Tag Archives: NonProfit and Charities

Caminar Announces Mark Cloutier as New CEO

SAN MATEO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Board of Directors of Caminar has announced the appointment of Mark Cloutier, MPP, MPH, as Chief Executive Officer of the $39M nonprofit behavioral health organization. Dedicated to empowering and supporting individuals and families with complex needs to move toward resilience, wellness and independence, Caminar serves more than 20,000 people each year in the San Francisco Bay Area and Northern California.

Cloutier has dedicated his career to increasing access to quality health and supportive services and improving communities' overall health and well-being. With Master's degrees in public policy and public health, Cloutier has held leadership roles in health and behavioral health services organizations and foundations, including Horizons Services, San Francisco Foundation, the Center for Youth Wellness, Kaiser Family Foundation and San Francisco AIDS Foundation.

"In addition to top caliber leadership experience, we sought a CEO who has vision for and commitment to the work of Caminar," says Suzan Getchell-Wallace, President of the Board of Directors of Caminar. "Mark believes strongly in the comprehensive services we offer and the importance of offering optimal care to the communities we serve."

Founded in 1964 in San Mateo County, Caminar has grown significantly over the last two years in response to the growing complexity of behavioral health needs affecting the communities it serves. With a five-county service area encompassing San Mateo, San Francisco, Santa Clara, Solano and Butte counties, the organization delivers programmatic innovations and solution-focused services that address fundamental issues affecting the health of individuals and families, including mental wellness, addiction recovery, family violence and homelessness.

"Improving the health of communities begins with understanding the role of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and social determinants of health in predisposing individuals, families and communities to poor mental health and physical health outcomes," says Mark Cloutier, CEO of Caminar. "Caminar is in a unique position to address the comprehensive needs of individuals, families and communities though our trauma informed, evidence based clinical services and our collaborations with government, nonprofit and community institutions to focus on and remedy root causes."

In order to best serve the increasingly complex needs of individuals and families, Caminar has been evolving toward a whole person care approach, in which the essential factors underlying a person's health, from physical and mental wellness through housing and employment, are addressed holistically.

Recent mergers have advanced this aim by adding complementary programs and expertise to Caminar. Family & Children Services of Silicon Valley, based in Santa Clara County, brought expertise in adult substance use treatment, family violence prevention, school-based counseling programs, adolescent mental health services, and programs for LGBTQ communities. The addition of Healthy Partnerships, based in Solano County, enhanced the organization's continuum of care in the county by expanding mental health services and adding adolescent and adult substance use treatment services. Project Ninety, based in San Mateo County, expanded the organization's substance use treatment and recovery services capacity in the region.

Cloutier started in the role of CEO on January 31, 2019.

About Caminar:

Founded in San Mateo, California, in 1964, Caminar serves more than 20,000 individuals annually in the San Francisco Bay Area and Northern California. The nonprofit organization's portfolio of behavioral health and supportive services empowers and supports individuals and families to move toward resilience, wellness, and independence. The continuum of prevention, treatment and recovery services includes residential and outpatient mental health and substance use treatment services, youth development, supportive housing, vocational rehabilitation and supported education.

More information about the organization is available at: https://www.caminar.org/

The Board of Directors of Caminar has announced the appointment of Mark Cloutier, MPP, MPH, as Chief Executive Officer of the $39M nonprofit behavioral health organization. Dedicated to empowering and supporting individuals and families with complex needs to move toward resilience, wellness and independence, Caminar serves more than 20,000 people each year in the San Francisco Bay Area and Northern California.

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

Outvisible Theatre Company Presents Sexy, Seductive Drama in Time for Valentine’s Day

ALLEN PARK, Mich. /ScoopCloud/ -- Outvisible Theatre Company presents David Ives' award-winning "Venus in Fur" - running February 14 through March 3, 2019. "Venus in Fur" is a modern take on Leopold von Sacher-Masoch's "Venus in Furs," an 1870 novella which draws on themes of female dominance and sadomasochism, a term coined for the work.

"Good, kinky fun" - The New York Times.

"The first time I read this play, I was enthralled," said director, Adriane Galea. "It's so smart in the way that it weaves literary references and mythology and a dialogue on feminism into the story, but it also has this undercurrent of seduction. And the way it ends is really wild."

David Ives' telling of the classic tale places aspiring actress, Vanda Jordan, in an audition for Thomas Novachek's adaptation also entitled "Venus in Fur," reading with the adapter himself. The role of Vanda is being played by Dani Cochrane, who notes that the script is "an electrifying power play."

As the audition goes on, the lines start to blur between what is scripted and what is reality, as the two embark on a journey of dominance and submission, and who holds the power changes from line to line. As the story unfolds, it "will have you wondering at any given time, who is really holding the cards?" said Cochrane.

On the surface, "Venus in Fur" may seem like a play about S&M - as even Vanda notes throughout - but there's a lot more being said about societal constructs. Joshua Brown, who plays Thomas, notes that theatre helps the audience "rethink previous held beliefs - and to grow," and that's more aligned with the messaging of the play.

"The true gift of any art form is its ability to allow us exploration of all facets of our existence - and gain a further understanding of our world - to question limits. 'Venus in Fur' is such an opportunity," said Brown.

"Venus in Fur," which opens on Valentine's Day, is not a traditional date play, but could be a fun alternative to flowers and chocolate. Or for the single theater goer looking for good storytelling or to escape the drab winter, there is an opportunity to simply come see "an amazing story - that shows the empowerment of women no matter what their role," according to the show's costume designer, Cheryl Zemke of Z Creations.

Outvisible advises patrons that "Venus in Fur" contains strong sexual content and that minors will not be permitted to see the show without parental consent. "'Venus' is definitely the most risque show we've ever done here, but nothing is done for shock value; it's about art," said Galea. "At its core, this is a dialogue on sex and gender, but we want everyone to feel comfortable with what they're seeing, especially since our performance space is so tiny. But this show is something I could watch over and over again and discover something new and interesting."

About "Venus in Fur":
Thomas, a beleaguered playwright/director, is desperate to find an actress to play Vanda, the female lead in his adaptation of the classic sadomasochistic tale "Venus in Fur." Into his empty audition room walks a vulgar and equally desperate actress-oddly enough, named Vanda. Though utterly wrong for the sophisticated part, Vanda exhibits a strange command of the material, piquing Thomas' interest with her seductive talents and secretive manner. As the two work through the script, they blur the line between play and reality, entering into an increasingly serious game of submission and domination that only one of them can win.

Outvisible Theatre Company's production of "Venus in Fur" is directed by Adriane Galea (Dearborn). The cast includes Dani Cochrane (Ferndale) as Vanda and Joshua Brown (Flat Rock) as Thomas. Harley Miah (Wyandotte) is lighting designer, Cheryl Zemke (Riverview) is costume designer, and Danielle Gilbert (Allen Park) is stage manager.

To learn more, visit: https://www.outvisibletheatre.com/

VENUS IN FUR - PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE:
February 14 - March 3, 2019:
* Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays at 8 p.m.
* Thursday, February 14 at 8 p.m.
* Sunday, March 3 at 3 p.m.

For a complete listing of show times, please visit https://www.outvisibletheatre.com/.

PRESS NIGHT:
Thursday, February 14 or Friday, February 15 at 8 p.m.

SPECIAL EVENTS:
Pay What You Can Shows - February 14, 18, and 25 at 8 p.m.

All tickets on weekdays available for a donation of any amount to the theatre. Patrons may reserve their spot online through the box office or in-person starting one hour prior to curtain.

BOX OFFICE INFORMATION:
313-759-8350 or OutvisibleTheatre.com
Tickets are $25

DISCOUNTS:
Seniors (60+) receive a $5 discount.
Students receive a $10 discount with valid school ID; only one ticket may be purchased per ID.

Groups of eight or more: Contact Adriane Galea at adriane@outvisibletheatre.com or 313-427-2490

WHERE:
14709 Champaign, Allen Park, Michigan 48101

About Outvisible Theatre Company:
Outvisible Theatre Company is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2016 under the umbrella of Center Stage Studios as a means for practical application of theatre education. Outvisible operates out of a 20-40 seat movable black box space and looks to tell stories with honesty and challenging ideas through art and imagination through our passion for intelligent and thought-provoking theatre.

Outvisible Theatre Company presents David Ives' award-winning "Venus in Fur" - running February 14 through March 3, 2019. "Venus" is a modern take on Leopold von Sacher-Masoch's "Venus in Furs," an 1870 novella which draws on themes of female dominance.

Related link: https://www.outvisibletheatre.com/

CCDC Celebrates 50 Years of Community Commitment and Success

OSCEOLA, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- This year marks the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC). In August of 1969, the development corporation that has brought Osceola and Clarke County, Iowa numerous business and economic successes including Jimmy Dean and Hormel as well as the boon of Lakeside Casino all started from the passion of a few locals ready to push the community they loved toward a brighter future.

The original founders and board members included Eddy Saylor, Fred Wood, L.P. Van Werden, Jack Jeffreys, Ross Gould, Stan Samuelson, Gerald Edwards, and Donald Ramsey.

These founders developed a plan that would form an economic development corporation focused on attracting new business, supporting existing area business, and improving the quality of live for the entire community.

Making sure to build the corporation on a not-for-profit, 501(c)(6) structure meant the corporation, with a board of directors made up of active local businesses and citizens, would work together to drive local and regional economic growth. The elected board would operate on behalf of the existing business and community members maintaining accountability to its core values, the members and the community. This structure has been at the core of its operations since its founding.

"A lot can happen over five decades," said Bill Trickey, CCDC Executive Director. "When you have a board and membership as consistently driven for success and growth as we've had with the CCDC, what transpires is economic sustainability."

Right out of the gate, the CCDC board took action to purchase and break ground for development of an 87-acre industrial business park on the south side of the city. Over the next decade, the board recruited businesses such as Osceola State Bank, Metal Craft Engineering (Now SIMCO Drilling Rigs & Equipment, Inc.), and Jimmy Dean Meat Company as the first tenants. Throughout the 70's and early 80's additional businesses moved in and the necessary infrastructure was developed made up of a water tower and another 68 acres with sewer and street construction. Today many of Clarke County's anchor employers like Altec (originally Furnas and then Astoria), Salford Manufacturing (previously Maclander), Osceola Foods (Hormel) and SIMCO do business from this park, serving customers all over the world.

Understanding the logistical blessings of Osceola, Iowa - placed at the intersection of I-35, Highway 34 and Highway 69, as well as a local stop to the BNSF Railway - made the addition of an airport and improvements to interstate access a logical next step in drawing more business and industry to the area. The CCDC board acted on those activities through the 80s and 90s, even while some of the nation's biggest cities and rural areas were struggling with hard economic times.

In the 90s, upon hearing the city council in Des Moines, Iowa was passing on the addition of a casino to the south side of its downtown, board President Eddy Saylor and other CCDC members decided to take on the recruitment of Lakeside Casino Resort for Clarke County. Through aggressive campaigning driven by a passion for development and progress, the deal was made to break ground for the riverboat on West Lake late in 2000 with The Development Corporation securing the gambling license. This would prove to be a "game changer" for the entire area.

"The casino was a big shot in the arm for the area," said Helen Kimes, CCDC Board Member and past president. "With the county and the cities of Murray and Woodburn sharing the profits made from the boat, development opportunities in the area were given an incredible boost."

Since the addition of the casino, grant opportunities through the Development Corporation have made a positive impact across Clarke County. This included updates to the Clarke County Hospital in the early 2000s, with further renovations and expansion over the last few years. Clarke County continues to benefit from the CCDC grants, allowing the hospital to provide award-winning emergency services and medical care. Community programs like Tech Prep Housing, Paint the Town Red, Safe Routes to School with miles of recreational trail expansions, Neighbors Helping Neighbors, and the support for The Village Daycare continue to improve the quality of life in Clarke County.

With the addition of the E. Eddy Saylor Industrial Park for businesses like Osceola Farm and Home, Boyt Harness, Alliant Energy, and Iowa Steel, employment opportunities have increased, as have contributions to the county's tax base, keeping the vision of the original founders like Eddy Saylor moving forward.

With thousands of jobs created for the county since its inception in 1969, the Clarke County Development Corporation shows no sign of slowing. Expansions for the Saylor Business Park this year as well as closing in on the development of the Clarke County Reservoir mean even more opportunities to bring business and growth to the area can be seen on the horizon. So, join the CCDC, their board, and members in celebrating this half century milestone and wish them luck for the next 50 years.

If you have questions about the Development Corporation or would like to participate as a member, contact Bill Trickey, Executive Director at the Clarke County Development Corporation, 115 E Washington St, Osceola, IA 50213, Phone: (641) 342-2944, email: info@osceolaclarkedev.com

More information on the CCDC: https://osceolaclarkedev.com/

This year (2019) marks the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC). In August of 1969, the development corporation that has brought Osceola and Clarke County, Iowa numerous business and economic successes.

Related link: https://osceolaclarkedev.com/

C Diff Foundation Recognizes Rebiotix CEO with 2019 ‘Above and Beyond’ Award

NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The C. Diff Foundation Board of Directors announced today that the 2019 "Above and Beyond" Award will be presented to Rebiotix CEO Lee Jones in Roseville, Minnesota. The award, given to one recipient annually, is given to a person or organization that show extraordinary dedication to C. diff patient safety, advocacy, and overall drive to improve the lives of those impacted by the infection.

"We are very proud to recognize Ms. Jones with our "Above and Beyond" award," said C. Diff Foundation Founder and President, Nancy Caralla. "Lee's dedication to the entire C. diff community of patients, family members, and physicians hasn't wavered since the founding of Rebiotix in 2011. She is a true example of what can happen when focusing on patient well-being drives new approaches to healthcare."

The award will be presented by the Foundation's Vice President, Scott Battles, and Treasurer Angelo Ortiz at the Rebiotix facility.

"It's an honor to receive this award from the C. Diff Foundation," said Ms. Jones. "The purpose of starting Rebiotix was to bring the power of the microbiome to the clinic in a scientifically sound, quality-controlled way to help patients. We stand with the Foundation in believing that patient well-being should be at the core of all that we do, from clinical trials to exploring new scientific landscapes within the microbiome space."

About the C Diff Foundation:

The C Diff Foundation is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization established in 2012. It is comprised of 100% volunteering professionals dedicated to supporting public health through education and advocacy for C. difficile infection prevention, treatments, environmental safety and support world-wide. The Foundation's CEO and founder is a nurse inspired to create the foundation after witnessing the loss of her father to CDI, as well as suffering from the infection herself. The C Diff Foundation members, with their volunteer patient advocates, successfully "raise C. diff awareness" locally and in over fifty-six (56) countries and host a U.S. nation-wide hotline (1-844-FOR-CDIF) to support healthcare providers, patients and families through the difficulties of a C. diff infection. Learn more: https://cdifffoundation.org/

About Rebiotix Inc.:

Rebiotix Inc., part of the Ferring Pharmaceuticals Group, is a late-stage clinical microbiome company focused on harnessing the power of the human microbiome to revolutionize the treatment of debilitating diseases. Rebiotix possesses a deep and diverse clinical pipeline, with its lead drug candidate, RBX2660, in Phase 3 clinical development for the prevention of recurrent Clostridium difficile (C. diff) infection. RBX2660 has been granted Fast Track, Orphan and Breakthrough Therapy designation from the FDA for its potential to prevent recurrent C. diff infection.

