CHOOSE TO CARE 2014 ANNUAL REPORT

MANY     THANKS 

2014 was a good year for us, we were able to help many more projects that were seeking shoes for the children they serve.

OUR      SERVICE

We provide shoes for the youth in need, whether it is for sports, for dancing or just having a decent pair of shoes so they can attend school.

We hope that this simple act of giving a pair of shoes to the child in need will trigger a sense of hope which will lead to greater confidence and their desire to strive to remain in school and make a difference in their lives and those around them by climbing out of poverty.  There are many children here at home and abroad who go without the basic needs, which includes not having a decent pair of shoes and this hinders them from participating in normal activities such as attending school, playing sports, etc.

                                                 

                                                          OUR     SOLUTION

We are hoping that working through Organizations such as DONORS CHOOSE that fund Teachers" projects, we will make it easier for teachers to concentrate on developing children who will bring new ideas to the table.

OUR      IMPACT

We provide shoes for children so that they stay in school continue to remain involved in activities that will help them develop and reach their greatest potential yet.

    2014 FUNDRAISING

In 2014 we had our biggest fundraiser event "Macy's Shop For A Cause".  This year we were allowed to bring our fundraising in-store for 2 days, allowing us to earn extra funds.  All of the money gained from selling the store's discount coupons to friends and families and to shoppers in store was used to fund our 2014 Projects.

     RESPONSES FROM PROJECTS FUNDED

This year we sponsored five (5) projects fro the Donors Choose organization and there were many letters from students and teachers filled with gratitude. Here is an example: "I am so grateful for your generous  donations that helped to achieve our goals in purchasing shoes for my dancers.  Some of my students have been dancing for years outside of public school,some have never taken a formal

class before and are developing their talents only within this class..." This came from Ms. Martine, the teacher.

SOMETHING     DIFFERENT

This year we began to highlight those who have supported CHOOSE TO CARE and wanted to hear from them why they do?  Each and every contributor is important to us and we value their loving support.

     OUR     THOUGHTS

We are seeking to grow and network with other Agencies providing for the youth in need and become more relevant in the lives of the children we wish to assist. We have been exploring ideas and looking for the best fit to sustain CHOOSE TO CARE so we have a greater impact.  Yet to come!

If you have any comments or suggestions, we would love to hear them.

                                                                    WITH GRATITUDE!

                           
 

SQUEEZED

                                                     
                                                    Simone is in a dark place
                                                    Pushed to the side
                                                    On far too many occasions.
                                                    Ignored while plans are made
                                                    Then presented with
                                                     "This is what we are thinking."
                                                      But the deal has already been sealed
                                                      And Simone knows that her opinion
                                                      does not count.




                                                      Yesterday was a bleak and dreary day
                                                       She had HOPES that today
                                                       Would end in a better way.
                                                       There is time yet, as morning
                                                       Lingers into noon
                                                       But as the end draws soon
                                                       Simone knows she has lost this bet
                                                       Today somber mood and dark clouds
                                                        Have met.



                                                         Another tempestuous being has arrived
                                                         Simone quickly derived.
                                                         What a clueless way to live, she thought
                                                          Each and every resident that entered
                                                          That zone
                                                          Has not learned what the sensible
                                                          Has taught
                                                          That kindness, fairness,acceptance
                                                           Always set a better tone.




                                                            So even if you are broken
                                                            And every word you have spoken
                                                            Is shoved aside as if meaningless,
                                                            You must never surrender nor digress
                                                             From the path of steadfastness.
                                                             For down that road awaits you
                                                             All the goodness you are due.



                                     So Simone, Simone, even though you are feeling
                                     SQUEEZED
                                     Someday, this senseless act will boldly say
                                     CEASED.

                                                         



ONE LOVE!


Q&A

• The poem is called "Squeezed"  What comes to mind with such a title?
• Simone is in a dark place, the verse begins.  Think about a time you were in a dark place and how did you escape?
• What word indicates that Simone has not given up?
• There is mention of the zone, to what is the author referring?
• What goodness may await  anyone who travels down the  path of "steadfastness"?
• There is a promise that Someday things will get better, is this too far-fetched, how long should Simone wait?
• Put yourself in Simone shoes while she is waiting for this selfish act of squeezing to end, what else would you do?

