Tag Archives: NonProfit and Charities

Louisiana Appleseed to Host Community Forum in Lake Charles to Address Household Debt

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- In June, Louisiana Appleseed released its report, "A Vicious Cycle: How Predatory Lending and Court Fines & Fees Continue to Trap Communities of Color in Debt," which discusses its findings on financial stability in low-income and communities of color. As a part of a statewide tour to inform communities of these issues, Louisiana Appleseed has spread this information in Lafayette and Shreveport and is now taking these findings to Lake Charles.

On August 26, 2019, Louisiana Appleseed will host its third community forum to listen to residents' current debt problems, discuss findings outlined in "A Vicious Cycle," and highlight current materials available to increase financial stability. This meeting will take place from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Calcasieu Parish Public Library Epps Branch at 1320 North Simmons Street in Lake Charles.

This meeting is FREE and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. You can register to attend the event on our Facebook page or by using the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/louisiana-appleseed-community-forum-to-address-household-debt-tickets-66272138751.

A Vicious Cycle provides important information on the factors contributing to the racial inequities that prevent wealth generation in communities of color. Long-term consequences of resorting to high-cost financial products often perpetuates a cycle of crippling debt that compounds financial insecurity and entrenches families and communities in poverty.

The report also highlights how low-income people of color also are trapped by harmful debt through the imposition of court fines and fees. By shedding light on these issues, Louisiana Appleseed empowers families with the knowledge of how to avoid some debt traps.

About Louisiana Appleseed:

Louisiana Appleseed is a statewide nonprofit based in New Orleans, Louisiana that focuses on policy-level solutions by recruiting attorneys to provide free services through a research-oriented approach to policy change. Louisiana Appleseed's mission is rooted in three pillars dedicated to increasing Access to: Justice, Opportunity, and Education. The creation and distribution of this report is a component of Louisiana Appleseed's Access to Opportunity Program that focuses on securing access to wealth building strategies in low-income and communities of color.

Support for this project was graciously provided by the Annie E. Casey Foundation's Southern Partnership to Reduce Debt, which is developing strategies to lessen the impact of criminal and civil judicial fines and fees, as well as medical fees and high-cost consumer products, on communities of color. The Annie E. Casey Foundation is a private philanthropy that creates a brighter future for the nation's children by developing solutions to strengthen families, build paths to economic opportunity and transform struggling communities into safer and healthier places to live, work and grow. For more information, visit the Foundation's website at http://www.aecf.org/.

Follow us on social media!
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In June, Louisiana Appleseed released its report, "A Vicious Cycle: How Predatory Lending and Court Fines & Fees Continue to Trap Communities of Color in Debt," which discusses its findings on financial stability in low-income and communities of color. As a part of a statewide tour to inform communities of these issues, Louisiana Appleseed has spread this information in Lafayette and Shreveport and is now taking these findings to Lake Charles.

Related link: https://www.louisianaappleseed.org/

Louisiana Appleseed to Host Household Debt Community Forum in Shreveport

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Louisiana Appleseed recently released its report, "A Vicious Cycle: How Predatory Lending and Court Fines & Fees Continue to Trap Communities of Color in Debt," which discusses its findings on financial stability in low-income and communities of color. As a part of a statewide tour to inform communities of these issues, Louisiana Appleseed is now taking these findings to Shreveport.

Louisiana Appleseed will host a community forum to listen to residents' current debt problems, discuss findings outlined in "A Vicious Cycle," and highlight current materials available to increase financial stability.

This meeting will take place on Monday, August 19, 2019 at the Shreve Memorial Library Cedar Grove / Line Ave. Branch at 8303 Line Ave. in Shreveport from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

This meeting is FREE and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. You can register to attend the event on our Facebook page or by using the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/louisiana-appleseed-community-forum-to-address-household-debt-tickets-66271452699.

"A Vicious Cycle" provides important information on the factors contributing to the racial inequities that prevent wealth generation in communities of color. Long-term consequences of resorting to high-cost financial products often perpetuates a cycle of crippling debt that compounds financial insecurity and entrenches families and communities in poverty.

The report also highlights how low-income people of color also are trapped by harmful debt through the imposition of court fines and fees. By shedding light on these issues, Louisiana Appleseed empowers families with the knowledge of how to avoid some debt traps.

About Louisiana Appleseed:

Louisiana Appleseed is a statewide nonprofit based in New Orleans, Louisiana that focuses on policy-level solutions by recruiting attorneys to provide free services through a research-oriented approach to policy change. Louisiana Appleseed's mission is rooted in three pillars dedicated to increasing Access to: Justice, Opportunity, and Education. The creation and distribution of this report is a component of Louisiana Appleseed's Access to Opportunity Program that focuses on securing access to wealth building strategies in low-income and communities of color.

Support for this project was graciously provided by the Annie E. Casey Foundation's Southern Partnership to Reduce Debt, which is developing strategies to lessen the impact of criminal and civil judicial fines and fees, as well as medical fees and high-cost consumer products, on communities of color. The Annie E. Casey Foundation is a private philanthropy that creates a brighter future for the nation's children by developing solutions to strengthen families, build paths to economic opportunity and transform struggling communities into safer and healthier places to live, work and grow.

For more information, visit the Foundation's website at http://www.aecf.org/.

Follow us on social media!
https://facebook.com/louisianaappleseed
https://twitter.com/La_Appleseed
https://www.instagram.com/laappleseed/

Louisiana Appleseed recently released its report, "A Vicious Cycle: How Predatory Lending and Court Fines & Fees Continue to Trap Communities of Color in Debt," which discusses its findings on financial stability in low-income and communities of color. As a part of a statewide tour to inform communities of these issues, Louisiana Appleseed is now taking these findings to Shreveport.

Related link: https://www.louisianaappleseed.org/

Lost Heritage Rye Grain Becomes New PA Whiskey – 2019 Phila. Whiskey Event Promotes Collaboration Between Farmer and Distiller

LITITZ, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- For the first time in decades, the long-lost heritage grain, Rosen rye, will be distilled into rye whiskey in Pennsylvania! "The last man to distill Rosen rye into whiskey at Michter's Distillery in Schaefferstown, Pa. will be the first to distill it here again," said Laura Fields, founder of the American Whiskey Convention and CEO of the non-profit, The Delaware Valley Fields Foundation.

"Dick Stoll, of Stoll & Wolfe Distillery, is a legend in the distilling world, and it is an honor to be able to deliver our Rosen rye grain into his very capable hands," adds Fields.

Starting in 2015, The Delaware Valley Fields Foundation's SeedSpark Project has been cultivating and re-planting Rosen rye seeds on agricultural test plots in State College, Pa to produce enough usable grain to distill into whiskey. The SeedSpark Project has gone from 5 ounces of Rosen rye sourced from the USDA to over 850 pounds today! 500 lbs. of that rye grain will placed into fermenters on Tuesday, September 3, 2019 and distilled into rye whiskey on Saturday, September 7th at Stoll & Wolfe Distillery.

Pennsylvania Rosen Rye Whiskey:

The owners of Stoll & Wolfe Distillery and the Delaware Valley Fields Foundation are inviting members of the press, whiskey experts, and distillers to attend and witness the first distillation of Rosen Rye Whiskey since Michter's Distillery in Schaefferstown last distilled it over 50 years ago. Guests are invited to view both the fermentation process on September 3rd and the main event of the distillation itself on September 7th.

Tours of the distillery, photographic opportunities and interviews will be available with the owners of Stoll & Wolfe Distillery, master distiller, Dick Stoll, CEO of DVFF, Laura Fields, local grain farmer (first to be given Rosen Rye grain for planting) Robert McDonald of Dancing Star Farms and members of the Penn State Agricultural Extension. Please contact Laura Fields for more information or requests.

Rosen rye is historically documented as being an important part of the grain bills that helped define Pennsylvania whiskey in its pre-Prohibition heyday. It was used by historic Pennsylvania distilleries such as Michter's Distillery in Schaefferstown, Pa. Michter's Distillery (a.k.a. Bomberger's).

SeedSpark Project:

The Delaware Valley Fields Foundation's SeedSpark Project is funded by their annual event, the American Whiskey Convention, which takes place each spring in Philadelphia. Each resurrected seed varietal is offered to local farmers once enough seed has been propagated and well-documented research trials have determined which farming practices can be utilized to grow the healthiest and most viable crop. Learn more: http://www.seedsparkproject.com.

What is a Heritage Grain?

When Prohibition was enacted, it wasn't just alcohol production that stopped. Many grains stopped being produced due to the sudden drop in demand. When farmers shifted their attention to other crops, their knowledge and use of those old crops slowly faded away. These are the "lost grains" that we now call heritage grains. Due to changes in local agricultural land use, climate and soil health, many of these seeds which have not been planted in decades face challenges that can seem daunting to a modern local farmer. The Delaware Valley Fields Foundation is making every effort to remove any costly "trial and error" period from the farmer's workload by providing them with growing directions and guidelines for a successful crop using these heritage seeds.

Heritage grains can be very important to the local Pennsylvania economy. If we can help establish these grains with farmers and producers, we can create an industry that is unique to Pennsylvania helping to provide a premier identity for the region. Seed Spark is working to bring back some of those "lost" grains that the region was once famous for. We are working with United States Department of Agriculture Research Service, local universities and farmers to resurrect these treasures. In doing so, we will help kick start economic development in the Delaware Valley and across the state.

Event Details:

When:
- Fermentation: Tuesday, September 3, 2019
- Distillation Run: Saturday, September 7, 2019

Where: Stoll & Wolfe Distillery, 35 N Cedar St rear, Lititz, PA 17543

Contact: Emily Paulbrown, events@delvalfieldsfoundation.org, 267-930-0200

About Stoll & Wolfe Distillery:

Commemorating local distilling traditions dating back to 1753; Stoll & Wolfe is proof that everything old is new. Housed in a restored 1800s Grain Mill, their Tasting Room is the perfect place to gather with kindred spirits for a tasting or cocktail featuring their Pennsylvania Rye Whiskey, Bourbon/Rye Blend, Lititz Springs Vodka and Gin. Learn more: https://www.stollandwolfe.com/.

Information: info@stollandwolfe.com or (717) 799-4499.

About Dick Stoll:

Mr. Stoll is the last member of a near extinguished legacy of distillers pre-dating the country itself; representing generations of dedication, commitment and skill hand crafting Pennsylvania Whiskey. Trained by C Everett Beam in both the Beam Family and Historical Pennsylvania Style, Dick served as Master Distiller of Pennsylvania Michter's where he also distilled the famed A.H. Hirsch Bourbon.

About Delaware Valley Fields Foundation:

The Delaware Valley Fields Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that promotes local farming and its history. The organization works with farmers and other non-profits to bring attention to the vital role small farming plays in communities. Members educate the public through events including the American Whiskey Convention (AmericanWhiskeyConvention.com).

To learn more, visit http://www.delvalfieldsfoundation.org/.

For the first time in decades, the long-lost heritage grain, Rosen rye, will be distilled into rye whiskey in Pennsylvania! "The last man to distill Rosen rye into whiskey at Michter's Distillery in Schaefferstown, Pa. will be the first to distill it here again," said Laura Fields, founder of the American Whiskey Convention and CEO of the non-profit, The Delaware Valley Fields Foundation.

Related link: http://www.delvalfieldsfoundation.org/

Byte Back Partners to Offer a Free Pathway to College Credits

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Byte Back and Saylor Academy announced a new partnership today to expand free college opportunities for adults preparing for living-wage careers.

Byte Back students, most of whom are unemployed when they start, will be able to save thousands of dollars on degrees by using Saylor Academy's free online college-credit courses, which transfer to universities, including Thomas Edison State University, Western Governors University, Southern New Hampshire University, and University of Maryland Global Campus, which serve students in Washington, DC and Maryland.

Byte Back and Saylor Academy recognize that working learners need flexible education options to balance skill development with work and family demands. Saylor Academy's always-available, self-paced course model and partnerships with leading colleges and universities that specialize in adult higher education support working adults as they progress toward completing their degrees. The tuition-free aspect of Saylor's program allows students to start, or return to, their degree completion journey with zero financial risk.

"Byte Back shares our vision to remove the barriers many face to getting the skills and higher education they need to advance their natural talents," said Jeff Davidson, executive director of Saylor Academy. "By adding our always-on free courses, delivering in-demand soft skills and pathways to an affordable degree to their catalog, Byte Back students will be able to continue to advance in tech careers, while having time for family and other obligations without incurring additional debt."

"Most Byte Back students can't afford college," said Elizabeth Lindsey, executive director of Byte Back. "Thanks to this partnership with Saylor Academy, our students will have more opportunities to gain skills and, very importantly, college credits, which will help them secure living-wage careers and move up in their careers."

About Saylor Academy

Saylor Academy is a nonprofit initiative committed to removing barriers to education, whether those barriers are cost, distance, or time. We remove those barriers by offering free online courses in in-demand skills and introductory subjects that can earn free certificates or can earn transferred college credit. Saylor Academy's free online courses accelerate paths to degrees and careers. Saylor Academy partners with colleges and universities, nonprofits, and employers to offer flexible education to students in need.

Saylor Academy Credit Program

Saylor Academy courses are created by credentialed professors, and many have been recommended for college credit by the American Council on Education and/or the National College Credit Recommendation Service. Saylor Academy courses offer opportunities for college credit, via credit-by-exam, to many leading colleges and universities that accept these credit recommendations.

