MEET OUR MEMBER AGENCIES

When you give to the United Way, you have the ability to affect thousands of people with a single investment. The Franklin-Grand Isle United Way is committed to putting your dollars to work through 21 local organizations that address crucial community needs… our amazing “member agencies.”

These agencies are chosen for their proven track records and innovative programs, and receive funding through a highly accountable and transparent allocations process… one more way that the FGIUW makes sure that the community gets the most from your donations.

For information on the member agency application process, contact Karina Ware at (802) 527-7418 or karina@fgiunitedway.org.

1. AMERICAN RED CROSS, NORTHERN VERMONT CHAPTER
The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization that provides relief to victims of disaster, and helps people to prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.

YOUR FGIUW DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds purchase preparedness materials to educate the public about disasters, as well as provisions for emergency assistance. In addition, FGIUW funds go towards fostering youth leadership opportunities through various programs - including Babysitting Training, Guardstart, Youth Leadership retreats and Red Cross Clubs - as well as subsidizing the cost of swimming lessons in the community.

COMMUNITY NEEDS(S) SERVICED: The Red Cross provides the community assurance that if a disaster were to strike, an individual would not have to face it alone. Assistance is given on the basis of need, not loss, and is intended to restore a family’s capacity to function within the community. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Grand Isle is the only county in the contiguous United States that does not have a land border with any other part of the nation, making swimming preparedness a necessary service.
The Red Cross served 2,097 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… that an average day of disaster for the Northern Vermont Red Cross costs $695? A simple $2 per week donation could buy 3.6 hours of response time. A $5 per week donation could also buy swimming lessons for eight children and 3.5 scholarships for the Red Cross’ Guardstart, Lifeguarding, or Water Safety Instruction programs!

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… See what Tim Stetson of the Red Cross has to say about the FGI United Way here! www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsSKhssnzEA

LINK to the American Red Cross, Northern Vermont Chapter website here: www.nvtredcross.org

2. BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA - GREEN MOUNTAIN COUNCIL
The Boy Scouts of America - Green Mountain Council promotes and administers the scouting program in Franklin and Grand Isle Counties. The Boy Scouts of America is a nonprofit organization that collaborates with other community organizations to encourage constructive growth of young men and women. The scouting program ultimately seeks to improve the long-term quality of life, income earning potential and education for all youth and families involved.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds support comprehensive scouting initiatives, including troops, camps, one-day events and special interest groups.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: Youth volunteerism and participation in after school programs has declined in many towns, at the same time youth crime rates and substance abuse are increasing. In the Franklin Central Supervisory Union, the percent of youth volunteering in the community dropped 22 % from 2003 to 2007. In Grand Isle, youth volunteerism dropped 17 percent during the same time.
The Boy Scouts served 1,705 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation could pay for a half year of a scout’s program service, or provide 4 leader training videos for volunteers in the Maple Leaf District? A $5 per week donation could pay for a week of summer residential camp for two scouts, or provide registration fees for 52 Learning for Life participants!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… Recently, more than a dozen scouts from Pack 620 shaved their heads in a show of solidarity for their leukemia-stricken friend, Ross Perri. Read the article here: www.wcax.com/Global/story.asp?s=7744781&clienttype=printable
In their own words… See what Kevin O’ Hara of the Boy Scouts-Green Mountain Council has to say about the FGI United Way here! www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGgLrsZSEJw

LINK to the Boy Scouts of America - Green Mountain Council website here: www.scoutingvermont.org/default.aspx

3. CARE PARTNERS ADULT DAY CENTER
The Care Partners Adult Day Center provides quality, adult day care services to frail adults and their caregivers. The program is targeted towards adults with dementia and/or physical frailty, assisting them to live with dignity and independence in the community setting of their preference, thereby avoiding or delaying institutional care.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds subsidize the cost of the day program, enabling more people to take advantage of their services who might otherwise have been turned away due to cost.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: The need for long-term medical care in the region is growing for seniors, adults and children. According to the Vermont Department of Disabilities, there were 536 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle that needed long term care in 2008. Over 150 low-income residents needed long term care; that number is projected to grow to 186 in 2013.
The overall elderly population in the region is growing as well. Grand Isle County has the fastest growing population of elders (by percentage) of any county in Vermont. According to population projections, the population of residents ages 65 and up in Franklin County is expected to double by the year 2020.
Care Partners served 90 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation could pay for 35 hot, nutritious meals for Care Partners participants, or five, one-hour exercise sessions? A $5 per week donation could pay for one month of arts and craft supplies, or 25 assisted showers by one of the center’s licensed nursing assistants!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… Jack K. has been attending Care Partners for three and a half years through the Choices for Care program, which helps elders and people with disabilities to remain at home. Attending Care Partners’ adult day center allows Jim’s daughter, Carmen, to continue working. According to Jim, the best thing about coming to Care Partners is that it allows him to “recapture his world” by developing and maintaining friendships with his peers.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… See what Sue Chase of Care Partners has to say about the FGI United Way here! www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4igMI2JRIk