HIGHLIGHTING Karen, a dedicated and hardworking TEACHER

Q.  Tell a little about yourself and what you do for a living?

A.  I am a Special Education Interrelated Elementary School Teacher.  I co-teach and work with students who have learning disabilities in small groups within the regular education setting.  I prepare lessons through collaboration with third and fifth grade teachers.  I develop plans for accommodations  and  modifications based on individual deficiencies and needs of students.  I prepare and follow Individual Education Plans through parent meetings.  I have been a teacher for over twenty years.  I also have two college aged students of my own.  When I have free time, I enjoy working out in the gym.  One hour in a cycle class is my favorite activity along with the elliptical, the treadmill and a little bit of weight training.

Q.  How long have you been involved and how did you become introduced to CHOOSE TO CARE?

A.  I have been involved with CHOOSE TO CARE since 2010.  This is a vision that Paulette Weir has dedicated many hours to from the initial start up idea to where it has progressed now.  She expressed her ideas to me after her trip to Brazil, it broke her heart to see so many children without shoes; something that many of us may never have given any thought to.  She felt compelled to help as many children as she could.  That was when CHOOSE TO CARE began.

Q.  What made you get on board?

A.  Ms. Weir is passionate and dedicated to the mission of helping children with this very basic need of owning a good pair of shoes.  She has always shown traits of optimism, resourcefulness, strong-willed, nurturing and independence, just to name a few.  As a teacher I

have witnessed first hand how students feel when they are lacking just the basic items, whether it is shoes, coats, pencils, notebooks, snacks,etc it makes a difference in their motivation and attitude toward school and life in general. The need is out there so you cannot help but get on board.  It takes a village and we have to make it our duty to step up to do what we can to help the less fortunate.  There is a lot of talent out in the world that just needs the opportunity to shine.

AGAIN

It was a bright and sunny day, there was excitement in the room where lots of folks had gathered for this special occasion;Lurline Ghetter was able to secure much needed funds for her non-profit organization which provides for the youth in crisis.  It was indeed a day for celebration.  Mendacity was in and about, hugging and greeting as many people as she could reach, as if she was a politician running for office, mingling for their votes. Gwendolyn's body meanwhile, was registering trouble on the horizon, the hair on her hands was raised and goose bumps began to form.  She knew Mendacity was up to no good and out of the corners of her eyes she saw her coming her way, she was on full display for all to see as she offered help.  She was always plotting and putting on a show for onlookers.  In an instant she had become the Jolly Citizen of the world and a few minutes later she could be Miss Doldrum. This has been her game and Gwendolyn had caught on to all her moves.

Gwendolyn reluctantly gave over the placemats and Mendacity had haphazardly placed them on the table.  it was not to Gwendolyn's likening but she left them as they were and under her breath she muttered,"even in this simple matter she cannot follow directions."  All throughout the celebration,Gwendolyn continued to think about what was unfolding.  Mendacity was happy as a lark, laughing uncontrollable, in stitches, even when there was not anything funny happening. Gwendolyn recognized that nervous laugh, the one that was the loudest, the one that lingered on; even when others just smiled, her grin seemed to have been pasted on.  A tell tale sign that that Mendacity was up to something and what could it be this time.

Everyone was enjoying the spread. The couscous mixed with dried tomatoes and spinach, hit the spot; the roasted squash soup was delicious to the last drop and Rosemary had made a beet salad to die for.  The bread pudding, her favorite dessert, was calling Gwendolyn's name but instead she reached for a cup of masala chai tea, the warmth she hoped would help to put her mind at ease. As she sipped she moved her body to a familiar jazz beat, the combination of music and tea kept her relaxed, if only for a moment.

Another chance encounter days later was met with a welcoming greeting, Mendacity and her half smile that seemed to say "I bet you don't know what is in store for you?" The day got creepier and there was black clouds surrounding Mendacity, at least that was what Gwendolyn saw.  She began to feel weighed down and her evil deeds from the past, just kept haunting Gwendolyn.  Then she received the news, Mendacity had once more notified authority that Gwendolyn had stolen her gold locket, given to her by her dear aunt Floss.  The deposition added an accomplice this time, Farrah Howard who along with Gwendolyn stole this locket from  right under her eyes when she was showing it around.  She had accused Gwendolyn some years ago of taking her diamond ring but this could not be proven and she resurrected AGAIN with false nonsensical accusations.  This is the third time and Gwendolyn was fed up.  She knew and always said that Mendacity was not yet done with her but she still could not figure out what she was after.