Rebiotix's clinical pipeline also features RBX7455, a lyophilized, room temperature stable oral capsule formulation. Rebiotix is also targeting several other disease states with drug products built on its pioneering Microbiota Restoration Therapy(tm) platform. For more information on Rebiotix and its pipeline of human microbiome-directed therapies, visit https://www.rebiotix.com/

Twitter: @cdiffFoundation #CdiffInfection #Clostridiumdifficile @Rebiotix

The C. Diff Foundation Board of Directors announced today that the 2019 "Above and Beyond" Award will be presented to Rebiotix CEO Lee Jones in Roseville, Minnesota. The award, given to one recipient annually, is given to a person or organization that show extraordinary dedication to C. diff patient safety, advocacy, and overall drive to improve the lives of those impacted by the infection.

Related link: https://cdifffoundation.org/

Grand Opening of Los Angeles Senior Artists’ Art Exhibit

COVINA, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Senior Artists' Art Exhibit - Collection from the Treasure Chest, held by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum, had its Grand Opening at the museum on January 26, 2019. Senior painting artists from both the main-stream and Chinese societies in many cities, turned their rich live experiences into color brushes, and they sketched, outlined and drew their ideologies and expectations about mankind and the world into wonderful paintings, painting the splendid world in their eyes and showed the richness and colorfulness of the spiritual lives of theirs.

This exhibit is a rare exchange in painting that is held for the seniors from different ethnicities in Los Angeles.

According to the H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum, this exhibit showcases more than 60 paintings by artists from various senior centers and art organizations, including Pasadena Senior Center, the Palomares Artist Workshop, the Ray Tucker's Watercolor Art Class in La Verne, Mt. San Antonio College Older Adult School, Arcadia Recreation Center, Kinsley Manor and the Walnut Grove Art Association. Artworks by Ms. Wu Hua, a director of the Chinese International Calligraphy and Painting Artists Association, are also displayed.

The museum said that although there are many art exhibits in Los Angeles, those exhibit specifically held for seniors across different races and areas are very rare. No matter they are professionals or amateurs, it is obvious from the paintings on exhibit that these silver-haired folks live very spirited and invigorating lives. They transform their unique life experiences, their expectation about human kind and the world, and their ideals into paintings and show their hearts.

Seeing their paintings not only can move and inspire people, is significant in education for the mass in the society, but also can help to improve mutual understanding and integration among the various cultures and ethnicities. By holding this art exhibit, it is hoped that more seniors will attend such activities in the future.

Among the many community leaders, art experts and VIPs attending the opening ceremony are Mr. Aldo Ramirez representing State Senator Susan Rubio's office of the 22nd District, Councilman Dr. Allen Wu of City of Walnut, Dr. George Shannon, an associate professor of the USC's Davis School of Gerontology, Mr. Jim Berry, a faculty member at Caltech, Mr. Ray Tucker, an art teacher of the Mt. San Antonio College, and Ms. Wu Hua, Director of Chinese International Painters Association. State Senator Susan Rubio's office and Councilman Dr. Allen Wu each presented a certificate to H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum.

Councilman Dr. Allen Wu of City of Walnut ceremony highly praised H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum for holding such a meaningful art event. "It not only enriches the cultural lives of the community but also brings Chinese art and culture as well as the elegance of art by the seniors to us," he said.

After the ceremony, all the visitors toured the museum and admired the great art treasures by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III housed in the museum. They were all in awe and could not stop saying: "It's so wonderful! I have never thought there are such world treasures which cannot be found in other famous museums! It is so worth it!"

The Los Angeles Senior Artists' Art Exhibit-Collection from the Treasure Chest is open for three weeks and will be closed on February 16, 2019. This is a public beneficial and free event. All is welcome to come and visit the exhibit.

The address of the H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum is 170 E School St., Covina, CA 91723; the phone number is (626)281-6378.

Website: http://www.hhdcb3cam.org/htmlpages/2019SeniorArt/English/

About H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum:
H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum is remodeled from a 116-year old two-story historical building. It was formally opened on June 7, 2014. As an IRS 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum not only promotes art and culture but also constantly concerns itself with disadvantaged groups in the society in order to contribute to the development of the community, improve social stability and increase fortune and happiness of families.

Since its opening, the museum has held many art exhibits and art contests for young students and autistic youths. Those events provide opportunities for the younger generations to present their own artworks, encourage students having talents and working hard to pursue artist development, and calls the attention by the society towards the various groups.

The Senior Artists' Art Exhibit - Collection from the Treasure Chest, held by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum, had its Grand Opening at the museum on January 26, 2019. Senior painting artists from both the main-stream and Chinese societies in many cities, turned their rich live experiences into color brushes, and they sketched, outlined and drew their ideologies and expectations about mankind and the world into wonderful paintings, painting the splendid world in their eyes and showed the richness and colorfulness of the spiritual lives of theirs.

Cursive is Cool Handwriting Contest Launches in USA and Canada on National Handwriting Day 2019

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The annual Cursive is Cool(R) contests for 2019, under the auspices of the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation, will launch on National Handwriting Day, celebrated around the world on Jan. 23 each year. Cursive writing continues to enjoy increased appreciation in the United States and around the world. Scientific studies reveal the benefits of writing by hand to positively impact motor skills, cognitive development and improved learning outcomes such as better recall and retention for young learners.

The American Handwriting Analysis Foundation organizes the annual Campaign for Cursive(R) contest in the USA and Canada. January 23 is the date associated with the birth of John Hancock. Legend has it that Hancock, known for his large and showy signature on the U.S. Declaration of Independence, purposely enlarged his signature so "King George can see it without his spectacles."

Campaign for Cursive(R) offers three contests: one in the USA and two in Canada (one for English writers, one for French). Grade 1-6 students have the chance to test their cursive skills as well as their creativity in answering one of the posed questions.

The deadline for all the contests this year is March 8, 2019.

A page with Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) has been placed on the website to help parents and students as they get ready to write their entries. Entries for each contest are submitted in different ways and full information can be found on the Cursive is Cool(R) website.

Winners of the contests will receive medals, certificates, fun new writing instruments, and accessories. Supporters of the contest include the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation, Amsterdam Printing, CursiveLogic, Fahrney's Pens, Laywine's, New American Cursive Penmanship, Pelikan, PEN World, Retro51, Sakura, and Staedtler. The contest has two new supporters this year: Bittner Pens and Monkey Magnets.

Contest judges are handwriting specialists, handwriting analysts and educators. Entries will be scored for neatness, legibility, consistency and creativity. Winners will be notified 3 to 5 weeks after the close of the contest and posted to the organization's website and social media channels.

"We're anticipating more entries this year and have 18 handwriting specialists lined up to judge from coast to coast," stated Gayna Scott, Chair of the Campaign for Cursive(R) committee. "The quality of the writing continues to improve which is very positive. We love the enthusiasm from teachers and parents encouraging participation."

For more information, please contact Gayna Scott, Chair of Campaign for Cursive(R) at gayna@comcast.net.

More information: https://www.campaignforcursive.com/.

https://www.campaignforcursive.com/2019-cursive-contest-forms.html

Twitter: @AHAFpr @Campaign4Cursiv #cursiveiscool #NationalHandwritingDay

About the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation:

The American Handwriting Analysis Foundation is a 501-(c)6 non-profit business organization, chartered and incorporated in California. Dedicated to the advancement of the handwriting sciences, AHAF promotes education for handwriting examiners at all levels of expertise and from all schools of thought. Information: https://www.ahafhandwriting.org/.

The annual Cursive is Cool(R) contests for 2019, under the auspices of the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation, will launch on National Handwriting Day, celebrated around the world on Jan. 23 each year. Cursive writing continues to enjoy increased appreciation in the United States and around the world. Scientific studies reveal the benefits of writing by hand to positively impact motor skills, cognitive development and improved learning outcomes such as better recall and retention for young learners.

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

Golf For Blind, Inc., a registered Florida Corporation, will be dissolved in March, 2019

SUN CITY CENTER, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Golf For Blind, Inc., a registered Florida Corporation, will be dissolved in March, 2019. The GOLF shot measurement and scoring technology (Advanced Range Performance Measurement Systems) developed by George Nauck, dba. Encore Golf in the mid 90's, is the basis for Golf For Blind Inc. and its web presence GolfForBlind.org, established to employ the systems to facilitate the use of golf sports as physical and mental therapy for the blind, as well as other disabled.

Golf For Blind, Inc. is unable to request a V.A. Adaptive Sports Grant because PGA of America executed a memo of understanding with the Department of Veterans Affairs that allows only PGA to fund veterans adaptive golf programs. Although The PGA of America operates adaptive golf programs for disabled veterans across America, PGA of America has not come forward to help fund the Golf For Blind efforts of Golf For Blind, Inc.

Costs and efforts to maintain GolfForBlind.org and to promote Golf For Blind, Inc. have far exceeded revenue.

Since it is firmly believed that the Biblical last days and rapture of the church as prophesied are upon us, Golf For Blind Inc. management is diverting full attention to Christian Gospel Ministries.

Any contributions made to the corporation directly through golfforblind.org website or direct contact will be used for reimbursement of expenses previously incurred in the effort to bring Advanced Range Performance Measurement systems to programs for the blind on golf ranges. These restored monies will enable the founder and officers to further support Christian Gospel Ministries which are reaching out worldwide.

It has been an honor for us to develop technologies in support of golf and "for the good of the game" for more than two decades, but NOW there are more important things to occupy our efforts.

As we currently have an adequate living, monies donated up to our out-of-pocket investment will ultimately be distributed to Christian Ministries to include:
* Voice of The Martyrs (persecution.com)
* Zola Levitt Ministries (levitt.com)
* Les Feldick Ministries (lesfeldick.org)
* Lighthouse Ministries (lighthousemin.org)
* Southwest Radio Church (swrc.com)
* Behold Israel (beholdisrael.org)
* King James Bible Society

Should our receipts exceed the out-of-pocket costs developing and promoting Golf For Blind, overage will be split between:
* United States Blind Golf Association (usblindgolf.com) and
* Blinded Veterans Association (bva.org)

Golf For Blind, Inc. has not applied for nor received IRS 501(c)(3) status, and contributions may not be tax deductible.

Media Contact:
Golfforblind.org (contact us page)
George Nauck
638 La Jolla Ave., Sun City Center, FL 33573
(863) 450-7902
gsnauck@aol.com

Golf For Blind, Inc., a registered Florida Corporation, will be dissolved in March, 2019. The GOLF shot measurement and scoring technology (Advanced Range Performance Measurement Systems) developed by George Nauck, dba. Encore Golf in the mid 90's, is the basis for Golf For Blind Inc. and its web presence GolfForBlind.org, established to employ the systems to facilitate the use of golf sports as physical and mental therapy for the blind, as well as other disabled.

Related link: https://golfforblind.org/

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. Welcomes Mike Hudson, PNC Bank V.P. to Advisory Council

WILLISTON, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. based in Williston, Florida is proud to welcome Mr. Mike Hudson, Senior Vice President of PNC Bank's Enterprise Transformation Efforts to our Advisory Council.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is fast-growing nationwide non-profit organization, and our goal is to continue that growth with solid planning and expert advice.

Mr. Hudson will join our Advisory Council, already comprised of a great amount of experience, business savvy and talent including:
* Brigadier General (U.S. Army, Retired) and recipient, Donald Bolduc
* Real Estate Developer, active volunteer for veteran causes and veteran himself, Vito Pampalona
* Colonel (U.S. Army, Retired), Hidden Heroes Fellow, and Recipient Caregiver, Brian Vines
* Lt. Col. (U.S.A.F., Retired), active volunteer, and head of veteran-student relations at Duquesne University, Don Accamando
* Active veteran-causes fundraiser, Mrs. Jolanthe Bassett
* Defense-industry businesswoman, Mrs. Mary Lamparter.

Carol Borden, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. Founder & CEO said: "I am very pleased to welcome Mike Hudson to our Advisory Council. I have worked with Mike on various projects through PNC Bank and outside of PNC Bank, all to help veterans. I have witnessed the passion Mike has for helping our veterans, so I know he will help us all to continue our growth in 2019, both personally and professionally."

Mr. Hudson is not new to Guardian Angels. Over the past 3 years, he has worked with a team of over 150 volunteers to raise money for the organization, and that work has resulted in nearly 30 dogs being paired with veterans in need.

Mr. Hudson commented: "The ongoing reward I get to witness first hand as these veterans' lives are changed, has worked to deepen my passion for Guardian Angels, and my commitment to stemming Veteran Suicide."

Please join us in welcoming Mr. Mike Hudson to the Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs family.

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to raise, train and then donate the finest medical service dogs to veterans and others to mitigate the effects of conditions such as PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, glucose imbalance, seizure disorders and mobility issues.

Since our beginning in 2010, we've paired nearly 300 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, Inc. based in Williston, Florida is proud to welcome Mr. Mike Hudson, Senior Vice President of PNC Bank's Enterprise Transformation Efforts to our Advisory Council.

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

TeamSnap Partners with Washington Youth Soccer

TUKWILA, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- TeamSnap, the household name in integrated sports management, announced today it has partnered with Washington Youth Soccer (WYS), the governing body for all levels of youth soccer in Washington state.

The new partnership makes TeamSnap the official team and sports organization management platform of WYS. This includes supporting more than 105,000 players, coaches and volunteers across 29 member associations and more than 250 recreational, select and regional clubs.

As the industry leader, TeamSnap has become the must-have platform for more than 20 million coaches, administrators, parents and players. Its innovative sports management technology will be the official platform for all WYS clubs, delivering integrated solutions for communication, scheduling, payment collection, website creation and hosting. Additionally, affiliated teams will have access to TeamSnap's number one sports management app for coaches, team managers, parents and players.

"TeamSnap has a sterling reputation and is already the number one team management choice for soccer coaches and clubs across Washington," said Terry Fisher, Washington Youth Soccer CEO. "Solidifying a partnership with TeamSnap enables our member organization access to the industry's top integrated platform at both the team-level and club-level. Ultimately, the partnership will streamline operations for administrators, coaches and managers - allowing us all to focus on development of our players."

TeamSnap will work closely with Washington Youth Soccer to support its mandate of bringing training, development and age-appropriate soccer opportunities to youth across the state including its acclaimed Elite Player Development (EPD) program.

"Soccer has been a huge driver for TeamSnap's growth, and Washington's passionate and tech-savvy soccer community has been a leader in leveraging technology to help foster development on the field," said TeamSnap co-founder and CEO Dave DuPont.