4. CHAMPLAIN ADAPTIVE MOUNTED PROGRAM (CHAMP)
CHAMP is a nonprofit volunteer organization that provides educational, recreational and therapeutic horseback riding lessons and horse management for children and adults with mental, physical and/or emotional challenges. It is accredited by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds allow the program to add more lesson days and horses, allowing CHAMP to serve a larger number of riders. FGIUW funds also help provide scholarships and transportation for those in need, and help to develop programs for able-bodied riders to learn to ride with those with disabilities.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: There is a rising demand in the region for mental health services for children, as well as adults. Many households face a lack of resources and time when trying to get care for their children or other family members. In 2008, 59 % of patients at Northwestern Counseling and Support Services were under 12 years old. Therapy was needed for 948 of those children, and 646 received case coordination.
CHAMP served 15 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation provides one lesson per week for five weeks, for a CHAMP rider? A $5 per week donation could pay for a rider to attend a week long summer camp!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… Alex, a rider with CHAMP, has this to say about the program: “My name is Alex and I am 10 years old. I’ve been riding with the CHAMP program for 5 years. I am deaf and I have mild cerebral palsy and a seizure disorder. I really like horses and get to be with a lot of them when I’m at CHAMP. When I first started, I had a hard time staying seated on the horse when it was walking. Riding is a challenge for me because of balancing and also my hearing loss. Riding helps me to do better with my balance and helps me to use my right hand better. And it’s really fun for me. I feel like an athlete when I ride. Now I am working on trotting and posting with my horse! My hopes and dreams are to trot and canter all by myself, and to make more friends.”

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… “United Way funding helps us to keep the lessons charges to the students as low as possible… funding will allow us to develop new programs, recruit participants and provide scholarships/transportation to Franklin County riders.”

LINK to the CHAMP website here: www.vtchamp.org

5. CHAMPLAIN ISLANDERS DEVELOPING ESSENTIAL RESOURCES (CIDER)
The mission of CIDER is to develop and foster resources that enable the people of Grand Isle County to live in their community with dignity. CIDER feels a particular social responsibility to elders and persons with disabilities. Serving the “Islands” since 1993, CIDER is a community and volunteer based organization.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds support a variety of services and programs such as volunteer drivers, community meals, nutrition programs, the Tufts Strong Living Program, the Handyman Program, the Flashlight (end of life) Program and the Special Needs Equipment Collection and Loan Program, as well as the recruitment and training of volunteers for all of the above programs.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: The Grand Isles are rural and relatively isolated, but have the fastest growing population of elders (by percentage) of any county in Vermont. A lack of services, especially medical and grocery shopping, results in a heavy demand for transportation off-island. A complete lack of residential care beds in the county means that aging residents often choose to live independently at home, with the resulting need for a variety of services and resources to be provided.
CIDER served 252 residents of Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation could pay for 34 meals for an elder at The Neighbors community meals program? A $5 per week donation could sponsor an elder’s participation in 65 sessions of t’ai chi or the Strong Living strength and balance training program!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… Elizabeth Andrews of South Hero turned 95 years old in 2009. She remains living in her own home, and remains an active participant in her community through the assistance of a number of CIDER programs and services. Elizabeth attends the bi-weekly lunches at The Neighbors community meals program, participates in the t’ai chi and stretching class, calls on the CIDER transportation program to get to her medical appointments, and enjoys the socialization opportunities provided through monthly excursion and shopping trips. She is also a CIDER volunteer, and helps with the monthly newsletter folding and mailing, among other projects.

LINK to the CIDER website here: www.cidervt.org

6. CHAMPLAIN VALLEY AGENCY ON AGING (CVAA)
The CVAA was established more than 30 years ago as a private, non-profit United Way organization. They support people 60 and older in their efforts to remain active, healthy, financially secure, and in control of their own lives. The CVAA connects older people to the services they need to live independently for as long as possible.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds support case management services, which help seniors make informed decisions about present and future options for living in their community, as well as supporting the Meals on Wheels program.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: The overall elderly population in the region is growing beyond the community’s ability to accommodate their needs; Grand Isle County has the fastest growing population of elders (by percentage) of any county in Vermont, but does not have any in-county facility to keep seniors housed. According to population projections, the population of residents ages 65 and up in Franklin County is expected to double by the year 2020.
The CVAA served 1,745 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation provides one month of Meals on Wheels, or can provide emergency response systems to a senior in need for 3 months? A $5 per week donation could provide a senior one meal a week for a year!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… Arthur, an 80 year old man from St. Albans, was able to get out of the nursing home and back into his home, where he wanted to be. Arthur had fallen during a construction project and was in a nursing home recovering for what he thought would be a temporary stay. However, due to his injuries, his wife was unable to care for him at home by herself, and Arthur grew depressed. A CVAA case manager was able to get him enrolled in Choices for Care, which paid for a caregiver to come to his home and help his wife. Because of Arthur’s enrollment in this plan, he was able to leave the nursing home and return home.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… See what Sarah Lemnah of the CVAA has to say about the FGI United Way here! www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzOtg_ccj-8

