Long time, no post I see. Been a little busy. We had a Dinner With Dad event for grades K-2 held at the high school. Over 40 high school band members volunteered and did wonderful. I was really impressed by their hard work and how well they listened to my directions. I wanted to donate $500 to the band boosters for their efforts. I made the offer and through their band director they gracefully requested we use the money for another Jacob's Gift cause. I am currently checking to see where in one of our music departments we can donate it to in their honor.
We also had a Fall Funfest at the elementary school through PTO. Some high school football players, cheerleaders and majorettes came to volunteer. The cheerleaders also volunteered for a pep rally we held to kick off Northwest Pride. Jacob's Gift was able to donate $250 to them as well.
Corey & I have been discussing where to dispurse some of our current funds. I'm checking with Stinson & the Intermediate staff to see if we can donate it to either the Science or Math departments. We really feel these are two areas where it can only help. I will let you know what we decide.
This past weekend we held a Cookies & Cocoa With Santa event at the elementary school through PTO. We needed lots of volunteers. I went through my PTO list & still needed more. I emailed Mr. Masowich, the band director & his students once again came to help. We also had cheerleaders volunteer at the face painting table. They did some incredible work!
I really feel good being able to work with the older students in volunteer projects. It's so nice to see one of our main goals being accomplished.
I also went into speak to the advanced Health classes at the high school recently. It was mostly focused on talking about genetic defects as that's what they were studying and Jacob had a chromosomal abnormality. I discussed what we've learned from losing a child also. It was fun being back in school even if it's been 19 years! Boy did I feel old. I'm hoping to be invited back to the next Semester's classes.
I received a Character Counts award from the Stark County People of Character. I was nominated by Mr. LaRiccia, Principal of the elementary school. I was really honored and humbled. I really just do what I do for the kids in our community.
Hope you all have a wonderful holiday!
Sincerely,
Joanna
Monday, December 8, 2008
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Updated final amount.....
Happy to report that a revised total for the Night at the Races will be over $10,000 including some corporate matching funds! Yeah!
I'm starting to get calls/emails about helping other charities with their fundraising. If anyone reading this would like to be on a volunteer list when events come about, please let me know. Jacob's Gift is taking off in ways I never imagined but am so proud to be a part of. I hope you will join us!
I'm starting to get calls/emails about helping other charities with their fundraising. If anyone reading this would like to be on a volunteer list when events come about, please let me know. Jacob's Gift is taking off in ways I never imagined but am so proud to be a part of. I hope you will join us!
Sunday, September 28, 2008
2nd Night at the Races - More Cowbell!
Last night we held our 2nd annual Night at the Races. Money is still coming in but we're going to clear over $9,000!!! It was really so much fun again. People around here are really crazy & I love it. The auction horse race yielded more money in bids this year. Ross & Sharon Blankenship's horse, Doggie won. Total payout for them was $670. They donated all of it back to Jacob's Gift! Made me teary eyed let me tell you. They are such a wonderful couple and the owners of State Street Tire so please go to their business if you can.
In addition to the races, we had 50/50, sideboards, raffle baskets, $20 boxes, $5 balloons to win a night at Kalahari (Congrats Shannon Waggoner!) and door prizes. My volunteers were all so wonderful. (Linda Holl, Troy Lindeman, Craig & Sheryl West, Michelle Howell, Nicole Hamilton, her friend & Liz, Dean & Shelley and John & Suzanne Foughty) They really make things easier for Corey & I.
Thanks again to Darrell & Joyce Dawson for the use of their hall. Thanks to Santangelo's Catering for giving me a great deal & delicious food. Thanks to Pizza Hut of Canal Fulton for donating pizza. Thanks to Laurie Foulk for the yummy gourmet cookies! Thanks to Jeff Rhodes photography for taking pictures for me as a donation. Thanks to Lawrence Twp. police dept.
This year I had red cowbells on all tables as noisemakers. I bought a t-shirt online that said "I have a fever and the only prescription is More Cowbell!". If you've seen the skit on Sat. Night Live, you'll get it. I let them know the most obnoxious bell ringer would get the shirt later. Jill (sorry, don't know your last name) rang her bell till her knuckles bled. Her husband was begging me early in the night to just give her the shirt. She had 2 going at once. My friend Nicole was by her at the raffle table & begged me to give her the shirt. Finally at the end of the evening she was awarded the shirt. It was so funny though & I appreciate her enthusiasm!
It went just as I had hoped. I really wanted to create a nice event that the adults in the community could come to and have fun for a few hours. My friend, Michelle Glauthier did an awesome job again with all of my signs & special touches.
I heard from some business owners afterward who were there to contact them next year that they would like to sponsor us. That's awesome for me because it helps with all the time I devote to collecting items & getting sponsors. I heard how fun it was and people really appreciate the experience we could create. It really was crazy but made me feel so good about the people who support us and what we are doing.
I'm switching gears now to the Pedal for a Purpose on Sunday, Oct. 5th 1-4pm at Heritage Park. I'm helping them with the carnival part of it and having my booth with the football players again.
Please view info at the link on our home page. It'll be a fun event!
Thank you again so very much for all who support us and Jacob's Gift. We really appreciate it!
Joanna
In addition to the races, we had 50/50, sideboards, raffle baskets, $20 boxes, $5 balloons to win a night at Kalahari (Congrats Shannon Waggoner!) and door prizes. My volunteers were all so wonderful. (Linda Holl, Troy Lindeman, Craig & Sheryl West, Michelle Howell, Nicole Hamilton, her friend & Liz, Dean & Shelley and John & Suzanne Foughty) They really make things easier for Corey & I.