"Creating a more meaningful partnership with Washington Youth Soccer will positively impact thousands of administrators, coaches and participants, simplifying the planning and organization that goes into every season."

WYS member associations and clubs can visit TeamSnap for more information.

About Washington Youth Soccer:

Washington Youth Soccer is a nonprofit organization bringing soccer opportunities at all levels of the game to kids ages 5-19 across the state. Our organization is comprised of 29 Member Associations and over 250 clubs that facilitate recreational, select and regional programs as well as TOPSoccer (soccer programming for players with disabilities). Additionally, we run four annual State Cup Tournaments, state level leagues, an Elite Player Development program, and several soccer outreach programs. More information: http://www.washingtonyouthsoccer.org/.

About TeamSnap:

Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, TeamSnap has taken the organization of youth, recreational and competitive sports into the 21st century. 20 million coaches, administrators, players and parents use TeamSnap to sign up, schedule, communicate and coordinate everything for the team, the club and the season. TeamSnap makes organizing sports as simple as click, tap and go.

For more information, visit https://www.teamsnap.com/.

TeamSnap, the household name in integrated sports management, announced today it has partnered with Washington Youth Soccer (WYS), the governing body for all levels of youth soccer in Washington state. The new partnership makes TeamSnap the official team and sports organization management platform of WYS.

Related link: https://www.teamsnap.com/

Phenomenology Wins Major Grant for 2019 Theatre Project

FREDERICK, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Phenomenology, Inc., an innovative production model in the performing arts, today, announced its receipt of a major grant award, presented by Delaplaine Foundation, Inc. for its inaugural theatre project in 2019.

"We are overwhelmed by the generosity of Delaplaine Foundation and are deeply grateful to its Board of Directors for their belief in our vision," remarked Jeffery Keilholtz, Artistic Director & CEO for Phenomenology. "We are a new organization on the scene, so the backing of a distinguished institute such as Delaplaine Foundation is both humbling and exciting."

Established in 2018, Phenomenology, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, produces dynamic projects across the breadth of performing arts, including theatre, film, television, and more.

MANHATTANonPATRICK, its inaugural outing, will feature a one-night red-carpet theatre production of a new play. Cast both out of New York City and Frederick, Maryland, the production will feature acclaimed stars on the same stage as high-potential, undiscovered actors and technicians - many of whom call, or have called, Frederick their home.

More information about MANHATTANonPATRICK: https://phenoart.org/manhattanonpatrick/

Delaplaine Foundation provided Phenomenology with a grant award of $7,500 to help produce MANHATTANonPATRICK.

"One of our pillars of focus at Delaplaine Foundation is support of the visual and performing arts," said Delaplaine Foundation President, Marlene Young. "We see this from both an educational aspect, as well as cultural enrichment. We believe that Phenomenology's mission ties into that focus as an addition to an ever-vibrant arts community landscape in Frederick."

According to its website, Delaplaine Foundation awards grants "to support a variety of programs for deserving non-profit groups, which help fulfill its mission of education, preservation, and enlightenment."

Learn more about the Delaplaine Foundation at: http://www.delaplainefoundation.org/html/

Phenomenology's inaugural MANHATTANonPATRICK production is anticipated to premiere on Patrick Street, at the Weinberg Center for the Arts in Frederick, Md.

"In addition to other projects we have in development, it is our intention for MANHATTANonPATRICK to focus much needed attention on high-potential, undiscovered talent from this region; and it is our hope that the success of the program spurns it on as a bi-annual event. We are confident that the financial support from Delaplaine Foundation will help us achieve success."

About Phenomenology, Inc.:

Phenomenology, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is an innovative production model in Frederick, Maryland, with a mission to create opportunities that enhance the public exposure of local professional artists and technicians by producing high value performing arts projects to showcase their gifts. These activities will help to enhance the cultural value of Frederick, Maryland and enable the organization to give back in additional ways, including advocacy for children and working families, by building links between the arts, education, and the social sciences.

More information: https://phenoart.org/

Phenomenology, Inc., an innovative production model in the performing arts, today, announced its receipt of a major grant award, presented by Delaplaine Foundation, Inc. for its inaugural theatre project in 2019. Phenomenology, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, produces dynamic projects across the breadth of performing arts, including theatre, film, television, and more.

Related link: https://phenoart.org/

Brainy Camps Association Launches ‘Be Gluten Free Family Camp’ for Youth with Celiac Disease

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Brainy Camps Association, which provides camps for children with chronic health conditions, announced that it will be launching a family camp for youth with celiac disease in summer 2019. Adding to its consortium of 12 condition-specific camps, Be Gluten Free Family Camp, or BG Free for short, was founded in conjunction with the Gastroenterology Department of Children's National Health System.

Registration has officially opened for the 3-day, 2-night program, as well as for Brainy Camps' other summer programs. The camp is scheduled to run July 12 to July 14, 2019.

BG Free will provide opportunities for children and their families to learn about celiac disease in an environment that is supportive, safe, fun, and of course, gluten-free. Brainy Camps, which works in partnership with departments at Children's National, is a subsidiary of the Washington D.C.-based pediatric hospital.

"Camp Be Gluten-Free represents an opportunity for kids with celiac disease and their families to build a support system by connecting with other children and families living a gluten-free lifestyle," said Vanessa Weisbrod, gluten-free diet education director at Children's National. "We plan to offer activities to benefit the entire family, including cooking classes, support groups and social outlets like bonfires with gluten-free s'mores and a family talent show. We hope to build camaraderie and a truly celiac strong community."

Susan Mehlman, assistant director of Brainy Camps, said: "Brainy Camps is excited to add a thirteenth camp to our consortium of medically managed, residential camps serving children with chronic health conditions. Be Gluten Free Family Camp will allow kids to meet others like themselves and their families to gain support from one another as they learn about the condition from experts in the field. We welcome the gastroenterology team from Children's National as they guide the families through their first summer with Brainy Camps."

The campsite is located in Saint George, Va.

About Brainy Camps:

Brainy Camps Association, a 501(c)(3) charity and subsidiary of Children's National Health System, is a consortium of residential and family camps, retreats and services for children with chronic health conditions. With the help of over 150 volunteers, the organization serves more than 500 children each year. Brainy Camps' mission is to help youth with chronic health conditions live well and reach their potential.

Through week-long condition-specific camps and support and leadership programs, Brainy Camps offers children the opportunity to meet peers, mentors and counselors with the same conditions and to learn skills in medical self-management. Since its founding in 1994, Brainy Camps has expanded to host condition-specific camps for children with a range of health conditions, including neurofibromatosis, sickle cell anemia, diabetes, heart disease, Down syndrome, hemiplegic/diplegic cerebral palsy, hydrocephalus, high functioning autism spectrum disorder, celiac disease, Tourette syndrome and childhood obesity, as well as a program for youth transitioning to adulthood.

To learn more about Brainy Camps visit: https://www.brainycamps.com/.

Twitter: @BrainyCamps @childrenshealth

Brainy Camps Association, which provides camps for children with chronic health conditions, announced that it will be launching a family camp for youth with celiac disease in summer 2019. Adding to its consortium of 12 condition-specific camps, Be Gluten Free Family Camp, or BG Free for short, was founded in conjunction with the Gastroenterology Department of Children's National Health System.

Related link: https://www.brainycamps.com/

Urban Superhero DangerMan Culminates 20 Year Anniversary, Presents Amputee Cancer Survivor Troy Druppal with DangerMan Hero of the Year Award

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- DangerMan, America's Real Life Urban Superhero, culminated his 20th anniversary with the Third Annual 2018 DangerMan Hero Awards, held recently at California African American Museum (CAAM) in Los Angeles. The momentous occasion acknowledged eight community activists as "DangerMan Heroes" along with California State Senators Holly J. Mitchell and Steven Bradford with the "DangerMan Hero Award for Humanity."

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the "DangerMan Hero of the Year" award to cancer survivor and amputee, Troy Druppal.

The evening was produced by actor, mentor and philanthropist Roger I. Tinsley, the founder of the DangerMan Urban Superhero brand and CEO/President of the DangerMan Education Foundation, Inc., a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Aetna, a leading provider of innovative life and health benefits, products and services, generously sponsored the affair.

All of this year's recipients received special awards, cash and other gifts presented through the DangerMan Education Foundation, Inc. As the "DangerMan Hero of the Year," Druppal received an additional cash prize to continue his activism.

DangerMan cited Troy Druppal as an astounding young character, who didn't let a terminal cancer diagnosis or the loss of one arm stop him from pursuing his dreams. A basketball coach, motivational speaker and founder of the Flex Foundation, Druppal epitomizes the traits of a true hero.

"We were truly honored to recognize eight outstanding community activists this year as heroes," notes Tinsley. "Troy's personal journey however, his perseverance and his current activism positioned him as an outstanding role model. His continued efforts to defy limitations and inspire others make him a true 'super' hero!"

This year's heroes included Reggie Berry, former NFL Payer and founder/CEO Goals For Life; Juliano Jarquin, behaviorist counselor and founder of The Human Element-Life Passage; Denise Estelle, founder/president of Estelle 4 Humanity; Pastor Eddie Jones, Jr., president of the Los Angeles Civil Rights Association; Nason Buchanan, Mayor's Office of Public Safety & Community Relations Specialist; "Coach" Ron Crockett, homeless advocate and founder of Fun Zone Kids Reading Club; and Mia Torres, teen homeless advocate.

Roger Tinsley first introduced DangerMan to America in 1998 after being emotionally impacted by the death of a four-year-old who was tragically killed in gang-related gun fire. He created a real-life superhero who could serve as a role model for school age children in underserved communities while addressing issues that specifically affected them. Using his own money and resources DangerMan, the Urban Superhero was born.

As a 'real life' urban superhero, DangerMan is an advocate for children's rights promoting literacy, safety and good health. He wages against bullying and also fights human trafficking. DangerMan visits schools and community events encouraging his audience with a motto of "No gangs, guns, drugs, alcohol or tobacco." He has traveled throughout America and Haiti, empowering children to live their best life.

Tinsley credits Marvel comic book legend Stan Lee for a great portion of his inspiration and success and paid tribute to him with by presenting the "DangerMan Hero Award Spirit of Stan Lee for Literacy" to Atticus Baldwin and Spectrum Laboratory (Spec Labs), a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create original works of film and music within the autism and special needs community.

In addition, the twelve victims murdered at the Border Line Bar & Grill in Thousand Oaks, CA and the people who lost their lives and homes in the California wildfires, as well as the first responders, were also acknowledged during the event with a candlelight moment of silence during the evening.

To support DangerMan as he continues to battle for all things good go to http://www.thedangerman.com/.

Friend DangerMan on Facebook at DangerMan Urban Superhero (https://www.facebook.com/DangerManUrbanSuperhero/ ) follow DangerMan on Instagram at @dangermanurban (https://www.instagram.com/dangermanurban/ ) and join him on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/user/urbansuperhero.

DangerMan, America's Real Life Urban Superhero, culminated his 20th anniversary with the Third Annual 2018 DangerMan Hero Awards, held recently at California African American Museum (CAAM) in Los Angeles. The momentous occasion acknowledged eight community activists as "DangerMan Heroes."

Related link: http://www.thedangerman.com/

CARR Welcomes New Board Member, Ms. Susan Valoff

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Consumer Advocates for RCFE Reform (CARR) is pleased to welcome Ms. Susan Valoff as its newest member of the Board of Directors. Ms. Valoff was installed in this role at the organization's last board meeting on 14 November 2018.

Ms. Valoff is an owner and Vice President of Windward Life Care (formerly Elder Care Guides), with over 20 years' experience working in clinical settings serving older and disabled adults. She is a graduate of Brown University and earned her Master of Social Work from the University of Chicago. Her extensive background working as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and as a certified Aging Life Care Manager make her particularly well-suited to participate in the governance of the organization.

She sits on San Diego County's Aging & Independence Services Advisory Council and is a member of several national organizations. Her broad set of skills and knowledge of the elder care industry will add depth and insight to CARR's advocacy issues and serve to make the board's collective experience more diverse, better positioning CARR to serve an increasingly heterogeneous aging population.

Ms. Valoff replaces the vacancy left by the resignation of former board member Judith Wenker, Esq; we extend our sincere appreciation to Judy for her many contributions to CARR's growth over the span of her term.

With the addition of Ms. Valoff, CARR moves into 2019 with a full board including Dr. Joaquin Anguera, California Commission on Aging, Col. Richard Shigley, USMC/Ret., and Ms. Cindy Hasz, Geriatric Care Manager and President of Grace Care Management.

About CARR:
Consumer Advocates for RCFE Reform (CARR) is a San Diego-based 501(c)(3) not-for-profit public benefit corporation that is the only statewide organization dedicated exclusively to assisted living research, education and consumer advocacy.

Learn more at: https://rcfereform.org/

Consumer Advocates for RCFE Reform (CARR), P O Box 82123, San Diego, CA 92138.

Consumer Advocates for RCFE Reform (CARR) is pleased to welcome Ms. Susan Valoff as its newest member of the Board of Directors. Ms. Valoff was installed in this role at the organization's last board meeting on 14 November 2018.

Related link: https://rcfereform.org/

Real Life Urban Superhero DangerMan Will Tribute Comic Book Legend Stan Lee at Third Annual DangerMan Hero Awards

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- An evening of celebration will mark the 20th anniversary for DangerMan, America's Real Life Urban Super Hero at the Third Annual 2018 DangerMan Hero Awards, taking place on Saturday, December 8 at the California African American Museum (CAAM). During the affair, DangerMan will pay homage to his friend and recently departed mentor, comic book legend, Stan Lee.

He will also invite attendees to tribute the twelve victims murdered at the Border Line Bar & Grill in Thousand Oaks, Calif. and the people who lost their lives and homes in the California wildfires, as well as the first responders, with a candlelight moment of silence.

Produced by actor, mentor and philanthropist Roger I. Tinsley, the founder of the DangerMan Urban Superhero brand and CEO/President of the DangerMan Education Foundation, Inc., a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, the gala will recognize eight community activists as "DangerMan Heroes" and present California State Senators Holly J. Mitchell and Steven Bradford with the DangerMan "Hero Award for Humanity."

Red carpet and VIP reception will start at 6 p.m. CAAM is located at 600 State Drive in Los Angeles. Tickets are available at http://dangermanheroawards.com/tickets/ .

This year's DangerMan Hero Awards host, Melvin Jackson Jr., returns for a third year. Jackson is an Emmy nominated actor/producer from "This Eddie Murphy Role, is Mine and Not Yours," HBO's "The Wire" and BET's "The New Edition Story." Jackson will be honored with the "2018 DangerMan Hero Award for Creative Arts."

"Can one man make a difference?" asks Tinsley. "We believe one person can. That's why in 2016 the DangerMan Hero Awards program was created. This unique show celebrates and honors the ordinary, everyday men, women and children who help make life better for others in the state of California. DangerMan fights for real issues that affect real people."