LINKto the CVAA website here: www.cvaa.org

7. FRANKLIN COUNTY COURT DIVERSION
The Franklin County Court Diversion provides a formal alternative to court, in which participants meet with a board of community volunteers to design a plan to repair the harm done to victims, family, community and self. Apart from its benefits for the offender, court diversion saves taxpayer dollars from being spent on the formal court process.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds support the court diversion program, the Teen Alcohol Safety Program (TASP) and the Substance Use Reduction Education program.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: Law enforcement agencies in the region report that they are seeing increases in crime rates, at the same time they are faced with decreasing resources. For example, over the past seven years the City of St. Albans has seen an overall increase of 36 % for police incidents, an 87 % increase in property crimes, a 125 % increase in assaults and robberies, and a 186 % increase in drug investigations and search warrants.
In 2008, there were 224 felony and 522 misdemeanor convictions in Franklin County. The Franklin County Court Diversion reports that it is seeing higher than ever numbers of adolescents who have been caught drinking underage, or who had to be hospitalized because of alcohol poisoning. They are also seeing an increasing number of felony referrals.
The Franklin County Court Diversion served 469 individuals in Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation could pay for 6.3 hours of a case manager’s time during the year? A $5 per week donation could pay for 16 hours of casework, or pay the cost to process an entire TASP case!

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… “If the United Way [didn’t fund us], we would be unable to implement the many improvements to our programming that are planned… more staff time spent with clients and more focus on referral of clients for nature-based activities.”

8. FRANKLIN COUNTY HOME HEALTH AGENCY
The Franklin County Home Health Agency was founded in 1969 by a group of Franklin County residents, who recognized the need for people to be able to recover from illness in the comfort of home. Using the latest medical technologies, the FCHHA provides high quality, compassionate home health care and hospice services throughout the 15 cities and towns of Franklin County, regardless of a person’s ability to pay.
Through an amazing partnership with the FGI United Way, local townships, businesses and individual donors, the FCHHA is able to provide medically necessary health care for the community. Referrals for the Homemaker program come from a number of sources: the FCHHA care staff, local physicians’ offices, the Champlain Valley Agency on Aging, Care Partners and local nursing homes.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds support the Homemaker Program, a program that provides supportive services to help maintain a safe and healthy environment for elderly persons and people with disabilities residing in their own homes. Funds also help support home telemonitoring, designed to reduce avoidable hospitalization for patients served by Home Health.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: The need for long-term medical care in the region is growing for seniors, adults and children. According to the Vermont Department of Disabilities, there were 536 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle that needed long term care in 2008. Over 150 of those patients were low-income; that number is projected to grow to 186 in 2013.
One of the goals of the FCHHA is to reduce the number of avoidable hospitalizations, lightening the load for the region’s health agencies and allowing frail elders and young people with disabilities to live at home with dignity and compassion.
The Franklin County Home Health Agency served 1,574 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation could pay for dressing supplies for an individual recently discharged from the hospital for surgery, or pay for a nursing visit to help a new mother with breastfeeding concerns? A $5 per week donation could pay for four hours of homemaking services to buy groceries, clean, do laundry, and prepare meals at the home of an elder!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… R.G. worked for many years as a housekeeper at a local hospital, before suffering an injury on the job that led her to lose mobility in her leg. Soon after her other leg was also affected and she began to use a wheelchair. After trying to work for as long as she could, R.G. had to leave the workforce. Later, after a 3-month stay in the hospital, R.G. was referred to the nursing services of the FCHHA.
“I have done my own housework since I got hurt, but it was getting harder and harder to do it,” R.G. explained.
At one time, she hired a friend to help out around the house, but found it hard to have a working relationship with a friend, and she let her go to save the friendship.
Now R.G. gets a weekly visit from a care attendant with the Homemaker Program at FCHHA, and she is managing to stay on top of her daily life.
“I feel if I just sat back and let someone else do it, that’s giving up. I won’t give up, but I will get help when I need it.”