Thanks again to Darrell & Joyce Dawson for the use of their hall. Thanks to Santangelo's Catering for giving me a great deal & delicious food. Thanks to Pizza Hut of Canal Fulton for donating pizza. Thanks to Laurie Foulk for the yummy gourmet cookies! Thanks to Jeff Rhodes photography for taking pictures for me as a donation. Thanks to Lawrence Twp. police dept.
This year I had red cowbells on all tables as noisemakers. I bought a t-shirt online that said "I have a fever and the only prescription is More Cowbell!". If you've seen the skit on Sat. Night Live, you'll get it. I let them know the most obnoxious bell ringer would get the shirt later. Jill (sorry, don't know your last name) rang her bell till her knuckles bled. Her husband was begging me early in the night to just give her the shirt. She had 2 going at once. My friend Nicole was by her at the raffle table & begged me to give her the shirt. Finally at the end of the evening she was awarded the shirt. It was so funny though & I appreciate her enthusiasm!
It went just as I had hoped. I really wanted to create a nice event that the adults in the community could come to and have fun for a few hours. My friend, Michelle Glauthier did an awesome job again with all of my signs & special touches.
I heard from some business owners afterward who were there to contact them next year that they would like to sponsor us. That's awesome for me because it helps with all the time I devote to collecting items & getting sponsors. I heard how fun it was and people really appreciate the experience we could create. It really was crazy but made me feel so good about the people who support us and what we are doing.
I'm switching gears now to the Pedal for a Purpose on Sunday, Oct. 5th 1-4pm at Heritage Park. I'm helping them with the carnival part of it and having my booth with the football players again.
Please view info at the link on our home page. It'll be a fun event!
Thank you again so very much for all who support us and Jacob's Gift. We really appreciate it!
Joanna
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Will You Help Us?? Please...
Hi! Thanks for checking out our site and Jacob's Gift. We have donated over $7,000 back to the Northwest Schools & students so far. We've been able to have opportunities for students to volunteer at numerous events & continue to add new events all the time. I can say now that I think people really know who we are and what Jacob's Gift is all about.
I feel people really understand that we want to make a difference here and have our child's short life mean something. Basically, we just want to do good things and have been blessed to be able to do so. I've received wonderful support from the Northwest community. I heard of an organization who wanted to plan their event on the same night as our Night at the Races and changed the date so they wouldn't compete with us. That is awesome! I am completely honored and am helping them with their ticket sales at my event.
Our Night at the Races is Sept. 27th at Elm Ridge Party Center in Canal Fulton. (Thanks to Darryl & Joyce!!). I have tickets available now for $20 each (includes dinner & full bar). I'm also selling horses for $10 each. You pick the name & win $50 if your horse wins the race. I'm always in need of sponsors, basket donations, silent auction items, etc. I've been out begging for awhile and can highlight Club Level Browns tickets for the Cinci game in Dec. (total value over $240), 4 club level tix to a Big Ten OSU basketball game (over $400 value) and many baskets.
We are also having sideboards. One high value sideboard will benefit the Michael Barkey "Do The Right Thing" scholarship. Julie & Hal Barkey are also donating a corn hole game made by Hal for the silent auction that will benefit the scholarship as well. I think it is so WONDERFUL that I can help out other great causes at our event.
I am really hoping this event is attended by many in the community & that we can come together one night, have fun and do some good things for our kiddos.
I wanted to thank busy, busy Derek Pullen of Cedar Creek Construction for going together with Jacob's Gift to put a 20 x 20 cement pad at the elementary school. He went above & beyond with donating all but materials as well as stamping, coloring and putting an "NW" on the pad. I honestly just envisioned a gray square but it's really nice. Stop by sometime & see it.
Last Spring Derek & I spoke at a rollerskating party and he asked if there was something he could do to be a part of our charity. We've laughed about it now that you should be careful offering up help to me as I will probably take you up on it. I would definately recommend him if you have some work that needs done.
Oct. 5th is Pedal for a Purpose to benefit Echoing Ridge. They are really close to getting enough money for that bus! I'm having the booth again with the football players getting whipped cream pies thrown at them, water dumped on them & whatever else comes along. Should be alot of fun!
Thanks so much again for all of the support & I hope you will be able to be a part of an event with Jacob's Gift!
Joanna
I feel people really understand that we want to make a difference here and have our child's short life mean something. Basically, we just want to do good things and have been blessed to be able to do so. I've received wonderful support from the Northwest community. I heard of an organization who wanted to plan their event on the same night as our Night at the Races and changed the date so they wouldn't compete with us. That is awesome! I am completely honored and am helping them with their ticket sales at my event.
Our Night at the Races is Sept. 27th at Elm Ridge Party Center in Canal Fulton. (Thanks to Darryl & Joyce!!). I have tickets available now for $20 each (includes dinner & full bar). I'm also selling horses for $10 each. You pick the name & win $50 if your horse wins the race. I'm always in need of sponsors, basket donations, silent auction items, etc. I've been out begging for awhile and can highlight Club Level Browns tickets for the Cinci game in Dec. (total value over $240), 4 club level tix to a Big Ten OSU basketball game (over $400 value) and many baskets.
