Charities – 100 + Women Who Care Motown

November 2, 2023

A group of dedicated individuals who have been touched by individuals with Down syndrome.

Gigi’s Playhouse offers direct educational, therapeutic and purposeful programs to individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and the community. At GiGi’s Playhouse, all ages are welcome, from pre-natal to adults. The positive and uplifting environment of GiGi’s Playhouse Detroit will empower those with Down syndrome and their families to reach their highest potential.

GiGi’s Playhouse’s custom, research-based curriculum works towards advancing literacy, social skills, gross and fine motor skills, improving low muscle tone, building self-esteem, preparing for the workforce and more while fostering acceptance, awareness and networking resources for parents, siblings and the community. All programs are FREE of charge: cost will not be a barrier to achievement!

https://gigisplayhouse.org/detroit/

Ema Kim # 108

August 15, 2023

The Konnection is a Detroit-based mentoring program designed to encourage and empower youth to improve school performance and attendance. The Konnection partners with middle and high schools in underserved communities to provide resources including basic needs, enriching after-school programs, mentoring, field trips, career exploration, and travel opportunities. Our goal is to keep students excited about learning and engaged in school.

http://TheKonnection.org

Andrea Meyer # 262

November 2, 2022

Center for Success unites literacy and community to empower students in the journey of education.

We expose the future to our future generation - through mentoring by a diverse set of committed individuals,

and program partners that allow students to experience learning through hands on projects that relate to their lives and allow them to explore their interests.

We support learners on their journey by providing committed individuals to build trusting relationships.

www.center4success.org

by Andrea Meyer # 262

May 18, 2022

Mission

To build a survivor led community supporting and empowering exploited and trafficked individuals on their journey to achieving independence through services and prevention.

Vision

To be an entity for change for the exploited and trafficked individuals, led by survivors and supported by allies.

CommUNITY Focused

Sparrows are small in size, but they draw their strength in numbers and are known to be very protective, hardworking, and creative creatures. By working together as a community, our voices become louder and stronger. It is about survivors and allies standing together as a united front. It is about working with our neighbors, our local businesses, and other organizations who share our mission and vision.

https://sparrowfreedomproject.org/
by: Maureen Pittenger # 297

February 10, 2022

Autism Alliance of Michigan lead efforts to raise expectations and expand opportunities for people touched by autism across the lifespan.

Navigation
A life-long guide with professional help and answers for anyone touched by autism.

Education
Create a community with awareness and high expectations in schools and at large to prepare for a safe, successful, and inclusive life.

Employment
Maximize employment opportunities for individuals of all abilities across industries, through innovation and partnerships.

Autism Alliance of Michigan
https://autismallianceofmichigan.org/donate/

by Colette Rizik # 8

May 19, 2021

Imagine being a new mom and not having the resources to provide your newborn with basic infant necessities. During these difficult economic times, this is a sad reality for many mothers.

Helping meet the newborn’s immediate needs, Wee Help, a philanthropic program of Assistance League of Southeastern Michigan, provides infant layette kits to limited-income mothers as they leave the hospital.

All brand-new items make up the Wee Help kit: a receiving blanket, 8 diapers, 2 sleepers, 2 “Onesies”, a bottle, pacifier, washcloth, bib, baby book, and a hat knitted by members and volunteers.

Wee Help volunteers personally assemble and deliver hundreds of kits to over 20 hospitals, birthing facilities, and children’s care centers year-round.

Assistance League of Southeastern Michigan – Wee Help
https://www.assistanceleague.org/southeastern-michigan
by Cynthia Guerrieri #161

August 18, 2020

Hope Against Trafficking is a 24-month residential program that provides restorative housing and comprehensive services focused on physical, mental, emotional and economic transformation.

This dedicated housing and programming is committed to serving adult female survivors of sex and labor trafficking induced by threat, force and/or coercion.

Sex and labor trafficking has occurred throughout the Detroit metro area and continues. Most victims become entrapped between the ages of 12-14.

Many have become addicted to drugs and alcohol to numb their pain having suffered physical abuse at the hands of their exploiters. Death threats are used to keep them silent.