About Byte Back

Byte Back, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, provides a pathway of inclusive tech training that leads to living-wage careers. As a leader in digital inclusion since 1997, Byte Back has helped hundreds of graduates launch living-wage careers that use technology. In 2018, 50 graduates were hired, earning $27,599 more per year than before Byte Back training. Please see more at https://byteback.org/.

Byte Back Courses

Byte Back's free training pathway take adults from any computer skill level to a living-wage career working with tech. Students can start with foundational skills and move up to tracks for IT or administrative professionals. Byte Back offers in-person training in Washington, DC, Prince George's County, Maryland, and Baltimore. See more about the tech training pathway at https://byteback.org/classes-the-byte-back-pathway/.

Byte Back and Saylor Academy announced a new partnership today to expand free college opportunities for adults preparing for living-wage careers. Byte Back students, most of whom are unemployed when they start, will be able to save thousands of dollars on degrees by using Saylor Academy's free online college-credit courses.

Related link: https://byteback.org/

C Diff Foundation with Leading Gastroenterologists Paul Feuerstadt, MD and Caterina Oneto, MD Announce Clinic Dedicated For C.difficile

HAMDEN, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- C Diff Foundation ( https://cdifffoundation.org/ ), a one hundred percent volunteer, world renowned 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization announced today that the Foundation will offer the first ever clinic sponsored by the C Diff Foundation and dedicated to patients diagnosed and recovering from a C. difficile infection (CDI).

The clinic will hold office hours beginning this month in Connecticut, which will be held on August 27, 2019 at the Gastroenterology Center of Connecticut (gastrocenter.org).

The second clinic will be held in November (date to be announced) at the Concorde Medical Group in Manhattan - New York City (www.concordemed.com). The clinic received an overwhelming response from patients in various stages of recovery, including 15 individuals already scheduled with multiple spots planned for patients with recently diagnosed infection or those who have had multiple episodes and need further guidance and management.

"We are delighted with the immediate and overwhelming response from the patient community. It is a testament to the needs of those suffering from this infection. With this clinic we hope to bring awareness, education and more importantly, cutting edge treatment to the general public," stated Dr. Feuerstadt.

There are plans for additional clinic dates next year in New York, Connecticut, Illinois and Minnesota.

Dr. Oneto said, "Through this clinic, we will provide access to high level care to a number of new consults, as well as existing patients, who are recovering from the infection. It is my pleasure to partner with the C Diff Foundation and lend my expertise to the management and hopefully, eradication of this debilitating disease."

"The clinics demonstrate Dr's Feuerstadt and Oneto's commitment over the many years raising C.diff. awareness while providing management of those suffering with a C.diff. infection for patients who might not otherwise be able to gain access to providers sub-specializing in caring for those with this infection. Their dedication resonates within the C.diff. community and we are grateful for their participation and support." stated Nancy Caralla, Founding President of the C Diff Foundation.

About C Diff Foundation

C Diff Foundation's mission is dedicated to reaching out to communities from villages to cities, to medical practitioners, medical students, C. diff. survivors, caregivers, and the patients combating a C. difficile infection (CDI) while providing the general public important information on prevention, treatments available, clinical trials in progress, and EPA registered products available for environmental safety worldwide.

About Paul Feuerstadt, MD

His areas of interest Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) and ischemic diseases of the gut and in these areas he has presented his research extensively, authored and co-authored many manuscripts, textbook chapters and online modules. Another passion of Dr. Feuerstadt's is teaching, frequently giving lectures locally, regionally and nationally. He holds a clinical appointment as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine at the Yale University School of Medicine and is a full-time attending physician at the Gastroenterology Center of Connecticut seeing patients with a broad spectrum of clinical gastroenterological diseases.

Dr. Feuerstadt attended the Weill Medical College of Cornell University in Manhattan for medical school and completed his residency in internal medicine at New York Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell. His clinical fellowship training was completed at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, New York.

About Caterina Oneto, MD

Dr. Caterina Oneto, MD is a Gastroenterologist in private practice in New York and is affiliated with NYU Langone. She completed her Fellowship in Gastroenterology at Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Dr Oneto is Co-Director of Clinical trials at Concorde Medical Group. Her main focus is Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD),

Clostridioides difficile infections (AKA C.diff., C.difficile, CDI) and Microbiome modification. Dr Oneto is also Co-Director of the C.diff. Community Global Support program offered by the C Diff Foundation. Dr Oneto appears regularly on Doctor Radio on Sirius Xm and C.diff. Spores and More Radio (cdiffradio.com).

About C.difficile

It is the most common Healthcare-associated infection affecting an estimated 450,000 people annually in the United States alone with ~28,000 deaths from complications of this infection. This infection accounts for ~16% of all healthcare associated infections.

In the USA: Nearly half a million Americans suffer from Clostridioides difficile (C. diff.) infections in a single year according to a study released February 25, 2015 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC).

**Approximately 29,000 patients died within 30 days of the initial diagnosis of C. difficile. Of those, about 15,000 deaths were estimated to be directly attributable to C. difficile infections (CDI), making C. difficile a very important cause of infectious disease death in the United States alone. More than 80 percent of the deaths associated with C. difficile occurred among Americans aged 65 years or older. C. difficile causes an inflammation of the colon and deadly diarrhea.

Learn more about the C Diff Foundation at: https://cdifffoundation.org

The C Diff Foundation, a one hundred percent volunteer, world renowned 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization announced today that the Foundation will offer the first ever clinic sponsored by the C Diff Foundation and dedicated to patients diagnosed and recovering from a C. difficile infection (CDI).

Related link: https://cdifffoundation.org/

The Everest Foundation Supports Puerto Rico’s Teaching Hospitals Post-Hurricane Maria

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- It's been nearly two years since the deadly impact of Hurricane Maria, a Category 5 storm that devastated Puerto Rico, Dominica and the U.S. Virgin Islands. A vital part of the region's infrastructure, medical facilities, were among the hardest hit. The Everest Foundation was one of the only non-profit, private foundations focused on helping Puerto Rico's main University Teaching Hospital get back on its feet.

"There was a time right after Maria hit when weeks would pass and we couldn't get a hold of anyone at the hospital to even offer assistance," Greg Heffernan, Professor and Vice President of Foundation Relations at Everest Foundation, says. "Their communication infrastructure was decimated - cell phones and all."

Earlier that year, prior to Hurricane Maria, The Everest Foundation had sent an envoy to determine if the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine was a fit for its Everest Scholars and funding parameters.

"We had just come to an agreement with this institution, but Mother Nature hit," Heffernan says.

Soon after the one-two punch of Hurricane Maria and Hurricane Irma, medical students and graduates were fleeing the island and making their way to the mainland. The Everest Foundation quickly learned that medical school leadership was in dire need of volunteers to help take care of the population. It offered support - both professionally and financially. The Everest Foundation prepared its Everest Scholars to help the university-affiliated, Puerto Rico Children's Hospital, with material and practical support which were within the foundation's mission parameters and sphere of influence.

While the Red Cross and other non-governmental organizations worked hard to help, they could only do so much. Puerto Rico teaching hospitals needed doctors that were committed to staying and helping. The staff at hospitals throughout the U.S. Territory were overworked, living in tough conditions with little or no electricity, and getting by with the basics while the infrastructure was rebuilt.

Dr. Sanah Ruhullah, one of The Everest Foundation Scholars who was sent, went on to accept a medical residency in Pediatrics where she has been part of helping the vulnerable population of Puerto Rico's children.

"It takes a special type of young doctor to leave the luxuries of home to help those in need," Heffernan says.

While choosing who to send, The Everest Foundation also had to take into consideration the need for bi-lingual doctors as Spanish is the region's primary language. There was only a very specific demographic that could go to assist. Dr. Ruhallah was one of the first Everest Foundation Scholars who volunteered her time and then was invited to interview for a residency spot.

Things are slowly getting back to normal in Puerto Rico, however, the doctor shortage is getting many times worse. Many young medical students, after graduating medical school, can't resist the temptation to find a medical residency in the lower 48. As a result, Puerto Rico needs individuals who want to train in Puerto Rico, and residents who, after training, will stay and build their practices and help the local economy and patient base.

The Everest Foundation continues to help Puerto Rico rebuild its Graduate Medical Education infrastructure, its teaching hospitals and is dedicated to doing so for many hurricane seasons to come.

About The Everest Foundation:

The Everest Foundation supports medical schools and teaching hospitals, globally, by funding their initiatives and providing recipients and partners with Everest Foundation Scholars. The foundation's goal is to create tomorrow's doctors with an emphasis on academic medicine. More information: https://www.theeverestfoundation.org/

It's been nearly two years since the deadly impact of Hurricane Maria, a Category 5 storm that devastated Puerto Rico, Dominica and the U.S. Virgin Islands. A vital part of the region's infrastructure, medical facilities, were among the hardest hit. The Everest Foundation was one of the only non-profit, private foundations focused on helping Puerto Rico's main University Teaching Hospital get back on its feet.

Related link: https://theeverestfoundation.org/

‘Sopranos’ star Jamie-Lynn Sigler to lead a powerful cast at MANHATTANonPATRICK on September 27

FREDERICK, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Phenomenology, Inc., an innovative production model in the performing arts, announced it has secured "Sopranos" star Jamie-Lynn Sigler to lead a powerful cast in the staged reading of a new play for MANHATTANonPATRICK at the Weinberg Center for the Arts in suburban Washington D.C. on September 27.

Well known for her work in "Beauty and the Beast" on Broadway, HBO's "Entourage" and her unforgettable role as Meadow Soprano in HBO's ground-breaking television series "The Sopranos," Sigler will lead a four person cast as a cutthroat attorney in "Second Derivative," a full-length crime drama previously workshopped with the Maryland Ensemble Theatre and Off-Broadway with The Actors Company Theatre in 2016. The play was workshopped with both MET and TACT under a previous working title and Sigler was not a part of either project.

"We are thrilled to have Jamie join us for this performance," says Jeffery Keilholtz, Artistic Director & CEO of Phenomenology, and also "Second Derivative" playwright. "MANHATTANonPATRICK is the flagship theatre program for Phenomenology, specializing in the production of high-value limited engagement stage performances, with the purpose of identifying high-potential regional performers and technicians and giving them unique opportunities to showcase their gifts."

In its inaugural outing, MANHATTANonPATRICK will premiere a dynamic staged reading of "Second Derivative" for one night only at the historic Weinberg Center for the Arts - on Patrick Street, in Frederick, Maryland. The cast also includes Keilholtz, himself a Frederick native, along with Bru Ajueyitsi and Amanda Shafer. Mr. Ajueyitsi is from Washington D.C. and Ms. Shafer is from Frederick.

Critically-acclaimed actress, Ashlie Atkinson, of Spike Lee's Oscar-winning film, "BLACKkKLANSMAN", and Broadway's, "The Ritz", is attached to direct.

The evening will feature a red carpet reception, performance and post-show Q&A. Admission to the after party with cast members and the director is also available to a limited number of ticket buyers at an additional cost.

Adds Keilholtz, "The privilege of bringing together all of this talent, including both Jamie, as a performer, and Ashlie, as director, adds enormous value to the promise of MANHATTANonPATRICK and the endeavor of Phenomenology to create a new corridor of professional activity between Frederick, Maryland and major media markets - beginning with New York City, the theatre capital of the world."

Tickets for MANHATTANonPATRICK are available to the general public beginning August 15 at https://weinbergcenter.org/ or via box office hotline: 301-600-2828.

For more information about MANHATTANonPATRICK, visit the Phenomenology website: https://phenoart.org/.

About Phenomenology, Inc.:

Phenomenology, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is an innovative production model to raise the quality of life for performing artists and technicians by creating meaningful partnerships in the entertainment industry - coupled with the production of high-value projects - to generate a first-of-its-kind corridor of professional activity between Frederick, Maryland and major media markets.

More information: https://phenoart.org/

Phenomenology, Inc., an innovative production model in the performing arts, announced it has secured "Sopranos" star Jamie-Lynn Sigler to lead a powerful cast in the staged reading of a new play for MANHATTANonPATRICK at the Weinberg Center for the Arts in suburban Washington D.C. on September 27.

Related link: https://phenoart.org/

2019 Service Dog Hero of the Year Awarded to Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Alice

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is excited to announce that on Friday, July 26, 2019 our Service Dog, Alice; specifically trained to assist Recipient Antonio was named the 2019 Service Dog Hero of the Year by more than 900,000 nationwide voters and the American Humane Societies' panel of judges.

Alice has been watching over Antonio since 2016, after he tragically suffered a gun-shot wound to the head at the age of nine, while sitting in his parents' car in 2015.

Since that day, Antonio has struggled through 5 brain surgeries, leaving him with a permanent traumatic brain injury, and an artificial flap that covers a large portion of his skull. He suffers regularly from seizures, spells, migraines and balance issues. Alice is at Antonio's side constantly, including attending school together; and she is focused on Antonio at all times. She not only alerts to oncoming seizures and spells, but assists him with balance issues, as a fall could potentially be fatal.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dog Alice completed nearly 2 years of unparalleled custom training to prepare for a life partnering with and assisting Antonio.

