H.A.N.D.S. Foundation welcomes visiting group of young New York City philanthropists
(Photos provided) The H.A.N.D.S. Foundation partnered with a group of young philanthropists from New York City last week for a service day at Children's Hope House on the campus of Lutheran Hospital. Above and below, the volunteers worked side by side on several projects.
By John Slavich
On Wednesday, April 23, 2008, the H.A.N.D.S. Foundation of Whitley County
partnered with New York City’s Fresh Youth Initiatives (FYI) for a service day at Mad Anthony’s Children’s Hope House, a division of the Lutheran Medical Park. FYI is a youth philanthropic organization that consists of middle school and high school students and, among other services, runs the only youth-operated food bank in New York City.
The 24 FYI members teamed-up with the fifteen H.A.N.D.S. representatives for their annual project at Children’s Hope to spread mulch and plant flowers around the house’s perimeter, clean and sanitize the children’s toys, reorganize the linen closet, wash windows, and prepare lunch for the workers and residents.
The Indiana natives enjoyed working and spending time with their New York counterparts and appreciated the ability to accomplish larger-scaled tasks than in previous years, and they hope the visiting volunteers felt the same. This is one of H.A.N.D.S. members’ favorite activities, though they are always willing to donate time or money to other not-for-profit organizations in the community.
After the completion of the service work, H.A.N.D.S. members conducted a business meeting, which mainly consisted of the H.A.N.D.S. Foundation Scholarship recipient selection. The next and final meeting for this school year is scheduled for May 19, 2008.
If any teachers or community members need funding for supplies or special projects before this fall, please turn in grant applications before May 19, 2008.
Grant request forms are available at the Whitley County Community Foundation or from the guidance office at all public high schools and middle schools in Whitley County.