On May 10, 2017 at our fifth meeting, and the start of our second year, we had a wonderful hour of learning about important local Capital District charities and hearing from our last chosen charity.

Members representing these three charities gave excellent presentations at this meeting:

• Vanderhyden provides a safe haven for youth who have been abused, neglected or abandoned, those facing a range of developmental and emotional challenges, and families caring for children with special needs.
• Grassroots Givers makes the connection between the needs in our community and those who have resources to share. Their focus is to always give with dignity, to empower individuals and families who are trying to improve their lives.
• Joseph’s House and Shelter provides emergency shelter or support services to an average of 1000 men, women and children yearly. Their mission is to provide non-judgmental services to end homelessness.

Congratulations to the recipient of our collective giving, Joseph’s House and Shelter. Our funds will help update kitchen appliances that are 30+ years old. They supply hundreds of meals a year to the homeless and those in need.

Eileen Bird, the director of To Life! and our last quarter’s recipient, gave us an update on the use of our donation. They are continuing to look for a building to rent in Schenectady to expand their services. In the meantime, they are partnering with other organizations in Schenectady to get the word out about their services.

We had a full room of enthusiastic existing and new members at this meeting. Thank you to all our members for your giving spirit! #powerof100