Antonio's mom Tara says: "Alice is a hero in our eyes because without her, Antonio would not be able to do the simple things in life we take for granted, like going to school, the store, or even just walking outside. She has never once failed in alerting and has saved Antonio's life many times. Alice has given Antonio a chance at a new normal life he did not have without her. The life that was ripped away for no reason. She has NEVER let him down. If that is not a hero, I don't know what is."

Now that Guardian Angels, Alice has claimed the top spot in the Service Dog Category, in October, Antonio and Alice will head to California, to take part in the LIVE 2019 Hero Dog Awards, being broadcast on the Hallmark Channel, to compete with the 6 other category winners for the title of "Hero Dog of the Year."

Voting will be open until September 9, 2019, and you can visit http://herodogawards.org/dog/alice/ to read their full story, and show them support with your vote!

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:
Guardian Angels, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, was founded in 2010, and custom-trains medical service dogs for veterans, first-responders and individuals like Antonio. Although the cost of training each service dog can take up to 2 full years, and cost nearly $25,000, we donate each dog to the recipient at no cost. We receive no federal or state funding. Everything we do is funded completely by private and foundation donations. To date, we have paired over 320 service dogs in 23 states across the nation.

If you would like to learn more about our organization, or become a supporter, visit our website at https://www.medicalservicedogs.org/.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is excited to announce that on Friday, July 26, 2019 our Service Dog, Alice; specifically trained to assist Recipient Antonio was named the 2019 Service Dog Hero of the Year by more than 900,000 nationwide voters and the American Humane Societies' panel of judges.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Registration Open For The Second Annual Detroit Truck Pull – Fundraiser to support Move For Hunger is once again presented by Kroger

DETROIT, Mich. /ScoopCloud/ -- Move For Hunger announced today that registration is open for the second annual Detroit Truck Pull, presented by Kroger. The event, in which teams of 5-10 will compete to see who can pull a moving truck 100 feet in the fastest time, will be held at Founders Brewing Company (456 Charlotte Street, Detroit, MI, 48201) on Saturday, August 10 from Noon - 4 p.m.

Registration is $200 per team and can be completed at DetroitTruckPull.com. Proceeds from the event will benefit Move For Hunger, a national non-profit organization that has created a sustainable way for the relocation industry to reduce food waste and fight hunger.

"Kroger's social impact plan, Zero Hunger | Zero Waste, takes innovative partnerships that are committed in our mission," said Rachel Hurst, Kroger's Corporate Affairs Manager. "Partnering with Move For Hunger helps not only more meals provided to families in need, keeps food waste out of landfill, but they help raise awareness that hunger is in every community. We are thrilled to have the team with Move For Hunger as part of our family of Zero Heroes."

University Moving & Storage of Farmington Hills will provide one of their trucks for the event. As a member of Move For Hunger's national network of relocation professionals, University Moving & Storage provides their customers with the opportunity to donate unopened, non-perishable food during the moving process and volunteers to deliver the donations to the local food bank, free of charge.

"Move For Hunger is the charity we support because it allows us to leverage our moving company to make a difference in our community," said Ben Cross, University Moving & Storage's Vice President of Business Development. "I am so proud of the University Moving team and our partners, who have come together to make this event a reality."

More than 1.3 million people in Michigan, including 1 in 6 children, do not have reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food. Meanwhile, 40% of all the food produced in the United States each year is wasted. Since joining Move For Hunger in 2013, University Moving & Storage has delivered more than 16,400 lbs. of food to Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeastern Michigan, which is enough to provide 13,600 meals.

ABOUT MOVE FOR HUNGER

Move For Hunger is a non-profit organization that has created a sustainable way for the relocation industry to reduce food waste and fight hunger. In addition to collecting food from people who are moving to new homes, Move For Hunger also helps companies and individuals across the United States and Canada organize successful food drives. To date, they have collected more than 15 million pounds of food. For more information, or to find out how you can host your own food drive, visit https://www.moveforhunger.org/.

ABOUT THE KROGER CO. OF MICHIGAN

Incorporated in Michigan in 1917 and headquartered in Novi, The Kroger Co. of Michigan operates 120 Kroger stores, 78 fuel centers, 102 pharmacies and the Michigan Dairy. Michigan Kroger's 18,000 associates are dedicated to the Kroger Purpose: to FEED the Human Spirit, by serving the region through food, inspiration and uplift, and creating #ZeroHungerZeroWaste communities by 2025.

ABOUT UNIVERSITY MOVING & STORAGE

University Moving and Storage is a supplier of moving, storage and distribution services to household, corporate and government clientele since 1969. Our teams of professional movers provide these services for customers moving locally, intrastate, interstate and internationally. Headquartered in Farmington Hills, MI with offices in Grand Rapids, MI; Cincinnati, OH and Indianapolis, IN, University has consistently ranked as a top-5 affiliate of North American Van Lines, an industry leader worldwide among professional movers. We are proud to be a woman owned business since 1986. For more information, please visit https://www.universitymoving.com/.

PRESS CONTACT:
Dan Beam, Communications Manager
Move For Hunger
dan@moveforhunger.org or (732) 774-0521

*IMAGE link for media: Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0729s2p-mfh-pull-300dpi.jpg

VIDEO (YouTube) "First Annual Detroit Truck Pull, presented by Kroger": https://youtu.be/fUMCSNDGhdo

Tickers: KR NYSE / NYSE:KR / NY: KR / NY:KR

Move For Hunger announced today that registration is open for the second annual Detroit Truck Pull, presented by Kroger. The event, in which teams of 5-10 will compete to see who can pull a moving truck 100 feet in the fastest time, will be held at Founders Brewing Company on Saturday, August 10, 2019 from Noon - 4 p.m.

Related link: https://moveforhunger.org/

Fun for Everyone at The Main Line Bike Race in Ardmore on August 11 2019

ARDMORE, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- On Sunday, August 11, thousands of spectators will come to Ardmore to cheer on amateur and professional cyclists at the third annual Main Line Bike Race from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. announced Narberth Ambulance. Cycling fanatics from across the region will descend upon downtown Ardmore to watch as some of the sport's top athletes race through town. Fans will also enjoy free activities in the Family Fun Zone from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

"This event brings our communities together for an action-packed day of racing and family fun," said Chris Flanagan, Narberth Ambulance Chief. "The event proceeds benefit our first responders and the state-of-the-art equipment we need to save lives."

The team - comprised of career and volunteers from Narberth Ambulance, in conjunction with support from Lower Merion Township, Ardmore Business Association, Ardmore Initiative and many others are working hard to ensure a successful presentation of a first-class event for a first-class township.

This criterium style bike race, consisting of a one-mile closed circuit loop through the business district of Ardmore, including Lancaster Avenue, provides a unique experience for local families to get an up close and personal view as professional cyclists from around the United States race by at top speeds. As the competitors pedal dozens of laps around the course right in front of them, there are plenty of opportunities to cheer and ring those cow bells!

The new Family Fun Zone, free and open to the general public from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., offers something fun for everyone! Children of all ages are welcome to get in on the action for FREE at Schauffele Plaza at 99 Cricket Terrace. A roaming magician will stroll and entertain. Kids will go crazy for face painting & body art! Take flight and soar up to 25 feet in the air on a four station Eurobungy. Jump, flip or try something new on this gravity defying ride. Slide down a giant, double lane, circus themed slide. Soccer darts, the newest sporting craze gaining national attention, is BIG fun for everyone! Players kick a Velcro-covered ball to a giant bulls-eye target to collect points.

Fans can enjoy live music throughout the day in Schauffele Plaza sponsored by Ardmore Music Hall, including a kids band, and check out the classic car exhibit on Lancaster Ave. Tired Hands Brewing Company is operating a beer garden with specialty sandwiches. Plenty of restaurants and stores in Ardmore, many on the race path, will be ready to serve.

The Main Line Bike Race, a series of eight criterium-style races, is open to all male and female Cat 1-5 riders with "masters races" (45+, 55+) giving every skill level access to a great US cycling approved course. All children between the ages of 4 and 9 are invited to take part in a sprint style race for free at 1:10 p.m. For anyone over 10 years of age who wants to experience the thrill of the course, at 1:30 p.m., and for $20 per person, the Family Race Course Experience will get you a racer number and a rare taste at this race circuit.

The finale races, sponsored by Independence Blue Cross and Lankenau Medical Center, begin at 2 p.m. Of course, all riders will be required to wear helmets and all participants can register at https://www.mainlinebikerace.com/.

Proceeds from the event benefit Narberth Ambulance, and help with the modernization of their fleet of 911 ambulances that for 75 years have provided lifesaving treatments to our surrounding communities.

Sponsors of the event include Independence Blue Cross, Main Line Health (Lankenau Medical Center), Trek Bikes, Air Methods, Albrecht Events, Aqua, Bryn Mawr Trust, Casale Events, K&S Towing, Mark. J. Fisher Roofing, Malvern Federal, US Supply, Restaurant Marokko, Flip and Baileys Bar/Restaurant Montgomery County Department of Public Safety, Porsche of Main Line, QCW, Tired Hands Brewing Company, Valley Forge Sports, V.E. Ralph, Walsh & Nicholson Financial Group and White and Williams. To register or for more information, visit https://www.mainlinebikerace.com/.

About Narberth Ambulance:

Narberth Ambulance, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, provides 24/7 911 prehospital medical care to the Lower Merion, Narberth, Haverford, Conshohocken and West Conshohocken communities. More information: https://www.narberthambulance.org/

On Sunday, August 11, thousands of spectators will come to Ardmore to cheer on amateur and professional cyclists at the third annual Main Line Bike Race from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. announced Narberth Ambulance. Cycling fanatics from across the region will descend upon downtown Ardmore to watch as some of the sport's top athletes race through town.

Related link: https://www.narberthambulance.org/

Electronic Nicotine Organization Leads Fight Against Youth Nicotine Usage and Obtains IRS Nonprofit Designation

DALLAS, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- The Electronic Nicotine Organization (ENO) - EnoughNic.org - is leading the social media fight against youth nicotine addiction and e-cigarette usage. It was recently granted Non-Profit status under Section 501(c)(3) by the Internal Revenue Service, making donations to it tax deductible.

"Obtaining 501(c)(3) status enables ENO to expand its donor base and provide a reach to millions of teenagers every day to stem the tide of youth e-cigarette usage," says Tom Popescu, ENO's President and founder.

"Electronic cigarette usage among those 25 and younger has skyrocketed by 900% in recent years due in part to sophisticated and subtle social media marketing tactics," said Popescu. "Nicotine is a very harmful substance that can endanger the adolescent brain along with their nervous system."

Popescu added, "With increased giving, ENO will be able to produce viral social media campaigns and create school educational programs to reverse the dramatic increase in addictive nicotine e-cigarettes. Our organization will reach over 10 million teenagers a day."

By creating powerful partnerships with strong social media influencers, amplified by social media, the Electronic Nicotine Organization is taking a decisive stand against youth nicotine use.

ENO was started in 2019 by Popescu who was looking for a purpose after being given a second chance at life. In 2015, he was diagnosed with an incurable cancer and was told his life expectancy was short. After being involved in an experimental clinical trial and 9 months of chemotherapy, Popescu's cancer went into remission. Popescu found his purpose on a business trip in California. As the trip progressed, Tom began to notice the countless anti-nicotine billboards across the city and looked around only to see he was surrounded by dozens of teenagers vaping with their eyes glued to their mobile phones.

At that moment, Tom realized why God had spared his life and that traditional media would be ineffective with this generation. Shortly after, ENO was founded to be the first organization to effectively use social media influencers to curb nicotine and e-cigarettes usage and inform people on the dangers nicotine has on our youth.

Visit our website to learn more and donate to eliminate youth nicotine use.

Tax deductible contributions may be made securely on the organization's website. ENO will also be seeking selective grants to fund its viral media campaigns, school programs and create a future without youth nicotine use.

For more information, visit: https://enoughnic.org/

Reach us at contact@enoughnic.org

Follow on social at:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnoughNicOrg
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/EnoughNic
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enoughnic/

The Electronic Nicotine Organization (ENO) - EnoughNic.org - is leading the social media fight against youth nicotine addiction and e-cigarette usage. It was recently granted Non-Profit status under Section 501(c)(3) by the Internal Revenue Service, making donations to it tax deductible.

Related link: https://enoughnic.org/

CARR Expands Board with New Members – Brings Aboard Added Legal and Real Estate Expertise

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Consumer Advocates for RCFE Reform (CARR) announced today that it has welcomed two new members to its Board of Directors.

Teri Christensen is a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties. She is a seasoned not-for-profit professional, having been Senior Vice President and Director of Field Operations for Partnership for Drug-Free America, a national non-profit, for over twenty years. Her not-for-profit organizational knowledge, coupled with her degree in Communications and Media Studies from San Diego State University, offer a depth of insights and experience that will benefit CARR's growth, expanded mission, and fundraising efforts.

Daniel Shillito, Esq. has had a distinguished forty-year litigation career in both the private and public sectors. He earned his J.D. from Ohio Northern University School of Law and has served as a partner in two Washington D.C. law firms, and as Deputy General Counsel to a national trade association. His public service includes high-profile litigation (Northern Spotted Owl; Exxon Valdez), commercial Indian leases, and natural resource matters for the Department of the Interior. He is also a Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, Retired. Mr. Shillito brings extensive practical business acumen to the board; his advice and strategic planning experience will be instrumental as CARR moves towards sustainability.

