November Wish: Thanksgiving Outreach Resources

Are you looking for ways to give back to your community this Thanksgiving? Here are a few volunteer ideas to help you if you are in the Cleveland, Ohio or Houston, Texas areas. Feel free to forward to all who may be interested.





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HOUSTON, TX
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Nursing Home Volunteers Needed (Houston, TX)
A happy thanksgiving will be had when you share the joy of that day with institutional shut-ins. Team up with other volunteers to visit one of a number of scheduled nursing homes.
Contact: Donna Martin
Ph: (281) 463-9001
Web: http://www.gracecarecypress.com/
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HEB Holiday Parade (Houston International Festival Foundation)
Fun and fanfare await you as a volunteer at the annual Thanksgiving Day Parade to be held in downtown Houston. Assignments that morning will include helping with concessions, tending a reserved seating area, escorting VIPs, ticket-taking, etc. Breakfast and a commemorative tee shirt will be provided. Volunteers ages16 and up are welcome.
Contact: Cheri Hinkle
Ph: 713-654-8808, ext. 290
Web: http://www.ifest.org/volunteers/
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Star of Hope: 1,900 Thanksgiving Meals . . . $1.63 each!
Your donation of $1.63/per meal to Star of Hope Mission Center means more than a home-cooked Thanksgiving dinner for an individual or family; it may be the turning point for someone to find hope! Decide how many meals you want to provide, and prepare to celebrate this holiday season with the knowledge that the blessings you share will touch many lives with God’s love! Go to: https://www.sohmission.org/netcommunity/sslpage.aspx?pid=424
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The Houston Food Bank
Donate food, money, or time this Thanksgiving!
Connect to: http://www.houstonfoodbank.org/donate_food.aspx
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Hospice Volunteers Needed for Thanksgiving
The need for hospice care volunteers in Houston and surrounding areas is at an all-time high and growing daily. Hospice is a comprehensive program of medical care designed to address the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients with life-limiting illnesses.
Contact: Adrienne Harris, Volunteer Coordinator
Ph: (281) 469-3697
Web: http://www.vistacare.com
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CLEVELAND, OHIO
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The Cleveland Food Bank
Donate food, money, or time this Thanksgiving!
Connect to: http://www.clevelandfoodbank.org
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Marc’s Stores
Join Marc’s Stores in the fight against hunger.
Connect to: http://www.marcs.com/
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St. Augustine Church
Ph: 216-781-5530
Web: staugustine-west14.org
Helpers are still collecting food for Thanksgiving at the Tremont church, which serves 200 to 300 meals three times a day, every day. Thanksgiving dinner is one of the busiest meals of the year. Last year, the church served close to 10,000 dinners on-site and at other charities. Requested foods include frozen turkeys, boxed mashed potatoes and stuffing. They are always in need of soup, beans and canned fruits and vegetables. There are also volunteer opportunities for Thanksgiving -- and any day. Food or cash donations can be made at the church from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.
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Cleveland Salvation Army
Web: salvationarmycleveland.org
No need to go to a mall this year to donate to a Salvation Army Red Kettle, a holiday tradition since 1891. The army is going high tech. Not only can you donate on its website, you can also donate via text message (see site for details), follow the army on Twitter and host your own online Red Kettle on your blog or website. Go to onlineredkettle.org to donate, and invite your friends to do so as well. All money collected stays local to help with the army's food, shelter, counseling, recreation, clothing and other programs.
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Catholic Hunger & Shelter Network
Accepting volunteers and donations for Thanksgiving.
Ph: (216) 781-5530
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THANKSGIVING DAY MEALS SERVED IN CLEVELAND, OHIO
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St. Augustine’s Church Halls – 2486 West 14th St.
St. Andrew Kim Catholic Church – 2310 West 14th St.
St. Luke Episcopal Church – 1349 West 75th at Lake Ave.
Franklin Circle – 1688 Franklin Rd., corner of W. 28th
House of God – 12306 Soika Ave., off E. 116th
King Kennedy CMHA Estates – North Building – 2501 East 59th St., off Woodland Ave.
Fifth Christian Church – 14109 Benwood Ave.
Rockhill Ministries – 11739 Kinsman Rd. at Rockhill Church
St. Monica Church – 13623 Rockside Rd., Garfield Hts.
Lorain Catholic Charities Family Center – 203 Eighth St., off Broadway Ave. and Reid Lorain, Ohio
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Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family! God Bless!