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… See what Jen Archambault of the Franklin County Home Health Agency has to say about the FGI United Way here! www.youtube.com/watch?v=-CewSYmU_o8

LINK to the FCHHA website here: www.fchha.org

9. FRANKLIN COUNTY SENIOR CENTER
The Franklin County Senior Center provides a variety of vital services to all community seniors, allowing them to continue to lead an independent lifestyle and avoid isolation. The FCSC provides nutritious meals, educational stimulation and exercise programs to promote healthy lifestyles, and “meals on wheels” to over 30 people per day in the St. Albans area through a corps of volunteer drivers. The FCSC also runs a congregate meal site and provides restaurant-style meals on a weekly basis to ambulatory seniors. Offerings at the FCSC building on Messenger St. include educational and recreational activities, five days a week.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds support an increase in the number of nutritious meal offerings, an increase in the number of programs offered for physical activity and health monitoring, and electrical upgrades to the facility.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: The overall elderly population in the region is growing beyond the community’s ability to accommodate their needs; Grand Isle County has the fastest growing population of elders (by percentage) of any county in Vermont, but does not have any in-county facility to keep seniors housed. According to population projections, the population of residents ages 65 and up in Franklin County is expected to double by the year 2020.
The Franklin County Senior Center served 258 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation could buy one hot meal per week for a Meals on Wheels recipient? A $5 per week donation could pay for the delivery charge for 8,000 pounds of food from the Vermont Food Bank!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… Gordon Raines has been a member of the FCSC for over five years. After the passing of his wife, he started coming to the Center for meals and entertainment. He participates in the meals three days a week on average, and attends many special meals at the Center. He and his friend are faithful members, and often contribute their efforts to make certain the Center is appropriately decorated and theme related. Gordon relies on public transportation to get to and from the Center, as well as doctor appointments, and knows that the cost of operating a car is high. He is thankful that he is on the main bus route, but he still has to get around town for errands.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… See what Jim Coutts of the Franklin County Senior Center has to say about the FGI United Way here! www.youtube.com/watch?v=HkmtuPjZel8

10. FRANKLIN-GRAND ISLE 4H
The Franklin-Grand Isle 4H educates individuals and families, strengthens communities and supports agriculture and the environment through its traditional club and enrichment programs, after school programs and special interest programs. The 4H program also creates supportive environments for adults and youth, so they can reach their fullest potential and develop into the leaders of tomorrow.
Your FGI United Way dollars at work: FGIUW funds support the Franklin County 4H Foundation, the Grand Isle Leaders Council and all the programs that those sponsor (traditional 4H clubs and programs, school enrichment activities and after school programs.)

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: The need for educated and responsible leaders among the region’s youth is higher than ever. Franklin County ranks 9th among Vermont’s 14 counties for high school students pursuing college or other post high school training. Out of those students who did not enroll in college, 60 % said it was because they “could not afford to continue their education.”
The Franklin-Grand Isle 4H served 598 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.\

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation could buy supplies for the Food Fun and Reading program for 30 youth, so they could learn about healthy food choices, nutrition and exercise to fight childhood obesity? A $5 per week donation would allow 50 youth to create a garden at no cost!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… Ashley Woods is 14 years old and lives in Berkshire with her parents. Her mother is a dairy farmer on a farm that has been in her family for many years. Ashley’s dad is a carpenter and helps on the farm as time permits. Ashley has been a member of the Green Mountain Dairy Club in Berkshire for 8 years. Her mother was asked how the 4-H program has benefitted her daughter, and she replied that Ashley is a much more confident and responsible individual. Ashley was the president of her eighth grade class, and is active in many other 4-H community service projects.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… See what Martha Manning of the Franklin-Grand Isle 4H has to say about the FGI United Way here! www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyh_o0xiaeE

11. FRANKLIN-GRAND ISLE COMMUNITY ACTION / CVEO
Franklin-Grand Isle Community Action is a not-for profit human service agency that works with low income families to help them meet their basic needs, while reducing or eliminating the need for state and federal support and helping them to rise out of the cycle of poverty. In addition to running the Franklin-Grand Isle Emergency Food Shelf, the FGICA provides a variety of free services to help low income residents of the two counties: assistance with fuel and utilities, housing, food, budgeting information, the Farm to Family Program, client advocacy, information, referrals and tax preparation.
The FGICA is part of the Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity (CVEO).