We are also having sideboards. One high value sideboard will benefit the Michael Barkey "Do The Right Thing" scholarship. Julie & Hal Barkey are also donating a corn hole game made by Hal for the silent auction that will benefit the scholarship as well. I think it is so WONDERFUL that I can help out other great causes at our event.
I am really hoping this event is attended by many in the community & that we can come together one night, have fun and do some good things for our kiddos.
I wanted to thank busy, busy Derek Pullen of Cedar Creek Construction for going together with Jacob's Gift to put a 20 x 20 cement pad at the elementary school. He went above & beyond with donating all but materials as well as stamping, coloring and putting an "NW" on the pad. I honestly just envisioned a gray square but it's really nice. Stop by sometime & see it.
Last Spring Derek & I spoke at a rollerskating party and he asked if there was something he could do to be a part of our charity. We've laughed about it now that you should be careful offering up help to me as I will probably take you up on it. I would definately recommend him if you have some work that needs done.
Oct. 5th is Pedal for a Purpose to benefit Echoing Ridge. They are really close to getting enough money for that bus! I'm having the booth again with the football players getting whipped cream pies thrown at them, water dumped on them & whatever else comes along. Should be alot of fun!
Thanks so much again for all of the support & I hope you will be able to be a part of an event with Jacob's Gift!
Joanna
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Jacob turned 10 this week.....
It's hard to believe but it's been 10 years since he was born and died. I had sent out the following to friends and family:
Ten years ago we were blessed by the birth of our much anticipated first child, Jacob. Five days later, as we held him in our arms, God’s plan was set in motion. While over the years we have questioned this plan many times, we can now say we understand.
We have been able to find joy and peace from a time in our lives that was so very painful. We were able to have four happy, healthy children subsequent to Jacob that weren’t in our original life “plan”. We’ve been able to meet some wonderful people along the way including those at Precious Parents who also understood what the loss of a child was.
We find happiness in other’s success. We’ve been taught the true meaning of compassion, caring and sincerity all from a child who lived such a short time. Because of him, we have lived differently.
Please take a moment out of your day to hug someone special in your life in honor of Jacob’s 10th birthday in Heaven. Take another moment to tell them you are there if they ever need a hand to hold, a shoulder to cry on or a listening ear.
Happy 10th Birthday Jacob! We all love and miss you so very much.
Love,
Daddy, Mommy, Luke, Lily, Whitney & Grant
I shared our story at church at our "Do You Have a Story to Tell" night. It was nice for me to be able to speak of him again and share with others what we have learned from losing a child. I can vividly remember being at the cemetery and walking away from that tiny casket with empty arms questioning what my life would become.
I'm proud to be able to have been a part of Precious Parents at Children's Hospital having the opportunity to help other parents who've lost a baby. I'm proud to be able to do all that we have done and continue to do with Jacob's Gift.
Today, July 31st in 1998 was the day we learned we would go into the hospital and hold our son while he died. I can say now I understand and am honored to have known him those 5 days. I met parents at the July Precious Parents meeting who had just lost their child and my heart breaks for them. I can't convince them it'll all be fine and their life will be okay. I wouldn't have believed it at that point either. All I can say is "I'm sorry" and "I understand".
So if you've made it this far and aren't too bummed out, I thank you. I really appreciate all who have been so kind and supportive of me.
Our Night at the Races is Saturday, Sept. 27th at Elm Ridge Party Center in Canal Fulton. Tickets will be on sale about a month prior and are $20 each (includes dinner & full bar). I'm already working on collecting all the gift certificates, tickets, autographed items, sponsorships, raffle baskets, etc. that goes along with this event. It is our only fundraiser other than receiving private donations.
I'm always searching for connections to items we can use for raffles or Silent auction so if you have anything, please let me know.
Hope you can join us!!
Enjoy the rest of the Summer,
Joanna
We'd love
Ten years ago we were blessed by the birth of our much anticipated first child, Jacob. Five days later, as we held him in our arms, God’s plan was set in motion. While over the years we have questioned this plan many times, we can now say we understand.
We have been able to find joy and peace from a time in our lives that was so very painful. We were able to have four happy, healthy children subsequent to Jacob that weren’t in our original life “plan”. We’ve been able to meet some wonderful people along the way including those at Precious Parents who also understood what the loss of a child was.
We find happiness in other’s success. We’ve been taught the true meaning of compassion, caring and sincerity all from a child who lived such a short time. Because of him, we have lived differently.
Please take a moment out of your day to hug someone special in your life in honor of Jacob’s 10th birthday in Heaven. Take another moment to tell them you are there if they ever need a hand to hold, a shoulder to cry on or a listening ear.
Happy 10th Birthday Jacob! We all love and miss you so very much.
Love,
Daddy, Mommy, Luke, Lily, Whitney & Grant
I shared our story at church at our "Do You Have a Story to Tell" night. It was nice for me to be able to speak of him again and share with others what we have learned from losing a child. I can vividly remember being at the cemetery and walking away from that tiny casket with empty arms questioning what my life would become.
I'm proud to be able to have been a part of Precious Parents at Children's Hospital having the opportunity to help other parents who've lost a baby. I'm proud to be able to do all that we have done and continue to do with Jacob's Gift.
Today, July 31st in 1998 was the day we learned we would go into the hospital and hold our son while he died. I can say now I understand and am honored to have known him those 5 days. I met parents at the July Precious Parents meeting who had just lost their child and my heart breaks for them. I can't convince them it'll all be fine and their life will be okay. I wouldn't have believed it at that point either. All I can say is "I'm sorry" and "I understand".