"We are excited to have Teri and Dan join our board." said Christine Murphy, CARR's Chief Operating Officer, "Their unique expertise and experience add dimension and range to the talents already resident on our board."

About CARR:

Consumer Advocates for RCFE Reform (CARR) is a San Diego-based 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization specializing in public document research on assisted living facilities, and the state's oversight of the industry. Learn more at: https://rcfereform.org/

Consumer Advocates for RCFE Reform (CARR) announced today that it has welcomed two new members to its Board of Directors: Teri Christensen and Daniel Shillito, Esq.

Related link: https://rcfereform.org/

Lang Capital Group Presents an Exquisite Dinner Cruise on The Odyssey Lake Michigan with IMAG

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Lang Capital Group announces the International Multicultural Awards Gala (I.M.A.G) on August 9, 2019. The Gala will raise funds for IMAG of Greater Chicago's programs to build and repair hope, families, and resources in the greater Chicago communities.

The IMAG celebration is their one and only fundraising event for the year and will include a special collaborative service project with nonprofits, a VIP reception with participants and fellow VIP's, a gourmet feast by Chicago's premier caterer, lively entertainment, a high-end Live Auction, mingling with fellow leaders and community influencers.

Join IMAG of Greater Chicago' and over 600 of Chicago's ambassadors, influencers, and business leaders for our premier fundraising event on Friday, August 9th at Chicago's most exclusive and evanescent event venue - the Odyssey Cruise Vessel. Attendees are expected to include a high-profile group of top philanthropists, business leaders, elected officials, and media representatives.

"We invite you to attend, sponsor, and be recognized as we showcase the collaborative efforts of 7 prestigious nonprofit organizations, for an evening to remember to help change lives and build a better community where everyone has an opportunity to thrive," says Dr. Stacee Lang of Lang Capital Group.

This event is being hosted by comedian Damon Williams who has been seen on BET's "Comicview," Comedy Central's "Premium Blend," "The Joyner Sky Show" on TV-ONE and HBO's "P Diddy's Bad Boys of Comedy."

Friday, August 9, 2019 at 6 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Odyssey Chicago River
455 N Cityfront Plaza Dr, Chicago, Illinois 60611

For more info visit
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/international-multicultural-awards-gala-imag-tickets-64334381868

About Lang Capital Group:
Lang Capital Group, NFP (LCG) is an advisory firm that specializes in grant writing, partnerships, business development, and growth strategies for nonprofits and small and mid-sized businesses. LCG concentration is on federal funding, government contracts and forming connections of commerce between public and private sectors for clients. Learn more: https://www.langcapitalgroup.org/

The Lang Capital Group announces the International Multicultural Awards Gala (I.M.A.G) on August 9, 2019. The Gala will raise funds for IMAG of Greater Chicago's programs to build and repair hope, families, and resources in the greater Chicago communities.

Related link: https://www.langcapitalgroup.org/

Louisiana Appleseed to Host Event in Lafayette to Help Reduce Debt in Louisiana’s Low-Income Communities

NEW ORLEANS, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Last month, Louisiana Appleseed released its findings on financial stability in low-income and communities of color in its report "A Vicious Cycle: How Predatory Lending and Court Fines & Fees Continue to Trap Communities of Color in Debt." As a part of a statewide tour, Louisiana Appleseed is now taking these findings to Lafayette.

On July 29, 2019 at the Lafayette Main Public Library at 301 W. Congress Street, Louisiana Appleseed will host a community meeting from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. During this meeting, Louisiana Appleseed will discuss its findings outlined in A Vicious Cycle, listen to residents' current debt problems, and highlight current materials available to increase financial stability.

This meeting is FREE and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.

You can register to attend the event using the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/louisiana-appleseed-community-forum-to-address-household-debt-tickets-66120643625.

"A Vicious Cycle" provides important information on the factors contributing to the racial inequities that prevent wealth generation in communities of color. Long-term consequences of resorting to high-cost financial products often perpetuates a cycle of crippling debt that compounds financial insecurity and entrenches families and communities in poverty.

The report also highlights how low-income people of color also are trapped by harmful debt through the imposition of court fines and fees. By shedding light on these issues, Louisiana Appleseed empowers families with the knowledge of how to avoid some debt traps.

About Louisiana Appleseed:

Louisiana Appleseed is a statewide nonprofit based in New Orleans, Louisiana that focuses on policy-level solutions by recruiting attorneys to provide free services through a research-oriented approach to policy change. Louisiana Appleseed's mission is rooted in three pillars dedicated to increasing Access to: Justice, Opportunity, and Education. The creation and distribution of this report is a component of Louisiana Appleseed's Access to Opportunity Program that focuses on securing access to wealth building strategies in low-income and communities of color. Learn more at: https://www.louisianaappleseed.org/

Support for this project was graciously provided by the Annie E. Casey Foundation's Southern Partnership to Reduce Debt, which is developing strategies to lessen the impact of criminal and civil judicial fines and fees, as well as medical fees and high-cost consumer products, on communities of color. The Annie E. Casey Foundation is a private philanthropy that creates a brighter future for the nation's children by developing solutions to strengthen families, build paths to economic opportunity and transform struggling communities into safer and healthier places to live, work and grow. For more information, visit the Foundation's website at https://www.aecf.org/.

Last month, Louisiana Appleseed released its findings on financial stability in low-income and communities of color in its report "A Vicious Cycle: How Predatory Lending and Court Fines & Fees Continue to Trap Communities of Color in Debt."

Related link: https://www.louisianaappleseed.org/

Kapor Center Awards $1 Million to Fund Diversity in Tech – Byte Back Awarded $100,000 in National Tech Done Right Challenge

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Kapor Center announced the winners of its inaugural $1 million Tech Done Right Challenge grant competition, including the Washington D.C. non-profit, Byte Back. The challenge identified 10 social impact organizations who are building a more diverse and inclusive tech economy locally and nationally. Each winning organization will receive a $100,000 grant.

"We were thrilled with the number of strong applicants from all over the country for this timely challenge," remarked Cedric Brown, Chief Foundation Officer at the Kapor Center. "We're confident that these grants can propel the important work of these 10 organizations to the next level. Together we're moving toward a tech sector that provides robust opportunities for previously untapped and overlooked talent."

"Our economy has changed, and Byte Back is providing the training for individuals who have been left behind," said Elizabeth Lindsey, executive director of Byte Back. "Thanks to the Tech Done Right Challenge and our partnership with the Kapor Center, we're building a more equitable and inclusive tech sector. We're thinking differently about diversity, and together we're changing the face of tech."

The Tech Done Right Challenge launched in March 2019 to galvanize cross-sector collaborations in cities across the U.S. to build diverse and inclusive tech ecosystems. A key requirement of the challenge is to find solutions that embrace innovation through prototypes, experimentation and iteration through public and private collaborations. The Tech Done Right Challenge is possible through the support of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

The challenge asked organizations to answer: "What is your innovative solution to build a diverse and thriving inclusive tech ecosystem in your community?"

Winning Organizations:

The following are the winning organizations and their focus cities for implementing innovative solutions to diversify the technology industry:
* Baltimore Corps | Baltimore
* Bixel Exchange | Los Angeles
* blackcomputerHER Data Science Executives | Houston
* Byte Back | Washington
* Generation Titans | Albuquerque, N.M., Austin, Texas and Pittsburgh
* Goodie Nation | Atlanta
* HBCUvc | National
* Oakland Codes | Oakland, Calif.
* Project United Knowledge | Kansas City, Mo.
* The Knowledge House | Bronx, N.Y.

Winner Breakdown:
A total of 120 applications from 48 U.S. cities were submitted, focused on interventions at the Post-Secondary, Tech Workforce, and Entrepreneurship & Venture Capital segments. The 10 award winners come from a range of locations across the Midwest, the South, and from both coasts. All of the winning organizations focus on increasing representation of underrepresented people of color in our tech economy via tech talent or entrepreneurship/venture capital programs.

Background:
In 2018 the Kapor Center released the Leaky Tech Pipeline, a research framework that identifies the systemic barriers which underlie the lack of diversity in tech. While the tech sector has the potential to bring jobs, innovation and wealth to communities, far too many women and people of color remain excluded from the technology economy as tech workers, founders or investors. The Tech Done Right Challenge seeks to reverse this trend by supporting trailblazers who have holistic solutions to build inclusive tech economies.

About the Kapor Center:
The Kapor Center is a recognized leader in the movement to enhance diversity and inclusion in the technology and entrepreneurship ecosystem through increasing access to tech and STEM education programs, conducting research on access and opportunity in computing, investing in community organizations and gap-closing social ventures and increasing access to capital among diverse entrepreneurs. For more information, visit www.kaporcenter.org.

About Byte Back:
Byte Back, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, provides a pathway of inclusive tech training that leads to living-wage careers. As a leader in digital inclusion since 1997, Byte Back has helped hundreds of graduates launch living-wage careers that use technology. In 2018, 50 graduates were hired, earning $27,599 more per year than before Byte Back training. Please see more at byteback.org.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.send2press.com/300dpi/19-0712s2p-byte-back-grads-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Byte Back students celebrate during the Summer Graduation ceremony in June. The $100,000 award from the Kapor Center's Tech Done Right Challenge will support students on a pathway of tech training and into living-wage careers.

The Kapor Center announced the winners of its inaugural $1 million Tech Done Right Challenge grant competition, including the Washington D.C. non-profit, Byte Back. The challenge identified 10 social impact organizations who are building a more diverse and inclusive tech economy locally and nationally. Each winning organization will receive a $100,000 grant.

Related link: https://byteback.org/

C.diff. International Conference and Health EXPO Will Deliver Up-to-date Clostridioides difficile Data + More Nov. 6-7 In St. Louis

ST. LOUIS, Mo. /ScoopCloud/ -- The C Diff Foundation is honored to welcome 30+ international leading topic experts from hospitals, pharma, biotech, academia, and Government agencies to deliver and discuss critical information on global healthcare-associated issues.

To learn more about this extraordinary conference, agenda and guest speakers: https://cdifffoundation.org/2019-guest-speakers/

Clinical professionals will gather for two days to present up-to-date data to expand on the existing knowledge and raise awareness of the urgency focused on, but not limited to, Clostridioides difficile (formally known as Clostridium difficile) infection (CDI) Prevention, Treatments, Research, Diagnostics, Clinical trials, and Environmental Safety.

There will also be presentations exclusively concentrated on Infection prevention, Fecal microbiota restoration and transplants for adults, a Panel of C. diff. infection Survivors; a patient's perspective, Microbiome research, Scientific posters and poster presentations, Antibiotic stewardship, Antimicrobial resistance, and a Healthcare EXPO component.

All attendees will have the highest levels of peer networking and learning opportunity at the Conference and Health EXPO. The conference program builds in time for face-to-face interaction between attending executives, corporate representatives and industry experts exhibiting.

C Diff Foundation expresses their gratitude to Pfizer for being the conference Diamond Sponsor. Pfizer is appreciated for their continued support and partnering with the C Diff Foundation in promoting C. diff. Awareness worldwide.

Attendee Linda Davis, RN, Patient Triage Specialist, said about the 2018 conference, "It's an excellent opportunity to have the ability to network with fellow-healthcare professionals from around the world. Each conference I have attended presents the opportunity to acquire knowledge with like-minded professionals striving to make a difference in the health care community. Attendees obtain the most innovative cutting-edge research and developments fighting today's complex world of healthcare-associated infections."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Clostridioides difficile infection (aka C.diff., C. difficile, CDI, CDAD) "has become the most common microbial cause of healthcare-associated infections in U.S. hospitals and costs up to $4.8 billion each year in excess health care costs for acute care facilities alone." Statistics provided by the CDC suggest that C. difficile infections cause nearly 500,000 infections in patients in the U.S. annually. In one study noted by the CDC, among infected patients, nearly 29,000 died within 30 days of being diagnosed, and more than half of those deaths (15,000) were directly attributable to a C. difficile infection.

About The C Diff Foundation:

C Diff Foundation, a 501(c)(3) established 2012, comprised of 100% volunteering professionals dedicated at supporting public health through education and advocating for Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) prevention, treatments, clinical trials, and environmental safety worldwide. Listen to "C.diff. Spores and More" Tuesdays at 1 p.m. ET (www.cdiffradio.com), sponsored by Rebiotix, a Ferring Pharmaceuticals company, providing leading up-to-date information on topics that are aligned and connect with their organization's mission and more.

Learn more: https://cdifffoundation.org/

Follow C Diff Foundation on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. Twitter @cdiffFoundation #Cdiff2019

Media Contact:
Angelo Ortiz
C Diff Foundation
angelo.ortiz@cdifffoundation.org
Office: (727) 205-3922

The C Diff Foundation is honored to welcome 30+ international leading topic experts from hospitals, pharma, biotech, academia, and Government agencies to deliver and discuss critical information on global healthcare-associated issues.

Related link: https://cdifffoundation.org/

The Whole Child Triples Home Visiting Program for Children and Their Parents – Prenatal to Five Years

WHITTIER, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Whole Child is thrilled to announce the agency has been awarded the Parents as Teachers Home Visiting Program contract through the Department of Public Health that will triple their existing program. This contract will allow The Whole Child to increase client capacity by 300% as well as expand our geographic reach deeper into Los Angeles County Service Planning Area (SPA) 7 Southeast Los Angeles County and newly enter Service Planning Area (SPA) 3 San Gabriel Valley.