OCTOBER WISH: Giving Elizebeth a Voice

Six year old Elizebeth is a fun loving child who always makes those around her smile. She is full of excitement and energy! She was born with a chromosome abnormality called 18q- which has rendered her hearing and speech impaired.

Because of this impairment, her family and friends have trouble understanding Elizebeth when she speaks. Her mind is full of all the right words, phrases and vocabulary; but the challenge lies in communicating her thoughts intelligibly. Also, if she were to get lost, she would not be able to communicate in a way that people would understand.

THE NEED: Turning Views (www.turningviews.org), a non profit organization, is looking to raise $1000 by October 31 to provide Elizebeth with an iPod Touch or iPad and the Proloquo2Go AAC Application (or similar). These devices provide speech impaired children with the technology and training to enhance communication.

THE INSTRUCTIONS: Would you like to help Elizebeth? Do you know of resources that could help her? Do you have an iPad or iPod Touch that you would like to donate? Can you forward this email to a group that would like to help? Do you have information that Elizebeth could benefit from?

If you would like to make an online donation to Elizebeth through Turning Views, please visit www.turningviews.org. If you would like to send information, a check or iTunes, Apple or an Amazon gift card (as this is where items for Elizebeth will be purchased), you can mail to:

Turning Views Foundation, For ELIZEBETH, PO Box 19812, Reno, NV 89511.

For further information, contact Camilla@turningviews.org or dawn@dawnsangelwishnetwork.

THE REWARD: Let's improve the quality of life for Elizebeth by giving her a voice and a modern way to communicate with family and friends.

September Wish: A Visit to the Holy Land

SEPTEMBER WISH: Miriam Acosta, a hard-working woman in Chicago, lost her youngest brother in late July to a tragic swimming accident and lost her oldest brother a few weeks ago to Cancer. She has been the primary caretaker for her entire family through these tragedies, including her 80-year old mother, her four other siblings, her deceased siblings' children and her own children, one of whom is mentally ill and in a hospital.

"Miriam is a beautiful, spiritual woman who is providing strength for her mother, her siblings, and her brothers' kids through these back-to-back tragedies. She turned her life over to God five years ago when her life was nearly over - due to drug and alcohol addiction. She became sober and found a community in her church, a deep faith in God and all people on earth. She has been the key point of contact for her family through all of these tragedies, planning funerals, acting as power-of-attorney, taking care of family meals and family members - all while working."

THE NEED: Miriam could use some time away to visit the birthplace of her faith and rejuvenate! Her church is going to Israel in November to tour the Holy Land. The cost of the trip is $3K. She has raised about $500 to date. Would you like to donate to help her meet the cost of the trip? Anything you could give would be a huge help.

THE INSTRUCTIONS: If you would like to give to this cause, please click here to DONATE TO MIRIAM. Donations are not tax deductible. Please make your donation by October 31, 2010.

THE REWARD: The gift of your love and generosity will always return to you!

July Wish: Mothers Assisting Mothers

JULY WISH: Mothers Assisting Mothers (M.A.M.), Inc. (http://www.ms-mam.org) is a non-profit Christian outreach organization, serving mothers with Multiple Sclerosis. Supported by the National MS Society (Ohio Buckeye Chapter), the organization's mission is to provide support, resources, mentoring, training, and empowerment to families increasingly stressed by this disease. M.A.M. also assists mothers suffering from non-chronic illnesses raising children up to 18 years of age. With mounting medical bills, skyrocketing insurance premiums, and general economic decline, M.A.M. stands in the gap to help alleviate some of the stress experienced by families facing these health challenges.

THE NEED: MAM is seeking donations to sponsor 60 disabled women to attend the Women's Empowerment Network conference on Saturday, September 18, 2010. The conference will educate disabled women on financial management, domestic violence, and building healthy families.

THE INSTRUCTIONS: If you would like to help sponsor a woman to attend the Women's Empowerment Network conference, please click on this link. You may also contact MAM with other suggestions or information by visiting http://www.ms-mam.org.

THE REWARD: The gift of your love will always come back to you!

June Wish: Charlezetta Moss Needs your Prayers!