                                            Who is this person
                                            with her polluting ways?
                                            Tell me world,how much longer will this be?
                                            What gives an individual the right
                                            To keep chipping away at my soul?
                                             Isn't there anyone to stop her?
                                             Why does this evil continue to lurk?
                                             She worms her way into your life
                                             Gets in your skin and settles in.
                                             And no matter how many times
                                             you pull her out
                                             She crawls right back in.
                                             AGAIN, AGAIN & AGAIN
                                             It is as if this leech cannot be tamed.
                     
                                         
                                             But this time, your weapon
                                             has become too dull
                                             And the soul you have axed
                                             has gathered lots of strength.
                                             You are on your own cyst
                                             There is nothing to feed on
                                              No sympathy, No caring
                                              You have sapped the supply dry.
                                              And now you must move on
                                              Never to cross this path AGAIN.


                                                                                                        Brawta





Q&A

1. Why is Gwendolyn so suspicious of mendacity's friendliness?
2. Explain "Jolly Citizen of the World" & "Ms. Doldrum"
3. The evil person is called cyst,explain.
4. How significant is the title AGAIN & it's usage 3x together in the poem?
5. The soliloquy seemed to give an ultimatum, what is the writer saying?
6. What do you think is Mendacity's problem?

                                           

MEET LILLE - THE CARETAKER OF MANY

Q     Tell a little about yourself and what you do for a living?

A     My name is Lille(pronounced "Lily").  I have been an active staff member for the last six years  with the Neighborhood WIC Program which is run by a nonprofit organization known as Public Health Solutions.  I hold a position as a Community Service Aide aka C.S.A. in one of it's center located in Astoria,Queens.  My main duties involve ensuring perspective participants access to the WIC benefit services and providing them with exemplary customer services. I would describe myself as a person who is upbeat. I try not to let little things in life get to me.  I am known for my positive attitude at work.  I am also looked to for information.  People know they can come to me with these problems and that I will listen and try to do what I can to solve them.  Anybody who has worked with me would tell you that I am a fun person to be around.  I also know when to be serious and when it is important to focus on what I am doing. I am hard working, well organized and a balanced person who enjoy

my work and my surroundings.

Q     How long have you been involved with CHOOSE TO CARE?  How did you become introduced to CHOOSE TO CARE?

A     I was inspired by a dedicated Choose To Care supporter since the fall of 2008 until present.  I became an instant active and dedicated member when my co-worker and I were shooting the breeze about what thanksgiving meant.  We connected in our belief that to make a difference in your community through charitable activities require dedication and diligence.  When I was given a brief synopsis of the mission, it sounded like a worthy cause and indeed it is.


Q     What made you get on board?

A     My wholehearted beliefs in the goal and purposes of the mission of this organization awakened my inner spirit and gave me the strength to spread the word.  I was very impressed when I visited the website by the various and diverse individual human experiences.  My dedication and and sincerity to help others less fortunate swayed my decision to be supportive for the worthwhile mission of Choose To Care.
                      "There is no exercise better for the heart
                        than reaching down and lifting people up."
                                                                John Holmes

MEET MERLYN

Merlyn is a dedicated Choose To Care volunteer who continues to give her support year after year.
We are forever grateful!

Q.     Tell a little about yourself and what you do for a living?
A.      My name is Merlyn.  I am a Nutritionist at Ridgewood WIC Center.  I like to help others and provide them with services and support that they need in order to make healthier changes, one step at a time.  My greatest reward is when they return and tell me about the changes they have made.  I know that I have made a difference for many people.
Q.     How long have you been involved and how did you become introduced to CHOOSE TO CARE?
A.     Over the past three years, I have been involved with Choose To Care.  I was introduced to Choose To Care by Mrs. Paulette Sinclair-Weir.
Q.     What made you get on board?
A.     I decided to join Choose To Care because it is a way of giving back and making a difference in some one's life.  I hope it will help them to see that others care about them and their needs.  With my efforts, I hope that this will let them know that when life is rough, sometimes it can get better with support and comfort.  I come from a family that enjoys giving back to others.  My mother used to give her food away and she was satisfied that she prevented someone from going hungry.  I feel that other people should come on board and help a great cause.