"The most exciting piece of this program expansion is the removal of barriers to enter the program for families to access these important services," explains Constanza Pachon, CEO of The Whole Child. "The challenges of parenthood do not discriminate; every new parent needs support."

Parents as Teachers curriculum (https://parentsasteachers.org) promotes optimal early development, learning and health for young children by supporting and engaging their parents and caregivers. This program is designed to help build a strong parent-child bond through practicing attachment activities and monthly socialization groups are held to help parents of young children feel more supported and less isolated. Developmental screenings are provided an opportunity for early detection and intervention, so children can enter kindergarten ready to learn.

Parent Educators identify and link families to additional community-based resources to address needs of the family outside of child development. Unique to The Whole Child, car seat safety workshops, infant massage and lactation consultation services are offered to our clients.

Becoming a new parent or caregiver can be overwhelming, challenging and defeating while at the same time be one of the most rewarding experiences in life. There are several reasons for these challenges. Our Parent Educators are trained to help each caregiver feel supported and confident in their ability to be their child's best first teacher.

Last year The Whole Child served more than 160 families through these prevention services. Our staff detected 17 developmental delays with valuable time to provide early intervention for each child to get the support they need to be kindergarten-ready. We distributed over 50 car seats through our monthly Car Seat Safety Workshop offered in English and Spanish on alternating months.

The Whole Child's Home Visiting program under Parent Enrichment services is a free and voluntary home-based visiting program for pregnant women, and caregivers with a child between 0 - 3 years of age.

For more information, please visit our website at https://www.thewholechild.org/. Families are now able to self-refer on our website by submitting the Get Help form and selecting Parent Enrichment.

About The Whole Child:

The Whole Child is a 62-year-old 501(c)(3) non-profit organization providing mental health, family housing, parent enrichment and nutrition education services to some of the most vulnerable families in Los Angeles County. Our mission is to help families raise emotionally and physically healthy children and have a place to call home. To find out more, please visit us at https://www.thewholechild.org/.

Follow us on social at: @thewholechildca

Media Contact
Micki Charley
Communications & Community Engagement Manager
mcharley@thewholechild.org
(562) 692-0383 x265

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/sD_F68Dkyyc

The Whole Child is thrilled to announce the agency has been awarded the Parents as Teachers Home Visiting Program contract through the Department of Public Health that will triple their existing program. This contract will allow The Whole Child to increase client capacity by 300% as well as expand our geographic reach deeper into Los Angeles County Service Planning Area (SPA) 7 Southeast Los Angeles County and newly enter Service Planning Area (SPA) 3 San Gabriel Valley.

Related link: https://www.thewholechild.org/

Founder of Stillbrave Childhood Cancer Foundation to Run 206-Mile Ultra-Marathon on Mount St. Helens Volcano

BURKE, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Stillbrave Childhood Cancer Foundation announced that its founder and director, "Tattoo Tom" Mitchell is on a mission to raise $500,000 to support children with cancer and their families. From August 9 through 13, he will return to Mount St. Helens to make his fourth attempt at what's been called "the most challenging endurance race in North America" - the Bigfoot 200.

The race is 206.5 miles and he'll be joined by Loren Jewell, a childhood cancer survivor and firefighter who beat the odds after being told upon diagnosis that she might never walk again. Pacing Mitchell and Jewell is Katie Healy, a pediatric oncology nurse who cared for not only Jewell, but also Mitchell's daughter, Shayla, while she was undergoing cancer treatment.

The Bigfoot 200 is Stillbrave's largest fundraising effort of the year and they hope to meet their fundraising goal through sponsorships and direct donations. Each mile is dedicated to a different child impacted by cancer and funds are raised in their honor. Mitchell and Jewell will carry pictures of these children and will acknowledge them at each mile.

After Mitchell's daughter, Shayla, lost her hard-fought battle with childhood cancer in 2009, he founded Stillbrave Childhood Cancer Foundation. He's dedicated his life to helping the families of children battling cancer in any way possible.

Mitchell's ability to console the inconsolable is an invaluable asset within the confines of a hospital room. Humor and compassion, and first-hand knowledge, are almost impossible to quantify and cannot be delivered in a gift card or care package.

"Shayla died in 2009. I'm not running this for my daughter; I'm running it for yours," Mitchell says.

About Stillbrave Childhood Cancer Foundation:

Stillbrave Childhood Cancer Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides non-medical support to children with cancer and their families. It helps them financially and emotionally, on a case-by-case basis, as they struggle with the toughest battle of their lives. Learn more at: https://www.stillbrave.org/

To sponsor a mile of the race in honor of a child impacted by cancer, or to make a donation of any kind, visit https://run.stillbrave.org/ or contact Mitchell at: bigfoot4@stillbrave.org.

Facebook:
- https://www.facebook.com/Stillbrave/
- https://www.facebook.com/tattootom1

*PHOTO link for media: Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0701s2p-tom-mitchell-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Tom Mitchell will set out to run his fourth attempt at a 200-mile ultra-marathon race to benefit children with cancer and their families on August 9 - 13, 2019.

Stillbrave Childhood Cancer Foundation announced that its founder and director, "Tattoo Tom" Mitchell is on a mission to raise $500,000 to support children with cancer and their families. From August 9 through 13, he will return to Mount St. Helens to make his fourth attempt at what's been called "the most challenging endurance race in North America" - the Bigfoot 200.

Related link: https://www.stillbrave.org/

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Awarded Grant from The William H. Donner Foundation

WILLISTON, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is proud to announce that on June 4, 2019, the William H. Donner Foundation announced a grant award in the amount of $25,000 to our organization. We are humbled to report that this is the fourth year receiving a grant from the William H. Donner Foundation.

These valuable funds will be put straight to work, to help us train a medical service dog for a deserving veteran in need.

The William H. Donner Foundation currently has interests in areas as diverse as: Animal Welfare, Arts and Culture, Children at Risk, Development, Domestic Public Policy, Education, Environment, Foreign and Defense Policy, Human Rights, Science, Veterans, and Women's Issues among many others.

Guardian Angels Founder & CEO, Carol Borden stated: "On behalf of the disabled veterans we serve, I wish to extend my deepest appreciation for the continued support from the William H. Donner Foundation for recognizing the tremendous need to take care of our veterans. Because of your generosity, we are able to provide long term care to another deserving American hero."

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) with a mission to rescue, raise, train and then donate the finest medical service dogs to veterans and others who struggle with the effects of a disability such as PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, seizure & diabetic disorders and mobility issues. Since 2010, we have donated nearly 350 individually trained, federally protected medical service dogs to those in need.

With up to 1,500 hours of training per dog, it is a long process, but worth every moment when you see the results of Unleashing the Power to Heal, and the life-saving, life-changing difference it makes for our recipients.

For more information on our program, please visit our website at: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is proud to announce that on June 4, 2019, the William H. Donner Foundation announced a grant award in the amount of $25,000 to our organization. We are humbled to report that this is the fourth year receiving a grant from the William H. Donner Foundation.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Significant Goal Achieved: 16,000 Acres of CA Farmland Protected

ELK GROVE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- California Farmland Trust (CFT), a Sacramento County based non-profit, has recently reached permanent protection of over 16,000 acres of California farmland - and CFT is celebrating! Why is this noteworthy?

"16,000 acres represents a huge milestone in CFT's vision of a California where farmland is seen on par with land uses such as houses and shopping malls, or other environmental initiatives," says Charlotte Mitchell, CFT's Executive Director. "Public opinion is shifting and we see it in the form of more donors and more agency funding. From small, humble beginnings, and a still small staff, our community of supporters has helped 50 farming families. We've also built relationships with agency funders who now come to us seeking more farmland projects."

This achievement exemplifies the findings in a recent scientific survey conducted by Valley Vision and California State University, Sacramento. The study found 89% of respondents felt preserving farmland is more important than creating retail and office space. Further, respondents ranked protecting farmland from conversion more important than protecting open space and wild space from the same threat.

In a state where development is booming, these 16,000 acres mark a significant acknowledgement that landscapes not often accessible to the public, although very beneficial to them, are a substantial part of a thriving lifestyle.

Farmland on the valley floor competes with land uses directly connected to the publics' needs - housing, transportation, and amenities. Landscapes with wildlife habitat or environmental designations get much of the attention while the loss of farmland often takes a back seat when public funding is concerned.

"While there are many funding sources that can give huge grants for wildlife, wetlands, urban open space, and coastal lands; there is very, very little available for preserving working farms," says Maxwell Norton, retired county extension agent and a founding CFT board member. "We have been resourceful in digging up resources to do projects throughout the Valley."

"This success will act as a key motivator for residents, foundations, and agency funders in recognizing farmland conservation is a fundamental priority in sustaining our way of life now and for future generations," said Mitchell.

California farmers keep producing more food on fewer acres, while our population keeps increasing. Farmland conservation efforts go hand in hand with the recent Farm to Fork movement, enabling the local eating movement that has exploded in popularity. Farmland is a vital component of a lifestyle that is full of fresh and healthy food and jobs; plus it gives open space that provides for cleaner air, ground water recharge, and wildlife habitat.

"It is amazing what a small organization can accomplish when it has a clear mission and stays focused on the one thing that will make a difference in the long run - protecting our working lands," said Norton.

16,000 acres is 25 square miles, dotted across California's Central Valley, of highly productive and unique land ideally suited for growing a wide variety of food from grains to specialty produce. That land will forever feed Californians, plus much of the U.S. and even the world.

If we consider that recent research indicates a family of four that eats meat, dairy and eggs would need around two acres of land to feed themselves for a year, that's 9,000 families forever fed.

"Just think of how much more we can do if the momentum to make farmland conservation a priority is continued," said Mitchell. "9,000 families can become 100,000 in a few short years."

For more information or photos, please contact:
Melanee Cottrill, mcottrill@cafarmtrust.org or (916) 687-3178

Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter: @cafarmtrust

The California Farmland Trust is a California Non-Profit 501(c)(3). Our mission is to help farmers protect the best farmland in the world. To date we have protected 16,011 acres of farmland on 50 family farms. Visit us: http://cafarmtrust.org/

California Farmland Trust (CFT), a Sacramento County based non-profit, has recently reached permanent protection of over 16,000 acres of California farmland - and CFT is celebrating! Why is this noteworthy?

Related link: http://cafarmtrust.org/

Local Club to host a family-friendly fundraising event for local drug addiction awareness organization

FREDERICK, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Free Riders IMC to host the First Annual Fundraiser event benefiting Maryland Heroin Awareness Advocates, both nonprofit organizations. June 22, 2019 from 12-8 p.m. at "The Farm" Amvets Post #2 Event Address: 9602 Baltimore Road Frederick Maryland 21704.

Thank you to our generous sponsors, Emerge Recovery Addiction Treatment Center, Second Street and Hope, and Doug & Sarah Dieringer.

Poker Run: 9:30 a.m. at Dominic's Bar and Grille. Address: 11791 Fingerboard Road Monrovia, MD 21770. Any vehicle can participate.

Main event: 12 p.m. - 8 p.m. at "The Farm" Amvets Post #2 @ 9602 Baltimore Road Frederick, MD 21704.

Buy Tickets Online at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/md-heroin-awareness-fundraiser-tickets-59529736043

*All donations support our statewide advocacy partnerships in fighting the heroin/opioid epidemic - 100% of all donations go directly to our communities.

$25 tax-deductible donation includes:
* Hot dog and Chips
* Poker Run

Event includes:
* Local Bands-Poverty Ridge the Band and The Cindy Miller Band
* DJ Biker George
* Silent Auction
* 50/50 Raffle
* TV Raffle
* Pull Tabs
* Kids Corner
* Horseshoes
* Corn Hole
* Food and drinks
* Vendor tables
* Educational and Resource tables

About MD Heroin Awareness Advocates:

We provide education, resources, and services to help those who suffer with substance use disorder. We are an organization, consisting of family members with lived experience who advocate, raise awareness, and support those suffering with substance use disorder. Learn more at: https://mdheroinawareness.org/

Media Contact:
Carin Miller
WeCare@MDHeroinAwareness.org

MD Heroin Awareness Advocates, 6608 Freedom Avenue, Sykesville, Maryland 21784-8035.

Follow on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/awarenessheroin

Free Riders IMC to host the First Annual Fundraiser event benefiting Maryland Heroin Awareness Advocates, both nonprofit organizations. June 22, 2019 from 12-8 p.m. at "The Farm" Amvets Post #2 Event Address: 9602 Baltimore Road Frederick Maryland 21704.

Related link: https://mdheroinawareness.org/

American Gem Society (AGS) Accepting RFPs for Breakout Speakers at Conclave 2020

LAS VEGAS, Nev. /ScoopCloud/ -- The American Gem Society (AGS) is now accepting Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to present at the annual Conclave in Denver, Colorado, April 27-29, 2020.

The AGS is looking for presenters on a variety of topics:
* Appraising
* Business management
* Ethics
* Gemology
* Human resources
* In-store events
* Retail Innovation
* Marketing and sales
* Security
* Sourcing
* Succession planning
* Sustainability
* Technology
* Watches

The AGS plans to incorporate into its program, panel discussions, insider insights, sessions for varying educational levels (i.e. beginner, intermediate, advanced), and hands-on classes. AGS is seeking to incorporate timely topics on issues relevant to the jewelry industry, such as blockchain, laboratory-created diamonds, retail innovation, and consumer buying behaviors.