So if you've made it this far and aren't too bummed out, I thank you. I really appreciate all who have been so kind and supportive of me.
Our Night at the Races is Saturday, Sept. 27th at Elm Ridge Party Center in Canal Fulton. Tickets will be on sale about a month prior and are $20 each (includes dinner & full bar). I'm already working on collecting all the gift certificates, tickets, autographed items, sponsorships, raffle baskets, etc. that goes along with this event. It is our only fundraiser other than receiving private donations.
I'm always searching for connections to items we can use for raffles or Silent auction so if you have anything, please let me know.
Hope you can join us!!
Enjoy the rest of the Summer,
Joanna
We'd love
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Busy, busy, busy....
Before I forget, Youth Football Night at the Races is Saturday, Aug. 9th at Occasions Party Center. Tickets are $40 each or $75/couple. Email me & I can get tickets for you.
The Teacher Appreciation Luncheon went so well! We had an empty kindergarten transformed into a fiesta complete with an outdoor dining patio. Casa Perez brought enchiladas, chips/salsa & rice. We served the slushees & fried ice cream w/ chocolate syrup. The teachers had their pictures taken with a sombrero on & we posted them on our bulletin board. It was really fun & great to give back to our wonderful teachers. Thanks to Dawn Wyles for lending us her music and decorations. Thanks to Michelle Glauthier, Tiffany Craney & Megan Flickinger for helping me!!
I have to say I was a tad bit nervous for our Munchin With Mom dinner but it went better than I could have expected. We served about 550 moms, grandmas & children. I had over 50 high school students work as servers in the high school cafeteria & practice gym. They worked so hard & I really appreciated their enthusiasm. Alot of the servers were football players & it was so funny to see them with their little notepads & taking orders. The photographer, Studio Rhodes, came w/ two camera stations and the pictures turned out so cute. The food service staff of our school district worked so hard helping me plan and running the event that day. They are awesome! We had some really nice baskets donated and our dads did a great job selling tickets for those and the 50/50. Teachers came and helped set up as well as made all the desserts. Seemed like everyone had a great time! We hope to do it again next year.
Ryan's breakfast went so well. I have to say we really have some wonderful people in this community. Julie Barkey worked her fanny off collecting donations and running the event. She is truly amazing and an inspiration to me. We had over 70 raffle items & over 20 silent auction items. We collected over $15,000 that day. The Knights of Columbus kept up with the large amount of people & did such a nice job. There were over 500 breakfasts served. I would recommend eating at SPJ's some month for breakfast. One nice donor bought a signed Cavs ball for Ryan. The Trewins were quite overwhelmed by all the support and donations. We just really wanted them to know how many people are praying for Ryan and wanted a way to support him. Tons of bake sale items were donated & sold too. Please continue to pray for Ryan and Shelbi Martin as well.
My goals for Jacob's Gift continue to be to help promote volunteering in our community. I've been very lucky to have the support of the high school students in events and I hope I help inspire them too. We are helping Echoing Ridge again October 5th for their Pedal for a Purpose event. I'm going to ask for football players again to come volunteer at our booth. I'm hoping to publicize the event more for them to have more support to help them buy that bus they desperately need.
I have some other events in mind for next year and I'll get them posted when we can work out the details. Thanks for those of you who were able to support us and continue to be kind to our cause. We've donated almost $7,000 back to Northwest kids of all ages so far!
All for now,
Joanna
The Teacher Appreciation Luncheon went so well! We had an empty kindergarten transformed into a fiesta complete with an outdoor dining patio. Casa Perez brought enchiladas, chips/salsa & rice. We served the slushees & fried ice cream w/ chocolate syrup. The teachers had their pictures taken with a sombrero on & we posted them on our bulletin board. It was really fun & great to give back to our wonderful teachers. Thanks to Dawn Wyles for lending us her music and decorations. Thanks to Michelle Glauthier, Tiffany Craney & Megan Flickinger for helping me!!
I have to say I was a tad bit nervous for our Munchin With Mom dinner but it went better than I could have expected. We served about 550 moms, grandmas & children. I had over 50 high school students work as servers in the high school cafeteria & practice gym. They worked so hard & I really appreciated their enthusiasm. Alot of the servers were football players & it was so funny to see them with their little notepads & taking orders. The photographer, Studio Rhodes, came w/ two camera stations and the pictures turned out so cute. The food service staff of our school district worked so hard helping me plan and running the event that day. They are awesome! We had some really nice baskets donated and our dads did a great job selling tickets for those and the 50/50. Teachers came and helped set up as well as made all the desserts. Seemed like everyone had a great time! We hope to do it again next year.
Ryan's breakfast went so well. I have to say we really have some wonderful people in this community. Julie Barkey worked her fanny off collecting donations and running the event. She is truly amazing and an inspiration to me. We had over 70 raffle items & over 20 silent auction items. We collected over $15,000 that day. The Knights of Columbus kept up with the large amount of people & did such a nice job. There were over 500 breakfasts served. I would recommend eating at SPJ's some month for breakfast. One nice donor bought a signed Cavs ball for Ryan. The Trewins were quite overwhelmed by all the support and donations. We just really wanted them to know how many people are praying for Ryan and wanted a way to support him. Tons of bake sale items were donated & sold too. Please continue to pray for Ryan and Shelbi Martin as well.