DangerMan hero nominees were initially announced online with visitors encouraged to vote for the most compelling community accomplishments and vision. This year's "super" heroes include Reggie Berry, former NFL Payer and founder/CEO Goals For Life; Juliano Jarquin, behaviorist counselor and founder of The Human Element-Life Passage; Denise Estelle, founder/president of Estelle 4 Humanity; Eddie Jones, Jr., president of the Los Angeles Civil Rights Association; Nason Buchanan, Mayor's Office of Public Safety & Community Relations Specialist; "Coach" Ron Crockett, homeless advocate and founder of Fun Zone Kids Reading Club; Mia Torres, teen homeless advocate; and Troy Druppal, basketball coach, motivational speaker and founder of Flex Foundation.

All the recipients will receive special awards, cash and other gifts presented through the DangerMan Education Foundation, Inc. The top recipient is chosen as the DangerMan Hero of the Year and receives an additional cash prize to continue his/her work.

Roger Tinsley first introduced DangerMan to America in 1998 after being emotionally impacted by the death of a four-year-old. The toddler was tragically killed on her birthday by a stray bullet from gang-related gun fire. Tinsley felt compelled to create a real-life super hero who could serve as a role model for school age children in underserved communities while addressing issues that specifically affected them. Using his own money and resources he created DangerMan, the Urban Super Hero.

As a 'real life' urban superhero, DangerMan is an advocate for children's rights promoting literacy, safety and good health. He wages against bullying and also fights human trafficking. DangerMan visits schools and community events encouraging his audience with a motto of "No gangs, guns, drugs, alcohol or tobacco." He has traveled throughout America and Haiti, empowering children to live their best life. Tinsley credits Marvel comic book legend Stan Lee for a great portion of his inspiration and success. He achieved a career highlight when Lee met and personally congratulated DangerMan on his superhero feats of worldwide motivation.

This 20th anniversary of the DangerMan Superhero brand has been very productive, first with the release of DangerMan's debut song and the production of DangerMan's second action film "DangerMan Returns."

For sponsorship and ticket information for the Third Annual 2018 DangerMan Hero Awards go to http://www.dangermanheroawards.com and to join DangerMan as he battles for all things good, go to http://www.thedangerman.com .

Friend DangerMan on Facebook at DangerMan Urban Superhero (https://www.facebook.com/DangerManUrbanSuperhero/ ) follow DangerMan on Instagram at @dangermanurban (https://www.instagram.com/dangermanurban/ )and join him on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/user/urbansuperhero.

VIDEO (YouTube):
https://youtu.be/-V221c8fA54

An evening of celebration will mark the 20th anniversary for DangerMan, America's Real Life Urban Super Hero at the Third Annual 2018 DangerMan Hero Awards, taking place on Saturday, December 8 at the California African American Museum (CAAM). During the affair, DangerMan will pay homage to his friend and recently departed mentor, comic book legend, Stan Lee.

Related link: http://www.thedangerman.com/

Orlando Moving Company Rescues 68,000 LBS. of Food and Drinks from Ironman Triathlon

ORLANDO, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Move For Hunger announced today that Ace Relocation Systems of Orlando rescued 68,000 pounds of leftover food and beverages from the IRONMAN Florida triathlon on November 4. The race, which was originally supposed to be held in Panama City Beach, was relocated to Haines City due to the impact of Hurricane Michael.

Ace Relocation Systems volunteered to pick up all of the energy bars, bottled water, and sports drinks that the athletes did not use. A total of 35,500 pounds of bottled water was recovered and delivered to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida in Orlando. All of the leftover sports drinks and energy bars -- 32,500 pounds worth -- were delivered to the United Way of Northwest Florida in Panama City to assist people who were affected by the hurricane.

Ace Relocation Systems is one of more than 900 professional moving companies that participate in the Move For Hunger program.

Members of the Move For Hunger network provide their customers with the opportunity to donate unopened, non-perishable food during the moving process and delivers the donations to their local food bank, free of charge. Move For Hunger also helps the network organize food drives and coordinate large food rescues across the United States and Canada.

"We love doing the heavy lifting," said Craig Morreale, Director of Marketing for Ace Relocation Systems. "We wouldn't have anything to lift, haul and deliver, however, if it weren't for Move For Hunger's amazing coordination and dedication to getting food into the hands of those who need it."

About Move For Hunger:

Move For Hunger is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that mobilizes the relocation industry to fight hunger and reduce food waste. In addition to collecting food from people who are moving to new homes, Move For Hunger helps companies and individuals across the United States and Canada organize successful food drives. To date, they have collected more than 11.7 million pounds of food. For more information, or to find out how you can host your own food drive, visit https://www.moveforhunger.org/.

Move For Hunger announced today that Ace Relocation Systems of Orlando rescued 68,000 pounds of leftover food and beverages from the IRONMAN Florida triathlon on November 4. The race, which was originally supposed to be held in Panama City Beach, was relocated to Haines City due to the impact of Hurricane Michael.

Related link: https://moveforhunger.org/

Cuban Art Show in South Bronx Gallery – We Have Ire: Afro-Cuban in the United States

BRONX, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Casita Maria Center For Arts & Education in partnership with Pregones Theater are proud to present "We Have Ire: Afro-Cuban in the United States." This exhibition and multi-disciplinary theater project will be produced by Cuban-American writer, performer, Doris Duke Artist and San Francisco resident Paul S. Flores, with collaborating Puerto Rican filmmaker and photographer Eli Jacobs-Fantauzzi. "We Have Ire" documents the stories of four Cuban artists, focusing on their influences and dreams.

The exhibition will be on view in the Casita Maria Gallery from December 13, 2018 to March 9, 2019. To kick it off, please join us for a Celebration and Artist Talk on December 13 from 5-8 p.m.

Our audience can also see a live performance of excerpts of the We Have Ire theater project on Saturday, March 9, 2019 from 2 - 2:45 p.m., in combination with a Family Storytelling Workshop from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Throughout the "We Have Ire exhibition," a companion exhibition of paintings created by Casita Maria Summer Campers, entitled "REACH!," will hang in The Young Artist Gallery. The young artists used imagery of astronauts exploring the cosmos as a powerful metaphor that there is no limit to success-- we can all reach for the stars and beyond!

All events are free and open to all ages.

"The Casita Maria Gallery is a powerful teaching tool and welcoming space of cultural celebration for the Young Artists of Casita Maria, their parents and caregivers, and the community. Through 'We Have Ire' we are thrilled to share Afro-Cuban and Cuban-American stories through so many artistic disciplines," said Gail Heidel, Director of Creative Arts Programs, Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education.

Casita Maria Gallery, 928 Simpson St, 6 fl.
Hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., (718) 589-2230

Artist Bios:

Paul S. Flores' deep dive into themes of transnationality and citizenship comes at a crucial time in contemporary history. Flores creates plays and oral narratives that spur and support societal movements that lead to change. Flores's last play "On The Hill: I Am Alex Nieto" brought together San Francisco communities that had been divided by gentrification and police violence. Flores' ability to paint a vivid picture of bi-cultural Latino experience is shaped by his personal background and experience growing up near the Mexican border. He began presenting spoken word as a founding member of Youth Speaks and Los Delicados in 1996.

He performed for the first time in Cuba in 2001 while working at La Peña Cultural Center, and has since presented multiple times in Havana, Mexico and El Salvador. His comprehensive body of work touches on the immigrant story in all its complexities: from the violent-forced migration, gang life, war, incarceration and separated families-to zooming in on intergenerational relationships and the struggle of preserving important cultural values. Paul Flores's newest play "Pilgrim Street" premieres September 13-16, 2018 at Z Space Theater in San Francisco. His next play, "We Have Ire," about Afro-Cuban traditions, immigration and artists in the United States, premieres in 2019. He is an adjunct professor of theater at the University of San Francisco.

Eli Jacobs-Fantauzzi is a graduate of UC Berkeley and received his MA degree from NYU Tisch School of the Arts. Eli is an award-winning filmmaker and currently directs FistUp TV, a production company that documents people's stories from around the world as a way to expand community awareness around issues of social responsibility and cultural identity. His work has circulated through the National Broadcast: Free Speech TV, Teaching Channel and PBS. He is the co-founder of Defend Puerto Rico, a multimedia project designed to document and celebrate Puerto Rican creativity, resilience, and resistance. Eli is curating his ninth Annual Fist Up Film Festival in the Bay Area, California. His dedication to his craft is deeply connected to his commitment to social justice and the belief in the transformative power of film.

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 community arts and educational organization presents diverse, contemporary visual and performing arts and education programming for all ages. Learn more at: https://www.casitamaria.org/.

About Pregones Theater:

Following years of enterprising activity on stage and in the community, Pregones Theater and Puerto Rican Traveling Theater recently merged into a single Latino arts organization with performance venues in The Bronx and Manhattan. The transformation builds upon congruence of mission, values, and programs, and sustained engagement of a growing network of diverse artists and audiences throughout and beyond New York City. Moving forward, Pregones/PRTT champions a cultural legacy of broad impact through (1) creation and performance of original musical theater and plays rooted in Puerto Rican/Latino cultures, and (2) presentation of other artists who share our twin commitment to the arts and civic enrichment.

Supported by: NYC Department of Cultural Affairs and NYC Department of Youth and Community Development

Learn more about upcoming events at: https://www.casitamaria.org/events.

Follow on social media at: @casitamariabx

Casita Maria Center For Arts & Education in partnership with Pregones Theater are proud to present "We Have Ire: Afro-Cuban in the United States." This exhibition and multi-disciplinary theater project will be produced by Cuban-American writer, performer, Doris Duke Artist and San Francisco resident Paul S. Flores, with collaborating Puerto Rican filmmaker and photographer Eli Jacobs-Fantauzzi.

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

Arts Detroit Launches Spectra, a Theatre Program for Students on the Autism Spectrum

PLYMOUTH, Mich. /ScoopCloud/ -- A new theatre education program will be offered by Arts Detroit for students on the Autism Spectrum and with Aspergers inside of their performing arts studio at PARC - Plymouth Arts and Recreation Complex. Spectra will be a course to help students on the Autism Spectrum learn theatre techniques that can help them develop life skills as well.

The course will be taught by a local professional actor and arts educator, Taylor Morrow Johnson, who has been working on theatre for people with specials needs for more than five and half years. She will focus the class on the processes of character development, memorization, repetition, and creative thinking, which will help students begin to make connections between performing and self-awareness. The class will focus on using preexisting plays and characters to enhance their stage presence and help develop personal characteristics.

Ms. Johnson says she is excited for Spectra because she "has seen first-hand how influential theatre can be on people, regardless of age or ability, and theatre consistently fosters an environment of creativity, thoughtfulness, and fun." She further believes that students who participate in Spectra will "be a part of an ensemble that will work as a team and gain a support system within each other."

Arts Detroit Executive Director, Adriane Galea, says creating a program for students with special needs has been on her radar for quite some time. "Creating theatre is a powerful tool for developing empathy, encourages out-of-the-box thinking, and creates a real sense of belonging. I have heard from parents and other folks who work with students on the Spectrum that these kids often want to get involved with theatre but don't have traditional access to it, so I'm very proud that Arts Detroit can provide an outlet for students of all abilities."

While Arts Detroit is currently only offering Spectra classes at their location in Plymouth, there are plans to expand programming to their Allen Park location as well as to open it up to other avenues of the performing arts.

Spectra will be offered for students ages 14 and up on Thursdays from 4-4:45 p.m. and students ages 11-14 on Thursdays from 4:45-5:30 p.m. a part of their normal programming, and for students ages 4-6 on Fridays from 11:15am-noon through Plymouth PEP, a joint programming effort between tenants at PARC and the Plymouth YMCA.

The PARC family is also excited to bring this type of programming into their building. Gail Grieger, the PARC Executive Director, said, "We are delighted that Arts Detroit will be offering the Spectra Theatre Program at our facility. This program makes a great addition to the other opportunities already provided by the performing arts and educational organizations located at PARC and will be a great resource for the entire community."

Students interested in studying with Arts Detroit but cannot afford tuition are encouraged to contact info@artsdetroit.com for scholarship information.

To learn more, visit: https://www.artsdetroit.org/spectra

About Arts Detroit:

Arts Detroit was founded in 2010 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation under the umbrella of Center Stage Studios. In 2015, the studio expanded into a storefront location in Allen Park and opened a second studio in Plymouth in 2018. Arts Detroit is proud of their current students and alumni, who have excelled in all areas of the arts. Students have gone on to study Music/Theatre in some of the top programs in the country and are in or working toward professional careers in the arts.

Many of our students have been recipients of the North American Invitational Championship awards in both Broadway and Classical Voice, American Guild of Music All Around winners, received ratings of 1 (the highest ranking) at Michigan Solo and Ensemble and Michigan Thespian Festival competitions, and have won more than one thousand competitive awards and trophies collectively. Arts Detroit is involved in giving back to the community as often as possible and strives to create a fun, dynamic environment in which to learn and that others can enjoy. Learn more at: https://www.artsdetroit.org/.

A new theatre education program will be offered by Arts Detroit for students on the Autism Spectrum and with Aspergers inside of their performing arts studio at PARC-Plymouth Arts and Recreation Complex. Spectra will be a course to help students on the Autism Spectrum learn theatre techniques that can help them develop life skills as well.

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

New study by UNC-CH researchers finds that walking while listening to Walking Classroom podcasts improves student learning, retention, and mood

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Walking Classroom Institute (TheWalkingClassroom.org) has released results of a research study conducted in spring 2018 by researchers from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and funded by the Oak Foundation, confirming that walking while listening to The Walking Classroom podcasts improves student learning as well as retention of information, student mood, and attitudes toward learning.

The study, which tested 319 4th and 5th grade students over a three-month period, had the students complete a series of measures over four testing periods to assess learning, mood, cognitive performance, and attitudes toward learning. The findings were overwhelmingly positive for The Walking Classroom program methodology.

Walking Improves Student Learning and Retention:

Students who walked and listened to The Walking Classroom's educational podcasts demonstrated significantly higher levels of learning than students who sat while listening to the podcasts. This result was demonstrated both in short-term and long-term retention as measured by performance on a 10-question comprehension quiz on podcast content administered immediately after the walk as well as one week later.

In addition to improvements in learning the material presented in the podcast, walking had a significant positive impact on cognitive test performance. Students were given a 3-minute multiplication test both after walking and after sitting, and the resulting math test scores were significantly higher for the groups that had walked prior to taking the test.

Walking Improves Student Mood and Attitudes Toward Learning:

The study also tested the effects of walking on student mood and attitudes toward learning and found that walking (versus sitting) had similar improvements in those areas. All positive-affect markers (e.g., students describing themselves as strong, happy, alert, excited, and enthusiastic) increased after walking and listening to podcasts and decreased after sitting and listening to podcasts. Similarly, negative-affect markers (e.g., students describing themselves as irritable, nervous, upset, mad, and sad) all decreased after walking, demonstrating a strong positive influence of the Walk, Listen, and Learn program on student mood and attitudes toward learning.