"Conclave is a continued success because of the diverse range of topics offered. It's a core strength of our program and has helped make it the most trusted source of information on gemology and business in our industry," said Katherine Bodoh, CEO of AGS and AGS Laboratories. "We take active measures to preserve this diversity, because it enriches the learning experience for our attendees."

RFPs can be completed online at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Conclave2020RFP.

Please submit your speaker Request for Proposal by August 9, 2019. Each submission will be reviewed and you will be notified by November 29, 2019 on the status of your submission. If you have any questions, contact Alethea Inns, CGA, Director of Gemology and Education at ainns@ags.org. Please note, RFPs submitted after the deadline will not be considered for inclusion into Conclave 2020. To be considered as a presenter for Conclave 2020, an RFP is required.

About the American Gem Society:

The American Gem Society, founded in 1934 by Robert M. Shipley, is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to proven ethics, knowledge, and consumer protection within the jewelry industry. The American Gem Society is a professional organization awarding credentials for its members, who are held to the highest ethical and professional standards in the industry and must pass annual recertification examinations to maintain their titles. Less than one in twenty jewelers in the country have chosen to meet the exacting standards necessary for membership. Learn more: https://www.americangemsociety.org/

Event website: https://www.americangemsociety.org/BlankCustom.asp?page=conclave2020-home

Facebook: AmericanGemSociety1934
Instagram: @AmericanGemSociety
Twitter: @AmerGemSociety

The American Gem Society (AGS) is now accepting Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to present at the annual Conclave in Denver, Colorado, April 27-29, 2020. The American Gem Society is a professional organization awarding credentials for its members, who are held to the highest ethical and professional standards.

Related link: https://www.americangemsociety.org/

Move For Hunger Receives $50,000 ‘A Community Thrives’ Grant from USA TODAY NETWORK and The Gannett Foundation

RED BANK, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- Move For Hunger was announced today as a grant recipient of A Community Thrives, a grantmaking and crowd-funding program from the USA TODAY NETWORK and a part of the Gannett Foundation. Move For Hunger will receive a $50,000 "A Community Thrives" grant to expand its Multi-Family Apartment Food Rescue Program.

A Community Thrives supports non-profit organizations with projects focused on community building and has helped to contribute more than $6.5 million since 2017. This year, A Community Thrives engaged participants in 46 states. Move For Hunger was one of 16 organizations to receive the award, and one of just seven to receive a $50,000 grant.

Move For Hunger is a non-profit organization that has created a sustainable way for the relocation industry to reduce food waste and fight hunger. The organization partners with thousands of moving companies, apartment communities, and relocation management companies to provide their customers, residents, and clients with the opportunity to donate their food when they move. Since 2009, Move For Hunger has delivered nearly 15 million pounds of food to food banks & pantries across the United States and Canada. That's the equivalent of 12 million meals.

The A Community Thrives grant will allow Move For Hunger to expand its Multi-Family Apartment Food Rescue Program, onboard new members, distribute food collection bags & educational resources, and organize food drives with participating properties.

"Forty million Americans are facing hunger every day, yet we are wasting 40% of the food we produce each year," said Adam Lowy, Move For Hunger's Executive Director/Founder. "The A Community Thrives grant will allow Move For Hunger to accelerate our plans to scale our Multi-Family Apartment Food Rescue Program and train even more properties on how to incorporate food rescue into their daily operations. We are so grateful to the USA TODAY Network and the Gannett Foundation for their support."

"We are proud of the work Move For Hunger has done to reduce food waste and fight hunger nationwide," said Andy Yost, Chief Marketing Officer of Gannett. "At Gannett, our mission is to connect and empower our readers to make a difference in the communities they are a part of. Through A Community Thrives, we are further fueling our mission and purpose."

About Move For Hunger:

Move For Hunger is a non-profit organization that has created a sustainable way for the relocation industry to reduce food waste and fight hunger. In addition to collecting food from people who are moving to new homes, Move For Hunger also helps companies and individuals across the United States and Canada organize successful food drives. To date, they have collected nearly 15 million pounds of food. For more information, or to find out how you can host your own food drive, visit https://www.moveforhunger.org/.

About A Community Thrives:

A Community Thrives is a grantmaking and crowd-funding program from the USA TODAY NETWORK and is part of the Gannett Foundation. A Community Thrives supports non-profit organizations with projects focused on community building and has helped to contribute more than $6.5 million since 2017.

About USA TODAY NETWORK:

USA TODAY NETWORK, part of Gannett Co, Inc. (NYSE: GCI), is the largest local-to-national media organization in the country, powered by our award-winning newsrooms and marketing solutions business. With deep roots in local communities spanning the U.S. with more than 100 brands, plus USA TODAY, we engage about 126 million people every month through a diverse portfolio of multi-platform content offerings and experiences. For more information, visit https://www.gannett.com/.

PRESS CONTACT
Dan Beam, Communications Manager
Move For Hunger
dan@moveforhunger.org
(732) 774-0521 x109

Move For Hunger was announced today as a grant recipient of A Community Thrives, a grantmaking and crowd-funding program from the USA TODAY NETWORK and a part of the Gannett Foundation. Move For Hunger will receive a $50,000 "A Community Thrives" grant to expand its Multi-Family Apartment Food Rescue Program.

Related link: https://moveforhunger.org/

ACI employment data shows at least 23,000 Illinois college alumni working for top companies

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- At least 23,000 alumni of Illinois independent colleges and universities are working for 145 top employers throughout the state, according to findings from a three-month research project conducted by Associated Colleges of Illinois (ACI). ACI is a Chicago-based nonprofit that serves 27 independent higher education institutions.

The statistics were compiled from LinkedIn profiles by students working in ACI's micro-internship program. The data include how many students from each member institution are employed at each of the 145 companies.

"Much has been written about Illinois students leaving the state to attend college," said Mick Weltman, ACI executive director. "We focused on students who stay in Illinois and attend ACI-affiliated colleges and universities. We found that tens of thousands of students, most of whom study the arts and sciences, are getting great jobs with great companies right here in Illinois. We think this is a story worth telling."

Employers consistently say they are looking for students who can communicate well, solve problems, think critically, can lead project-based teams and adapt well to workplace changes. "These are the skills ACI members teach every day, and it is why their students move into successful careers," Weltman said. "The data shows there is a mutually beneficial relationship between ACI member colleges and universities who provide employees ready to work, and top employers in Illinois who are always looking for great talent to fill their employment needs."

Earlier this year, ACI research established that its members provide a $3.5 billion impact to the Illinois economy. "These 27 schools serve Illinois citizens through education and service, and they provide significant economic value to their communities," Weltman said.

ACI works with companies, foundations and individuals to raise funds for scholarships and peer mentoring for first-generation, low-income students to attend member schools and complete degrees.

Recently, ACI initiated college-to-career programs, such as boot camps to teach workplace skills to college students, career mentoring for senior students, micro-internships and an annual Career Development Conference and Employer Expo, set for Oct. 4 at North Central College, Naperville.

ACI's overall purpose is to help students earn degrees and develop successful careers and lives, Weltman said. "We also want our work to help improve the Illinois economy by maintaining helpful relationships with employers, showing them the value students from ACI colleges and universities bring to the workplace," he added.

Member Employment Data research: https://acifund.org/member-employment-data/

About ACI:

Associated Colleges of Illinois (ACI) is a collaboration of 27 private, independent colleges and universities, representing more than 67,000 students. Established in 1952, ACI supports member colleges and universities by advancing independent liberal arts and sciences education and helping underserved students succeed in college, career and life. The organization raises funds for scholarships, peer mentoring and emergency financial aid, and it provides member services such as professional development conferences and college-to-career seminars and events.

Visit https://acifund.org to learn more about ACI and its member colleges and universities.

For more information, contact:
John R. Brooks
Director of Communication
Office: 312-263-2391, ext. 3
Mobile: 847-894-4529
jbrooks@acifund.org

At least 23,000 alumni of Illinois independent colleges and universities are working for 145 top employers throughout the state, according to findings from a three-month research project conducted by Associated Colleges of Illinois (ACI). ACI is a Chicago-based nonprofit that serves 27 independent higher education institutions.

Related link: https://acifund.org

Chester Charter Scholars Academy, FKA The Chester Charter School for the Arts, will graduate its first-ever senior class

CHESTER, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- Chester Charter Scholars Academy (CCSA) to Graduate 100% of First-Ever Senior Class, June 10, 2019, 1 p.m., Lang Performing Arts Center, Swarthmore College (by invitation only).

* 100% of CCSA's 45 seniors will graduate, poised to create a bright new future for themselves, their families and the Chester community.
* Every member of the class has been accepted into a post-secondary education program.

Graduates will pursue a wide range of career paths. Jahbree Ballard, who has attended CCSA since 9th grade, will enter Williamson College of the Trades. "I don't know where I would be today without my CCSA family," says Jahbree.

Saayidah Carter is headed to Swarthmore College, where she promises to tackle her academic career with the same "Sabers' spirit" that guided her through high school.

Dr. Joy Gates Black, President of Delaware County Community College, will serve as graduation speaker.

* What: CCSA to Graduate 100% of First-Ever Senior Class
* When: June 10, 2019, 1 p.m., Lang Performing Arts Center, Swarthmore College
* By invitation only
* Contact: Donna Armand, darmand@thechesterfund.org, 610-742-9032

About CCSA:
CCSA is an arts-integrated, academically rigorous, non-profit public charter school offering an exceptional educational option to children and families in Chester, one of the most under-resourced communities in America. CCSA's vision is that 100% of its students will graduate, prepared for college, conservatory, technical school, the military or gainful employment.

CCSA was founded in 2012 with 320 students in grades K-6. By adding a grade every year since then, it became a complete K-12 school in September 2019. In 2017, CCSA opened the doors to a new $30 million campus on Highland Avenue in Chester, funded in part through private donations. The beautiful facility now stands as a beacon in the community, sending a powerful message of permanence and hope to Chester's children and families.

More information: https://ccschoolarts.org/

Chester Charter Scholars Academy (CCSA), 1500 Highland Avenue, Chester, PA 19013 | 610.859.2988

Chester Charter Scholars Academy (CCSA) to Graduate 100% of First-Ever Senior Class, June 10, 2019, 1 p.m., Lang Performing Arts Center, Swarthmore College (by invitation only). CCSA is an arts-integrated, academically rigorous, non-profit public charter school.

Related link: https://ccschoolarts.org/

Walk with Us to Cure Lupus, Chicago – There’s Strength in Our Strides

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Join Chicago's lupus community and the Lupus Research Alliance (LRA) Saturday, June 8, 2019 to Walk with Us to Cure Lupus at 633 Clark Street on the Northwestern University Campus in Evanston, Illinois. Walk with Us to Cure Lupus is the LRA's signature national program that unites communities across the country to achieve one goal - to raise the much-needed funds to improve care and find the cure.

In lupus, the immune system, which should protect against infection, instead creates antibodies that can attack any part of the body. More than 90 percent of the millions of people worldwide who live with lupus are women. African Americans, Latinx, Asians and Native Americans are two to three times at greater risk than Caucasians.

Explaining why lupus patient and Chicago resident Amy Dunn Walks with the Lupus Research Alliance, she said, "Joining was a way for me not to feel so alone. "Before then, I didn't know anybody who was in my shoes. Today, I refuse to let lupus define me, and I will go to the ends of the earth to educate people - bring awareness - and ultimately help find a cure."

This day is set for a true celebration. Before and after the Walk, participants can take part in Tie Dying tee shirts, face painting, Team photos, Moon Bounce and signing the annual Hope Begins Here banner displayed in the LRA national office in NYC. Free breakfast, snacks and a 25 percent discount at Coldstone Creamery add to the fun for all ages. Free parking is available on campus in either Segal Visitor's Center Garage or the NU Campus Parking Lot.

Wheelchair accessible, the Walk route is about 3.1 miles around the scenic Northwestern University campus. Walkers are encouraged to go at their own pace and cover their own distance; it is not necessary to complete the route.

"Thousands are walking across the United States to raise awareness and funds for lupus research," comments Kenneth M. Farber, President and CEO of the Lupus Research Alliance. "Through the efforts of communities like Chicago, this program has contributed millions to be invested in the most innovative and promising research that has led to every pivotal advance in lupus to date. We look forward to seeing Chicago come out full force on June 8."

Visit http://www.lupuswalkchicago.org/ or email MCocchiarella@LupusResearch.org for more information.

The lupus community thanks Walk sponsors for their ongoing support: GSK and JP Morgan Chase, Target, Einstein Bros, Starbucks, Trader Joes, and IT'SUGAR.

Visit https://www.lupusresearch.org/ to learn more about the LRA and scientific breakthroughs that are transforming lupus treatment. Get the latest news, share your experiences and support others on LRA's Community Forum, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

About the Lupus Research Alliance:

The Lupus Research Alliance aims to transform treatment while advancing toward a cure by funding the most innovative lupus research in the world. Because the Lupus Research Alliance's Board of Directors fund all administrative and fundraising costs, 100 percent of all donations goes to support lupus research programs.

Join Chicago's lupus community and the Lupus Research Alliance (LRA) Saturday, June 8, 2019 to Walk with Us to Cure Lupus at 633 Clark Street on the Northwestern University Campus in Evanston, Illinois. Walk with Us to Cure Lupus is the LRA's signature national program that unites communities across the country to achieve one goal - to raise the much-needed funds to improve care and find the cure.