My goals for Jacob's Gift continue to be to help promote volunteering in our community. I've been very lucky to have the support of the high school students in events and I hope I help inspire them too. We are helping Echoing Ridge again October 5th for their Pedal for a Purpose event. I'm going to ask for football players again to come volunteer at our booth. I'm hoping to publicize the event more for them to have more support to help them buy that bus they desperately need.
I have some other events in mind for next year and I'll get them posted when we can work out the details. Thanks for those of you who were able to support us and continue to be kind to our cause. We've donated almost $7,000 back to Northwest kids of all ages so far!
All for now,
Joanna
Thursday, May 1, 2008
In the words of Kevin Bacon...."Let's Dance!"
Ok, think Footloose. For those of you too young, rent Footloose - you'll get it.
The Knights & Princesses Dance went very well and was so much fun. I was very happy to see all of the kids dressed up and so many parents too! I was worried I'd be the only one but there were alot. Let me get another thank you to Daryl & Joyce Dawson for allowing us to use their hall, Elm Ridge Party Center. They are such wonderful people! See our "Links of Interest" page for the others who made the night so special.
We sold over 125 tickets to the kids (parents were free). The DJ was great and taught the kids some new dances (me too). The kids were so mesmerized by Billy the Kid (magician). It was so adorable. They were asking for his autograph afterwards. I walked him out to his car and a couple boys came out in the parking lot to say thanks. It was sweet.
I heard such great things from those attending that we will definately do this again next year if at all possible. Moms, keep those bridesmaids dresses!!
Monday, I was able to be a part of something so incredibly special. Two residents from Echoing Ridge who have Cerebral Palsy came in to read to Luke & Lily's classes. It's called the ABC Project (Acceptance Begins with Children) and is such a neat program. They were Jamie & Kim, 25 & 41 (although, I hope I age half as well as Kim - I guessed her as early 20's!). They were both so friendly & great with the kids. They'll read a book, tell the kids about them, answer questions and show off their wheelchairs. The kids asked some really awesome questions and after a few minutes stopped gazing at their wheelchairs and listened to what they were saying. I think it's so neat and really showed the kids they were just like them but in a wheelchair.
It's just something I really wanted to work on with Jacob's Gift in teaching the kids to be compassionate to others, to learn about others and to give back. We're going to do it again in the fall and maybe wrap some other teaching events around it. Makes me really proud to be a part of it.
Tuesday, I'm taking 5 6th grade girls from Northwest up to Akron Children's Hospital to paint and decorate memory boxes. We received one when Jacob died and I cherish it. All of his items from his stay in the NICU are in there. I thought this would be a perfect opportunity to have the girls volunteer, learn something about others and gain some compassion. They're getting a tour of the NICU also by my friend who's a nurse there and head of bereavement. We wanted to give the boxes to babies who also go home. The money for the boxes, etc. comes from the PTO's Kiss the Pig money we raised in February. All of the $1,300 was earmarked for the NICU. A small portion will go to this but I'll make sure it all goes to very worthwhile causes there.
Monday, the PTO is throwing a thank you luncheon for our teachers at NWE. It's a Cinco de Mayo party. Casa Perez is catering, we're making fried ice cream for dessert & I rented a slushee machine with a discount from CJ Dannemillers in Doylestown. We wanted to do non-alcoholic margaritas but thought it may be too much for school. :-)
Next Friday is our Munchin With Mom dinner for grades K-2. It'll be at the high school and the principal expects 600-700. I'm really working hard to pull it all off and make it a nice event for the moms, grandmas, etc. who attend. I have about 40 high school kids who volunteered to be waiters so I'm happy about that (thanks Vic!). I'll post how it goes but say a little prayer for us!
Ryan's breakfast is sold out! Didn't take long at all. Julie Barkey has collected a lot of wonderful donated items so I'm excited to see them all & bid. Luke will want the CAVS ball signed by the team but it should go pretty high. You can still come and bid, buy raffle basket tix and support the family even if you don't have a ticket. Thanks to all who have worked so hard on this! It's been a great community effort.
Just sent out a flyer on Northwest backpacks & picnic baskets we're selling for the PTO as a fundraiser. They are really a great deal and would help us raise funds as well. I'll be selling them all summer too.
Once again, thanks for checking out our site and supporting Jacob's Gift!!
Joanna
The Knights & Princesses Dance went very well and was so much fun. I was very happy to see all of the kids dressed up and so many parents too! I was worried I'd be the only one but there were alot. Let me get another thank you to Daryl & Joyce Dawson for allowing us to use their hall, Elm Ridge Party Center. They are such wonderful people! See our "Links of Interest" page for the others who made the night so special.
We sold over 125 tickets to the kids (parents were free). The DJ was great and taught the kids some new dances (me too). The kids were so mesmerized by Billy the Kid (magician). It was so adorable. They were asking for his autograph afterwards. I walked him out to his car and a couple boys came out in the parking lot to say thanks. It was sweet.
I heard such great things from those attending that we will definately do this again next year if at all possible. Moms, keep those bridesmaids dresses!!