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds support the Franklin-Grand Isle Emergency Food Shelf, providing short-term supplies of nutritious, well-balanced food items to low-income families in Franklin and Grand isle Counties.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: There is an increasing demand in Franklin and Grand Isle for basic needs assistance. From January through March of 2009, the Franklin-Grand Isle Food Shelf served 1828 people, almost 250 more than the previous year. Over 40 % of all calls placed to Vermont 2-1-1 in the two counties were for “basic needs inquiries” such as food, shelter and safety.
The housing wage (the average hourly wage needed to pay rental/homeownership costs) in Franklin and Grand Isle is $21.31. At least half of the residents in the region make less than this hourly wage.
Franklin-Grand Isle Community Action served 4,935 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation would provide supper for a family of two for three days, every week for one year? A $5 per week donation would allow the FGICA to buy over 1,000 pounds of frozen meat to distribute to low income families!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… R. D., a 77-year-old woman, is a 40-year resident of Franklin County. She was born in the midst of the Great Depression, and has lived through 13 U.S. Presidents and survived three husbands. She was one of 14 children, and has had 7 children of her own. She has worked hard, cleaning houses in Burlington for income before retiring. Like many people in our community, she has been through good and bad times… “making do”, as she puts it. R.D. has been using the FGICA Food Shelf for over 8 years, coming once a month to do a full grocery order. At 77, she knows it’s not good for her, but she likes to indulge her sweet tooth when she can. R.D. likes coming to the Food Shelf because “it helps me stretch my budget, and they treat me right.” R.D. makes do with her Social Security, Food Stamps, and her trips to the Food Shelf. Like over 900 of the other households that used the Food Shelf last year, her income puts her below 100% of the Federal Poverty Guideline, less than $850 per month.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… “The FGICA Office is a strong supporter of the United Way, not just as a fund-raising entity, but as a key player in the provision of services to the community.”

LINK to the Franklin-Grand Isle Community Action website here: www.cvoeo.org/htm/Community_Action/franklin-grand-isle.html

12. GIRL SCOUTS OF THE GREEN AND WHITE MOUNTAINS
The Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains is one of 109 councils chartered by Girl Scouts of the USA, the world’s leading organization dedicated solely to girls, where girls build character and skills for success in an accepting and nurturing environment. In partnership with caring adults, the Girl Scouts teaches girls to develop qualities that will serve them all their lives: strong values, social conscience, and conviction about their potential and self-worth.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds support comprehensive scouting initiatives for girls, including troops, camps, one-day events and special interest groups.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: Youth volunteerism and participation in after school programs has declined in many towns, at the same time youth crime rates and substance abuse are increasing. In the Franklin Central Supervisory Union, the percent of youth volunteering in the community dropped 22 % from 2003 to 2007. In Grand Isle, youth volunteerism dropped 17 percent during the same time.
The Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains served 843 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation can buy a one-week scholarship for a financially disadvantaged girl to attend Leafy Trails Girl Scout Day Camp at Lake Carmi? A $5 per week donation could pay for the support and materials for one Service Unit’s adults to be trained and prepared to support the new Leadership Development Model!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… Brittany Weiland of Georgia, Vermont, is one of 12 girls from Vermont that participated in the 2008 Girls Rock the Capital Legislative Internship program. Brittany, who was then participating in her second year as a Legislative Intern, took part in more than 40 hours of training and worked side by side with an assigned female representative of the Vermont Legislature for 10 days during the legislative session. She is the eldest of five children, and has been a Girl Scout for 10 years. Her past Girls Scout activities include being part of a four-member panel that presented to the Vermont Commission on Women in 2007, participating in Cooking For Life (a six-week nutrition education program) and participating in the 52nd United Nations Commission on the Status of Women.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… See what representatives from the Girl Scouts had to say about the FGI United Way! www.youtube.com/user/fgiunitedway#p/u/15/pnp_KvApS3I

LINK to the Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains’ website here: www.girlscoutsgwm.org

13. Grand Isle County Court Diversion
The Grand Isle County Court Diversion is a community program that addresses unlawful behavior, supporting victims of crime and promoting a healthy community while providing an alternative to the traditional court process. The Court Diversion program is designed to encourage a sense of responsibility on the part of first offenders for their illegal acts, offering a community-based and cost-effective alternative to the formal court process.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds support the SURE (Substance Use Reduction Education) program. The goal is to reduce the likelihood that the participants will violate underage drinking laws a second time.

COMMUNITY NEEDS(S) SERVICED: Law enforcement agencies in the region report that they are seeing increases in crime rates, at the same time they are faced with decreasing resources. In 2008, there were 24 felony and 56 misdemeanor convictions in Grand Isle County.
The Grand Isle County Court Diversion served 29 residents of Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation provides 12% of the cost of casework needed to process one young person in the Teen Alcohol Safety Program? A $5 per week donation provides 10 hours of program development activities!

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… “The support of the Franklin-Grand Isle United Way, with its mission of increasing the organized capacity of people to care for one another, is essential to our work.”