With no safe haven, identity or money, they lack the hope that their circumstances will ever change. Rescue efforts on local, state and national levels are ongoing and increasingly effective. Once rescued, however, many survivors face little or no options for safe housing, support and services which allow them the chance to fully recover from their trauma and rebuild their lives. This is why we are here. Women are referred to Hope Against Trafficking by local law enforcement, prominent social service organizations, correctional facilities, and street outreach programs. They are invited to enter a compassionate and disciplined community which is dedicated to their recovery and where they may acquire all of the benefits of a caring home environment, as well as professional counseling and specialized, victim-centered, trauma-informed therapy, job skill development and access to education and social services. They are supported by a team of salaried professionals and volunteers who stand by to guide and help them toward independence and empowerment. We believe that love transforms. At Hope Against Trafficking, love allows human trafficking survivors to rebuild, rediscover and rewrite the stories of their lives.

Hope Against Trafficking
www.hopeagainsttrafficking.org
by: Janna Snyder # 323

November 14, 2019

SOCH (Welcome Inn) South Oakland County Citizens for the Homeless

At SOCH/Welcome Inn we believe that a single action can make a difference in the community, and that collective action can greatly impact the world. Through the provision of life’s most basic necessities, our team works tirelessly each day to contribute their part to the greater good.

At Welcome Inn we believe that a single action can make a difference in the community, an greatly impact the world. Through the provision of life's most basic necessities, our team the greater good.

By: Dee Chandler # 199
$13,000 raised

August 15, 2019

Winning Presentation: Know Resolve
www.beyondbasics.org

KnowResolve is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting mental health and preventing youth suicides through outreach, advocacy and education.

Our Goals are to:
• Educate students about facts, risk factors, and warning signs for suicide
• Spread the word that thoughts of suicide should never be kept a secret
• Connect those who are struggling to available resources
• Promote healthy coping skills.

The SHED is a community center for teens, by teens. There will be a strong focus on the arts with music, poetry readings, storytelling, open mic nights, art and photography exhibits, classes, workshops and lessons. Support groups, workshops and drop-in counseling will also be offered, as well as restorative practices such as yoga and meditation. This is a true “Youth Driven Space” as teens have a working partnership with adults in what happens here and how it looks. The goal is to prevent suicide, build resilience and teach life skills by offering a safe space for teens to create, connect and confide – with each other, and with trusted, caring adults. We need your help to raise the funds necessary to build this important community resource for our youth.

By: Paula McClellan # 253

November 17, 2018

Winning Presentation: Beyond Basics
www.beyondbasics.org

Beyond Basics is a 501(c)(3) literacy nonprofit dedicated to one-on-one reading intervention and holistic literacy enrichment programs for students and families in Metropolitan Detroit.

Our proven methods have unlocked the miracle and power of reading and opened a whole new world and future to those who need it most.

We developed this model by partnering with principals and schools in Detroit since 2002, to work with children who were farthest behind to get them reading at grade level.

Our holistic literacy programming also engages mentors, art and writing to help students in vulnerable communities learn to read. This intervention has transformed thousands of lives.

by: Katie Nienstedt #329

August 18, 2020
Winning Presentation: Hope Against Trafficking
www.hopeagainsttrafficking.org

Hope Against Trafficking is a 24-month residential program that provides restorative housing and comprehensive services focused on physical, mental, emothional and economic transformation.

This dedicated housing and programming is committed to serving adult female survivors of sex and labor trafficking induced by threat, force and/or coercion.

Sex and labor trafficking has occurred throughout the Detroit metro area and continues. Most victims become entrapped between the ages of 12-14.

Many have become addicted to drugs and alcohol to numb their pain having suffered physical abuse at the hands of their exploiters. Death threats are used to keep them silent.

by: Jana Snyder #323

February 6, 2020
Winning Presentation: Center for Success
www.center4success.org
$10,000 Raised

The Center for Success was founded 6 years ago serving about 60 children, today their network includes 7 locations and serve over 350 students. They have grown so quickly and continue to grow because their literacy program works. On average kids have been improving their reading skills by 2-3 grade levels in only 1 year!

When Molly and Nancy arrived the Packard Plant location yesterday to present 100+WomenMotown donation of just over $10,000 to the Center for Success,the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. The kids looked relaxed, and very happy to be there. The kids have access to a computer center, a library, a resource center, and a new pop a shot game for break time.