Monday, I was able to be a part of something so incredibly special. Two residents from Echoing Ridge who have Cerebral Palsy came in to read to Luke & Lily's classes. It's called the ABC Project (Acceptance Begins with Children) and is such a neat program. They were Jamie & Kim, 25 & 41 (although, I hope I age half as well as Kim - I guessed her as early 20's!). They were both so friendly & great with the kids. They'll read a book, tell the kids about them, answer questions and show off their wheelchairs. The kids asked some really awesome questions and after a few minutes stopped gazing at their wheelchairs and listened to what they were saying. I think it's so neat and really showed the kids they were just like them but in a wheelchair.
It's just something I really wanted to work on with Jacob's Gift in teaching the kids to be compassionate to others, to learn about others and to give back. We're going to do it again in the fall and maybe wrap some other teaching events around it. Makes me really proud to be a part of it.
Tuesday, I'm taking 5 6th grade girls from Northwest up to Akron Children's Hospital to paint and decorate memory boxes. We received one when Jacob died and I cherish it. All of his items from his stay in the NICU are in there. I thought this would be a perfect opportunity to have the girls volunteer, learn something about others and gain some compassion. They're getting a tour of the NICU also by my friend who's a nurse there and head of bereavement. We wanted to give the boxes to babies who also go home. The money for the boxes, etc. comes from the PTO's Kiss the Pig money we raised in February. All of the $1,300 was earmarked for the NICU. A small portion will go to this but I'll make sure it all goes to very worthwhile causes there.
Monday, the PTO is throwing a thank you luncheon for our teachers at NWE. It's a Cinco de Mayo party. Casa Perez is catering, we're making fried ice cream for dessert & I rented a slushee machine with a discount from CJ Dannemillers in Doylestown. We wanted to do non-alcoholic margaritas but thought it may be too much for school. :-)
Next Friday is our Munchin With Mom dinner for grades K-2. It'll be at the high school and the principal expects 600-700. I'm really working hard to pull it all off and make it a nice event for the moms, grandmas, etc. who attend. I have about 40 high school kids who volunteered to be waiters so I'm happy about that (thanks Vic!). I'll post how it goes but say a little prayer for us!
Ryan's breakfast is sold out! Didn't take long at all. Julie Barkey has collected a lot of wonderful donated items so I'm excited to see them all & bid. Luke will want the CAVS ball signed by the team but it should go pretty high. You can still come and bid, buy raffle basket tix and support the family even if you don't have a ticket. Thanks to all who have worked so hard on this! It's been a great community effort.
Just sent out a flyer on Northwest backpacks & picnic baskets we're selling for the PTO as a fundraiser. They are really a great deal and would help us raise funds as well. I'll be selling them all summer too.
Once again, thanks for checking out our site and supporting Jacob's Gift!!
Joanna
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Moving Right Along.....
Things have been busy in the Metsker household since my January post. Our elementary PTO carnival was March 1st. It went really well & we raised $3,700! It's our major fundraiser for the year. Jacob's Gift donated funds to pay for the bounce house and speed pitch game which were items we didn't have at the carnival before. That's one of my goals for the charity is to be able to provide kids with items or events that they normally wouldn't have due to a lack of funding. The owner of Great2Inflate was really kind and gave me a wonderful deal on both items. He even delivered them the night before while we were setting up. We had fun trying it out!
Jacob's Gift also had the opportunity to be a part of the "Rally for Ryan" we had at the elementary school for our friend, Ryan Trewin. We funded the magician who came and performed. I found his link on the internet. He lives in Cleveland and was on the Ellen Show & Good Morning America. When I called him, I figured he would be too expensive but when I told him of our charity and the event for Ryan he gave me a really low rate. He's also coming to perform for a low rate at our Knights and Princesses dance next Saturday which I will explain later. Ryan was at Rainbow Children's in Cleveland for 4 weeks with surgery to straighten his spine. I'm happy to report he came home yesterday to continue the work but at least he is home now. We're so proud to be able to support Ryan and his special family.
I guess I feel a little strange telling people what we've funded with Jacob's Gift but I want them to know not for kudos for us definately. I feel I need to let others know what we are up to and where their donations and support are going. It's already been over a year which I cannot believe but I am very protective of our reputation as a worthwhile charity.
Next Saturday is our Knights and Princesses dance Jacob's Gift is hosting along with the Northwest Elementary PTO. It's a dance mostly for preschool through 2nd graders just for fun. On the flyer I had asked moms to wear their old prom or bridesmaids gowns while the girls will be all fancy as well. My girls have gowns, gloves & tiaras! Who doesn't want to be a princess? It's at the Elm Ridge Party Center in Canal Fulton. Once again, Joyce is donating her hall and we appreciate it so much. We're having a DJ, facepainting, prizes and the magician. Buehler's of Jackson is donating cookies and McDonald's of Canal Fulton is donating the punch. Studio Rhodes Photography is donating a free photo with frame for everyone and the possibility to go order more on his website later. Some moms were nervous they had to dress up but it's just a suggestion. I thought it would be funny and something you wouldn't normally do with your kids. Casual dress is definately OK. I'll blog more after the dance with the results.
We are having our next Night at the Races on Saturday, September 27th at Elm Ridge again. This is our only fundraiser. Last year was so much fun and I'm looking forward to it again. I'm hoping to sell tickets to parents in our community so they can come and have fun together while supporting a charity that benefits Northwest kids. I am going to work all summer collecting gift cards, items for silent auction, etc. If you have any "connections" and can help collect items that can be donated, please let me know. I've hired the same caterer as last year, Santangelo's. He's very kind and gave us the same rate. The food was yummy too! I wanted to do some side boards this year too. I went to the baseball Night at the Races and it was really neat how they did it. I love going to other fundraisers to get ideas. Can you tell I love event planning?