June Wish: Charlezetta Moss is in need of your prayers and encouragement! She has been battling a rare disease called Sclerodoma for almost two years and could use some extra love to get her through an especially difficult bout with this illness. Sclerodoma is an uncommon chronic autoimmune disease that affects about 300,000 people every year. It is mostly found in females ages 30-50. Although Sclerodoma is completely non-contagious or cancerous, the means by which one contracts Scerlodoma is unknown. The process of the disease is caused by an over-production of collagen. This extra collagen is deposited into the skin and throughout the body’s organs; as a result, the skin hardens and affects the functions of internal organs.

The Need: Charlezetta Moss needs some encouragement as she continues her battle with this fatal disease. We know that our God can do anything! Could you help lift her spirits by saying a prayer for her and by forwarding this request out to others that can pray? Can you send her a card of encouragement? Can you forward any information that may help Charlezetta get through this difficult time? Do you have information you would like to share about Sclerodoma that may help her?

The Instruction: If you would like to send her a card of encouragement or any other helpful information, please send it to: Charlezetta Moss, 4719 Quincy Drive, Copley, Ohio 44321.

The Reward: Your love and kindness always comes back to you!

MAY WISH: Help a Child Attend Technology Camp

MAY WISH: Camp Tech (www.camptechonline.com) is a non-profit organization that offers youth ages 6-18 creative alternative learning solutions utilizing interactive technology. The curriculum includes game, graphic and web design, 3D animation, filmmaking, digital media, mobile technology, young entrepreneurship and IT solutions. Camp Tech would like to help children in need gain valuable technical skills during its upcoming summer camp.

THE NEED: Help open a world of possibilities for a child in need of an "interactive" summer camp experience! Would you like to sponsor a child to attend Camp Tech? Do you have new or "gently used" equipment you would like to donate to Camp Tech? Would you like to be a "tech" mentor to a child? Would you like to sponsor a Camp Tech event? Can you forward this email to other "angels" that may have the resources to help?

THE INSTRUCTIONS: If you would like to make a donation to help a child attend Camp Tech, donate equipment, provide mentoring services, or sponsor an event, please send an email to Dawn's Angel Wish Network or contact Candace Benson at cbenson@camptechonline.com. The cost to sponsor one child for the entire summer experience is $299. However, any amount you wish to donate is greatly appreciated.

THE REWARD: Help expose a child to all the creative opportunities that technology has to offer!

April Wish: Lift the Spirits of a Child in Need

As a child, I used to look forward to Easter time. I loved the church Easter egg hunts, new clothes, and the baskets filled with candy to last for weeks. Through the years, as I grew in my faith and relationship with God, I still loved this holiday, but for different reasons. I loved to go to the church services, spend family time and look forward to days without snow. But at this time in my life, I know that Easter represents something much deeper for me to reflect upon. The message of Jesus' resurrection represents a great power that we each possess. Jesus' knew and reached His full potential as a Son of God. He proved that not even death was powerful enough to hold Him down. Not even DEATH! So if death is the ultimate obstacle to overcome, and Jesus successfully overcame, Child of God, what problems do we have that can't be solved through tapping into the same power Jesus possessed? His message is that this same power exists in you and me. Easter has now become a reminder to live at a higher level! To exercise this awesome power! And to walk in the greatness that is my inheritance. I don't always get it right, but I'm thankful that I have the opportunity to experience Easter every day. How about you?

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APRIL WISH: Operation Surprise Attack (OSA) is an outreach organization designed to encourage children suffering from terminal illnesses. The "surprise" launches are designed to encourage people around the globe to "pay it forward" by sending cards and letters of encouragement to children in need. They are currently conducting a card launch for ISAIAH:

"Active and curious, Isaiah looks like a typical six-year old boy, but behind his dimpled smile he carries a heavy burden that not many adults could bear. In September 2009, Little "Zay" was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma Cancer. Although Isaiah is a strong little boy, he fights daily through extreme pain and chemotherapy treatments. His family has a strong faith in God and his mother believes his future is bright. Although some days are more of a struggle than others, Zay and his family have not given up. He continues to be a source of inspiration for all of those around him."

THE NEED: Would you like to send a card to Isaiah to lift his spirits? Can you pray for Isaiah and his family? Would you like to find out more about OSA and how you can help more children? Can you forward this email to your networks?

THE INSTRUCTIONS: Send your cards of encouragement to: ISAIAH, c/o Patryna Goosby, PO Box 2682, Gadsden, AL 35903.

If you would like to find out more information about OSA, how your school can get involved, sponsorship, or sending artwork for a card, please email Lisa Fulton at operationsurpriseattack@yahoo.com.