Representatives from Gleaner’s were in the classroom teaching the kids to cook and it smelled delicious! Last week Detroit’s City Planner brought a city architect in to speak to the kids and asked them to work on ideas for the park in front of the train station. The beautiful architecture projects lined the window sills, we saw some great ideas from zip lines, to gardens, to a basketball court in tribute to KOBIE. All projects were very creative. The mentor program at the Center for Success is an integral part of the program. This is one on one time for kids and their mentor to go over skills learned, review progress and build confidence from an adult who cares about them and their future.

by: Andrea Meyer, #262

August 15, 2019

Winning Presentation: KnowResolve
https:// www.knowresolve.org
$13,000 Raised

KnowResolve is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting mental health and preventing youth suicides through outreach, advocacy and education.

Our Goals are to:
• Educate students about facts, risk factors, and warning signs for suicide
• Spread the word that thoughts of suicide should never be kept a secret
• Connect those who are struggling to available resources
• Promote healthy coping skills.

The SHED is a community center for teens, by teens. There will be a strong focus on the arts with music, poetry readings, storytelling, open mike nights, art and photography exhibits, classes, workshops and lessons. Support groups, workshops and drop-in counseling will also be offered, as well as restorative practices such as yoga and meditation.This is a true “Youth Driven Space” as teens have a working partnership with adults in what happens here and how it looks. The goal is to prevent suicide, build resilience and teach life skills by offering a safe space for teens to create, connect and confide – with each other, and with trusted, caring adults. We need your help to raise the funds necessary to build this important community resource for our youth.

by: Paula McClellan # 253

Our August 15th meeting also featured:

Henry Ford Living Donor Transplant Institute
www.henryford.com
Molly Williams # 2

Pontiac Creative Art Center
www.pontiacarts.org
Lorie Savin # 266

According to Nancy Sullivan she, along with 100+ members Paula McLellan, Marj Decapite and Kathy Walgren, attended the grand opening of The SHED (Know Resolve rec center) Upon arrival we were whisked away on a tour of the new facility by students volunteers. The 16 member SHED council consists entirely of high school students, they came up with the idea of the rec center, they raised money and they helped build the facility. The teen committee will also run the daily activities at the SHED. Teens helping Teens with mental illness and everyday struggles. These are extraordinary teens and what an honor it is to help them financially. The rec center includes meeting rooms, kitchen, on site counselors and a huge area to play music, games and to just hang out. These kids are amazing.

May 2, 2019

Winning Presentation: Mercy Education Project
https://www.mercyed.net/donate.com
$13,000 Raised

Mercy Education Project is passionate about opening doors of opportunity through education to over 250 girls and women in Southwest Detroit every year.

MEP provides intensive, one-on-one tutoring, college readiness, STEM summer camp, GED prep, workforce development, transportation and childcare assistance – guiding our ladies toward academic excellence and a fulfilling life post-MEP programs.

On Monday afternoon, Molly, Gina Forbes and I visited Mercy Education Project in Detroit for a tour and check presentation. It was a cold and blustery May afternoon and MEP was busy with students arriving off the bus, some eating tacos for a snack, others making thank you cards for their tutors since the year end is fast approaching.

Our May 2nd meeting also featured:

Sweet Dreamzzz
www.sweetdreamzzz.org
Nancy Maxwell # 182

Welcome Inn
www.sochwi.org
Dee Chandler # 199

This was the one of the last weeks before summer vacation, and an ice cream social was also set up for the girls upon completion of their tutor sessions.

Everyone looked very happy learning in a wonderful environment with so many caring and nurturing volunteers.

We saw the robot the MEP robotics team built, it looked very impressive. In addition to tutoring, MEP provides the girls/women with ACT/SAT prep, college and career planning.

So many great things are happening at MEP and 100+Women Motown couldn’t be happier to be part of educating young women in Detroit.

by: Gina Forbes, #236

February 6 , 2019

Winning Presentation: Common Ground
https://www.commongroundhelps.org
$13,000 Raised

Common Ground is a 24-hour crisis services agency dedicated to helping youths, adults, and families in crisis.

Through our crisis line and in person, we provide professional and compassionate service to more than 80,000 people each year.

