90 cents out of every dollar supports community services for people in need. Learn More.

90 cents out of every dollar supports community services for people in need. Learn More.


Welcome to the first edition of our e-newsletter - we hope you enjoy it!

                                          www.voamn.org

In this issue:

• Western Medical Care for Hmong Elders
• No Longer Angry, Amber Values Freedom
• Big City Temptations in a Small Town
• Finding Nothing Under the Tree

• Planning for the Future
• A Backpack for David

   Making a Difference.  Changing Lives.™                                                       November 2007
 
 
Western Medical Care for Hmong Elders
 
 
  
Second Annual Hmong Health Fair held at Park ElderCenter

Leary of western medical practices including both medical care and resources; Hmong elders found help at a health fair with translation and screenings that met their particular needs.  Learn more >
 
 
 

Making a Difference.  Changing Lives.

 
 

No Longer Angry, Amber Values Freedom

“I can take care of myself,” Amber growled in her usual angry demeanor.  “Amber” (not her real name) spent most of day on her own.  Her mom spent most evenings drinking with a steady stream of boyfriends.  Amber’s father, also an alcoholic, was in Amber’s life only sporadically.  Having no dependable parental presence made Amber sad – but mostly angry.  Learn more >

Big City Temptations even in a Small Town

Though he came from a small, rural Minnesota town, “James” (not his real name) was not immune to “big city” life challenges. Divorce, marijuana, alcohol and a lack of trust for everyone - stood in the way of a positive future. 
Learn more >
 
 

How You Can Help

 
 

Finding Nothing Under the Tree

In some homes, that is the reality on Christmas morning.  You can help fulfill the wishes of people in need this holiday season by participating in our ninth annual Adopt-a-Family event. Starting today, you, your family, or your corporate group can register to sponsor a family, a child, or a senior in need, by purchasing gifts from wish lists created by Volunteers of America of Minnesota participants.  Learn more >

 
 

Planning for the Future: Good Works and Your Money

 
 

The Five Top Reasons to Leave a Bequest

A simple, effective way to contribute funds to Volunteers of America of Minnesota is to leave a bequest in your will.  Benefit your family, your tax bill and your community.  Learn more >

 
Impact Profile: Operation Backpack 2007 
 
 

A Backpack for David

My little young man, “David” (not his real name), is eight years old and lives with his family – a single mother and older brothers.  He has been diagnosed with Aspergers spectrum disorder which causes him to have trouble with social interaction, social relationships, learning social cues and understanding language.  David is preoccupied with details and is an intelligent boy who loves video games and drama – but sometimes his behavior gets out of control. Learn more >
 
 


Karin is
Giving Back
 
My favorite project was organizing students from St. Paul Academy to help twenty families during the holidays with the Adopt a Family Program
Learn more >

 


 
Save the Date

Adopt a Family Program
You can purchase gifts from wish lists by needy program participants.
Please register by Friday, November 9

Drop off date is Thursday,
December 13


Thanksgiving Bags - You can deliver donated foods for a full Thanksgiving Dinner  to needy families before Thanksgiving.
Please register by Friday, November 2

Event date:
Saturday,
November 17

 


 
  
  
Offer Suggestions or Story Ideas



Organizational Contact:
Kim Rymer
Director of Communications
763-225-4074
krymer@voamn.org

Volunteers of America of Minnesota
5905 Golden Valley Road, Suite 110
Golden Valley Minnesota 55422

Main phone:
763-546-3242