THE REWARD: Encourage Isaiah to continue to fight one more day.

Help a Mother Win Battle w/Cancer

" What if it all depended on me, to change the world, to change the world? What if my only responsibility was to change the world, to change the world? Let me be the ONE to start a revolution. Let me sing my song to the people of the world. It all begins with ONE - the power of ONE - joining the hundreds of millions of people believing in ONE! The power of
ONE! Don t hang around. Stand up or sit down and believe we can change the world together. We can change the world together. " ~The Power of One

These are the authentically powerful lyrics penned by musical artist Israel Houghton. They reinforce that we possess a power so great that we can do anything we collectively resolve to do! But, it all starts with just one person deciding to make a difference. You! The incredible power to move mountains and change circumstances lies in YOU. So how will you use your
power today? Will you join forces with others to help make a difference? Will you decide to move out of your comfort zone? Will you find the courage to walk in your purpose? The world is waiting for YOU! DECIDE to use your power. STAND up! CHANGE the world.

This month, Dawn's Angel Wish Network invites you to: 1) Participate in the MARCH WISH to help a mother battling stage IV cancer 2) Check out ARBONNE; our health and wellness sponsor this month 3) Pray for those who have requested prayer; and 4) Get some encouragement from our featured author by visiting the Become Light! Blog.

As always, your continued support is much appreciated. May God continue to bless you! And please feel free to pass this on to a fellow angel!!

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MARCH WISH: Beth was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer in January 2010. She is a nurse, mother of two, and the breadwinner for her family. Upon diagnosis, her goal was to continue working while receiving her treatments. This goal has now
been threatened by a setback, which may result in a lengthy hospital stay. She has completed her second round of chemotherapy.

Although Beth has very supportive friends and family, she is unable to meet her financial obligations due to this illness. The Copley Health Center Cares Team has organized a benefit dinner and raffle to take place on Sunday, March 21, 2010. The dinner will be held at Thomastown Party Center, 1282 Triplett Blvd. (Akron, OH) from 4 pm - 8 pm. Tickets for this event are $10 for adults and $5 for children. All proceeds from this event will benefit Beth and her family.

THE NEED: The Copley Health Center Cares Team is seeking donations for the dinner. They are in need of food items, raffle prizes, decorations and monetary contributions.

THE REQUEST: Would you like to make a donation of food, raffle prizes, decorations or money? Would you like to attend the dinner? Can you pray for Beth and her family? Would you like to send Beth some encouragement? Can you forward this email to your network?

THE INSTRUCTIONS: Simply reply to this email if you are interested in helping Beth win the battle against this disease! Or you may send an email to: Dawn's Angel Wish Network and let us know how you would like to help. PLEASE RESPOND BEFORE MARCH 21, 2010.

THE REWARD: Help give this family peace of mind during this challenging time.

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Community Business Angel Sponsor

Did you know that your skin is the largest organ of the human body, and that what you put on it is absorbed into your bloodstream? Enter, Arbonne! Arbonne carries over 450 pure, safe and beneficial Swiss formulated, botanically based, health and wellness products for women, men and children. In addition, Arbonne's products are: Formulated without artificial
fragrances or dyes, mineral oil, or animal products or byproducts. Discover the three ways you can win with Arbonne! Special offer: Through March 31, 2010, place an order of $150 and get a 20% discount.

Visit www.bhealthy.myarbonne.com for more information or connect with Lisa Sims at (832)794-0187 or via email at lsims@myarbonne.com.

FEBRUARY WISH: Ms. Julie's Kitchen

Stewardship. We have heard this word used in context with finances, spiritual gifts/talents, and even relationships. It has been said that we are honoring God if we manage these precious resources effectively. After all, a good steward who manages an investment successfully will reap a return. But when we think of stewardship, very rarely do we relate it to the management of our HEALTH. Are we being good stewards of the most precious gift God has blessed us with? What kind of return are we getting on our health investment?

If you have not already done so, please take time to perform an honest assessment of your health. What health goals can you make this year? What can you do to improve your health today? Consider taking that fun new exercise class, scheduling a doctor’s appointment, adding fresh choices to your daily eating routine, or simply drinking more (and better quality) water. Get started. And God will reward your sincere and earnest attempt at being a good steward over this awesome “temple” that you have been blessed with. You can do it!

