room, and the families have the freedom to make it their home during their stay in NYC. They are allowed to decorate it and change the furniture around.

Our next stop was the laundry facility where I got to see the newest models of washers and dryers that were recently donated to the RMDH.

I fell in love with the huge terrace on the same level where all the families have their BBQ parties and have some fun moments where they can forget for a moment why they are here.

Our next visit was the community kitchen that will be inaugurated in the coming few days and the community dining room. Being used to see hotel kitchen, the new kitchens at the RMDH exceeded every kitchen I have seen before. Light wood for the cabinets and all the newest gadgets that make cooking in the community a special experience. I absolutely love the idea of having the families cooking their meals together and getting the chance to support each other, and for the children, it gives them the feeling of being "home" surrounded of a large family.

While Ralph lead me next to the library, study room and play room, the conversation about Hope came up, and we both were taken by the choice of words that were identical between us. Words that will always echo were: " When families come to the RMDH of New York, they learn that there is HOPE!"

9/21/09 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of our Inaugural Hope Tour

Monday, September 21st: The Big Day is here - The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of our Inaugural Hope Tour.

(Helena Nyman (left) and Stacy Hawkins Adams (right)

With butterflies in my tummy, we approach this wonderful moment at the Ronald McDonald House of New York. Bill Sullivan (CEO and President of the Ronald McDonald House of New York), Ralph Vogel and the Team of the RMDH of New York go out of our way to make this event unforgettable! A special Thank you to the Ronald McDonald House of New York!

Bill Sullivan, CEO and President of the Ronald McDonald House of New York welcomes the Hope Bus

Bill Sullivan introduces Tim Patterson who will be opening officially the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of the Inaugural Hope Tour.

The Founder of the Hope Bus -Helena Nyman - presents RMDH's CEO Bill Sullivan with the Hope Tour Award 2009.

Special Guest: Lillian Lambert, first African-America woman graduating from Harvard Business School, Speaker and Author

The symbolic Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: Two forces pull away from each other which creates tension and 'red tapes'. We are cutting the 'red tape', unite our resources and become strong in the community.

The Torch Ceremony represents the 'Eternal Flame'. We lighten up a torch and pass on the flame. If we all are a part of passing on the fire, the World will be a better place, filled with light.

A Special 'Thank You' to Danny and the NYFD who gave us the honor with their presence!

From left to right: Actress and former World Skater Lucinda Ruh and Author, Journalist and Speaker Stacy Adams.

The Hope Mobile of the Ronald McDonald House of New York