Every member of our team is dedicated to our core purpose and guided by our core values.

Donations will support Common Ground’s Art Therapy Program.

by: Kathy Walgren, #151

November 14 , 2018

Winning Presentation: Connect Us
https://www.connectusmichigan.org
$13,000 Raised

ConnectUS is a stand-alone nonprofit established to fill a need for quality programming for individuals with severe multiple disabilities.

Our program is designed to provide stimulating activity for our members, as well as educational and social connections for student interns and volunteers.

ConnectUS is based on the belief that everyone has something to offer, and that the needs of one can be an opportunity for another.

Our goal is to make the connection happen.

by: Margie Burch # 293

August 2, 2018 meeting:

Winning Presentation: People for Palmer Park
www.peopleforpalmerpark.org
$13,000 raised

Palmer Park is the largest Virgin Forest (also termed primary forest, primeval forest, late seral forest, ancient woodland) in the Tri-County area,and one of only seven in the City of Detroit. In Palmer Park, there is a true Oak-Beech Climax forest and some of the oaks exceeding 350 years in age were planted by Mother Nature herself. Improvements and changes made by PFPP in the park are mindful of this, and aim to ensure that the park will become self-sustaining, protected and a treasure to be enjoyed by all for generations to come.

by: Molly Leebove # 307

May 8, 2018

Winning Presentation: Rose Hill Center
https://www.rosehillcenter.org
$13,000 Raised

As one of the nation’s leading long-term mental health facilities, Rose Hill Center in Holly, Michigan offers comprehensive psychiatric treatment and residential rehabilitation programs on 400 peaceful and serene acres.We combine our healing, pastoral environment with caring and experienced staff, effective therapeutic modalities including group and individual therapy, and responsible medication management.

by: Kathleen McInerney # 242

February 7, 2018

Winning Presentation: Fleece & Thank You
https://www.fleeceandthankyou.org/
$13,500 Raised

Our mission is to provide donors the unique opportunity to give comfort and hope to children in the hospital by creating a fleece blanket and a personalized video message.
The healing connection we foster by linking blanket makers to children with illnesses allows us to cheer them on at the starting line of their treatment journey.
Children thrive on love and acceptance. The videos that come from every blanket maker are comforting and inspiring to the child as they realize they are not in this alone;there are people on the outside of the hospital walls who care about their fight.

by: Janice Sharkey, #273

May 3, 2017

Winning Presentation: Auntie Na’s House
https://auntienashouse.wordpress.com
$14,000 Raised

This community outreach center provides a place of support and survival for those who are left unprotected by traditional government or non-profit social services. In their attempt to conform to the expectations of foundations and the criteria for government assistance, many institutions end up excluding and ignoring huge populations of marginalized people. Auntie Na simply tries to respond to the needs in her community, and maintains that “the only thing I turn down is my collar.” For her, this means supporting any and all who humble themselves to ask for her help. Her outreach program primarily supports low-income families of color, but also works with folks with developmental disabilities, those recovering from drug addiction, and those surviving domestic violence. In short, Auntie Na reaches out to all those who fall through the cracks of our broken system.

by: Sue Hamilton # 69

February 10 , 2017

Winning Presentation: Center For Success-Detroit Facility
www.cfspontiac.org
$15,000 Raised

Who We Are. The Center for Success is a registered 501C3 Non-Profit Organization committed to
impacting children in under privileged areas through our mission and to bring positive change through
after school programs, literacy, parental development courses and more.
Our Vision. To build a successful program that impacts children and parents with measurable results.
Our Mission. Empowering individuals and families to live successful lives.
Our Goal. To interface with hundreds of kids per week.
Our intention is to connect with areas public and charter schools to find students who have need.
We provide transportation to our facility and then ask the parents/guardians to pick them
up, giving us an opportunity to connect with and empower them each week.

Our February 10, 2017 meeting also featured:

Auntie Na’s House
auntienashouse.wordpress.com
Sue Hamilton # 69

Detroit Garment Group
detroitgarmentgroup.org
Karen Buscemi # 245

Detroit: Our Detroit location has been serving students since January 2015.
We are partnered with two area charter schools, Detroit Enterprise Academy and University Prep
Science and Math Elementary.
We have 42 students, 1st through 6th grade, registered for our twice weekly after school program.
Each program night consists of: a meal, group activity, literacy development with mentor support,
homework help.