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February Wish: Julie Wandling Costell knows quite a bit about healthy eating. After tipping the scale at 315 lbs., and subsequently experiencing a heart attack, she knew she had to make serious changes in her diet and lifestyle. And she did just that! Committed to following doctor’s orders and adhering to a biblically based diet, she kissed heart disease “goodbye” and dropped over130 lbs.! Now, this anointed entrepreneur is determined to help others find nutritious, healthy, and TASTY eating alternatives through her new Akron, Ohio based business, “Ms. Julie’s Kitchen”.

Ms. Julie’s Kitchen offers bulk staples and many locally grown/produced foods including: jams, organic cheeses, sauces, salsas, pickles, freshly extracted juices, spices, herbs, flours, grains, nuts, seeds, dried fruits, produce, etc. Ms. Julie’s Kitchen also operates a mobile kitchen, which provides fresh, healthy lunch selections daily. Classes on canning, dehydrating, organic gardening, composting, eating seasonally, raw food prep, gluten free baking, and true whole grain bread baking are also available.

The Need: Ms. Julie’s Kitchen is in need of the following: Lighted Bakery Display Case, Refrigerated Display Case, Old Thyme Nut Butter Machine, Double Stacked Convection Oven, Commercial Size Cooking Utensils, Pots and Pans, Folding Chairs, Card Tables or Long Folding Tables, Water Purifier, Photography assistance, Landscaping-small area in spring for herb garden, Cash Register, Commercial Grain Mill, Rolling Flour Storage Bins, Shelving or Wood Hutches for Retail Displays, Website.

The Request: Would you be able to donate any of these items? Do you know of a restaurant going out of business that may want to help provide these items? Do you have other information or ideas that may help Ms. Julie’s Kitchen obtain these items? Can you pray for Julie’s new business endeavor? Are there other ways you would like to help Julie? Would you support her business? Can you provide her with encouragement? Can you forward this email to your network?

The Instructions: Please email Dawn's Angel Wish Network if you or someone you know would be interested in sowing into this business.

The Reward: Help an entrepreneur fulfill a dream. Remember: "What you make happen for others, the Lord will make happen for you."

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FEBRUARY WISH ANGEL SPONSOR:
The February Wish is brought to you by TheWaterForYou.com. TheWaterForYou.com is a health and wellness company, committed to educating the public on the benefits of proper hydration with the proper water. The technology transforms regular tap water into antioxidant rich living water that not only promotes vibrant health to the human body, but brings vibrant health to the environment by eliminating harmful toxic plastic bottle waste.

Sponsor Testimonial:
"Dawn's Angel Wish Network has provided our company with a unique opportunity to impact the community, fulfilling specific time-sensitive needs, while at the same time building lasting relationships." TheWaterForYou.com encourages you to help meet the need this month. If you live in the Akron (or surrounding) area, please enjoy a FREE trial sample by calling 1-877-891-1350 or emailing DetoxAmerica@aol.com.

January Wish: Help for HAITI

As of this writing, there are approximately 200,000 dead in Haiti. It has been reported that only 70,000 have been buried thus far. There are now 1.5 million people that are homeless. Let's help!

This month, I have compiled a list of organizations that are dedicated to helping the people of Haiti. If you would like to help, connect with an organization on this list and please donate. Also, feel free to forward this list to people in your networks that are looking for ways to help.


Text Your Donations (contribution added to your phone bill):

• Text "Yele" to 501501 to donate $5 on behalf of the Yéle Foundation, the leading contributor to rebuilding Haiti founded by Wyclef Jean.
• Text "Haiti" to 20222 to donate $10 on behalf of The Clinton Foundation (former President Clinton is Special Envoy to Haiti)
• Text "Haiti" to 85944 to donate $5 on behalf of the Rescue Union Mission and MedCorp International.
• Text "Haiti" to 25383 to donate $5 on behalf of the Internal Rescue Committee.
• Text "Haiti" to 90999 to donate $10 on behalf of the Red Cross in the U.S.

Connect with an Organization:

American Red Cross
The American Red Cross' primary focus during the initial response of an emergency is feeding, sheltering and supplying any other basic needs. To donate: Go to RedCross.org, hit donate now button at top and then International Response Fund. You also can text "Haiti" to 90999 to donate $10 to the International Response Fund. The money will go directly to relief efforts in Haiti. Or call 1-800-Red-Cross.