We ended up sending over 300 pairs of gloves to Afghanistan the second time with the help of the elementary parents and St. John's Lutheran church in Canal Fulton. Thanks so much!
Anyway, thanks for reading this far if you made it. Thanks so much for supporting our charity. It's growing and it's great. Continue to pray for Ryan and for little Shelbi Martin, a 5 year old with brain cancer. They are the ones who need it most.
Peace,
Joanna
Jacob's Gift also had the opportunity to be a part of the "Rally for Ryan" we had at the elementary school for our friend, Ryan Trewin. We funded the magician who came and performed. I found his link on the internet. He lives in Cleveland and was on the Ellen Show & Good Morning America. When I called him, I figured he would be too expensive but when I told him of our charity and the event for Ryan he gave me a really low rate. He's also coming to perform for a low rate at our Knights and Princesses dance next Saturday which I will explain later. Ryan was at Rainbow Children's in Cleveland for 4 weeks with surgery to straighten his spine. I'm happy to report he came home yesterday to continue the work but at least he is home now. We're so proud to be able to support Ryan and his special family.
I guess I feel a little strange telling people what we've funded with Jacob's Gift but I want them to know not for kudos for us definately. I feel I need to let others know what we are up to and where their donations and support are going. It's already been over a year which I cannot believe but I am very protective of our reputation as a worthwhile charity.
Next Saturday is our Knights and Princesses dance Jacob's Gift is hosting along with the Northwest Elementary PTO. It's a dance mostly for preschool through 2nd graders just for fun. On the flyer I had asked moms to wear their old prom or bridesmaids gowns while the girls will be all fancy as well. My girls have gowns, gloves & tiaras! Who doesn't want to be a princess? It's at the Elm Ridge Party Center in Canal Fulton. Once again, Joyce is donating her hall and we appreciate it so much. We're having a DJ, facepainting, prizes and the magician. Buehler's of Jackson is donating cookies and McDonald's of Canal Fulton is donating the punch. Studio Rhodes Photography is donating a free photo with frame for everyone and the possibility to go order more on his website later. Some moms were nervous they had to dress up but it's just a suggestion. I thought it would be funny and something you wouldn't normally do with your kids. Casual dress is definately OK. I'll blog more after the dance with the results.
We are having our next Night at the Races on Saturday, September 27th at Elm Ridge again. This is our only fundraiser. Last year was so much fun and I'm looking forward to it again. I'm hoping to sell tickets to parents in our community so they can come and have fun together while supporting a charity that benefits Northwest kids. I am going to work all summer collecting gift cards, items for silent auction, etc. If you have any "connections" and can help collect items that can be donated, please let me know. I've hired the same caterer as last year, Santangelo's. He's very kind and gave us the same rate. The food was yummy too! I wanted to do some side boards this year too. I went to the baseball Night at the Races and it was really neat how they did it. I love going to other fundraisers to get ideas. Can you tell I love event planning?
We ended up sending over 300 pairs of gloves to Afghanistan the second time with the help of the elementary parents and St. John's Lutheran church in Canal Fulton. Thanks so much!
Anyway, thanks for reading this far if you made it. Thanks so much for supporting our charity. It's growing and it's great. Continue to pray for Ryan and for little Shelbi Martin, a 5 year old with brain cancer. They are the ones who need it most.
Peace,
Joanna
Monday, January 14, 2008
First 2008 Update
I wanted to announce our first major purchase from Jacob's Gift has been delivered. I am just so excited, proud, thrilled to see the fruits of so many long hours. Last March, I had the idea of Jacob's Gift. It was going to be a once a year donation by Corey & I to the schools for the kids. I talked to my Luke's 1st grade teacher, Mrs. Holl and asked her to check with the other teachers and let me know what is something they would like to have but knew may be difficult to ask for due to budgetary concerns. They all met and showed me the Alphasmart Neo Laptops.
The price was much more than my once a year donation could cover and hence Jacob's Gift was born. I just really wanted to do something to give back to these wonderful kids in our community in my son's name. I wanted to look back at those horrible times in the hospital and being told that he would die and say, "It's okay, I see the reason now".
My saying lately has been "Accept it and move on". I've faced some really interesting challenges even recently and I am pretty proud of myself I must say.
Anyway, back to what we purchased. I emailed the vice president of the company last April to see if these could be donated or discounted for our charity. Nothing could be done and I set off planning the Night at the Races. After our event, I emailed the VP again and was referred to the Regional Manager. He read my letter and say what we accomplished. (I was basically begging for any kind of discount). He gave me his own personal discount that he would use for his child's school. It amounted to $1,000 off so I was pretty excited.
We ordered 30 Alpha Smart Neo Laptops with the mobile lab cart. The teachers were so excited and I was there when some of them opened it. The kids can work on their writing skills, spelling, etc. and information can be downloaded to the teacher's computer. I'm going in soon to see them in action so I'll give more info then.
I recently ended up as our PTO President after being VP for the first 1/2 of the year. It's taking up some time away from some of my Jacob's Gift projects but I'm trying to keep my goals in sight. I recently collected gloves/mittens from friends to be sent to a local soldier in Afghanistan. His dad is our superintendent and I wanted to know what he may need for himself that we could collect. He said the children there need gloves. I'm sending out a flyer in the backpacks to see if other parents may want to help too.
