By Andria

I became involved with The New York Foundling several years ago.  Their list of services and evidence-based programs seem to grow each and every year.  All are so very important and some are more immediate than others.  Initially my involvement with The Foundling was general in nature, however, as the topic of education becomes more important, I wanted to direct my support to educational services. From private tutoring for children involved in The Foundling’s foster care system to providing youth with after-school programs, The Foundling’s educational services put children on the right track once their more immediate needs are met.

Without these opportunities, life skills and an education, making your way in the real world can be quite challenging.  Michael Zink (Program Director) and his team of tutors go above and beyond to ensure the children they work with have the tools and support they need to navigate their way in the classroom and beyond.  Whether it’s help with schoolwork, an advocate with various resources or an ear to listen and offer encouragement, Michael and his team are there. They are very engaged and become a part of their students’ everyday lives as an additional source of support and stability.

A few years ago we talked about structuring a way to give college students additional support.  And so the annual college advancement stipend began where recipients show commitment to furthering their education.  Funds are distributed each semester to select students and used for a variety of reasons (e.g., book purchases, expenses that might require them to work additional hours and distract from their studies, etc.).  The entire purpose is to help remove roadblocks on their road to success. 

I hear how the students are doing throughout the year and am always so impressed with their progress and achievements.  Higher GPAs, new jobs they excel at, and tackling a different college major are just some examples.  To see the tangible impact of educational services is nothing short of life changing for some of the participants.  Educational services teach students the value of hard-work and commitment but also gives them the safety net and support they need to move ahead.         

I feel so honored to support this initiative and urge others to help the Foundling expand this and other educational service offerings.

Guest bloggers are welcome to write about their involvement with The Foundling and the programs and services that mean the most to them. If you are interested in sharing why you support The Foundling, please email communications@nyfoundling.org. We hope to hear from you soon!

It’s easy to get focused on the idea that Valentine’s Day is all about romance, but it’s important to remember that it’s “LOVE” not romance, that “conquers all.” Love comes in all shapes and sizes, love knows no boundaries, love is respect, generosity, kindness and compassion. It extends all the way to family, friends, children, neighbors, mentors and pets, and continues beyond what the eye can see.  

 This Valentine’s Day remember to LOVE:

Live: It’s sometimes scary to put yourself out there and explain how much you care for friends, family, and mentors. But be brave! A turtle only gets ahead by sticking its neck out, and so you should too.

Opportunity: Take the opportunity to donate to others. Instead of going out to dinner or buying expensive gifts this Valentine’s, make dinner at home and donate what you would have spent to a favorite charity or cause.   

Value: Tell each important person in your life how much you value and believe in them. A few positive words such as “FABULOUS!” “BRAVO!” and “YOU’RE SENSATIONAL!” can go a long way. 

Empathy: Carry around extra Valentine’s Day cards and pass them onto someone who seems down. Your card could be the special pick-me-up that person needs to have a brighter day.

How are you spending Valentine’s Day this year? Let us know on our Facebook page!

At The Foundling, there are myriad of ways to get involved and help out! In the final segment of our 3 part series, we share how a little bit of time and energy can make a huge difference for the 30,000 children and families served by The Foundling each year.

• Hold Your Own Drive: Help collect various in-kind items needed by our programs, including gift cards, school and baby supplies. These are easy to do and valued by programs to offset some of their greatest cost. Great for individuals or groups!
• Kids helping Kids: Too young to volunteer but still interested in giving back? Host a drive at your school or community center to benefit the children and families in our care.

Interested in helping out?

Please email volunteer@nyfoundling.org

At The Foundling, there are myriad of ways to get involved and help out! In part 2 of our 3 part series, we share how a little bit of time and energy can make a huge difference for the 30,000 children and families served by The Foundling each year.

• Join a Host Committee: The perfect opportunity for those interested in advocacy role! Work with members of our Junior Board or Trustees to plan, prepare for and publicize one of our annual fundraisers.
• Volunteer Fundraiser­: Show your passion for philanthropy by creating your own online fundraising page and sharing it with your social circle.
• Special Events Help: Volunteer your time supporting staff and committee members at our Spring Event or the Board of Trustee’s Fall Fete.

Interested in helping out? Please email volunteer@nyfoundling.org and keep an eye out for the next segment in this series for more opportunities!