Related link: https://www.lupusresearch.org/

Walk with Us to Cure Lupus, Boston – There’s Strength in Our Strides!

BOSTON, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- Join the Boston Bruins at the liveliest lupus walk Boston has ever seen! The lupus community will gather for the Lupus Research Alliance (LRA) Boston "Walk with Us to Cure Lupus" 9 a.m., Saturday, June 1, 2019 in DCR's Baxter Park at Assembly Row in Somerville, Mass.

"Walk with Us to Cure Lupus" is the LRA's signature national program that unites communities across the country to achieve one goal - to raise the much-needed funds to improve care and find the cure.

In lupus, the immune system, which should protect against infection, instead creates antibodies that can attack any part of the body. More than 90 percent of the millions of people worldwide who live with lupus are women. African Americans, Latinx, Asians and Native Americans are two to three times at greater risk than Caucasians.

"I walk to do what I can to help the Lupus Research Alliance raise funds for research that is needed to better understand the disease, so that safer and more effective treatments can be developed. My hope is that one day a cure can be found but until then there is much work to be done," said Malden resident and lupus advocate Mirian Alvarez. "Like so many with lupus, I have had complications. Participating in the walks and meeting others who understand what we face, it has been very therapeutic and has helped me face the challenges along the way."

The Boston Bruins are ready to make this day a true celebration. The mascot 'Blades' will be there to bring on the party. Free breakfast, snacks and activities add to the fun for all ages. Plus, Assembly Row is an outdoor space to shop and dine, so participants can make it a full day's outing.

Wheelchair accessible, the Walk route is 3.2 miles along the scenic Mystic River. Walkers are encouraged to go at their own pace and cover their own distance; it is not necessary to complete the route.

"Thousands are walking across the United States to raise awareness and funds for lupus research," comments Kenneth M. Farber, President and CEO of the Lupus Research Alliance. "Through the efforts of communities like Boston, this program has contributed millions to be invested in the most innovative and promising research that has led to every pivotal advance in lupus to date. We look forward to seeing Boston come out full force on June 1."

For more information on the Boston event, visit http://www.lupuswalkboston.org.

The lupus community thanks Walk Supporters for their ongoing commitment: GSK, Corbus Pharmaceuticals, Boston Bruins, IT'SUGAR, Starbucks, Wegmans and iHeart Radio!

Visit https://www.lupusresearch.org/ to learn more about the LRA and scientific breakthroughs that are transforming lupus treatment. Get the latest news, share your experiences and support others on LRA's Community Forum, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

Community forum: https://community.lupusresearch.org/.

About the Lupus Research Alliance:

The Lupus Research Alliance (LRA) aims to transform treatment while advancing toward a cure by funding the most innovative lupus research in the world. Because the Lupus Research Alliance's Board of Directors funds all administrative and fundraising costs, 100 percent of all donations goes to support lupus research programs. Learn more: https://www.lupusresearch.org/.

Join the Boston Bruins at the liveliest lupus walk Boston has ever seen! The lupus community will gather for the Lupus Research Alliance (LRA) Boston Walk with Us to Cure Lupus 9 a.m., Saturday, June 1, 2019 in DCR's Baxter Park at Assembly Row in Somerville, Mass.

Related link: https://www.lupusresearch.org/

World Renowned C Diff Foundation Announces First Ever Appointment of Paul Feuerstadt, M.D. as Director of Medical Education

NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- C Diff Foundation, a one hundred percent volunteer, world renowned 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, has appointed nationally renowned Gastroenterologist, Dr. Paul Feuerstadt as its first Director of Medical Education.

Dr. Feuerstadt said, "It is my honor to accept this position. I have been involved with the C Diff Foundation over the last 4.5 years and I look forward to assisting in the continued growth of the organization and ensuring that forward progress, awareness and education increases under my tenure. I look forward to working with the board and volunteers to increase awareness and funding across the country and around the world to highlight this disease through in person events, social media, and in the press."

Dr. Feuerstadt has spent his career refining his practice and expertise in C. difficile. He is dedicated to educating the public through his work with this organization.

Additionally, he plans to offer free patient and provider education through the launch of his new educational website, https://www.everythingcdifficile.com/. The goal of the site is to provide education through short videos with relevant clinical information for educational purposes. The site provides concise 3-5 minute lectures covering core topics, recent publications and major conferences about C. difficile infection to educate both patients and providers.

Nancy C. Caralla, Founding President, C Diff Foundation, commented: "Dr. Feuerstadt is a pre-eminent doctor in this space. His dedication and donation of his time and energy to this worthy cause has helped so many patients to date. We look forward to his enhanced leadership and knowledge as the organization grows and strengthens through our advocacy in the C.diff. community. Dr. Feuerstadt's new role as Director of Medical Education will provide an additional avenue of support to patients, families, and caregivers through his educational media available on EverythingCdifficile.com. We are grateful for Dr. Feuerstadt's time and dedication as we continue fighting this debilitating disease worldwide."

About C Diff Foundation:

The C Diff Foundation's mission is dedicated to reaching out to communities from villages to cities, to medical practitioners, medical students, C. diff. survivors, caregivers, and the patients combating a C. difficile infection (CDI) while providing the general public important information on prevention, treatments available, clinical trials in progress, and EPA registered products available for environmental safety.

The C Diff Foundation continues moving forward setting up outreach centers and building positive networks with the C Diff Foundation Volunteer Health Advocates aiding in "Raising C.diff. Awareness" worldwide.

Learn more: https://cdifffoundation.org/

About Dr. Paul Feuerstadt:

His areas of interest Clostridioides difficile infection and ischemic diseases of the gut and in these areas he has presented his research extensively, authored and co-authored many manuscripts, textbook chapters and online modules. Another passion of Dr. Feuerstadt's is teaching, frequently giving lectures locally, regionally and nationally. He holds a clinical appointment as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine at the Yale University School of Medicine and is a full time attending physician at the Gastroenterology Center of Connecticut seeing patients with a broad spectrum of clinical gastroenterological diseases.

Dr. Feuerstadt attended the Weill Medical College of Cornell University in Manhattan for medical school and completed his residency in internal medicine at New York Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell. His clinical fellowship training was completed at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, New York.

About C.difficile:

It is the most common Healthcare-associated infection affecting an estimated 450,000 people annually in the United States alone with ~28,000 deaths from complications of this infection. This infection accounts for ~16% of all healthcare associated infections.

In the USA: Nearly half a million Americans suffer from Clostridioides difficile (C. diff.) infections in a single year according to a study released February 25, 2015 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC).

**Approximately 29,000 patients died within 30 days of the initial diagnosis of C. difficile. Of those, about 15,000 deaths were estimated to be directly attributable to C. difficile infections (CDI), making C. difficile a very important cause of infectious disease death in the United States alone. More than 80 percent of the deaths associated with C. difficile occurred among Americans aged 65 years or older. C. difficile causes an inflammation of the colon and deadly diarrhea.

C Diff Foundation, a one hundred percent volunteer, world renowned 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, has appointed nationally renowned Gastroenterologist, Dr. Paul Feuerstadt as its first Director of Medical Education.

Related link: https://cdifffoundation.org/

Documentary Debut Recounts Stories of Religious Persecution, Courage and Hope

WASHINGTON D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- "Christians in the Mirror: Stories of Courage and Faith in the Face of Persecution From Syria, Iraq, India, Sudan and Egypt" will premiere Monday, June 10 at the Miracle Theatre in Washington D.C. from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Joshuacord, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, is honored to share with the community this one-of-a-kind film that reveals the intense suffering of persecuted Christians in the Middle East, Asia and Africa. Tickets are selling fast.

The Center for the Study of Global Christianity reported that an average of 90,000 Christians are martyred annually, while close to 215 million are persecuted for their faith. So, while U.S. citizens are blessed to experience religious freedom, Christian persecution continues to grow stronger across the world with each day that passes.

Joshuacord is a nondenominational organization that's dedicated to raising awareness and providing support to the oppressed and persecuted Christians around the world. It's teamed up with film director Jordan Allott, the founder of In Altum Productions; and Paul Jallo, of Jallo Oil Distributors, who is also one of the executive producers, to create "Christians in the Mirror."

Patrick Carberry, founder Joshuacord, witnessed firsthand the persecution of religious minority Christians during his time working with the government in the Middle East. It was then that he realized he had to do something to help. This led to the founding of Joshuacord and the creation of "Christians in the Mirror."

"From the demolished streets of Aleppo, Syria and northern Iraq, to rural villages in India, South Sudan and Egypt, what stood out to me the most during my travels filming 'Christians in the Mirror,' was not just the unbelievable persecution these Christian communities endured, but the inspiring faith and fortitude they displayed in the face of all that devastation," Allott says.

Allott has filmed projects in more than 25 countries with themes ranging from Catholic Spirituality and mountain climbing to international human rights and American politics. One of his previous films, "Our Last Stand" was screened all over the world and in several European parliaments.

"Christians in the Mirror" is an expository documentary that is a provocation for Christians to look into their "Christian mirror" as a disciple of Christ and to see what the reflection brings to light. It's the hope of this documentary's makers and producers that the film will not only evoke sympathy and compassion, but inspire action.

"The persecution of Christians, is not just a Christian faith issue, it's also a human rights issue and we should all be concerned and act to help those in need," Carberry says. "My wish is that this documentary will bring awareness to these injustices."

This Washington, D.C. premiere will serve as a springboard for screenings across the nation. Interested parties should visit the website to find out how they can bring the film to their area.

Ticket information: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dc-premiere-of-christians-in-the-mirror-stories-of-faith-amid-persecution-tickets-61639439222

For more information about the documentary: http://christiansinthemirror.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristiansInTheMirror247/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/JhBin3gZ7f8

*PHOTO link for media: Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-0521s2p-chrinmirror-300dpi.jpg
Photo Caption: A new documentary, "Christians in the Mirror."

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jordan Allott
of In Altum Productions
+1-703-419-0850
jordanallott@inaltumproductions.com

"Christians in the Mirror: Stories of Courage and Faith in the Face of Persecution From Syria, Iraq, India, Sudan and Egypt" will premiere Monday, June 10 at the Miracle Theatre in Washington D.C. from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Joshuacord, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, is honored to share with the community this one-of-a-kind film that reveals the intense suffering of persecuted Christians in the Middle East, Asia and Africa.

Related link: https://www.joshuacord.org/

Jim Rooney from Pittsburgh Steelers and Jon Kolb, 4x Super Bowl Champion to Keynote Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Passing of the Leash Community Awareness Event

PITTSBURGH, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs cordially invites the public to attend our 2019 Pittsburgh Passing of the Leash Ceremony. This heart-warming event showcases the incredible difference Service Dogs have made in the lives of their recipients in Pennsylvania communities. Meet some of these life-saving dogs and teams, and enjoy lunch with us.

The Passing of the Leash will be held at Duquesne Union Ballroom, on Tuesday, June 4 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Admission is $35 per person, and tickets can be purchased in advance online at: https://medicalservicedogs.networkforgood.com/events/12383-passing-of-the-leash.

Full tables and sponsorships are available. Seating is limited and will be offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.

You can find more information, and learn additional information about this uplifting event at: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/event/passing-leash-pittsburgh/

We would like to thank our Title Sponsor, Mosites Construction Company for their support of our event. Special thanks also to the Sons of the American Legion, Post 892 for their support. If you have questions regarding the event, or would like to become a sponsor, please call Christine at (779) 970-6430 or send an e-mail to: Christine@medicalservicedogs.org for more information.

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a 501(c)(3) Based in Williston, Florida that raises, trains and then donates individually trained medical service dogs to veterans and others who suffer from disabilities including PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, mobility issues and much more. We receive no state or federal funding available for this critical life-saving program. Over the past nine years, Guardian Angels has paired nearly 300 individually trained medical service dogs with those in need, and with your help, they can help even more. Reserve your tickets today.

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/qIrknXtV0ss

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs cordially invites the public to attend our 2019 Pittsburgh Passing of the Leash Ceremony. This heart-warming event showcases the incredible difference Service Dogs have made in the lives of their recipients in Pennsylvania communities. Meet some of these life-saving dogs and teams, and enjoy lunch with us.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

End of Life Choices California, Non-Profit Organization Launches

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- End of Life Choices California announced today the official launch of its newly established non-profit organization dedicated to providing factual information and personal support regarding California's End of Life Option Act (EOLOA) and all other legal end-of-life options to the medical community and to the public.

The End of Life Option Act is a California law that permits terminally ill adult patients with the capacity to make medical decisions to be prescribed aid-in-dying medication by their doctor if certain conditions are met. The law went into effect on June 9, 2016.

End of Life Choices California (EOLCCA) was started by four individuals active in the successful statewide effort to pass the legislation legalizing medical aid in dying for terminally ill Californians. The founders recognized that Californians diagnosed with a terminal or chronic illness deserve comprehensive education about, and access to, all legal options concerning their end of life wishes and medical treatment. EOLCCA provides a platform for individuals to fully explore, discuss and make informed choices about end of life options consistent with their personal values and beliefs.

EOLCCA is building a model statewide program, currently launched in Southern California with plans to expand throughout the state, which provides volunteer advocates available to answer questions and provide personal support to anyone seeking to learn more about end-of-life planning.

