The Gathering Place, with both east and west side locations, offers support to those diagnosed with cancer as well as the family and friends who surround them. Over 20 years ago, when my young children lost their father to cancer, I didn’t have a facility like The Gathering Place to turn to, so after contacting a staff member with the Children’s Program I used my $20 to purchase tempera paints for use in art therapy. Visit their website at touchedbycancer.org to see what The Gathering Place has to offer or to find out how to help support their programs.
Posted by Fran Bubley on December 19, 2009 at 10:58 am
I did my first Change for 20 on Tyler Hibinger, a little boy who had a profound impact on me. He lost his fight to cancer a little over a year ago, so I wanted to give an update on the family.
The Monday before Thanksgiving, Ty’s mom, Meg, posted a letter called “I Am Thankful.” I didn’t even try to recite it because I knew there was no way to get through it without breaking down. I encourage you to read it. (You may need to search around for it a little bit. As it is today it is on the 2nd page of her journal. As she posts it will continue to be pushed backwards). At this point in the holiday season it really makes you feel thankful for the loved ones in your life. There are many more stories on her site, and each one is so incredibly heartfelt and loving. Please take the time to read some of her entries. It’s one thing to hear me talk about this, but it is something completely different to hear it coming from his mom.
The family has also had an ornament made out of one of Ty’s pictures. The ornament is called “Over the Rainbow.” Proceeds go to the Prayers From Maria foundation.
Posted by Sarah Firestone on December 18, 2009 at 2:24 pm
My family shopped for groceries to support our church’s food pantry efforts this Christmas. Our kids helped us shop for the groceries, pack them up and take them to church. And they helped make the video. It is a blessing that we have never gone without food and we wanted to pass that same gift along to those who could use a meal this holiday season - a meal that can make a real change in their life.
Posted by Karri Szymanski on December 17, 2009 at 1:02 pm
I decided to rely on the goodness of others to fuel my Change for 20. I purchased a $20 Starbucks gift card and gave it to a total stranger so she can enjoy a cup of coffee. In turn, she will share the love and pass the card on to someone else, and the cycle will continue. My hope is that this $20 gift card will spread a lot of cheer among total strangers in line at the coffee shop.
Posted by Jennifer May on December 16, 2009 at 2:46 pm
Our goal for Change for 20 was to help children during the holiday season. We ended up not limiting ourselves to just children but all those that are in need of food and don’t have the resources to buy enough food. As you plan your holiday meal and enjoy the comfort of a table full of food, think about those that don’t have the same luxury. There are many ways you can help.
Posted by Brady Cohen on December 11, 2009 at 3:07 pm
But the truth is, times are still pretty tough. And there are plenty of folks out there who need your help. The good news is you have the power to change their lives for the better. All you need is $20, a little bit of creativity, and a loving heart. Well, okay, a video camera might be in order, too. Click here for step-by-step tips on how to make your own “change for 20.”
Posted by Gary Bostwick on December 8, 2009 at 12:23 pm
The holiday season can be a lonely time for many seniors who reside in an assisted living home. That’s why my eight-year old daughter, Gabi, and I decided to sponsor a coffee at Mentor Way Senior Center. We here happy to bring a bit of joy to the residents. Even more profound was the impact the experience had on my daughter, who learned the importance of sharing her time. A special thanks to Lynn and Mary Lou from Mentor Way who made our ‘change for 20’ possible. We look forward to seeing them all again soon!
Posted by Michelle Mulchin on February 2, 2009 at 11:57 am
I decided to use the $20 to thank the men and women who are there when we need them most. In times of trouble and despair, they are there to lend a hand, no matter the circumstances. My daughter, Bridget, and I went to the Mayfield, Ohio Police Department as well as the Medina Hospital Life Support Team and brought them treats. It isn’t nearly enough of a thank you for what they do for us year around -but to you and yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Thank you,
Gary and Bridget Dague
Posted by Gary Dague on January 26, 2009 at 10:19 am
