Hi everyone -
I hope the numbers below inspire you all to think of how you can give of your time, your stuff, or your money as we move toward the end of 2010.
The 2010 numbers reflect what has been done through November 30.
In 2010, we have furnished the homes of 2,505 families; in 2009, we furnished the homes of 1,805 families; and in 2008, 828.
So far this year, we are receiving an average of 300 referrals per month from social service or government agencies; in 2009 we received an average of 90 per month; in 2008, we received 30.
Our pick-up teams are now averaging more than 300 pick-ups per month; in 2009, the average was 160; and in 2008, 120.
The 2010 numbers are dramatic, and they reflect the deep commitment to service of the staff, interns, and volunteers here. This growth would not be possible without your support. I thank you and hope you know that our grassroots efficiency means your support always goes to great use.
Every season is busy here, but the holidays always do seem to be the busiest. The cold weather is even more the concern here, as we watch so many suffer its effects each day. So, if you have winter coats, gloves, hats, or blankets, please feel free to drop off these items at our Silver Spring, MD Center, or if you are in CA or FLA - or somewhere in between - just send 'em our way!
Also, because so much is happening, we will be sending an extra list serve email mid-month to share all that is going on and how you can get involved in this season of service.
Here are two quick ways you can get involved:
Our Well Mother, Well Baby Program... is serving 30 young mothers and mothers-to-be this semester. With the weekly workshops drawing to an end, we are preparing for the Baby Showers, where we give each girl a crib, changing table, and all the items she needs to raise a healthy boy or girl. Visit our website to learn more about the program, and please visit our special Babies R Us Registry (registry #46148032) to see how you can help provide the items they need the most. Crib or pack 'n play sheets, baby blankets, diapers, and bottles are among our most-needed items. If you want to get involved in this program by hosting a "Community Baby Shower," being a mentor, or teaching classes, please contact our Director of Education, Lauren Snow.
Our Holiday Giving Program... will include our own "North Pole." This year, we will be bringing parents upstairs (at our expanded Center) where they will be able to walk through a festive space and choose items for their children. We need gifts for the North Pole, including items for an age demographic that often gets left out when it comes to special holiday give-aways or programs: the teens. Whether you can send gift cards for teens (and adults) or want to drop off items for these age groups, we will find grateful recipients.
Best wishes,
Mark
--
Mark Bergel, Ph.D.
Executive Director, A Wider Circle
o: 301.608.3504; c: 301.675.7511
www.awidercircle.org
CFC #21120
because each of us has the ability to end poverty
A Wider Circle is proud to be named "one of the finest small charities Greater Washington has to offer" by the Catalogue for Philanthropy
