Worcester Business Journal

www.wbjournal.com Worcester Business Journal Giving Guide 2019 7 The City boasts several hospital systems that deliver first-class medical, mental health and rehabilitative care to all its patients. Commuters have more travel options. The Worcester Regional Airport has added airlines, flights and destina- tions; train service from Union Station begins at 7:00 a.m. and runs to 8:3 p.m. to accommodate those who work in Boston. Economically, Worcester is on the upswing with plenty of new construction in the downtown area and Canal District, and the impending arrival of the Red Sox minor league team promises to boost the City's visibility, reputation and coffers. Although conditions in the City are positive for the most part, there are pockets of the population that still need of a variety of services. Fortunately, Worcester is home to many non-profit organizations, dedicated to providing the best possible services and programs appropriate to their particular target audience. These agen- cies offer assistance to citizens, from newborns and school children to older adults and those with chronic illnesses and everyone in between. These nonprofits fulfill the health, education and cultural needs of a diverse population. Many of these non-profits have been in existence for more than a century. The YMCA and YWCA were established in 1864 and 1885, respectively; Ascentria, formerly Lutheran Social Services of New England, came into existence in 1872 and the Boys and Girls Club of Worcester opened its doors in 1889. These organizations continue to fulfill their missions today and play a vital role in serving the commu- nity. And through the years different needs have given birth to new organizations. While many individual organizations focus efforts on one particular issue or demographic, a couple of umbrella agencies oversee a broader range of conditions, situations and circumstances. The United Way has been helping the underserved since 1920 and continues "…connecting people and resources to improve the com- munity." And the Greater Worcester Community Foundation (GWCF), established in 1975, has taken the reins as a philanthropic leader, helping individuals create last- ing legacies that ultimately promote and support arts and culture, health improve- ment, civic engagement, elder services, housing and the environment. Regardless of the organization, each one embraces a consistent theme: partner- ship, collaboration and community involvement. Whether an organization addresses health/medical needs or works to promote the arts, they all collaborate with community partners and encourage community involvement. As the name non-profit implies, these organizations operate on shoestring bud- gets, attempting to provide necessary programs and services with very little resources. Their very existence depends on financial support, in-kind donations and volunteer manpower from community members. Not only are businesses invited to collaborate with these non-profits, but families and individuals are also asked to consider ways in which they can contribute to an organization for the benefit of the entire community. While monetary contributions are always welcomed, individuals can share so much more. Consider your particular skills and talents. Are you especially adept at organizing? Have you recently retired from teaching but want to keep your hand in the profession? Are you a master gardener eager to share your botanical expertise? Maybe you're looking to meet new people and learn new skills? Non-profit organi- zations have a plethora of opportunities they can match with different skill sets, and they are willing to train those who are prepared to learn. If volunteering does not fit into your current life stage, you can still show support by attending one or more of the numerous events held year-round. From golf tournaments and 5K walk/runs to holiday galas and beer and wine tastings, there is something sure to appeal to everyone. As Lynda Rowe, board chair for the Family Health Center, noted, "…care is part of the fabric of the greater Worcester community." n Member FDIC/Member DIF unibank.com Chris Foley President Justine M. DeNorscia Executive Vice President Michael W. Welch Chief Executive Officer New Leadership with Deep Local Roots We're here you. for Mission to serve the community Vision for the future Experience you can count on

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