Laura Fenn, CEO and founder of The Walking Classroom said, "We've had teachers reporting similar results with their students in our annual surveys for years, but seeing the results confirmed in this study is thrilling. Knowing that The Walking Classroom is actually helping students learn more and retain more information, while also helping them feel happier and more excited about learning, is very rewarding."

The study was conducted by Erianne Weight, Ph.D. and a team of researchers from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Its purpose was to test the impact of learning during physical activity on student short-term and long-term learning retention, cognitive performance, mood, and attitudes toward learning. Baseline data was gathered one week prior to listening to the podcasts. Additional results were gathered immediately after walking and listening to podcasts, immediately after sitting and listening to podcasts, and one week after the podcasts were delivered.

For more details or to read the full study, please visit https://thewalkingclassroom.org/research/.

Additional press resources: https://www.thewalkingclassroom.org/walking-classroom-press-kit/

To schedule interviews with The Walking Classroom founder and CEO Laura Fenn, contact her directly at: laura@thewalkingclassroom.org.

About The Walking Classroom:

A national award-winning education program, The Walking Classroom provides students with an innovative way to get exercise without sacrificing instructional time. The Walking Classroom Institute, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, was founded by CEO/Creator Laura Fenn, a former 5th grade teacher with over 15 years of classroom experience. Laura developed The Walking Classroom program as a way to add exercise to the school day without sacrificing instructional time. While all students benefit from the increased activity and educational content of The Walking Classroom, children with low academic achievement and childhood obesity stand to benefit the most. Students with alternative learning styles such as ADHD, dyslexia, or autism also benefit from the program. The Walking Classroom program is now used by tens of thousands of students in all 50 states.

Learn more at TheWalkingClassroom.org.

Photo credit: Laura Fenn.

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

The Walking Classroom Institute has released results of a research study conducted in spring 2018 by researchers from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and funded by the Oak Foundation, confirming that walking while listening to The Walking Classroom podcasts improves student learning as well as retention of information, student mood, and attitudes toward learning.

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

It’s a Femme-inist Future for the South Bronx!

BRONX, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education is proud to present Teen Leadership Summit: The Future is Femme-inist! The Future is NOW! Young women and femmes of color are leading the way as community culture workers. They are artists, activists, healers, and leaders. The Future is Femme-inist is a one-day Teen Summit celebrating young women and femmes of color across New York City, led by the SmART Leaders program at Casita Maria.

Join us Saturday, December 1, 2018, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education
928 Simpson St.
Bronx, NY 10459

The summit will provide a social justice oriented space and honor solidarity amongst and across all communities. If you identify as a young woman of color between the ages of 12-18, we invite you to register today and join us as we celebrate fierce sisterhood, participate in powerful workshops, and enjoy performances, singing, and dancing.

Keynote speech by Naiomy Guerrero and a live performance by Lah Tere!

FREE: Event, Workshops, SWAG and Food!

"The Future is Femme-inist Teen Summit encourages and develops our young people's sense of community, solidarity, and helps them understand their empowered place in the world," said Shakti Castro, Associate Director of Education Programs.

"The Summit gives our community the opportunity to witness the agency, creativity, and power our participants have," said Irisdelia Garcia, SmART Leaders Program Assistant.

ABOUT SMART LEADERS:

SmART Leaders is a year-long program for high-school aged young people who identify as young women of color. We are dedicated to building positive self-esteem and sisterhood among young women and non-binary femmes, specifically focusing on rediscovering our identities and social justice education through art-centered classes and workshops!

Whether you are interested in painting, photography, dance, music, or other art-based activities we provide you with a safe space to discuss topics that you are interested in learning about through artistic conversations and activities. SmART Leaders is dedicated to supporting you as you explore your power, raise your voice, increase your confidence, and grow your activism!

Supported by The New York Women's Foundation and Department of Youth and Community Development.

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 community arts and educational organization presents diverse, contemporary visual and performing arts and education programming for all ages.

Art by Sharon Lee De La Cruz
Graphic Design by Sarah Bernero

Register Today: https://www.casitamaria.org/events/

Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education is proud to present Teen Leadership Summit: The Future is Femme-inist! The Future is NOW! Young women and femmes of color are leading the way as community culture workers. They are artists, activists, healers, and leaders.

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

Leading Companies to Support C Diff Foundation 6th Annual International C.diff. Conference and Health EXPO, Nov. 8-9, Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- The C Diff Foundation is honored to welcome leading companies to the 6th Annual International "C.diff. Awareness Conference and Health EXPO," as they come together to make a global difference. These companies are dedicated to the prevention, diagnostics, treatments, environmental safety products and services focused on C.difficile infections and Healthcare-associated infections and whose role serves great importance in the C.diff. community.

The conference takes place on November 8 and 9, 2018 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Philadelphia Airport Hotel, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

"We at Synthetic Biologics are thrilled to partner with the C Diff Foundation in their fight to increase research partnerships, education and advocacy of awareness of Clostridium difficile Infection," said Deb Mathews, PharmD, Vice President, Medical Affairs of Synthetic Biologics. "This conference consistently brings the highest caliber of speakers, rigorously sound clinical data, an impassionate approach and an unyielding commitment in the fight against the incredible unmet medical needs for patients inflicted with and affected by Clostridium difficile Infection."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Clostridium difficile infection "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 cause nearly 500,000 infections in patients in the U.S. annually and 14,000 deaths a year directly related to this infection.

The 6th Annual International C. diff. Conference & Health EXPO brings together C. diff survivors, physicians, researchers and industry members focused on reducing the major burden of C. difficile infection on global healthcare systems.

"We're privileged to be able to present alongside distinguished C. difficile infection experts and to share with the community our progress on advancing our Phase 3-ready precision antibiotic ridinilazole as a potential new front-line treatment option for patients with C. difficile infection," said Dr. David Roblin, President of R&D of Summit Therapeutics.

With upmost appreciation we thank the following Sponsors for their continued support and partnering with the C Diff Foundation promoting C. diff. awareness worldwide:
- Diamond: Synthetic Biologics.
- Gold: Clorox Healthcare, Seres Therapeutics, ROCHE, Rebiotix, Pfizer.
- Silver: CutisPharma, TechLab, Tru-D Smart UVC, Summit Therapeutics.
- Bronze: Honey Bee Handiworks, Qmetis, Seal Shield, Trinity Guardion, Steriliz RD Rapid UVC, Safety Net America, SporeGen.
- Luncheon: Finch Therapeutics, Synexsis.
- A/V - DaVolterra.

This conference is supported through an educational grant from Sanofi Pasteur US. This activity has been supported by an independent patient advocacy grant from Merck & Co., Inc.

About The C Diff Foundation:

The C Diff Foundation, a 501(c)(3) established 2012, comprised of 100% volunteering professionals dedicated at supporting public health through education and advocating for C. difficile infection (CDI) prevention, treatments, clinical trials, environmental safety, and support worldwide. https://cdifffoundation.org/.

Follow C Diff Foundation on Facebook, Instagram.

Twitter @cdiffFoundation #Cdiff2018

The C Diff Foundation is honored to welcome leading companies to the 6th Annual International "C.diff. Awareness Conference and Health EXPO," as they come together to make a global difference. These companies are dedicated to the prevention, diagnostics, treatments, environmental safety products and services focused on C.difficile infections and Healthcare-associated infections and whose role serves great importance in the C.diff. community.

Related link: https://cdifffoundation.org/

University Kia and Meals on Wheels Chapel Hill-Carrboro Join Forces

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- University Kia and Meals on Wheels Chapel Hill-Carrboro are joining forces to help feed the elderly and homebound in the Chapel Hill-Carrboro area. With the generous donation of a New 2019 Kia Soul by University Kia, Meals on Wheels Chapel Hill-Carrboro will be able to continue to provide hot, nutritious meals and personal visits to more than 180 recipients in the Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and southern Orange County areas who are unable to prepare meals for themselves.

"We are so grateful for University Kia's partnership and their generous donation of a KIA Soul," said Rachel Sobel Bearman, Executive Director, Meals on Wheels Chapel Hill-Carrboro. "CHCMOW is dependent on our amazing army of volunteers and our giving community to be able to bring food and a human connection to the elderly and homebound. With this donation University KIA is helping to not only bring attention to often isolated and forgotten members of our community, but joy and recognition to our volunteers."

University Kia, currently located in the heart of Durham, will be moving to a new location closer to the Chapel Hill area in the next few months.

"With our store moving closer to Chapel Hill, we decided to partner with Meals on Wheels," said University Kia's General Manager, Aric Swanger. "We were able to donate the New 2019 Kia Soul to the program and we even had it custom vinyl wrapped so that it would stand out when people see it on the street. We are hoping that this raises awareness for the good that Meals on Wheels is doing for the Chapel Hill and Carrboro communities. We also could not have done this venture without the help of WCHL radio in Chapel Hill, which is promoting the University Kia Meals on Wheels Soul."

For more information on Meals on Wheels Chapel Hill-Carrboro or to volunteer, please visit https://www.chcmow.org.

For more information on University Kia, please visit https://universitykiaofdurham.com.

University Auto Group has been serving the Triangle for over 30 years. Since inception, University Kia has made its mission to provide outstanding customer service and to create a one-of-a-kind car buying experience. In an industry that is ever-changing, University Kia remains committed its customers, staff, and communities it serves.

University Kia and Meals on Wheels Chapel Hill-Carrboro are joining forces to help feed the elderly and home-bound. With the generous donation of a New 2019 Kia Soul by University Kia, Meals on Wheels Chapel Hill-Carrboro will be able to continue to provide hot, nutritious meals and personal visits to more than 180 recipients in the Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and southern Orange County areas who are unable to prepare meals for themselves.

Related link: https://universitykiaofdurham.com/

Byte Back Wins CDN $1 Million TD Grant for Expansion

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today, TD announced Byte Back as one of 10 recipients of the inaugural TD Ready Challenge grants. Each recipient organization will receive CDN $1 million (USD $775,000) to help them scale innovative solutions aimed at preparing North Americans for the economy of the future.

With a focus on financial security, the recipients of this year's Challenge will apply the grants to solutions they have designed to help workers transform their existing skills and build new ones and help reduce barriers to STEM training for underrepresented groups to open doors for individuals who have the greatest risk of falling behind due to rapid technological advancement.

Byte Back is a Washington, D.C.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that connects communities with inclusive tech training and pathways into living-wage careers. With the CDN $1 million investment, Byte Back will expand into Baltimore in 2019 and begin to fully explore a national expansion. This is the first time in 21 years that the nonprofit has expanded outside the Washington, D.C. region.

The technology skills gap Byte Back addresses isn't unique to its home region. In the U.S., 28 million adults are living in poverty. Since 2002, the U.S. economy has lost 28 million low tech jobs that have disappeared or now require medium and high tech skills. Byte Back provides a unique solution for adults who haven't had the opportunity to use technology in their careers.

"The changing workplace presents new opportunities for a prosperous economy, but we must grow in ways that allow everyone a chance to succeed," says Bharat Masrani, Group President and Chief Executive Officer, TD Bank Group. "Fortunately, there is no shortage of innovative ideas to support greater income stability - ideas that can open doors and help people feel more confident in the future."

With this investment from TD, Byte Back will train at least 72 people in Baltimore in the first year and set the stage for the organization's national expansion.

"Thousands of adults are still struggling to succeed in the digital economy, and we cannot leave them behind. They deserve education opportunities, they deserve to fully participate in a digital world, and they deserve living-wage careers," said Elizabeth Lindsey, executive director of Byte Back. "We're really dreaming now about what it looks like for our impact to expand to hundreds and thousands more people across the country."

About the TD Ready Challenge:

Acting as a springboard for social innovation, TD established the TD Ready Challenge to identify and support scalable solutions to a specific issue identified within The Ready Commitment. In its inaugural year, the issue of focus for the TD Ready Challenge was helping to increase income stability and encouraged non-for-profit organizations across North America that are working on innovative solutions to help increase income stability and help improve the skills people will need for the economy of the future. In total, TD granted $10 million (CDN) under the 2018 Challenge.

From over 200 submissions, TD shortlisted 15 semi-finalists who presented their solutions on September 7, 2018 in Toronto, Ontario.

These semi-finalists were then judged in two rounds by a panel composed of TD executives and external subject matter experts, including Linda Nazareth, economist and trends expert, and Jennifer Tescher, president and CEO, Centre for Financial Services Innovation (CFSI). Ten finalists were then chosen by the panel at the close of the second round.

About Byte Back:

Byte Back connects communities with inclusive tech training and pathways into living-wage careers. For 21 years, its innovative training pathway has helped hundreds of graduates move from low tech skills to recognized certifications and into careers that use technology.

Byte Back's TD Ready Challenge Solution: Byte Back Ready - Proven Pathways to Economic Success
* Byte Back will scale its inclusive training pathway from the Washington, DC region into Baltimore, helping more people enter life-changing careers and fully participate in the digital economy.

Learn more about Byte Back at: https://byteback.org/

2018 TD Ready Challenge grantees include:
* ACCES Employment (Canada - Ontario): Women in Technology
o Recognizing emerging high-growth areas in STEM, ACCES Employment will provide immigrant women with training, employer connections and experiential learning to help secure and retain competitive employment in programming and cybersecurity, in collaboration with Seneca College.

* Canada Learning Code (Canada - Ontario): Unlocking the Power of Code - Digital Literacy Education for Adults
o This education initiative will offer hands-on, accessible learning experiences for mid-career individuals to increase their digital literacy and technological knowledge to thrive in a rapidly-changing job market, while acting as a bridge for adults interested in making a career shift into technology.

* Ecole des entrepreneurs de Quebec (Canada - Quebec): Previsio Software with Financial Literacy Training
o To address the challenge of financial forecasting for entrepreneurs as they evaluate the viability of their projects, this program will enhance capabilities and tools to help increase entrepreneurs' financial literacy and enable them to make strategic decisions based on business results.

* Immigrant Access Fund Canada (Canada - Alberta): Increasing Income Stability for Skilled Immigrants
o This program will increase income stability for newcomers with a program providing low-interest loans of up to $10,000 to skilled immigrants to fund the costs of training and recertification, while offering support and guidance to unlock participants' past education and experience.

* JEVS Human Services (US - Pennsylvania): JEVS-College for America - Greater Philadelphia Area
o A collaborative effort with Southern New Hampshire University's College for America (CfA), this initiative will address the inaccessibility of post-secondary education for those from low-income families by offering the opportunity for individuals to attend employer-driven degree programs, while providing direct access to living wage opportunities.

* Jobs for the Future (JFF) and Audacious Futures (Cross-Border - Massachusetts): Scaling AudaciousYou - the Google Maps for the Future of Work and Learning
o AudaciousYou, a personalized, research-backed, AI-powered upskilling/reskilling solution, will be scaled to help empower workers at risk from automation and a changing world of work to develop future-ready skills and connect to job opportunities by employing a holistic approach, including video and AI technologies.

* Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC) (US - Pennsylvania): Creating Income Security through Technology-Based Workforce Development
o A partnership between PHMC and Homeworks N' Camden, a local nonprofit, this initiative will work with young adults to build towards a sustainable future by blending intensive coding with technology skills through a nationally-recognized workforce development curriculum.

* Seneca College of Applied Arts and Technology (Canada - Ontario): TD-HELIX Transformation Initiative
o To tackle the challenge of reskilling mid-career professionals whose jobs might be impacted by changes in the labour market, the program will change their 'career DNA' and improve individuals' skills as creative thinkers, problem-solvers, communicators and collaborators.

* The WoodGreen Foundation (Canada - Ontario): Accelerating Possibilities - Creating Sustainable Pathways to Success in a Changing Landscape
o This initiative will bring together and scale four of WoodGreen's most successful advancement programs in an innovative accelerator program to position mid-career participants for financial stability and sustainable employment.

TD Ready Challenge is part of The Ready Commitment, a multi-year program targeting CDN $1 billion (US $775 million) in total by 2030 towards community giving.

To learn more about the grant recipients and the TD Ready Challenge, visit https://www.td.com/corporate-responsibility/ready-commitment/ready-challenge.jsp.

Additional details about The Ready Commitment can be found at https://www.td.com/corporate-responsibility/ready-commitment/index.jsp

About TD Bank Group:
The Toronto-Dominion Bank and its subsidiaries are collectively known as TD Bank Group ("TD" or the "Bank"). TD is the sixth largest bank in North America by branches and serves more than 25 million customers in three key businesses operating in a number of locations in financial centres around the globe: Canadian Retail, including TD Canada Trust, TD Auto Finance Canada, TD Wealth (Canada), TD Direct Investing, and TD Insurance; U.S. Retail, including TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank(r), TD Auto Finance U.S., TD Wealth (U.S.), and an investment in TD Ameritrade; and Wholesale Banking, including TD Securities. TD also ranks among the world's leading online financial services firms, with approximately 12 million active online and mobile customers. TD had CDN$1.3 trillion in assets on July 31, 2018. The Toronto-Dominion Bank trades under the symbol "TD" on the Toronto and New York Stock Exchanges (NYSE:TD).

Learn more about Byte Back:
Learn more at: https://byteback.org/

IMAGE LINKS FOR MEDIA:
(1) Send2Press.com/300dpi/18-1024s2p-ByteBack-TDpitch-300dpi.jpg
Caption: Elizabeth Lindsey, Byte Back executive director, pitches for the TD Ready Challenge on September 25 in Toronto. Byte Back was one of over 200 applicants for the grant and is one of 10 $CDN 1 million winners.

TWITTER: @ByteBackDC @TD_Canada #TDreadyChallenge #STEMeducation

VIDEO (YouTube):
https://youtu.be/dEPC_JKOhV8

Today, TD announced nonprofit Byte Back, Inc. as one of 10 recipients of the inaugural TD Ready Challenge grants. Each recipient organization will receive CDN $1 million (USD $775,000) to help them scale innovative solutions aimed at preparing North Americans for the economy of the future.

Related link: https://byteback.org/

The Pap Corps Receives $100,000 Matching Gift Challenge by The Yass Family

BOCA RATON, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Pap Corps Champions for Cancer Research has announced a $100,000 matching gift challenge by The Yass Family. This gift will be utilized to enhance the 2018 Dr. Kevin Berkowitz Memorial End of Year Giving Campaign, which will be directed towards melanoma research at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Jerry Yass made this generous gift during the recent Pap Corps Presidents' Meeting at Boca West Country Club in honor of his late wife, Sybil, who died in 2001 from melanoma.

"We are tremendously grateful to Jerry Yass and his family for making this matching gift to us," said The Pap Corps' CEO David Bakelman. "Jerry is one of our most dedicated and generous Pap Corps members, and we are honored that his donation will encourage others to give during our critical end of year giving campaign."

Jerry Yass, an active member of the Boca Friends Chapter of The Pap Corps, moved the audience of over 400 during his emotional speech at the Presidents' Meeting when he read a poem he wrote about the challenges a family endures when a loved one is battling melanoma.

"South Floridians need to be better educated about the risks of skin cancer, especially melanoma," said Linda Moses, President of The Pap Corps. "In addition to raising research funds, we hope this end of year giving campaign will raise awareness about prevention, the need for regular skin cancer screenings and the tremendous work doctors at Sylvester are doing to advance new treatments."

During the past 30 years melanoma rates have been on the rise. In 2018, it is estimated that 91,270 people will be diagnosed with melanoma, and that 9,320 will die from this form of skin cancer. Early detection and advanced treatments are critical to increasing survival rates. Sylvester offers a world-class melanoma surveillance and detection clinic, immunotherapy clinical trials, advanced expertise in immunohistochemistry and tumor markers. In addition, Sylvester is one of the few institutions to offer reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) which differentiates melanoma from less serious skin lesions.

Dr. Kevin Berkowitz, a generous supporter of The Pap Corps, established the first end of year matching campaign in 2014 and it now continues in his memory.

"Each year, we have focused our attention on a specific cancer for end of year giving," said Beverly Berkowitz, mother of Dr. Berkowitz and Vice President of The Pap Corps. "This concerted effort has united our members and brought attention to the tremendous influence The Pap Corps has to facilitate research at Sylvester. We encourage everyone to learn more about melanoma and to make a donation towards the creation of new lifesaving treatments."

About The Pap Corps:

Since its founding in 1952, The Pap Corps has donated more than $110 million to Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, including a historic $50 million pledge in 2016 dedicating The Pap Corps Campus at Sylvester in Deerfield Beach. The Pap Corps derives its name from Dr. George Papanicolaou, a pioneer in cytopathology and early cancer detection, who introduced the world to the revolutionary 'Pap' test. A small group of women began the organization to support his efforts, and over the decades it has grown into an organization of over 20,000 men and women, in over 50 chapters, who raise funds to support all types of cancers.

For more information about the organization's history, fundraising initiatives and volunteer opportunities, please visit http://thepapcorps.org/.

The Pap Corps Champions for Cancer Research has announced a $100,000 matching gift challenge by The Yass Family. This gift will be utilized to enhance the 2018 Dr. Kevin Berkowitz Memorial End of Year Giving Campaign, which will be directed towards melanoma research at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.

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

Hands-on Science Center Announces Fundraising Event, ‘The Science of Wine, Brew and Spirits’

TULLAHOMA, Tenn. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Hands-On Science Center announces "The Science of Wine, Brew and Spirits" fundraising event November 10, 2018. Merging science education with those fun-to-drink adult beverages not only gets adults involved in the fascinating world of science but helps raise both funds and community awareness for a much-needed educational facility in the small town of Tullahoma.

The Hands-On Science Center just celebrated its 23rd anniversary. The center reaches nearly 30,000 people each year through its "Traveling Wizards" program, science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) camps, cybersecurity camps, coding classes, internship programs, home school classes and field trips to the center housing ~100 STEM related exhibits most of which are hands-on activities to spark children's imagination and eagerness to learn.

This year's event will feature tastings from local breweries, wineries and distilleries as well as educational exhibits and speakers teaching how it takes a scientist to make these concoctions.

Executive Director, Sean Amidon notes "This is an important day for the center. We depend on this event to help raise funds to support an array of great STEM programs for kids. We want to get a lot of organizations to work together so that we can reach as many kids as possible. Not only can local companies get involved but this year we are offering brewers, vineyards and distilleries across the country the ability to help with STEM education and advertise their wares by including their brochures or other give aways in gift bags for our attendees."

Companies wishing to have a pamphlet/brochure and/or small imprinted item (i.e. key chain, magnet, corkscrew, etc.) in this year's gift bags can mail the items and a check for $45 made payable to Hands-On Science Center by November 3rd to 101 Mitchell Blvd., Tullahoma, TN 37388.

The Hands-on Science Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and can provide a tax receipt for your donation. Learn more at: http://www.hosc.org/.

Ticket information can be found at http://www.hosc.org/shop

The Hands-On Science Center announces "The Science of Wine, Brew and Spirits" fundraising event November 10, 2018. Merging science education with those fun-to-drink adult beverages not only gets adults involved in the fascinating world of science but helps raise both funds and community awareness for a much-needed educational facility in the small town of Tullahoma.

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

Brainy Camps Association Announces Race for Every Child Team to Support Programs for Children with Chronic Conditions

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Brainy Camps Association, which provides camps for children with chronic health conditions, has announced its participation in the Race for Every Child fundraiser in Washington, D.C. The annual event, scheduled for Oct. 20, 2018, is sponsored by Children's National Health System and helps to raise funds for the pediatric hospital's many departments and causes.

Brainy Camps, a subsidiary of Children's National, has participated in the fundraiser for the past two years. The non-profit organization successfully raised more than $17,000 through the fundraiser last year and has set its goal at $25,000 this year. Donations made to the Brainy Camps Team will support camper scholarships, programming and future growth.

A schedule for the day's events includes pre-race activities, a 5K walk/run and a 100-yard kids dash. The event will be held at Freedom Plaza, several blocks from the White House.

"The Race For Every Child follows on the heels of our camp season, making it the first fundraiser of the new camp year," said Susan Mehlman, assistant director of Brainy Camps. "Many of our counselors and camp families join us at the event, making it a mini reunion for all those who are already counting down the days to next summer's camp.

"It is a fun way for us to raise money for camper scholarships while allowing us to spend quality time with our Brainy Camps friends, families and supporters. And for all those who give-big and small - it is a wonderful way of showing how important the camps are in the lives of the children we serve."

About Brainy Camps:

Brainy Camps Association, a 501(c)(3) charity, is a consortium of residential and family camps, retreats and services for children with chronic health conditions. With the help of over 150 volunteers, the organization serves more than 500 children each year. Brainy Camps' mission is to help youth with chronic health conditions live well and reach their potential.

Through week-long condition-specific camps and support and leadership programs, Brainy Camps offers children the opportunity to meet peers, mentors and counselors with the same conditions and to learn skills in medical self-management.

Since its founding in 1994, Brainy Camps has expanded to host condition-specific camps for children with a range of health conditions, including neurofibromatosis, sickle cell anemia, diabetes, heart disease, Down syndrome, hemiplegic/diplegic cerebral palsy, hydrocephalus, high functioning autism spectrum disorder, Tourette syndrome and childhood obesity, as well as a program for youth transitioning to adulthood.

To support the Race for Every Child team visit https://giving.childrensnational.org/site/TR/FundraisingTR/Race2018?team_id=2381&pg=team&fr_id=1200

To learn more about Brainy Camps visit: https://www.brainycamps.com/.

EVENT DETAILS:
Where: Freedom Plaza, 14th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20004
When: October 20, 2018
7:00 a.m. Pre-Race Activities
8:45 a.m. 5K Run/Walk
10:15 a.m. Kids Dash

Twitter: @BrainyCamps @childrenshealth #RaceForEveryChild

Brainy Camps Association, which provides camps for children with chronic health conditions, has announced its participation in the Race for Every Child fundraiser in Washington, D.C. The annual event, scheduled for Oct. 20, 2018, is sponsored by Children's National Health System and helps to raise funds for the pediatric hospital's many departments and causes.

Related link: https://www.brainycamps.com/

Carol Borden, Founder and CEO of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. Named 2018 Corporate Pet Industry Woman of the Year

WILLISTON, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- On October 3, 2018, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs' Founder and CEO Carol Borden was selected as the 2018 Corporate Pet Industry Woman of the Year, at an awards ceremony held in Philadelphia, Pa.

Pet Industry Woman of the Year has been showcasing leaders in the $86 Billion-dollar-per-year pet industry for the past 5 years. There are 5 categories nominees can compete in: Advocate, which represents women doing advocacy for pets. Corporate, for leaders who own or work for corporations. Entrepreneur, for women opening and running one or multiple businesses. Rising Star for those women in the fast lane doing remarkable work to keep our eyes on. Lastly, Solopreneur, for women doing it all solo.

"What an honor it was to not only be a finalist, but to win the Corporate Pet Industry Woman of the Year for 2018," said Carol Borden. "There were many distinguished and accomplished women there, and to be recognized truly speaks to the incredible work of my Guardian Angels team, and the work that we do to save lives everyday."

"The Pet Industry Woman of the Year Awards recognize remarkable leaders in the pet industry who dedicate their time and talents to improving the lives of all pets - dogs, cats, birds, fish, horses and exotics - and their caregivers," said Shawna Schuh, president of WIPIN. "These awards are a celebration of women who have made highly successful careers in the pet industry: They shine in large part because they are so passionate about helping women as well as pets. Carol Borden is a perfect example! It is exciting to honor her and other women with a genuine calling to make the pet industry stronger."

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a 501(c)(3) Based in Florida that rescues, raises, trains and then donates individually trained medical service dogs to veterans, first-responders and others who suffer from disabilities including PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, seizure disorders, mobility issues and much more.

There is no state or federal funding available for this critical life-saving program. Over the past 9 years, Guardian Angels has paired nearly 300 individually trained medical service dogs with those in need, and with your help, that number can continue to grow. Visit our website at http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/ to get involved or learn more.

About Women in the Pet Industry Network:
Women in the Pet Industry Network (WIPIN) is a leading organization focused on women leaders in all categories of this ever-growing pet industry. Leaders don't need to be members of WIPIN to compete for Pet Industry Woman of the Year, and many of the finalists are members, however the caliber of these finalists speaks to how vital the pet space is becoming because of so many women doing remarkable work. Headquartered near Portland, Ore., WIPIN serves leaders who are making a difference in the pet space. WIPIN members come from all categories within the pet industry, from groomers and veterinarians to pet sitters and pet boutique owners. Learn more: https://www.womeninthepetindustry.com/.

On October 3, 2018, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs' Founder and CEO Carol Borden was selected as the 2018 Corporate Pet Industry Woman of the Year, at an awards ceremony held in Philadelphia, Pa. Pet Industry Woman of the Year has been showcasing leaders in the $86 Billion-dollar-per-year pet industry for the past 5 years.

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

EPIC Acquires Not-For-Profit and Social Services Specialist Total Management Corporation (TMC)

MELVILLE, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Total Management Corporation (TMC) and EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a unique and innovative national retail insurance brokerage and employee benefits consulting firm, announced today that EPIC has acquired the assets, employees and operations of TMC.

Based in Melville, NY with a second office in Manhattan, TMC has created customized, specialty programs for Not-For-Profit & Social Services Organizations and a range of other industries for more than 50 years.

The addition of TMC further strengthens EPIC's own commitment to the Non-Profit and Community Services sectors and adds 19 new team members to EPIC's rapidly growing operations in the Northeast Region and across the country.