Client advocate volunteers provide guidance throughout the entire end of life process including: preparing Advance Directives, discussing the possibility of stopping unwanted medical treatment, when to consider hospice or palliative care, or simply how to have conversations with loved ones or doctors about their wishes. In addition to individual patient support, EOLCCA provides informative sessions about the End of Life Option Act to organizations, retirement centers, colleges and universities, non-profits, and more.

"The truth is that we all die. Why not plan for an ending that can retain the dignity of a life lived well and offer some peace to the people you leave behind?" said Judy Neall Epstein, Founding Director and Board President.

End of Life Choices California launched its new website, which details the work they do, and provides contact information, excellent resources, and ways to support the mission by training to be a volunteer and making a donation. All information and personal support is provided free-of-charge. For further information please visit https://endoflifechoicesca.org/.

About End of Life Choices California:
End of Life Choices California is a new non-profit organization (501(c)(3) application pending) whose mission is to provide information and personal support regarding California's End of Life Option Act and all other legal end-of-life options to the medical community and to the public. EOLCCA was founded out of an abiding belief that all Californians diagnosed with a terminal illness should have factual information about, and access to, all legal options concerning their end of life wishes. For more information, visit https://endoflifechoicesca.org/

Follow on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/endoflifechoicescalifornia/

Media Contact Info:
Judy Neall Epstein
jepstein@endoflifechoicesca.org
(760) 636-8009

End of Life Choices California
78-365 Highway 111, #132
La Quinta, CA 92253

End of Life Choices California announced today the official launch of its newly established non-profit organization dedicated to providing factual information and personal support regarding California's End of Life Option Act (EOLOA) and all other legal end-of-life options to the medical community and to the public.

Related link: https://endoflifechoicesca.org/

Celebrating Culture in Annual South Bronx Festival

BRONX, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Casita Maria Center For Arts & Education, and Council Member Rafael Salamanca, Jr., are proud to present the South Bronx Culture Trail Festival 2019: retroACTIVO. The festival will last from May 24 to June 29, and will include multiple family-friendly events throughout the South Bronx, presented in partnership with community-based organizations, art institutions, health providers, and city agencies.

Learn more: https://www.casitamaria.org/festival

Check out the full calendar of multidisciplinary artists, including drumming by the Native American Silvercloud Singers, protest songs from the Resistance Revival Chorus, West Side Story Reimagined by Grammy(R) nominated Bobby Sanabria Multiverse Big Band, and a new mural by the First Lady of Graffiti, Lady Pink.

In line with the Festival theme, these artists, and many more will present work that references the past in a reinterpretation of traditions, artworks, and genres as a form of resistance and way to create a future filled with resiliency, inclusion and cultural pride. The artists gathered for this annual event are a testament to the transformative power of the arts, illustrating how the arts can help change dominant narratives.

Events will be held in or nearby historic Bronx cultural sites. We encourage Festival-goers to learn more about their place in the rich history of the South Bronx through guided and self-guided walking tours.

All events free unless otherwise noted. For rain locations, visit: https://www.casitamaria.org/festival

The South Bronx Culture Trail Festival (SBCT) is a community arts and education initiative, established in 2011 by Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education and Dancing in the Streets to celebrate and capture key moments in the cultural life of the South Bronx. Each year new artists and partners are invited by Casita Maria to contribute to this ever-evolving and robust history, establishing a Cultural Trail through the South Bronx.

This year Casita Maria partnered with: Banana Kelly, BronxCare, Bronx Music Heritage Center, Catholic Charities, CityLore, Digital Bodega, 52 People for Progress, Garifuna Coalition, Greater Hunts Point Economic Development Corporation, Kelly Street Garden, The Laundromat Project, Lincoln Center, NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Bronx Neighborhood Health Action Center, New York Restoration Project, Pregones / Puerto Rican Traveling Theater, Theater Development Fund, Southern Boulevard BID, Urban Health Plan, the Whitney Museum and SBCT host Rhina Valentin.

In addition to a cultural celebration, the festival serves as an economic engine for the community, hiring local artists and promoting local businesses and tourism. As project lead, Casita Maria Center for Arts and Education presents a vibrant visual and performing arts program at indoor and outdoor locations in the community.

"Every year, Casita Maria partners with other community-based organizations and city agencies to create a free month-long festival for people of the South Bronx. The festival brings arts and culture for everyone to enjoy. There's something for everybody. The Dept. of Cultural Affairs, the City Council, and I are proud to support this event for the community. I am very excited to see this year's festival!" says Council Member Rafael Salamanca, Jr.

"Casita Maria is incredibly proud to lead the development of the South Bronx Culture Trail Festival 2019, in partnership with Council Member Salamanca, which celebrates the borough's rich and diverse culture with Latin jazz, mariachi, Afro-Brazilian percussion, and Garifuna music and so much more. The Festival is a testament to the rich and plentiful talent in the Bronx, as well as an appreciation to the resilient community that continues to give birth to emerging cultural movements," says Haydee Morales, Executive Director, Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education

About Casita Maria Center For Arts & Education:
Casita Maria Center For Arts & Education is the first and oldest Latino 501(c)(3) charity in NYC, founded in 1934. The South Bronx-based organization presents diverse, contemporary visual and performing arts and education programming for all ages. Learn more: https://www.casitamaria.org/

The South Bronx Culture Trail is supported by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council and Council Members Rafael Salamanca, Jr. and Ruben Diaz, Sr., Con Edison, New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the New York State Legislature, New York City Department of Youth & Community Development, Southern Blvd. Business Improvement District, Lily Auchincloss Foundation, Inc., Bronx Music Heritage Center and Metro Optics Eyewear.

Casita Maria Center For Arts & Education, and Council Member Rafael Salamanca, Jr., are proud to present the South Bronx Culture Trail Festival 2019: retroACTIVO. The festival will last from May 24 to June 29, and will include multiple family-friendly events throughout the South Bronx, presented in partnership with community-based organizations, art institutions, health providers, and city agencies.

Related link: https://www.casitamaria.org/

Temecula United Adds Former Chivas USA Coach and U.S. Men’s National Team Scout Carlos Juarez to Staff

TEMECULA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Temecula United Soccer Club announces the hiring of Carlos Juarez to oversee the Club's Coaching Education Program. He will also coach the Boys 2003 and Boys 2007 teams at the Club. In what is seen as a major hiring coup by Temecula United, Carlos brings more than 30 years of top-level experience to the Club having worked at all levels of the game including the U.S. Men's National Team and Major League Soccer.

"We are extremely pleased to add Carlos to our Club staff," said Temecula United Soccer Club President Michael Richards. "Carlos is one of the finest coaches not only in California, but in the entire country. It speaks highly of our Club that a coach and administrator with his pedigree decides to join the Club."

"His knowledge and connections to college programs will greatly enhance opportunities for our players looking to play at the next level," Richards added. "Carlos will spearhead our College Pathway Program."

Carlos Juarez holds a United States Soccer Federation "A" License and was the NCAA National Coach of the Year after reaching the women's National Championship game with Cal Poly Pomona in 1999. Coach Carlos has coached U.S. Youth National Teams, served as the head coach of WUSA's San Diego Spirit, and was an assistant coach with MLS Chivas USA.

With U.S. Soccer, Juarez has served as a National Staff Instructor and as a Chief Scout for the U.S. Men's National Team from 2011 to 2016 under head coach Jurgen Klinsmann. His last major assignment for Klinsmann was to scout opponents during the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

Coach Carlos, who previously was Cal North's Technical Director and head of the Olympic Development Program (ODP), just finished his term as Arizona Soccer Association's Technical Director.

"Carlos is a U.S. Soccer instructor for all coaching license levels", said Club President Michael Richards. "He teaches "A" license courses and will be asked to develop Temecula United's Coaching Education Program as we continue to build the finest coaching staff of any club in the area".

Carlos Juarez adds even more international soccer experience to Temecula United's staff following the recent additions of former Canadian World Cup player, Greg Ion, as its Program Director, and former EPL academy player, Aaron Kiely, as its Technical Director.

"I am looking forward to sharing my experience with every youth player and coach at Temecula United," Juarez said. "I have seen the growth and the development of Temecula United the last few years and want to be part of its future. I am excited and looking forward to getting to work."

About Temecula United Soccer Club:

Based in Temecula, CA, Temecula United is a youth soccer club with players ranging from 6 years of age to 18 years of age in both girls and boys divisions. Established in 2005, Temecula United is one of the fastest growing youth soccer clubs in Southern California boasting more than 40 teams. Temecula United is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. Learn more: https://www.temeculaunitedsoccerclub.org/

Social: https://twitter.com/TU_Soccer_Club and https://www.facebook.com/temeculaunitedsoccer/

Temecula United Soccer Club announces the hiring of Carlos Juarez to oversee the Club's Coaching Education Program. He will also coach the Boys 2003 and Boys 2007 teams at the Club. In what is seen as a major hiring coup by Temecula United, Carlos brings more than 30 years of top-level experience to the Club having worked at all levels of the game including the U.S. Men's National Team and Major League Soccer.

Related link: https://www.temeculaunitedsoccerclub.org/

Michigan Fibromyalgia Awareness Day Focuses on Drug-Free Strategies for Pain

WARREN, Mich. /ScoopCloud/ -- On Saturday, May 11, 2019 at 12:30 p.m., the Fibromyalgia Association will host its 18th annual Michigan Fibromyalgia Awareness Day at the Webber Cancer Center in Warren, Michigan. Governor Whitmer is issuing a proclamation recognizing Fibromyalgia Awareness Day in the state of Michigan, and State Representative Lori Stone will present a Tribute.

The goal of the day is to raise community awareness for this misunderstood chronic pain illness and help patients and their families live better with the complex and potentially disabling illness. Tickets are available at famichigan.org.

"I was diagnosed in 1996 at the age of 24," says Fibromyalgia Association of Michigan President & Founder Sharon Waldrop. "I went from being very energetic to bed-ridden in a matter of months. Sadly, there is no one quick fix or pill that will manage fibromyalgia. Thriving with fibromyalgia requires patience and employing many strategies.

"Our featured speaker, Tami Stackelhouse, will be sharing these strategies. The same ones she used to go from disabled to thriving. Tami is the founder of the International Fibromyalgia Coaching Institute and author of 'The Fibromyalgia Coach and Take Back Your Life.'"

Fibromyalgia (pronounced fie-bro-my-AL-ja) challenges patients and healthcare providers alike. Fibromyalgia experts estimate that 10 million (2-4%) Americans suffer with fibromyalgia. While it is most common in women, fibromyalgia also strikes men and children of all ages and ethnic backgrounds worldwide. For those with severe symptoms, the illness can be extremely debilitating and interfere with routine daily activities leaving people isolated. Symptoms include pain, fatigue, sleep issues and problems with cognitive functioning, memory, and concentration. People with fibromyalgia typically have multiple chronic overlapping pain conditions, and many people have co-existing depression and anxiety.

About The Fibromyalgia Association of Michigan:

The Fibromyalgia Association of Michigan is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Their goal, improving lives through support, education, and advocacy. The Association grew out of a Support & Education Group Sharon Waldrop founded in 1997, just one year after being diagnosed with fibromyalgia. The Support Group celebrates 22 years of service this year.

For more information please visit https://www.famichigan.org/.

Follow on social media at:
Twitter - @MiFibro - https://twitter.com/MIFibro
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MIFibromyalgia/

For media queries, visit: https://www.famichigan.org/media

On Saturday, May 11, 2019 at 12:30 p.m., the Fibromyalgia Association will host its 18th annual Michigan Fibromyalgia Awareness Day at the Webber Cancer Center in Warren, Michigan. Governor Whitmer is issuing a proclamation recognizing Fibromyalgia Awareness Day in the state of Michigan, and State Representative Lori Stone will present a Tribute.

Related link: https://www.famichigan.org/

4th Annual Joy in The Cause 5k and Fun Run in Oklahoma

TULSA, Okla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Joy in The Cause! Announces the 2019 Joy in The Cause 5k and Fun Run, June 1 at River West Festival Park in Tulsa. This event falls on National Trails day and we couldn't be more excited to celebrate than by running the River Park Trails!

The race course follows the River Park's trail across the pedestrian bridge while viewing downtown's skyline and circles the trails back to the River West Festival Park! There will be music, food trucks, princesses and superheroes.

This race event is a family event and will include over 20 other local community non-profits for you to learn about. Your kids will receive a "race passport" and collect stamps by visiting each non-profit and be rewarded with a prize at the end of the Village of Causes.

When: June 1 at River West Festival Park
8:30 a.m. - Fun Run
9:00 a.m. - 5k
Race Day Registration opens at 7 a.m.

Where: River West Festival Park
2100 S Jackson Ave, Tulsa, OK 74107

Why: This 5k and Fun Run is an annual fundraiser for 501(c)(3) nonprofit, "Joy in The Cause!"

Visit http://joyinthecause.org/ for more information on the charity.

Race prizes will be given to the top 3 runners of each age bracket. The top male and female overall 5k winners will win big prizes from some of our Sponsorship Partners. And don't forget when you sign up you can add that one of a kind custom cuff from our Sponsorship partner Rustic Cuff.

Joy in The Cause! Announces the 2019 Joy in The Cause 5k and Fun Run, June 1 at River West Festival Park in Tulsa. This event falls on National Trails day and we couldn't be more excited to celebrate than by running the River Park Trails.

Related link: http://joyinthecause.org/