Center For Success-Detroit Facility
by: Andrea Meyer #262

November 10, 2016

Winning Presentation: Baldwin Center
www.baldwincenter.org
$14,000 Raised

A group of 100+ members attended the presentation including: Dee Chandler (Dee’s 2 daughters: Vickie and Suzanne ) Kathy Walgren, Susan Solomon, Karen Rashid Balow and Sharon Pulte.The women toured the after school tutoring room, craft area and gym!
What a fabulous facility!

The Baldwin Center’s mission is to feed, clothe, educate and empower the men, women and children of the Pontiac community. We are a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization. The Center has been serving our neighbors since 1981 and currently offers more than 25 support programs that meet basic needs, offer assistance in a crisis, provide education and enrichment opportunities for adults and children, and serve as a safety net. We envision people of all ages and cultures sharing the belief that they can create and shape how they live and grow within the community.

by: Dee Chandler # 199

August 10 , 2016

Winning Presentation: The Michigan Collaborative for Mindfulness in Education (MC4ME)
mc4me.org
$15,000 raised

The Michigan Collaborative for Mindfulness in Education is a non-profit organization dedicated to making a difference in education through awareness and training of mindfulness practices.

We are growing a professional network of educators in Michigan who have a passion for cultivating and teaching mindfulness in students, families, and educators.

by: Kristin Ervin # 59

May 12 , 2016

Winning Presentation: Assistance League of SEMI Operation School Bell
Our donations will serve the Detroit Public Schools
assistanceleague.org
$15,000 raised

Clothing Distributions: Provides new school clothing and/or necessities for students: Elementary Student Shopping: Volunteers set-up a ‘store’, in designated schools on scheduled days, helping children choose a new warm coat, hat, gloves, tops, (uniforms for specified public schools), underwear, socks, hygiene kit, book, and a duffle bag. – Middle School Student Shopping: Volunteers help students shop for school clothing at local stores.

by: Cindy Guerrieri #161

February 10, 2016
Winning Presentation: Penrickton School for the Blind Children

penrickton.com/
$15,000 raised

On Wednesday 100+Women Motown February winner, Karen Kelly, Karen Balow and I had the pleasure of presenting $14,100 to the wonderful staff at Penrickton School for Blind Children.
Penrickton was established in 1952 and specializes in treating blind children who have one additional handicap such as deafness, cerebral palsy, brain damage… We were met by their amazing staff and were led around the facility meeting the children, volunteers, therapists and all who make this great organization run so smoothly. The services at Penrickton are free of charge and open to anyone of any economic level. Penrickton teaches the children and families life skills (eating, dressing personal care) as well as working to improve their cognitive and motor skills. Penrickton is nationally recognized as the leader and proponent of a concept called active learning. Through the execution of this concept the staff is encouraged to see their children continue to improve in all areas of learning. by: Karen Kelly #229

November 5, 2015

Winning Presentation: CROSSROADS of Michigan
http://www.CrossroadsofMichigan.org
$15,000 raised

Crossroads is a social service outreach agency with two locations in Detroit.

Founded in 1971, Crossroads exists to support the community at large by providing emergency assistance, advocacy, and counseling to anyone in need. Acting in partnership with many other agencies, parishes, hospitals, companies and organizations in the metro area, Crossroads offers assistance in the form of a hand-up. We work with our clients to meet their immediate needs and help them assess their situations to lessen the likelihood of future problems. Our efforts are funded by foundations, individuals, and friends who are committed to bringing hope to those living on the edge of despair…

by: Julie Mazza #99 and presented by Yolanda Turner #176

September 2, 2015
Winning Presentation: The Detroit Garment Group

www.DetroitGarmentGroup.org
$15,000 raised

Detroit Garment Group was founded by Karen Buscemi in 2012. Detroit Garment Group was started as a response to the need for business education for Michigan’s fashion community. Our programs are: FashionSpeak, a conference of networking and education that focuses on the business of fashion; Verge, a trade show and market connecting fashion brands with buyers to grow Michigan’s fashion community. And, this spring, we are launching the FashionSpeak Radio podcast to educate, share, and inspire through storytelling episodes.