Since EPIC's founding in 2007, the firm has built a strong, positive reputation nationally for service excellence, innovation, community involvement, collaboration, and having fun - all in the interest of being a "people first" (clients and team members) organization.

Said Phil Bilello of TMC, "We are very happy and excited to join the EPIC organization. Our team will be able to leverage EPIC's national platform to further expand our business and deliver additional products, services and resources to all clients we serve, particularly those in the Not-For-Profit & Social Services space."

Upon joining EPIC, the business will operate as TMC Group - a Division of EPIC and TMC's leadership will play an active role within EPIC's Northeast Region.

Said Tom O'Neil, Northeast Region President of EPIC, "Across more than 50 years the team at TMC has established a reputation as innovative specialists, trusted advisors and aggressive client advocates. They are an outstanding addition to our own 'people first' organization and culture and we are excited to welcome them into the EPIC family."

About TMC Group - a Division of EPIC:

Total Management Corporation (TMC) provides customized risk management, property & casualty insurance, and life and health insurance solutions to individuals and businesses in the Real Estate, Construction and Hospitality industries with a particular emphasis on the needs of Not-For-Profit and Social Service organizations.

For more than five decades, TMC's experienced, client-focused advisors have provided expert personal assistance and creative, cost-effective solutions, delivering strong value and needed results.

About EPIC:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property & casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,400 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property & Casualty insurance, Employee Benefits Consulting, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 40,000 clients.

With run rate revenues of more than $400 million, EPIC is now the 15th largest retail insurance broker in the United States. Backed by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Total Management Corporation (TMC) and EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a unique and innovative national retail insurance brokerage and employee benefits consulting firm, announced today that EPIC has acquired the assets, employees and operations of TMC.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

DocMagic Teams with Several Southern California Non-Profit Groups and Organizations in Support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month

TORRANCE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- DocMagic, Inc., the premier provider of fully-compliant loan document preparation, regulatory compliance and comprehensive eMortgage services, announced that it has donated a shipment of its popular custom-made pink bunny slippers, which will be handed out at a blood drive event for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Twenty percent of all donated blood will be given to cancer treatment and research.

The upcoming event is being hosted by Golden Heart LA, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping children who suffer from life-threatening diseases or disabilities, and IET Capital, a real estate financing firm. Hundreds of the soft, fuzzy slippers will be on hand; anyone who participates in the event is welcome to a pair as part of the fun spirited giveaway.

Founded in 1987 by Dominic Iannitti, DocMagic has had a long-time mascot named "Doc," a bunny that has become a recognizable part of DocMagic's brand within the mortgage industry. In 2016, the bunny slippers were officially introduced and handed out at a mortgage technology convention where they ended up being in surprisingly high demand. Over the years the slippers have grown in popularity.

"I was at a mortgage trade show and was asked by a cancer survivor if she could have a pair for a friend going through chemo and that's what spawned the idea to donate them to worthy causes," stated Margaret Wendt, a strategic business advisor and consultant for DocMagic. "Given that it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we wanted to offer participants, donors and volunteers at this important blood drive something fun to take home. If the pink slippers bring a simple smile to someone's face, then it's a win in our book."

Incidentally, IET Capital, a sponsor of the event, happens to be a mortgage originator and an actual end user of DocMagic's loan document preparation software, which is a widely utilized technology in the mortgage banking industry.

Event Details:
* What: a dual-purpose event to support Breast Cancer Awareness month and donate blood
* When: Saturday, October 13
* Time: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. PDT
* Location: 8056 Telegraph Road, Suite A in Downey, CA 90240 - inside the Bloodmobile.

LifeStream says that it is proud to join local and national organizations to increase breast cancer awareness. To make a contribution or donate blood, people can show up at the event or contact LifeStream to make an appointment at 800-879-4484 or visit their website https://www.lstream.org/expresspass. For financial contributions, go to https://www.lstream.org/financial-gifts/.

To learn more about breast cancer, visit https://www.breastcancer.org/, which is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing the most reliable, complete, and up-to-date information about breast cancer.
Golden Heart LA can be found on Instagram @goldenheartla and IET Capital's website is https://ietcapital.com/.

About DocMagic:
DocMagic, Inc. is the leading provider of fully-compliant loan document preparation, compliance, eSign and eDelivery solutions for the mortgage industry. Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Torrance, Calif., DocMagic, Inc. develops software, mobile apps, processes and web-based systems for the production and delivery of compliant loan document packages. The company's compliance experts and in-house legal staff consistently monitor legal and regulatory changes at both the federal and state levels to ensure accuracy. For more information on DocMagic, visit https://www.docmagic.com/.

DocMagic, Inc., the premier provider of fully-compliant loan document preparation, regulatory compliance and comprehensive eMortgage services, announced that it has donated a shipment of its popular custom-made pink bunny slippers, which will be handed out at a blood drive event for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Twenty percent of all donated blood will be given to cancer treatment and research.

Related link: https://www.docmagic.com/

Imagine John Lennon at 78, Helping to End Hunger, One License Plate at a Time

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today would have marked the 78th birthday of John Lennon, and his legacy is still helping to "Imagine there's no hunger," in California, Florida and throughout the United States. Yoko Ono Lennon has kindly authorized the use of the iconic self-portrait image to help the California Association of Food Banks and Feeding Florida in their ongoing fight to end hunger.

Yoko states "Imagine is a great word to spread around and I was happy to do this because it is helping a very important charity."

The John Lennon iconic self-portrait image provides a powerful symbol of his humanitarian legacy, raising awareness to the need to address hunger and providing an image that will promote significant funding to help end hunger in America. With the newly restored "Imagine" movie and box set, a whole new generation of Lennon fans are also emerging.

The "Imagine No Hunger" license plate is available for pre-order at https://californiaimagine.com/. 7,500 have to be pre-purchased before the California DMV will proceed with creating the plate for availability to all California drivers.

In Florida, the 'Imagine' license plate has already raised close to $4 million dollars for programs to help end hunger in Florida and can be purchased online at https://www.imaginefeedingflorida.com/order.html

Each year, the member food banks of Feeding Florida provide food to the 3.3 million Floridians facing hunger, including 1.1 million children and 700,000 seniors.

Every day in California, nearly 1 in 8 households face food insecurity. For the 6.5 million Californians struggling with food insecurity, hard choices must be made between buying food and meeting such basic needs as housing, medicine, transportation, or childcare. It is estimated that hunger in California could be eliminated with an investment of $300-500 million dollars annually. If 10 million California drivers purchased the "Imagine No Hunger" specialty plate - hunger would be eliminated from the state.

"These Imagine license plates will bring vital awareness to a critical problem in our state," says Michael Flood, President and CEO of the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank (https://www.lafoodbank.org/).

VIDEO: "Imagine there's no hunger":
https://youtu.be/0SiIQjjZlRE

Visit CaliforniaImagine.com to pre-order the Imagine No Hunger license plate and help end hunger in California.

Visit ImagineFeedingFlorida.com to order the Imagine specialty license plate and help end hunger in Florida.

For more information about the California Association of Food Banks, visit: http://www.cafoodbanks.org/

Twitter: #ImagineCA @CAFoodBanks @FeedingFlorida

October 9 would have marked the 78th birthday of John Lennon, and his legacy is still helping to "Imagine there's no hunger," in California, Florida and throughout the U.S. Yoko Ono Lennon has kindly authorized the use of the iconic self-portrait image to help the California Association of Food Banks and Feeding Florida in their ongoing fight to end hunger.

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

Eight Exceptional Charities Selected to Receive 2018 JL Simmons Non-profit PR Grant Awards

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Neotrope, a marketing, branding, entertainment, publishing and technology firm founded in 1983, today announced the eight U.S. 501(c)(3) charities selected for its annual J.L. Simmons Nonprofit PR Grants program for 2018/19. With this year's Grant, each charity will receive up to $2400 in services including PR, marketing and social media promotion.

"For nearly 20 years, since we first launched this grant program, our goal has been to help worthy causes raise their visibility," said Neotrope co-founder and CEO, Christopher Laird Simmons. "Again this year, we had hundreds of applicants, and we've chosen some really amazing charities to work with and donate our time and expertise."

The J.L. Simmons Nonprofit PR Grant(R) (aka "Non-Profit PR Grants") program was originally launched in 2000 to help assist worthy causes to raise awareness, attract halo sponsors, and better connect with donors and volunteers. As part of this in-kind grant program, Neotrope is providing news dissemination through its Send2Press(R) Newswire service, and social media marketing for the charities selected this year.

PR Grant recipients are selected by Neotrope staff based on qualified applications filled out and submitted by nonprofit organizations. Choices for grant recipients are both subjective, and based on overall activities and actual need, as well as best fit for support from the marketing team.

Additional information regarding the Neotrope PR Grant program for U.S. charitable nonprofits and grant recipients can be found at: https://prgrants.com/ or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NonProfitPRGrants.

Congratulations to all the charities selected for this year's PR Grant program (alphabetical):

Brainy Camps Association

Brainy Camps Association provides residential summer camps, retreat programs and services for children, teenagers and young adults with chronic health conditions. Its mission is to create healthy communities where partnerships between patients and healthcare providers are promoted, independence and self-management are nurtured, education is offered and social connections are supported. Brainy Camps is a subsidiary of Children's National Health System.

Based in Washington, D.C. and established 1994.
Learn more: https://www.brainycamps.com/

Byte Back, Inc.

Byte Back connects communities with inclusive tech training and pathways into living-wage careers. In the last 16 years, 28 million low-tech jobs in the U.S. have disappeared. Byte Back trains adults with low tech skills and helps them move up from beginners' courses into recognized tech certifications and jobs in less than a year. Other wraparound and career services help adult learners overcome barriers and launch life-changing careers in the digital economy.

Based in Washington, D.C. and established 1997.
Learn more: https://byteback.org/

Center Stage Studios - DBA Arts Detroit; Outvisible Theatre Company

Center Stage Studios was formed in 2010 with the mission to provide professional and educational opportunities within the performing arts. Since its inception, Center Stage has grown exponentially, and after transitioning into a storefront location in 2016, began operating as two functional arms: 1) Arts Detroit, the educational component, providing music, acting, and as of late 2018, dance education, primarily to school-aged children, and 2) Outvisible Theatre Company, the first professional theatre company in the area to offer contracts to union actors, which focuses on socially-minded, thought-provoking performance.

Based in Allen Park and Plymouth, Michigan, and established 2010.
Learn more: https://www.artsdetroit.org/ and https://www.outvisibletheatre.com/

C Diff Foundation

The C Diff Foundation comprises 100-percent volunteering professionals dedicated at supporting public health through education and advocacy. The Foundation's mission is to reach 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, and EPA registered products available for environmental safety.

Based in New Port Richey, Fla. and established 2012. Learn more: https://cdifffoundation.org/

Food Finders

Food Finders is a multi-regional food rescue organization serving Los Angeles and Orange Counties in California. In its almost 30 years of operation Food Finders has rescued over 139 million pounds of food, provided over 115 million meals and diverted over 74 million pounds of C02 from landfills. Food is picked up 7 days a week through a network of volunteers and 2 staff drivers.

Based in Lakewood, Calif. and established 1989.
Learn more: http://www.foodfinders.org/

Hands-On Science Center

The Hands-On Science Center (HOSC) is a small facility with the mission to encourage the love and understanding of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) to the 30,000+ students it serves each year. HOSC strives to create an appreciation of, and interest in, math and science among children, their teachers, and their parents. HOSC serves students both on-site and off-site via its "traveling" programs to schools, libraries, and birthday parties.

Based in Tullahoma, Tenn. and established 1995.
Learn more: http://www.hosc.org/

Move For Hunger

Move For Hunger is a non-profit organization that mobilizes the relocation industry to fight hunger and reduce food waste. In addition to collecting food from people who are moving to new homes, Move For Hunger helps companies and individuals across the United States and Canada organize successful food drives. To date, they have collected more than 11 million pounds of food.

Based in Red Bank, N.J. and established 2009.
Learn more: https://www.moveforhunger.org/

Prancing Ponies Foundation

Prancing Ponies Foundation's mission is to develop young women's core competencies required for advancing to and succeeding in leadership roles in college and later in their careers in engineering or the automotive industry. Prancing Ponies Foundation's goal is to serve 1,000 girls nationwide by 2020. We offer two programs that support our mission and provide the optimal leadership learning experience for girls: the Prancing Ponies Online Leadership Academy provided to high-school girls from low-income backgrounds and the Prancing Ponies Leadership-Abroad Academy geared toward 3rd year (junior) University girls in either engineering or automotive programs.

Based in Mill Valley, Calif. and established 2015.
Learn more: https://prancingponies.org/

About Neotrope:
Since 1983 Neotrope(R) has delivered services to raise organization awareness including brand identity, marketing, public relations (PR), and social media services. Based in Torrance, California, Neotrope is also an entertainment publishing company involved in books, music, software, sound design, video and more. The company has been a consistent leader in new technologies including direct marketing, digital design, ecommerce, multimedia, SEO and e-marketing for 35 years. Neotrope was an Inc. 5000 company in 2009, has a 20-year A+ rating with the BBB, and is a member of GS1. Neotrope.com (2019 website revamp coming soon).

Twitter: @prgrants @ArtsDetroitPAS @BrainyCamps @ByteBackDC @cdiffFoundation @FoodFindersLBC @HandsOnScience1 @MoveForHunger @OutvisibleThCo @SupporthePonies #nonprofitgrant #PRgrants2018 @neotrope

Neotrope, a California-based marketing, branding, entertainment, publishing and technology firm founded in 1983, today announced the eight U.S. 501(c)(3) charities selected for its annual J.L. Simmons Nonprofit PR Grants program for 2018/19. With this year's Grant, each charity will receive up to $2400 in services including PR, marketing and social media promotion.

Related link: https://neotrope.com

L.A. Artists and Performers to Salute Beyond Baroque’s 50th at Nov. 10 Gala

VENICE, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- A historic lineup of L.A.'s leading artists, performers, poets and authors will salute Beyond Baroque Literary Arts Center ("Beyond Baroque"), the city's legendary literary center, at its 50th anniversary "Bohemian Bacchanal" on Saturday, November 10. The gala event, located in the Venice Arts Plaza, features a dinner and will be highlighted by presentations honoring actor/poet Viggo Mortensen, a long-time supporter of the non-profit organization, and award-winning poet Will Alexander. The evening also pays tribute to Beyond Baroque founder, George Drury Smith.

Among the performers slated to take the stage are John Doe and Exene Cervenka (who first met at Beyond Baroque and formed the iconic LA band X); John Densmore, founding member of The Doors; legendary jazz trumpeter Bobby Bradford; Chris D (Divine Horsemen; Flesh Eaters); Julie Christensen (Divine Horsemen; Leonard Cohen); and poet Kamau DaÃ¡ood, among others.

