Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/566282
www.wbjournal.com Worcester Business Journal • Giving Guide 2015 5 From the Sponsors Fostering an educated, healthy, stable community U nited Way of Central Massachusetts makes a difference in our community. We focus on providing a comprehensive approach to ensuring those among us have the best opportunity for a successful life. Starting with our youngest, we ensure those from 0-5 have access to literacy opportunities and safe, high-quality early education programs. Once children are in school, United Way provides resources focused on mentors, after-school programming and school-based mental health services to make sure students have the best chance of graduating from high school. We know that children learn best when their home environment is safe and nurturing, which is why we also support programs that provide housing assistance, domestic violence support and opportunities for access to family-sustaining income with HiSet and ESOL programs. These are just a few examples of the work we have done in our LOCAL community for more than 95 years. The success of these efforts depends on the support of individuals, corporations and foundations—from local citizens like YOU—who want to see a vibrant, healthy community. This year alone, United Way of Central Massachusetts granted more than $5.1 million to organizations and programs that make a difference in the lives of more than 66,000 individuals in our area. This level of support ensures this community has the vitality and quality of life that encourages businesses and families to make their home here. The donations came from hundreds of companies that open their doors to our staff and volunteers – giving their employees the opportunity to GIVE. VOLUNTEER. ADVOCATE. Will you consider joining us this year? Companies that have made corporate philanthropy part of their business philosophy, whether through fundraising, donation drives or volunteer efforts, are truly the foundation of our community. The corporate support this community enjoys is part of the fabric of our history as well as the future of our workforce. United Way of Central Massachusetts continues to make a difference for all citizens, from those in need to those who choose to be philanthropic. We are grateful for all who support the nonprofit community by giving their resources, advocating for a cause or volunteering their time. This is how we make a difference in the lives of so many! T he Worcester Business Journal's report on philanthropy gives us a chance to express our thanks to the nonprofit community in Central Massachusetts and to showcase their contributions to the vitality of our region. As the Greater Worcester Community Foundation begins its fifth decade, we continue to focus on the fundamentals. With a mission to strengthen our community as a whole, the Foundation addresses hundreds of needs per year – some urgent, some long term, all important. Our donors build the power of more through their generosity, vision and imagination. Thank you for joining us in experiencing the joys of philanthropy as, together, we do more for our community. Our strategy continues to foster conditions that nurture families: provide access to healthy food and decent housing; integrate immigrants; and inform a citizenry that represents the community in all its diversity. As a catalyst for connections, the Foundation is a force multiplier. We bring the power of more to these endeavors – more relationships, reach, knowledge, and assets. The Power of More Tim Garvin President/CEO United Way of Central Massachusetts Ann T. Lisi President/CEO Greater Worcester Community Foundation Tim Garvin Ann T. Lisi I t is no secret that the nonprofit sector is a big part of the Central Massachusetts economy. Not only are the region's nonprofit organizations some of our top employers, but they also play a critical role in delivering services to our community. Hundreds of well-run nonprofits serve our region, and many of them have grown because they have sharpened their game and are able to deliver more value to their clients/customers. As nonprofits continue to work on their effectiveness, donors place increased scrutiny on how well their contributions are being used. In that light, we are pleased to be publishing our 6th annual Central Massachusetts Giving Guide - our largest to date. This directory aims to deliver an easy-to-read snapshot of several of our region's leading nonprofits. Not only does the guide give you the organization's mission and goals, but the publication also provides details on their top volunteer activities and list of major events, as well as individuals who serve in leadership roles. While you may be familiar with many of these organizations, we're confident that you'll also discover some new things you did not know about these organizations that are doing important work. Supporting our nonprofit community is integral to the mission of our partners in the Giving Guide, the United Way and the Greater Worcester C ommunity Foundation. We are pleased to once again be teaming up with them to produce this annual directory. Business leaders have a long tradition of giving back to the Central Massachusetts community, and you'll see the names of many of our leaders on the boards of these non-profits. Supporting our nonprofit community is not only energizing for those on the board, but also for a wide variety of companies who have made special connections with nonprofits that they support – not just with money- but with volunteer time and energy. We hope you and your organization continues our community's long-standing tradition of giving back to our nonprofit sector; it remains truly win-win proposition. n Peter Stanton Publisher/CEO New England Business Media From the Publisher