14. YMCA GREATER BURLINGTON YMCA
The Greater Burlington YMCA’s mission is to provide life changing experiences and assistance to people of all ages, background, ability, race or religion. The GB YMCA has been at the heart of the community for more than 143 years. Today they touch more than 13,000 lives through two fitness branches and 24 childcare sites, and offer more than 80 youth and family development programs within five counties.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds support the After School Programs in St. Albans, Georgia and Fairfax, helping to keep the programs affordable for all who wish to participate, as well as helping to enhance future programming opportunities taking place after school and in the evening.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: Child care needs in the region are not being met. Child Care Services estimates that only 48 % of the Franklin-Grand Isle child care need is being met, assuming that 55 % of children in the counties need child care. In addition, there is a pressing need for healthy lifestyle/eating education in the two counties. Franklin County continues to have the highest death rate from cardiovascular disease in Vermont; roughly 43 % of the Franklin-Grand Isle region has one or more chronic diseases. The percentage of overweight and at-risk 8th to 12th graders exceeds the state average in the two counties.
The Greater Burlington YMCA served 1,043 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation can help a brother and sister to find a caring, safe and dynamic place to spend their after-school time for one week? A $5 per week donation supports one month of after school care for a child living in a rural area!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… In the YMCA After School program in Georgia and Fairfax, children have taken the “wellness challenges” to new levels. These children live in rural areas, and would often arrive home in the dark during the winter months, without adult supervision. Instead, they are now learning new activities, achieving goals and building healthy habits that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… “United Way support allows the YMCA to be responsive to the child care and financial needs of our community… helping us provide scholarships to families who may not otherwise have been able to find quality after school and summer care for their children.”

LINK to the Greater Burlington YMCA website here: www.gbymca.org

15. MAPLE LEAF FARM
Maple Leaf Farm in Underhill is one of the oldest, continuously operating residential substance abuse programs in the country. They offer residential treatment programs to men and women in a serene setting in the foothills of Mt. Mansfield. Maple Leaf Farm is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, is licensed by the State of Vermont and operates as a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds support the Residential Treatment Program, offering a non-judgmental and supportive environment while ensuring every patient’s success in finding the road to recovery.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: Individuals receiving treatment services have steadily increased in the region. The number of overall treatment admissions in Franklin-Grand Isle has grown from 611 in 2000, to 986 in 2008. Males almost double females in admission numbers; local nonprofits and agencies report that opiates/synthetics are the fastest growing primary substance abuse in the region.
Maple Leaf Farm served 92 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation could pay the cost of travel to or from the facility for two patients? A $5 per week donation could pay for an entire day of treatment for a recovering alcoholic!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… In an email to Maple Leaf Farm, a former patient wrote: “I was hoping that whoever gets this email might be able to pass it on to my counselor. I would REALLY appreciate it if somehow she received this./ This is N.K. writing you. All the staff there were very helpful, but you helped me more than anyone. I basically just wanted to let you know how grateful I am for your help. You seemed like you were actually honest when you said that you thought I would accomplish something in my life, and even though I didn’t act like it, that actually raised my spirits and gave me inspiration to be more than a homeless, unemployed, college-dropout junky./ I moved out of state last fall, got myself on methadone maintenance, and have been clean since then. I moved back to the area this winter, and I’m getting back into college (and I have a decent job)./ I don’t know if you even remember me, but I needed to thank you.”

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… See what William Young of Maple Leaf Farm has to say about the FGI United Way here! www.youtube.com/user/fgiunitedway#p/u/6/NLAZwXZJNcI

LINK to the Maple Leaf Farm website here: www.mapleleaf.org

16. NORTHWESTERN COUNSELING AND SUPPORT SERVICES (NCSS)
Northwestern Counseling and Support Services provides quality psychosocial services to residents of Franklin and Grand Isle Counties, offering consumer directed services that are easily accessible and delivered in a comfortable setting. NCSS embraces the role of being a health care leader in Franklin and Grand Isle Counties, and commits themselves to positive outcomes to promote growth and learning.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds support the Autism Case Management Program, which helps to educate parents, giving them the necessary skills to understand and manage the autism diagnosis that their child has received, as well as helping them to advocate for their child.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: There is a rising demand in the region for mental health services for children, as well as adults. Many households face a lack of resources and time when trying to get care for their children or other family members. In 2008, 59 % of patients at Northwestern Counseling and Support Services were under 12 years old. Therapy was needed for 948 of those children, and 646 received case coordination.
NCSS served 1,916 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation could provide weekly sign language classes to 10 families, including child care services? A $5 per week donation could purchase one session each of physical, occupational and speech therapy!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… In a letter to NCSS, Patty Thompson, a parent of a 5-year old autistic child, writes: “It is such a pleasure to write this letter in support for the Autism Program and the services that are provided out of NCSS’s Lake Road office in St. Albans. There are so many superlatives that I could use to define and describe the myriad of services that are provided, but maybe it is best to just tell our own personal story of how much this program has meant to my family and to my child./ My son is a five-year old, diagnosed with autism at the age of two and a half. Initially, the diagnosis left us reeling… Finally, we were introduced to the Lake Road facility and the Autism program./ He was introduced to music, which he loves, and a variety of sensory integration activities that encouraged communication, engagement and fine motor development. The sensory room at the Lake Road facility is a place where he can swing, jump and enjoy music and therapy balls./ Our case manager is the first person I call when I don’t understand something, need support, or much needed respite.”