May 28, 2015

Winning presentation: Vista Maria
http://www.vistamaria.org
$14,100 Raised!

On May 28 th, our May winner Claire Bernacki and Karen Balow presented$14,100 in checks and On-line donations to Mary Vogt and Ryan Ambrozaitis of Vista Maria.

The visit focused on a tour of Shepherd Hall. It is a Dorm style residence designed for the homeless who are between the ages of 18 and 24 who have aged out of the Foster care system and desire an independent living environment.

Vista Maria delivers innovative care, support, treatment and education to vulnerable youth so that they heal, believe in their worth, and build the skills needed to succeed

Thank you for your commitment!

Vista Maria
www.VistaMaria.org

by: Claire Bernacki # 12

November 6, 2014
Winning presentation: Detroit Cristo Rey High School
www.detroitcristorey.org/
$15,000 Raised

Detroit Cristo Rey High School provides excellent college-preparatory Catholic high school education, in the Cristo Rey Model, to students from economically disadvantaged families in Detroit.

The school emphasizes faith, morals and service to the community.

Through its work study program, the school fosters skills and attitudes important in the workplace, such as responsibility, determination, and respect for self and others.

In the finest tradition of Catholic outreach, we welcome families of all denominations.

With a challenging and supportive college preparatory program, we equip students with the core knowledge and competencies needed for college and the workplace.

Our ultimate goal is to enable students to gain the skills to be successful in life and the commitment to make a difference in their families, their neighborhoods, and the world.

by Mary Counihan

August 6, 2014
Winning presentation: EHM – Safe at Home
http://www.evangelicalhomes.org/InHomeServices.aspx
$15,000 Raised!

Earlier this week Karen and Nancy visited the Farmington Hills offices of Evangelical Homes of Michigan- Safe at Home and presented them with $14,500 of 100+ Women Motown checks!!

They had the pleasure of meeting staff and a former client. Heather, a staff member of EHM for three months now, was actually a former client. Heather was diagnosed with cancer of the spine in 2012 and her medical bills were so high she and her husband could not afford the necessary modifications to their home so she could get around safely during her treatments. EHM was called and came to Heather’s rescue by widening doorways, installing the needed ramp, and an Entire bathroom redo ie; grab bars, wheel in shower necessary to keep her safe.

Heather is just one of the hundreds of very grateful EHM clients.
EHM are angels from heaven for so many people in need.

Feb 5, 2014
Winning presentation: Sweet Dreamzzz
http://sweetdreamzzz.org
$14,100 Raised!

Our February 5th, 2014 quarterly winner was Sweet Dreamzzz. On March 7, 2014, the kindergarten through fifth-grade students at Detroit International Academy for Young Women participated in Sweet Dreamzzz’ Rest. Educate. Motivate. (R.E.M.) Sleep Program In addition to learning the importance of sleep and healthy sleep tips, students received a sleep kit containing bedtime essentials including a sleeping bag or blanket,nightshirt, toothbrush and toothpaste, book and more. The participating classrooms included students learning healthy sleep tips and volunteers dressed in pajamas educating K-5 students about the importance of sleep.

Our Feb 5th 2014 meeting featured:

Evangelical Homes
http://www.evangelicalhomes.org/InHomeServices.aspx
by: Denise Rabidoux #30

Detroit Area Diaper Bank
http:// www.Detroitareadiaperbank.org
by: Julie Mazza #99

The goal of the Sweet Dreamzzz R.E.M. Sleep Program is to improve the quality and quantity of sleep in at-risk children to improve their learning potential. Numerous studies indicate that lack of sleep is linked to childhood obesity, attention deficit disorder, diabetes, heart disease and other health issues. The 45-minute Sleep Program informs children on the importance of sleep in every aspect of their lives, especially in preparation for classroom learning. This program was funded by 100+ Women Who Care – Motown and 8 members were in attendance to help pass out sleep kits.

by: Jane Thomas #49 and Nancy Maxwell # 182

August 28, 2013

Winning presentation: St. Pats Senior Center
http://www.stpatsrctr.org
$15,300 Raised!

100+Women Motown Check Presentation
St. Patrick’s Senior Center, Detroit, MI.

