for March 2011

by Suzanne Skone, Auto Spa

 

The Chamber would like to thank and congratulate the Youth and Family Services Foundation Board and Staff for a fundraiser breakfast that opened out hearts and made us smile.  New energy was brought to the occasion and many new faces too.   Over 500 donors  and volunteers attended as individuals, company representatives, community organizations and clubs, faith based organizations, and businesses.  Everyone was given the opportunity to feel good.

 

Over $100,000 was raised at the breakfast and from a designated "Shopping from the Heart" day involving island businesses.  These fundraising efforts support an intergenerational range of affordable, high-quality services that touch all members of the community, senior services, family counseling, youth development programs and family emergency assistance.  Many of these services are in higher demand than ever.

 

This year's "Giving from the Heart" breakfast not only raised the needed funding for these programs but partnered with local businesses to encourage the community to eat, shop, or get a service at an Island business.  Many businesses gave 25% of their proceeds for the day to the Foundation.   We hope that the efforts of MIYFS and local merchants will encourage citizens to explore retail options around the Island and know that patronizing local businesses helps support the community.