AmeriCares
This nonprofit disaster relief organization delivers medicine, medical supplies and aid to people in crisis around the world. To donate, call 1-800-486-HELP or go to AmeriCares.org. Donations will go toward medicine and medical supplies and for expenses for providing that medical aid.

Care 


This humanitarian organization's main focus is to fight global poverty, specifically by empowering marginalized women and girls. To donate to the Haiti relief fund effort, go to Care.org or call 1-800-521-CARE. Money will go toward food, water and sanitation, shelter and emergency health response.

Catholic Relief Services
Catholic Relief Services is an aid agency that works with emergency relief, micro-finance, AIDS/HIV relief, agriculture, water and sanitation, among other projects in countries around the world. To donate, go to crs.org, or call 1-877-HELP-CRS. You also can text RELIEF to 30644. You will receive a text message back with instructions on how to donate. You can send a check to Catholic Relief services, P.O. Box 17090, Baltimore, MD 21203-7090. Write "Haiti earthquake" in memo area. The money will go toward immediate needs, which include water, food, hygiene kits, bedding and basic cooking utensils, among other items.

Direct Relief International
Direct Relief provides medical attention to those in need on an ongoing basis and in emergencies. Monetary donations go toward medical aid, supplies and equipment in Haiti. To donate, go to directrelief.org or call 805-964-4767 and 800-676-1638, or go through Google Checkout.

Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity provides affordable, safe shelter for low-income families and people in need. Money donated for Haiti relief efforts will go toward recovery and rebuilding. To donate, go to habitat.org or call 1-800-Habitat.

International Medical Corps
This emergency response agency focuses on health in emergency situations. Monetary donations go toward purchasing medical supplies, medicine and emergency kits and transporting these supplies. 1-800-481-4462 or go to imcworldwide.org.

International Relief Teams
The nonprofit organizes volunteer teams to provide medical and non-medical assistance to victims of disasters and poverty. To donate, go to irteams.org or call 619-284-7979. Checks can be made out to International Relief Teams, 4560 Alvarado Canyon Road, Suite 2G, San Diego, CA 92120-4309. The money will be used for medical supplies, medicine and other relief supplies, and to support volunteers heading to Haiti for relief efforts.

Medical Teams International
The Christian global health organization sends volunteer medical teams and supplies to those in the midst of disaster or poverty. Monetary donations will go to supporting the medical teams being sent to Haiti and to the cost of shipping the medical supplies donated by corporations. Donate by going to medicalteams.org and clicking on the "Donate Now" button, or call 1-800-959-HEAL (4325) or send a check to Medical Teams International, P.O. Box 10, Portland, OR 97207.

Medecins sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders)
The humanitarian organization delivers medical care to people caught in crisis. Donations to its Haiti relief efforts will go toward repairing the obstetrics and trauma hospitals in Haiti that were damaged in the earthquake. They also will go to transporting an additional 70 doctors and medical supplies to the island in an effort to set up makeshift emergency medical response centers. To donate, go to doctorswithoutborders.org or call 1-888-392-0392.

Mercy Corps
The organization provides humanitarian assistance and economic opportunities in the world's toughest places, specifically those dealing with poverty, conflict and instability. To donate, go to MercyCorps.org. Money will go toward immediate humanitarian needs in Haiti, which may include, food, water and temporary shelter.

Operation USA
The international relief agency provides funding for reconstruction and development aid to communities that have experienced disasters, disease and poverty. For its Haiti relief efforts, the agency plans to use donations for health care materials, water purification supplies and food supplements. To donate, go to opusa.org or call 1-800-678-7255, or mail a check to Operation USA, 3617 Hayden Ave., Suite A, Culver City, CA 90232.

Save the Children
The independent organization focuses on children in need in the U.S. and globally through programs for health and nutrition, child protection and education. To donate, go to savethechildren.org, or call 1-800-728-3843 or 203-221-4030. Donations will go toward purchasing relief items, such as hygiene kits, family kits (pots, pans, food preparation items) and tarps.

The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army's mission is to provide food, shelter, clothing and spiritual comfort during disasters. To donate money, go to salvationarmyusa.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY. Make sure you designate the donation for "Haiti Earthquake." Money will go to the Salvation Army in Haiti, which will determine the country's immediate needs, including water, food, medicine and transportation.

Shelterbox
The nonprofit delivers boxes of supplies to families of up to 10 people. The boxes contain a tent and essential equipment to use while individuals are displaced or homeless. To donate, call 941-907-6036 or go to shelterbox.org.