I'm also in contact with the Echoing Ridge Residential Center again. They have a program called the ABC Project where residents there come in and read to the kids. They are special needs adults and many in wheelchairs. Corey & I adopted 2 of them for Christmas and went there with the kids Christmas Day to deliver presents. I really want my children to be comfortable talking to people with special needs. I could tell they were a little standoffish and with more exposure will be more understanding. I'm going to have them come into Luke and Lily's classes in February and see if it can expand to more then.
We're sponsoring some BOOST grants this year also. It's a grant that any teacher in K-12 can apply for. The school used to do them a few years ago. The school is helping me facilitate them so I'm excited to see what we get to review. I have a board of 2 parents and 2 teachers for Jacob's Gift so this will be their first "official" duty.
I'm really wanting to do something that will benefit some scholarships at the high school also. I have some ideas and if not this year, I can work on them for next.
We had 3 Senior football players here New Year's Eve to play with the kids out in the barn. There were at least 15 kiddos with them. I went to pay them at the end of their shift and they told me to donate it to Jacob's Gift. It is just so incredibly touching and makes me feel good that my own children can turn out to be such great gentlemen someday. Thanks so much to Tony Barkey, Kyle Ridenour & Paul Hensley.
Please read Jenni Trewin's blog off our our main page and continue to Pray for Ryan. They have some challenging times near and will need much support and prayers from their community. Ryan's such a great kid. He tried to run me over at school the other day in the bike he rides there. (He's such a funny kid!) Just pray for them, please.
I started a basketball open gym at my church just for women. I haven't play since my ACL tear injury game in 1988. (Yes, that's 20 years!!!) I'm actually not too bad. It kind of comes back to you. My friend that I played with in high school comes & plays and it's too funny. I really like it though.
That's all for now. Look for another Night at the Races coming this Fall. (If you'd like to help collect items or donate a basket/silent auction item let me know) It'll save me some legwork.
Thanks for checking in on Jacob's Gift and for supporting us!!!
Joanna
The price was much more than my once a year donation could cover and hence Jacob's Gift was born. I just really wanted to do something to give back to these wonderful kids in our community in my son's name. I wanted to look back at those horrible times in the hospital and being told that he would die and say, "It's okay, I see the reason now".
My saying lately has been "Accept it and move on". I've faced some really interesting challenges even recently and I am pretty proud of myself I must say.
Anyway, back to what we purchased. I emailed the vice president of the company last April to see if these could be donated or discounted for our charity. Nothing could be done and I set off planning the Night at the Races. After our event, I emailed the VP again and was referred to the Regional Manager. He read my letter and say what we accomplished. (I was basically begging for any kind of discount). He gave me his own personal discount that he would use for his child's school. It amounted to $1,000 off so I was pretty excited.
We ordered 30 Alpha Smart Neo Laptops with the mobile lab cart. The teachers were so excited and I was there when some of them opened it. The kids can work on their writing skills, spelling, etc. and information can be downloaded to the teacher's computer. I'm going in soon to see them in action so I'll give more info then.
I recently ended up as our PTO President after being VP for the first 1/2 of the year. It's taking up some time away from some of my Jacob's Gift projects but I'm trying to keep my goals in sight. I recently collected gloves/mittens from friends to be sent to a local soldier in Afghanistan. His dad is our superintendent and I wanted to know what he may need for himself that we could collect. He said the children there need gloves. I'm sending out a flyer in the backpacks to see if other parents may want to help too.
I'm also in contact with the Echoing Ridge Residential Center again. They have a program called the ABC Project where residents there come in and read to the kids. They are special needs adults and many in wheelchairs. Corey & I adopted 2 of them for Christmas and went there with the kids Christmas Day to deliver presents. I really want my children to be comfortable talking to people with special needs. I could tell they were a little standoffish and with more exposure will be more understanding. I'm going to have them come into Luke and Lily's classes in February and see if it can expand to more then.
We're sponsoring some BOOST grants this year also. It's a grant that any teacher in K-12 can apply for. The school used to do them a few years ago. The school is helping me facilitate them so I'm excited to see what we get to review. I have a board of 2 parents and 2 teachers for Jacob's Gift so this will be their first "official" duty.
I'm really wanting to do something that will benefit some scholarships at the high school also. I have some ideas and if not this year, I can work on them for next.
We had 3 Senior football players here New Year's Eve to play with the kids out in the barn. There were at least 15 kiddos with them. I went to pay them at the end of their shift and they told me to donate it to Jacob's Gift. It is just so incredibly touching and makes me feel good that my own children can turn out to be such great gentlemen someday. Thanks so much to Tony Barkey, Kyle Ridenour & Paul Hensley.
Please read Jenni Trewin's blog off our our main page and continue to Pray for Ryan. They have some challenging times near and will need much support and prayers from their community. Ryan's such a great kid. He tried to run me over at school the other day in the bike he rides there. (He's such a funny kid!) Just pray for them, please.
I started a basketball open gym at my church just for women. I haven't play since my ACL tear injury game in 1988. (Yes, that's 20 years!!!) I'm actually not too bad. It kind of comes back to you. My friend that I played with in high school comes & plays and it's too funny. I really like it though.
That's all for now. Look for another Night at the Races coming this Fall. (If you'd like to help collect items or donate a basket/silent auction item let me know) It'll save me some legwork.
Thanks for checking in on Jacob's Gift and for supporting us!!!
Joanna
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