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… “NCSS uses United Way funds for enhancing direct client services… NCSS staff and volunteers participate in an agency wide campaign each fall, as well as a variety of other United Way activities.”

LINK to the org website here: www.ncssinc.org

17. PREVENT CHILD ABUSE - VERMONT (PCAV)
Prevent Child Abuse Vermont promotes and supports healthy relationships between children and the people who care for them in order to eliminate child abuse. For over 30 years, PCAV has been working effectively to prevent child abuse and neglect through parent education, support and public awareness.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds support three Nurturing parent Programs (for teenage parents, for families in recovery from substance abuse, and for fathers), and two Circle of Parents Support Groups in Franklin and Grand Isle Counties.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: Franklin and Grand Isle have a large population of single parent families, many led by a female head of household. Most towns have significant percentages of female head of household families living in poverty. Some towns, such as Richford, St. Albans and Alburgh, exceed 50 % of families with a female head of household and children under the age of 18.
Prevent Child Abuse Vermont served 384 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation would purchase 45 copies of the Vermont Parents’ Home Companion and Resource Directory for new parents? A $5 per week donation could pay for a family of 4 to attend a Circle of Parents Support Group for 3 months!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… Kate was delighted to have a healthy baby boy, but she was feeling overwhelmed as a teenage parent. She had a limited social circle, and was not sure who to turn to for help. Unfortunately, although she received her high school diploma, she was functionally illiterate. People who had contact with her noticed a lack of knowledge of child development and parenting skills, and reports were made to DCF with concerns about her parenting of her son. DCF referred Kate to a Nurturing Parenting Program for Teenage Parents, a program of Prevent Child Abuse Vermont. Kate was very nervous about attending at first, but she has been attending the program regularly. Now 19 years old, she feels that she has grown a great deal, and has become a much better parent. She is living independently in St. Albans, is on Reach Up and has accessed additional forms of help. Since coming into the program she has made friends and her child is thriving. Kate feels that joining the Nurturing Parent Program is one of the best things that have ever happened to her.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… “United Way support is vital and will determine how much we can help the vulnerable children and families in Franklin and Grand Isle Counties.”

LINK to the org website here: www.pcavt.org

18. SAMARITAN HOUSE
Samaritan House is a non-profit organization that provides emergency shelter and transitional housing to people without other options or resources within the counties of Franklin and Grand Isle.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds enable Samaritan House to expand hours of operation, as well as run two transitional housing programs designed to help participants find permanent housing and become self-sufficient.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: Franklin and Grand Isle are seeing increasing rates of homelessness and housing instability. Section 8 voucher waiting lists are long, and federal requirements for subsidized housing eligibility currently make it challenging for many people to qualify. Market rates are high, and without a subsidy, many people find it impossible to move from shelters and make rent, and are staying in shelters longer as a result. When people stay longer, shelters can service less people. According to Vermont 2-1-1 statistics, Franklin County made up 6 % of all calls statewide regarding homelessness in 2008, up from 3.9 % in 2006.
Samaritan House served 126 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation purchase about eight pounds of hygiene goods, laundry supplies or food items at the Vermont Food Bank? A $5 per week donation could pay for about twenty pounds of needed goods!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… Samaritan House helped one local family in need to move into an apartment. The family is still working with a Samaritan House case manager, as well as the family support person from Economic Services and Community Action, and they are currently doing “very well.”

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… See what Linda Ryan of Samaritan House has to say about the FGI United Way here! www.youtube.com/user/fgiunitedway#p/u/11/gWu3bKtSN7A