REVIVAL

After the disastrous  fishing boat accident the idyllic Farmland was left idle for months.  The proprietor, Ms. Josephine, decided that the sadness had lingered long enough and she began to take the helm to bring back this farm to its productive state.  The Reverend McMillan had recruited the men who used to stand idle at the corner. He knew it would take a lot to show them the ropes and  build their confidence but  this was going to be a big part of his ministry in Ridge Hill, he could not afford to have them slip back to their old pattern of holding up the corner in the square.

"Leila, Leila" Grannie Madelyn's shrieking voice could be heard throughout the valley.  Although she did not work outside the home, she said it was important for her grandchild to learn to cook; so two times per week , Leila started her lessons under her grannie's watchful eyes.  She made sure she used the right pinch of seasonings, sliced the potato the right way and used the correct measure of oil, because greasy food was not tolerated in Ms. Madelyn's kitchen.  Leila was caught by surprise, her grannie must have returned home early because she had told her she was going to visit a few of her friends and Leila had watched her wrapped her coconut tart and pound cake, tying the goods in two bags as she said, this would guarantee freshness.  Ms. Madelyn had crowned herself the baker of the village and no one would be able to wrangle that from her.  It did not matter that there were women who knew their way around the kitchen far better than her, no one was brave enough to break this news to her.

Leila was still wearing her school uniform and she had not started her homework as yet.  She had decided to while the time away with her best friend Ramila, the granddaughter of Ms. Josephine and the late Mr. Bancroft James, who with the the other men, died in that awful and mysterious fishing trip accident. Leila shouted back " I am coming grannie" as she quickly said goodbye to her friend.  They had gone down by the river which runs in the back of Farmland. Leila knows that her grandmother did not want her to fall in the same trap as her mother Darlene who had her at a young age.  Grannie had began watching her like a hawk because she thought Leila was blossoming too fast and should not be playing too much with Ms. Nita's good for nothing boys.

Leila and Ramila were inseparable and when they were not in school they would go by the riverside.  Legend has it that someone from the village had been carried away by the swift current, way up the river.  The people of Ridge Hill have sworn that they hear his cries for help ever so often. Most of the villagers stay away out of fear and so this became a private getaway for the best friends.  They usually choose the shallow area and sit on the big stones that  jutted  out of the river.  One of their favorite pastime was to throw pebbles that made circles in the water.  Two innocent schoolgirls who talked and talked forever and when they were tired of running their mouths, they would pick the plums from the trees around the riverbanks, that were laden with the sweetest plums this side of the valley. They would eat a bellyful and then drink from the refreshing water that sprung from between the rocks. Today these two adventurous young girls ventured too far up the river, the mangrove trees and shrub grew so thick, that it would cast a dark shadow that send a shiver, raising bumps on their arms.

 They turned back to their favorite stone, where the sunshine shone so brilliantly, through the tall and slender bamboo trees.  They had fun looking at their reflections in the river.  Nature had built this little hideout to perfection.  They jumped from stone to stone on the step-like formation in the shallow part of the river. Leila noticed that Ramila was a bit somber and badgered her friend until she told her what was making her so gloomy.  Apparently, Linette the school yard bully had pulled Ramila's hair and blurted out"I know why that fishing boat accident happen, there is a curse in your family and other things will happen, you watch and see."  They both cried in remembrance of the men and they cried because what if  mean-spirited Linette was telling the truth? They lost track of time and that is when Leila heard Grannie Madelyn's call, the voice that told her she would not escape her wrath. She should have been home starting supper.

The neighbors could hear Ms. Madelyn's bellowing voice.  They would be peeping over fences, through the zinc hole and makeshift bamboo walls that separated some of the houses.  It was as if it was a call for theater time.  As Leila ran down the hill, she saw her grannie, hands akimbo waiting for her in the middle of the yard.  Leila blurted out loudly, "what is the curse?"  "Where did you hear that from?" as she shoved her inside out of the ears of all the busybodies.  Her plan had worked, for whatever Ms. Madelyn had in store for her, it would be done in privacy. Ms. Madelyn did not answer Leila's question instead she wanted to set her plans in motion, baking up a storm for the upcoming revival. She had nominated herself the head cook and planner for this upcoming well needed week long thanksgiving to awaken the good spirits in Ridge Hill.  Leila will have to wait for the answer to her burning question. After all this is Ridge Hill, the village of beauty and secrets galore. A revival will do the village good.