A presentation of $ 15,300 was made to St. Patrick’s Senior Center in Detroit our August 100+ winner. Marjorie DeCapite (and her granddaughter), member Katherine Baldini (and her 2 daughters), Karen Balow (and her daughter) and Nancy Sullivan had the pleasure of visiting to present the check.

As we approached, a shuttle van filled with the senior center choir were preparing to take off for lunch and a boat ride on the Detroit River. Karen asked if before they took off if they would sing a song for us. With smiles on their faces approximately 25 seniors started singing beautifully which brought smiles to our faces for sure. Sr. Mary Watson, founder of the senior center (and still there after 40 years!) welcomed us into the 121 year old former school, which is still in excellent condition. Sr. Mary led us through the hallways filled with activity. A dance class was being held in the auditorium, a dozen women were preparing for a talent show that was to take place later in the afternoon. Down the hall was a room which included 3 pool tables and a couple of handsome gentlemen who challenged us to a game of pool (Karen and I actually hit a few shots)

Our August 2013 meeting also featured:

Camp-Casey
http:// www.camp-casey.org
by: Marina Pesserl #132

Frank Minolli Foundation
http:// www.frankminollifoundation.org
by: Karen Balow #1 and Virginia Minolli#162

.
The next room was filled with work out equipment and Ed “the Trainer” had all of us on equipment. I think Ed worked Marjorie into a sweat! Around the corner was a resale shop with a welcoming staff, a salon and much, much more. Our tour concluded with the presentation of checks to the Executive Director, SaTrice Coleman-Betts, a gracious round of applause and then a lovely lunch followed by ice cream donated by Guernsey Farms. The staff of volunteers, made us feel very welcome and right at home. Sr. Mary explained that the St Patrick Senior Center is not only a place where seniors come for activities but a community where the seniors also give back. Seniors run the classes, work at the store, serve the food, cut hair…
It is a senior community of giving and receiving, it was very beautiful to witness. St. Pats is a very deserving community of wonderful seniors focused on loving, caring and sharing.

May 7, 2013

Winning presentation: Humble Design
http://www.humbledesign.org
$14,600 Raised!

Yesterday we were privileged to have visited the Detroit home of Yvette Thompson. Yvette and her 3 children are a family sponsored by Humble Design. Two years ago Yvette and her children were homeless, but through the help of family and friends she was granted housing assistance and was able to start a home at St. Aubin Apartments. Yvette was accepted into Wayne County Community College work study program and is now able to start paying tuition and rent. Someone needed to believe in her and give her a start and she is now on her feet. For 6 months Yvette and her family slept in one bed and had a couple of lawn chairs in their new home. Yvette had heard about Humble Design and contacted them for some help.

Humble Design was there to give Yvette and her children their own beds and made each bedroom beautiful and welcoming. Humble Design also provided a soft and cozy sectional couch and a tv for the family to enjoy. The apartment feels like a home because of the lovely touches from the Humble Design angels.

Our May, 2013 meeting also featured:

Sweet Dreamzzz
http://www. sweetdreamzzz.org
by:by: Jane Thomas #49 & Nancy Maxwell #182

St. Patricks Senior Center
http:// www.stpatsrctr.org
by: Marjorie DeCapite #130

Yvette says her children can now raise their heads high because they are proud of their home and their mom! 100+ Women presented a check to Humble Design
Treger Strasberg thanked the group and said that this donation will assist in furnishing 15 homes in Detroit for well deserving families

100+ Women have made a small contribution to this hard working organization to create a brighter future for families in Detroit! Help us help Detroit Families Help us furnish a family’s future. You provide the gently-used furniture and household goods, we design and install functional and welcoming home interiors for moms & kids coming out of the shelters or escaping domestic abuse. Simple, but life-changing.

by: Treger Strasberg #60 & Lindsay Krempa #165

February 7, 2013

Winning presentation: Mercy Education Project
http://www.mercyed.net
$14,300 Raised!

Our February, 2013 meeting featured:
http:// www.ciprianochildrenstrust.org by: Nancy Sullivan #3
http:// www.hospiceadvantage.net by: Tina Smith #169

Yesterday we were privileged to have visited, toured and presented
the 100+ Women Motown checks totaling $14,100, to the
Mercy Education Project.