LINK to the Samaritan House website here: www.samaritanhouseinc.com

19. TRI-COUNTY FOSTER GRANDPARENT PROGRAM
The Foster Grandparent program - a federally legislated and funded program - is designed to provide meaningful volunteer service to low income seniors aged 60 and older, as well as meet the needs of children for nurturing adults who serve as caring tutors, mentors and role models.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds support the Franklin-Grand Isle Foster Grandparent program, with the goal of increasing the number of people involved in the program.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: Youth volunteerism and participation in after school programs has declined in many towns, at the same time youth crime rates and substance abuse are increasing. In the Franklin Central Supervisory Union, the percent of youth volunteering in the community dropped 22 % from 2003 to 2007. In Grand Isle, youth volunteerism dropped 17 percent during the same time. According to the Vermont Agency of Human Services, 56.3 out of every 10,000 children ages 10 to 17 in Franklin County are considered “delinquent.”
The Foster Grandparent program served 327 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation will provide about 15 hours of Foster Grandparent service for 10 or more children? A $5 per week donation could provide about two weeks of Foster Grandparent service for 10 or more children!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… Dorcas Suiton, a teacher at Mary S. Babcock School in Swanton, has this to say about one of her volunteers: “Grandma Morgan is a gift to the school because every day her actions demonstrate her caring and concern for others. She works hard to help the children feel good about their accomplishments as they practice reading and math skills. This outstanding lady shares her love of learning with all of the children and adults. Grandma is an amazing person who has a positive impact on the education of young learners.”
Dianne Creller, a teacher at Isle Lamotte School in Isle Lamotte said of her volunteers: “Grandma and Grandpa Bruley are a gift to our school children because they are able to nurture and encourage the children they work with, by giving them the extra one on one attention many of them need. The students can always depend on them to be there for extra help and positive attention.”

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… See what Mary Pelkey of Foster Grandparents has to say about the FGI United Way here! www.youtube.com/user/fgiunitedway#p/u/9/_v8dT2D-TdM

20. VERMONT CENTER FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING (VCIL)
Founded in 1979, the VCIL is a statewide, nonprofit organization directed and staffed by individuals with disabilities. The Vermont Center for Independent Living works to promote the dignity, independence, and civil rights of Vermonters with disabilities. The VCIL is committed to cross-disability services, the promotion of active citizenship, and working with others to create services that support self-determination and full participation in community life. The VCIL also provides practical assistance for interpreting and implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act and other civil rights laws.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds support the Home Access Program (HAP), which provides low income disabled Vermonters with entrance and bathroom accessibility modifications.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: The need for long-term medical care in the region is growing, for seniors, adults and children. According to the Vermont Department of Disabilities, there were 536 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle that needed long term care in 2008. The number of low-income residents needing long-term care was 154; that number is projected to grow to 186 in 2013. In 2004, 99 people over the age of 65 in Franklin and Grand Isle were hospitalized because of a fall.
The VCIL served 117 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation can provide a family with grab bars for their bathroom, a wedge for their entrance or an accessible door for their home? A $5 per week donation could provide the installation of a higher water closet or wall mount sink!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… The HAP program received the following letter from a 64-year old Franklin County man, who has an income of slightly under $11,000:
“I have a bone disease in the lower part of my back… which causes a great deal of pain and prevent me from being able to walk. Thanks to the Home Access Program, I now have an upstairs bathroom with a therapeutic tub with jets that helps me to beat the pain that is caused by my walking.”

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… “Just being a member of the Franklin-Grand Isle United Way allows for opportunities to partner with other member agencies and additional outreach work, allowing people with disabilities access to resources to make their homes accessible.”

LINK to the VCIL website here: www.vcil.org

21. VOICES AGAINST VIOLENCE / LAURIE'S HOUSE
Voices Against Violence/Laurie’s House provides crisis intervention, shelter, support and advocacy services to victims and survivors of domestic and sexual violence in Franklin and Grand Isle Counties, as well as encouraging empowerment of survivors and working towards the advancement of all people through awareness and prevention activities.

YOUR FGI UNITED WAY DOLLARS AT WORK: FGIUW funds help support the operation of the Laurie’s House Shelter (including staffing, shelter supplies and emergency funds for families), as well as the Children’s Shelter Program (that helps address their trauma and enables kids to have fun in a safe and supportive environment.) Funds also help run the 24-hour hotline.

COMMUNITY NEED(S) SERVICED: Franklin County is one of two counties in Vermont that are hot spots for domestic and sexual violence in a relatively safe state. In 2007, Franklin and Grand Isle Counties made up 10 % of the state’s total petitions for Relief from Domestic Abuse and Exploitation of the Disabled/Elderly. In 2008, 382 petitions were filed in the two counties.
Voices Against Violence/Laurie’s House served 457 residents of Franklin-Grand Isle in 2008.

DID YOU KNOW… a simple $2 per week donation could pay for a bus pass enabling a client to come to St. Albans for shelter? A $5 per week donation could purchase gas cards that can enable women to make appointments or look for housing!

SHARING THEIR STORIES… Recently, the Voices Against Violence Hotline received a call from a Franklin-Grand Isle resident named “Jane”. Jane’s husband had been abusive for most of their 12 year marriage, and had recently raped her. A VAV advocate helped her to fill out a Relief from Abuse order, and discussed safety planning that got Jane through one of the most difficult times of her life.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS… See what Kris Lukens-Rose of VAV/Laurie’s House has to say about the FGI United Way here! www.youtube.com/user/fgiunitedway#p/u/12/CjGykH8Iiho

LINK to the CVOEO Voices Against Violence website here: www.cvoeo.org/htm/DomesticViolence/Domestic_Violence.html