U.S. Fund for UNICEF
The national committee for UNICEF is responsible for the organization's fundraising. UNICEF uses the money for health care, clean water, nutrition, education and emergency relief. To donate, go to Unicefusa.org or 1-800-4-UNICEF.

World Concern
The organization lifts people out of poverty, beginning with disaster response and ending when families can live sustainable lives. To donate to its relief effort, go to Worldconcern.org or call 1-866-530-5433. You can also mail checks to 19303 Fremont Ave. North, Seattle, WA 98133. Please specify that the check is for "Haiti Disaster Response." Money will go toward water supplies, shelter, blankets, distribution of food and long-term needs, such as job training, education, loans and home construction, among other projects.

World Food Programme
The food assistance agency's main focus is to fight hunger worldwide. The organization is working to bring food to Haiti. To donate, go to wfp.org.

Yele Haiti
This organization, founded by Wyclef Jean, creates projects to improve the quality of education, health, environment and community development in Haiti. To donate to to its Haiti relief efforts, go to yele.org or text YELE to 501501 to donate $5.

Other organizations seeking donations:
• Clinton Foundation
• Map International
• Medical Teams International
• Operation Blessing International
• Samatarian's Purse
• Project MediShare
• United Nations Foundation
• World Health Organization
• The Tyler Perry Foundation

YEAR IN REVIEW

The year 2009 was amazing for Dawn’s Angel Wish Network! Thank you Angels!! You have blessed so many people, through this outreach effort that it would be impossible to measure the impact. I am truly thankful and excited about all the wonderful things God has in store for the network this year.

This month is dedicated to a “review” of what you accomplished in 2009 and to thank you all so much for your participation in this ongoing effort. My prayer is that the network continues to grow in 2010 and that more people can get “connected” and blessed on an even greater level. We are adding some new things to the network this year; working on a new look, blogtalk radio show, Facebook presence (Twitter too!), and focusing on helping connect businesses to “community needs” through offering sponsorship packages.

But what I am most excited about is the clarity God has given. More than ever He wants people to feel that they have HOPE. That is the point of identifying people in need and connecting them with resources…the resources serve as a vehicle for HOPE. And YOU bring those resources…in fact, you ARE those resources. When you examine the word “resource” you can see that it implies re-connecting with “source”. That “source” is the God-spirit in each and every one of us. Unfortunately, we all experience events in our lives, which cause us to feel as if we have completely lost our connection with our source. Technically, it is impossible to lose our connection, we really only lose our awareness of the connection. But life certainly has a way of sometimes making us feel as if it has been severed. And it is for this purpose that Dawn’s Angel Wish Network exists. It is a way…one way that can be used to help people find their HOPE again.

When you respond to one of our network requests, you help someone regain HOPE and feel reconnected to the divine source. That is why you are called angels or “God’s messengers”. You deliver this message of restoration beautifully. I thank you.


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Here is what you have done to help people find HOPE in 2009 through the network:

January Wish: Let’s Bless our Elders

Cards, letters, gifts, etc. rolled into the network to lift an elderly woman out of depression. She had just received word that she would have to stay in a nursing home indefinitely. Your gifts, cards, and letters brightened many of her days. One “angel” even came out to read to the woman every week to lift her spirits. The woman started inviting other residents to enjoy the weekly readings. Pretty soon, the “angel” was reading to more than twenty nursing home residents on a weekly basis. In addition, two local churches began to have services at the facility twice a month. Now, the woman who suffered from depression is one of the strongest residents in the place and works hard to encourage others!




February Wish: The Angel Sings
A young lady with an incredible gift was featured on our network. We placed a sample of her talent on the blog and asked you to respond. Notes of encouragement came in all month and she was encouraged to take her musical talents to another level. She is working on her CD as we speak. Look for music from the great Nikki Sumlin coming soon! And remember you heard her first right here! ☺

March Wish: Connecting People and Job Resources
With the economy in shambles, the network offered resources to many to help them find jobs. We received numerous messages and calls saying how much these resources helped. Also, the economic crisis inspired the creation of a new blog called Become Light! where I posted my personal story of leaving corporate america and shared the lessons learned. As a result, I was invited to speak in various venues this year. This afforded me the opportunity to meet even more “angels” and grow the network. Become Light! is being revamped this year to include stories from a variety of aspiring and established authors who wish to spread their own messages of hope, encouragement and inspiration.

