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Grant Reinforces North Star Initiative’s Mission BY JEFF FALK
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North Star Initiative CEO Melinda Clark reviews a grant application.
Within the complex world of nonprofits there exists a separate, supportive world - the world of grants. Subsidized by philanthropic foundations, organizations and businesses, financial grants serve a very practical purpose. But also associated with grants are this connectivity piece and a very specific affirming element.
BY FRANCINE FULTON
“Anytime we receive a grant it’s a communication of trust,” said Melinda Clark, who’s been the CEO of North Star Initiative (NSI) for three years. “It means that people and organizations see the importance of our mission. It means we can do amazing work for (human trafficking survivors), and they’re flourishing. It’s a vote of confidence and support for our mission.” On Oct. 20, NSI, a Lititz-area nonprofit dedicated to assisting
T
he service of United States veterans is a tradition, a legacy. The passing of that responsibility from one member of the brotherhood to the next, from one generation to a successor, represents a continuum. That understated, unwavering physical presence is com- Dave Stern (left) and Dale Mendenhall display the new plaques recently installed at the Veterans Monument of ELANCO. memorated, remem“The experience is highly perbered and celebrated locally by the our freedom,” said Dave Stern, president of the Veterans Mon- sonal, and there’s a mixture of Veterans Monument of ELANCO. “It reminds me of all the local ument of ELANCO foundation. emotions at the area,” said Dale veterans who volunteered to join “When I look at it, I feel pride, Mendenhall, treasurer of the foundation. “There are also feelings of branches of the military to defend sadness and grief.”
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Food-Sharing Box Opens at Poole Forge People in need of nonperishable food items are invited to visit Pumpkin’s Pantry, the new food-sharing box that was put into place at Historic Poole Forge, 1940 Main St., Narvon (Churchtown). The pantry is named for the site’s resident cat. The food pantry box, which was donated by Churchtown T herapeutic Massa ge, currently contains nonperishables, including canned soup, peanut butter and applesauce, as well as boxed goods like cereal. The pantry is located next to the site’s book-sharing box, and it is available during Poole Forge’s operating hours, from dawn to dusk. “It is weather resistant, and I wanted something that was dignified for people to help (themselves),” said Dawn Ekdahl, Poole Forge executive director. The box is emblazoned with the words “Take if you need” and “Give if you can.” “We want people to donate things,” said Ekdahl. “Even small contributions make a difference.” Ekdahl noted that only nonperishable food items that are not expired or open should be placed in the box. She said the box is ideal for senior citizens on a fixed income or for a family facing an unexpected hardship. Ekdahl announced the opening of Pumpkin’s Pantr y at www.facebook.com/pooleforge, where she stated, “Even one or two items make a real impact. Next time you’re at the store, grab an extra can of soup, a box of pasta or a jar of peanut butter. Small acts of kindness create lasting change.” Ekdahl added that Pumpkin,
BY JEFF FALK
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