"We'll celebrate 50 years of Beyond Baroque with an evening of art, music, poetry, wine, and revelry," said Beyond Baroque director Richard Modiano, "and we invite the community to join us in honoring our dear friend, actor Viggo Mortensen for his selfless support, and our visionary poet-in-residence Will Alexander for his profound achievements in expanding the artistic possibilities of language."

The event includes a live and silent auction offering rare literary artifacts from Beyond Baroque's archive, and more than 30 works of art from some of the world's most notable artists, including Ed Ruscha, Gronk, Raymond Pettibon, Shepherd Fairey, and Francisco Toledo. Items donated by the Venice business community will also be auctioned.

Attendees are invited to tour the landmark arts complex surrounding the former Venice City Hall (now occupied by Beyond Baroque) including unique sustainable landscaping curated by Kiss The Ground and Safe Place for Youth, enjoy cocktails in the Poet's Garden and artwork in the Mike Kelly Gallery, and explore the unique collection of poetry and literature for sale in the bookstore.

-- EVENT DETAILS: --

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2018 at 5 P.M.
Beyond Baroque, Venice Arts Plaza and Gardens, 681 North Venice Boulevard, Venice, CA 90291 http://www.beyondbaroque.org
Tickets: https://beyondbaroque50gala.eventbrite.com

HONORING:

:: VIGGO MORTENSEN
Alexandra Garrett Award for Distinguished Service to Beyond Baroque

:: WILL ALEXANDER
Lifetime Achievement Award in Poetry

PERFORMERS:
* John Doe & Exene Cervenka (founding members, X)
* John Densmore, (founding member, The Doors)
* Bobby Bradford (Ornette Coleman Quartet)
* Chris D (Divine Horsemen; Flesh Eaters)
* Julie Christensen (Divine Horsemen; Leonard Cohen)
* World Stage Theater: Kamau DaÃ¡ood, founder/poet & Dwight Trible, director, singer/spoken word
* Froglab - Joe Baiza, Brian Christopherson & Mike Watt (also of the Minutemen)
* Jack Grapes, poet; 2018 honoree, Distinguished Service Award
* Lisa Finnie, Dylan Hour / 88.5
* Erika Duran, winner of Beyond Baroque's Carlos Segovia Scholarship Fund in partnership with Get Lit
* Emcee: Puma Perl

Beyond Baroque Days: A ten-day celebration:
The Beyond Gala forms the center of a ten-day period of festivities that begins with the November 8 premiere of Beyond Mr. Smith, Peter Fitzgerald Adams' new documentary about Beyond Baroque founder George Drury Smith. The celebration culminates with the City of Los Angeles' proclamation of Beyond Baroque Day on November 16, 2018, as the literary center welcomes the November 16-18 Southern California Poetry Festival, sponsored by the Poetry Foundation and headlined by world-renowned poet Anne Waldman. More information: http://www.scpoetryfest.com

Support Beyond Baroque's next 50 Years:
Opportunities to support Beyond Baroque include:
* Donations via website http://beyondbaroque.org
* Brand support via website, newsletter, social channels,
* Gala event branding, branding throughout Beyond Baroque Days and other year-round opportunities in Beyond Baroque programming.

Place an ad or tribute in the Beyond Gala Program Book:
http://beyondbaroque.org/2018gala-ads.html

Sponsor the Beyond Gala:
http://www.beyondbaroque.org/2018gala-sponsor.html

Beyond Baroque welcomes these sponsors:
City National Bank
Tito's Handmade Vodka
JSPR Public Relations, Writing & Marketing
Paradise Catering & Preserves
Beacon House Staffing
The Short Stop/Footsies

ABOUT BEYOND BAROQUE:
Beyond Baroque Literary Arts Center is one of the nation's most successful and influential grassroots incubators of literary art. Founded in 1968, and housed in the original Venice City Hall building in Venice, California, it is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public space dedicated to cultivating new writing and expanding the public's knowledge of poetry, fiction, literature, and art through cultural events and community interaction.

The Center offers a diverse variety of literary and arts programming, including readings, workshops, art exhibits, and education. The Center also houses a bookstore with the largest collection of new poetry books on the west side of Los Angeles; the Mike Kelley Gallery, which specializes in text and language-focused visual art; and a 50,000 volume archive of small press and limited-edition publications that chronicles the history of poetry movements in Los Angeles and beyond.

Beyond Baroque's mission is to encourage the writing, reading, publication, dissemination, and preservation of contemporary literature through programming, education, archiving, and services in literature and the arts. Learn more: http://beyondbaroque.org/.

A historic lineup of L.A.'s leading artists, performers, poets and authors will salute Beyond Baroque Literary Arts Center ("Beyond Baroque"), the city's legendary literary center, at its 50th anniversary "Bohemian Bacchanal" on Saturday, November 10. The gala event, located in the Venice Arts Plaza, features a dinner and will be highlighted by presentations honoring actor/poet Viggo Mortensen, a long-time supporter of the non-profit organization, and award-winning poet Will Alexander.

Related link: http://beyondbaroque.org/

MAG Instrument Inc. Continues Lighting the Path to Breast Cancer Awareness

ONTARIO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- This month, Mag Instrument Inc. (MAG), the company that produces the iconic MAGLITE(R) line of flashlights, is once again partnering with National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.(R) (NBCF) to promote awareness of and raise funds to support the work of NBCF. In fact, 2018 will mark a decade that Mag Instrument Inc. has observed Breast Cancer Awareness Month and donated nearly $400,000 to NBCF.

"Just about everyone has a friend, a co-worker or a relative, if not an immediate family member, who has been affected by breast cancer," said Tony Maglica, Founder and President of Mag Instrument. "And this disease doesn't just affect the patient, one case touches many lives. We continue to support NBCF because it's an organization that's run with energy and passion, one that deploys resources in smart, practical ways."

Under the agreement, Mag Instrument provides financial support to NBCF and markets specially marked and packaged MAGLITE(R) SOLITAIRE(R) 1-AAA-cell and Mini MAGLITE(R) 2AA-cell flashlights. These focusing-beam machined aluminum mini flashlights are custom-anodized, laser engraved with the NBCF logo, and packaged in special pink packaging bearing the NBCF logo.

These specially-marked MAGLITE(R) compact flashlights are available at selected retailers across North America.

"Over the last ten years, with their support and through their pink American-made flashlights, MAGLITE(R) has helped provide early detection and support services to women affected by breast cancer," said NBCF. "We thank Tony Maglica and MAG Instrument for their generous support and commitment to helping people live longer and happier lives."

These specialty flashlights are also available at Maglite.com and can be found at these links.

MAGLITE(R) SOLITAIRE(R) LED - NBCF HOT PINK
http://bit.ly/NBCF-SOLITAIRE-LED

MINI MAGLITE(R) LED AA - NBCF HOT PINK
http://bit.ly/NBCF-MINI-MAGLITE-LED

MINI MAGLITE(R) PRO(R) LED AA - NBCF PINK CAMO
http://bit.ly/NBCF-MINI-MAGLITE-PRO-LED-CAMO

A percentage from the proceeds from the sale of these commemorative NBCF flashlights will help support the mission of NBCF.

"NBCF is grateful for MAG Instrument and the decade of partnership supporting our mission of Helping Women Now," said NBCF Corporate Partner Manager, Kara Causey. "Their donations will enable NBCF to continue providing help and inspiring hope to women affected by breast cancer across the U.S."

For more information on how you can support NBCF, please visit http://nbcf.org and to learn more about Mag Instrument Inc., visit: http://maglite.com.

About Mag Instrument:

Mag Instrument is proud to be a U.S.A. manufacturer. Each flashlight is a result of an obsession with fine engineering, craftsmanship and a commitment to perfection. Founder, owner and president Anthony Maglica has guided his company's growth from a one-man machine shop in 1955 to an enterprise that has proudly employed thousands of workers in America since it produced its first flashlight in 1979. For more information, visit: http://maglite.com/

This month, Mag Instrument Inc. (MAG), the company that produces the iconic MAGLITE(R) line of flashlights, is once again partnering with National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.(R) (NBCF) to promote awareness of and raise funds to support the work of NBCF. In fact, 2018 will mark a decade that Mag Instrument Inc. has observed Breast Cancer Awareness Month and donated nearly $400,000 to NBCF.

Related link: https://maglite.com/

EPIC Hosts Fourth Annual Invitational Golf Tournament Benefiting Nonprofit The Joyful Child Foundation

ONTARIO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, has hosted its fourth annual EPIC Invitational Golf Tournament on behalf of The Joyful Child Foundation and its mission to keep children safe.

"It takes a community to keep our children safe," said Erin Runnion, founder of The Joyful Child Foundation. "EPIC's continued support is helping to ensure that our children are educated and empowered to defend themselves against predators."

The Joyful Child Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by Runnion in 2002 in loving memory of her five-year-old daughter Samantha Runnion.

The foundation's goal is to ensure that every child is exposed to personal safety education and opportunities to practice in order to cultivate each child's instinctual response to recognize, avoid, and if necessary, physically resist and escape inappropriate behaviors or violence.

The Joyful Child trains teachers, non-profit partners and law enforcement agencies to deliver its programs to children and parents.

"We are honored to help support The Joyful Child Foundation and its dedication to preventing crimes against children through programs that educate, empower and unite families and communities," said EPIC Principal David McNeil. "Giving back and community support are an integral part of EPIC's people-first culture, and we look forward to continuing the EPIC Invitational Golf Tournament to further share and support the important work being done by The Joyful Child."

More than 100 people attended this year's golf tournament and sponsors included BBSI (Premier); Identity Force, John Hahn & Pete Garvey (Silver); AFS/IBEX, Allied Public Risk, Anthem Blue Cross, CIGNA, CNA, Eye on Business, Great American Insurance Group, Liberty Mutual, MetLife, Moss Adams, NationwideAg, Philadelphia Insurance Companies, UHC, WTIS, and Zurich Insurance Group (Bronze).

Collectively, EPIC's tournaments have raised over $150,000 to advance and promote The Joyful Child's life-saving programs.

For more information on The Joyful Child Foundation, please visit their website here (http://www.thejoyfulchild.org/ ) and to view a video highlighting this year's event click here: https://www.epicbrokers.com/culture/the-joyful-child-foundation-golf-charity-classic-2018/.

About EPIC:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence.

EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 1,400 team members operating from 50 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 20,000 clients.

With run rate revenues greater than $400 million, EPIC ranks among the top 20 retail insurance brokers in the U.S. Backed by Oak Hill Capital Partners, the company continues to expand organically and through strategic acquisitions across the country.

For additional information, please visit https://www.epicbrokers.com/.

* VIDEO (Vimeo):
https://player.vimeo.com/video/288259985

EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property, casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, has hosted its fourth annual EPIC Invitational Golf Tournament on behalf of The Joyful Child Foundation and its mission to keep children safe.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Ground Breaking for Construction of the Maine Gold Star Families Memorial Monument

LEWISTON, Maine /ScoopCloud/ -- On Sunday, October 7, 2018, The Herschel "Woody" Williams Medal of Honor Foundation will be breaking ground for construction of the Maine Gold Star Families Memorial Monument. This memorial is one of 87 across 34 states that will honor all our Gold Star Families.

In appreciation of their ultimate sacrifice to our great state and country, we gather on this day in a display of unity to honor them and to thank their families and friends while showing that we promise to NEVER FORGET. This promises to be a historic event with many dignitaries and very special guests attending

The day's events will begin at American Legion Post 31 with a breakfast with Woody starting at 7:30 a.m. The Groundbreaking ceremony will take place at 2 p.m. at Veterans Park in Lewiston. Speakers will include Commander Jerry Dewitt, LTC Adria Horn, General Doug Farnham, Gold Star Mother Joyce Richmond, Gold Star Father Dean Barron as well as other State and City officials.

Mr. Williams celebrated his 95th birthday just the other day, but he will be here and lead many of Maine's Gold Star Family Members in a prayer. Mr. Williams will be escorted from the NH Gold Star Families Dedication to Maine by the Patriot Guard Riders and members of the Patriot Riders of America.

If you are a family member of a fallen military hero, or simply a patriot, we welcome you to come enjoy the day's festivities.

Information on the monument: http://hwwmohf.org/

Please visit http://www.mainefallenheroes.org/gold-star-families-memorial/ for more information or to donate.

The Maine Fallen Heroes Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

VIDEO (YouTube):
https://youtu.be/uyI5c_2meTo

On Sunday, October 7, 2018, The Herschel "Woody" Williams Medal of Honor Foundation will be breaking ground for construction of the Maine Gold Star Families Memorial Monument. This memorial is one of 87 across 34 states that will honor all our Gold Star Families.

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

Camp Ho Mita Koda Foundation Names Ian Roberts as New Executive Director

NEWBURY, Ohio /ScoopCloud/ -- The Camp Ho Mita Koda Foundation is pleased to announce that Ian Roberts has been named as Executive Director of the organization. Roberts is returning home to Ohio from Colorado, where he served most recently as Director of Overnight Camps for Avid4 Adventure in Boulder, Colorado. Roberts has more than 20 years of experience working for and providing leadership to summer camp organizations. Ian began in the role on October 1, 2018.

"We are thrilled to have Ian step into our new Executive Director role," said Ted Rusinoff, Camp Ho Mita Koda Foundation Board Chair. "His non-profit leadership and management experience make him well positioned to lead us forward. His passion and commitment to our cause, along with his significant camp experience, will enable him to build our camp capacity, expand our reach, and offer even more impactful programming to our campers."

As Executive Director, Roberts will report to the Foundation's Board of Directors and be responsible for directing and managing strategic work, programs, and administrative operations of the Camp Ho Mita Koda Foundation in a manner consistent with the organization's mission: To help children living with Type One Diabetes to grow in mind, body and spirit through an outdoor camp experience that strengthens confidence and creates a community of children.

"I am very grateful and honored to be assuming this new role with Camp Ho Mita Koda," said Roberts. "This opportunity represents the culmination of my journey and the work I have accomplished throughout my career. I truly look forward to working with the Board, dedicated staff, and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to make Camp Ho Mita Koda the most special, magical, and life-changing 'home away from home' it can be."

About the Camp Ho Mita Koda Foundation:

The Camp Ho Mita Koda Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) organization that was formed in 2017 to save and operate Camp Ho Mita Koda in Newbury, Ohio. Camp Ho Mita Koda was founded in 1929 by Dr. Henry and Betty John as the nation's first camp for children with juvenile diabetes. Each summer, hundreds of campers come to our 72-acre camp to make friends, to have fun, and most importantly, to learn how to manage their disease. Campers receive around the clock medical care provided by our community's leading hospital systems including the Cleveland Clinic, MetroHealth, and University Hospitals.

For more information about Camp Ho Mita Koda, please visit https://www.camphomitakoda.org/.

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The Camp Ho Mita Koda Foundation, an Ohio non-profit, is pleased to announce that Ian Roberts has been named as Executive Director of the organization. Roberts is returning home to Ohio from Colorado, where he served most recently as Director of Overnight Camps for Avid4 Adventure in Boulder, Colorado.

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