April Wish: College Students Ministry
In April, the network featured College Students Ministries (CSM), a 501c3 organization that partners with state colleges/universities throughout Ohio to deliver spiritual encouragement and toiletry care packages to students in need. Thank you to all angels who helped raise money and awareness for this cause. Dawn’s Angel Wish Network will feature CSM again in 2010.

May Wish: A Kidney for Tiffany
Tiffany Douglas is in need of a kidney transplant. Her story was featured on the network. Many people responded with cards, letters and encouragement. But there was one “angel” who wanted to be her kidney donor. This “angel” is currently in the last stage of testing to determine if she will be a definitive match. Please continue to keep Tiffany and her family in your prayers.





June Wish: In Search of Community Angels
We made the request to find “unsung” people in the community that deserve recognition. Thank you for taking the time to send us information on some of these extraordinary people. We will be highlighting them this year.

July Wish: The Angels Coalition
The Angels Coalition is a unique artistic outreach effort designed to restore hope to distressed communities throughout the United States and beyond. The angel artwork acts as an “army” of positive angelic messengers sent to deliver love to those in need through the power of visual imagery. The wish for July was to help us raise awareness for this cause. Thank you angels for all of your support!

August Wish: Mother’s Assisting Mother’s: Back to School
Mother’s Assisting Mothers (M.A.M.), Inc. is a non-profit Christian outreach organization, serving mothers with Multiple Sclerosis. Supported by the National MS Society (Ohio Buckeye Chapter), the organization’s mission is to provide support, resources, mentoring, training, and empowerment to families increasingly stressed by this disease. Thank you to all the angels who helped raise money, school supplies, and awareness for this cause.

September Wish: A Need in Kenya
The Living Rock Church in Kenya requested to be featured on our network in September. The network angels sent in SO MUCH stuff!!! OMG! ☺ In fact, we just collected the last of it. We are now in the process of finding resources to help us ship the bibles, clothing, books, etc. to Kenya. This outreach effort has been so successful, we are considering making it bigger in 2010! More on this in the coming months.



October Wish: Project RISE
Project R.I.S.E. (Realizing Individual Strength Through Education) is a collaborative effort by Akron Public Schools, local shelters, and the community to provide supplemental educational services to children and youth who are experiencing homelessness. Thank you to all the angels who helped raise money, school supplies, and awareness for this cause.

Special thanks to our FIRST BUSINESS ANGEL SPONSOR www.TheWaterForYou.com. YAY! ☺ This company is “walking the talk” of making community a priority! Not only have they displayed support of Dawn’s Angel Wish Network and Project RISE, but also through providing education to help people get healthy and stay healthy. A thriving community of people cannot exist if its people are sick. Get new water, get new life! Visit their website, or call (877)891-1350 to try this product for free. You will be amazed at the results!

November Wish: Angels Coalition
The Angels Coalition movement was featured twice this year to continue to raise awareness. Have you ever put up a picture in your living room to change the atmosphere? This is what the Angels Coalition is doing by putting up life-sized images of angels in distressed communities. It’s a symbol of hope! For more information on the Angels Coalition movement, go to www.angelscoalition.com. Thanks angels for all your support!!!!!

Special thanks to our business angel sponsor www.reallygoodgraphics.com for helping to raise awareness for this cause. This company is dedicated to doing great things in the community!

(Pictured: Tobin Buckner, Pres./CEO Really Good Graphics and Allison Russell, Angelus Gallery)

December Wish: Hope for Families in Need
The network partnered with AMHA/Edgewood Village to adopt two families in need for Christmas this year. The angels responded with ALL the items (needs AND wants) on each family’s list and then some! WOW! The families were so surprised and grateful for all you have given. Thank you for sharing your love. That’s what its all about!

Special thanks to our business angel sponsor www.tracywashington.com. This company is dedicated to helping those dealing with grief/loss and is doing great things in the community!

(Pictured L to R back row: Milistine Tatum, Program Mgr. (Edgewood Village), Tracy Lewis, Case Manager (Edgewood Village), Dawn Mitchell, Tracy Washington, (front row) Monya Blackburn, Quen Dix, Monique Grissom)

THANK YOU ALL FOR SUPPORTING DAWN'S ANGEL WISH NETWORK!!! Looking forward to connecting MORE people and resources in 2010!!