We arrived in late afternoon and the building was busy with learning all around, I would guess there were 20 tutors and students working very hard.

We met a volunteer from Quicken Loans who tutors a 5 th grader twice a week. Both tutor and student seemed to be engaged in the learning process and very happy to be with each other.

Our February, 2013 meeting featured:

Cipriano Childrens Trust
http:// www.ciprianochildrenstrust.org
by: Nancy Sullivan #3

Hospice Advantage
http:// www.hospiceadvantage.net
by: Tina Smith #169

Sister Maureen and Amy Amador are an amazing duo who run the day to day operations at MEP, they are doing a marvelous job. A consistent theme in the 100+ selections has been organizations that try to stop the cycle of poverty in our community! Education is the pathway to success in life! MEP is making this happen for so many wonderful women and girls! (some students are pictured)

http://www.mercyed.net by: Carol Murray #88

100+ Women have made a small contribution to this hard working organization to create a brighter future for the women and girls of Detroit! MEP thanks all the 100+ Women of Motown!
Continued Success MEP!

August 8, 2012

Winning presentation: Lighthouse Path
http://www.lighthouseoakland.org
$15,200 raised!

Time is one of the most valuable commodities that PATH provides homeless mothers and their children. Expecting these struggling women to move from the streets to success overnight is not realistic. Attaining an education takes time. Developing job skills takes time. Gaining confidence, self-respect and the ability to achieve independence all take time. At PATH, homeless women and children live in a safe, nurturing environment for two years. During those 24 months, they are given the time and necessary training to make the triumphant transformation from poverty to self-sufficiency.

by Gail Pope-Rashid/Rebecca Sorensen

May 8, 2012

Winning presentation: City Mission
http://city-mission.org
$15,100 raised!

City Mission – Break the cycle of generational poverty. Our mission is to break the cycle of generational poverty in the Brightmoor community by meeting the educational, physical and spiritual needs of children through mentoring relationships and outreach programs that make life-change possible. City Mission has labored to change the outcome of families in Brightmoor by providing tutoring, mentoring and outreach programs to at-risk children.

February 8, 2012

Winning presentation: SOCH – Welcome Inn South Oakland Citizens for the Homeless
http://sochwelcomeinn.org/
$13,100 raised!

SOCH is a faith-based organization compromised of local citizens, religious leaders, social service agency representatives, and community coalition members, united by a single goal.

We help guests who need a warm place, and a good meal, during the cold days of winter get back on their feet, and give them access to services to their homeless situation.

We love what we do. But we can’t do it alone. That’s where you come in.

Our goal is to be open 365 days a year. We invite you to find out more about what we do, who we are and how you can help .

by Sue Hamilton

Local Charities

Common Ground

Mosaic Youth Theatre of Detroit

Angels’ Place

Gigi’s Playhouse

The Konnection

A Girl Like Me Inc

E- Community Outreach Services

Center for Success

NOAH Project

Sparrow Freedom Project

Autism Alliance of Michigan

Kids on the Go

Yoga by Design

Assistance League of Southeastern Michigan – Wee Help

Build Up Steam

Beyond Basics

Hope Against Trafficking

Center for Success

SOCH (Welcome Inn)

Know Resolve

Beyond Basics

Hope Against Trafficing

Center for Success

SOCH (Welcome Inn)

KnowResolve

Mercy Education Project

Common Ground

Connect Us

People for Palmer Park

Rose Hill Center

Fleece and Thankyou

Wish Upon a Teen

St Vincent & Sarah Fisher Center Mission

Auntie Na's House

Center for Success-Detroit Facility

Baldwin Center

The Michigan Collaborative for Mindfulness in Education (MC4ME)

Assistance League of SEMI Operation School Bell

Penrickton School for the Blind Children

Crossroads of Michigan

The Detroit Garment Group

Vista Maria

Angel’s Place

Detroit Cristo Rey High School

Evangelical Homes of Michigan- Safe at Home

Common Grounds

Sweet Dreamzzz.

Matrix Theater

St. Pat’s Senior Center

Humble Design

Mercy Education Project

Tree of Hope

Lighthouse Path

City Mission

Welcome Inn South Oakland