Benjamin Rose was able to use our funding to provide a vehicle to deliver meals to the elderly. There is no way they could have done that without our contribution." They were so grateful, they put the group's logo on their van. Koyen Parikh Shah, who directs the Center for Leadership and Well-Being at Hathaway Brown School, was eager to join the group. "Part of the appeal is that the format is nimble and lean - no overhead, no infrastructure," she says. She adds, " I am always affected by the presentations, and not just for the charities that win the funding." In fact, says Brandon, "Sometimes the presentations are so compelling that members choose to write an additional check for a cause that was not selected by the group." In addition to learning about the many organizations that serve our community, members also appreciate developing their own skills in vetting and persuading others. Robin Robinson Johnson, executive director of Cleveland's Singing Angels and a Shaker classmate of Stamler's, joined last year. "What I have learned is that it's not just about the facts and figures. You need to be able to share the story," she says. " h e secret to success is demonstrating the personal impact. It's always so hard to choose - I want to give to all of them, but I have a budget." Says Shah, "I've learned to be smarter about philanthropy from watching how other women vet an organization, hearing the questions they ask, fnding out who will be savvy with the money we donate." Shaker residents Cathy Mitro and Jennifer Sullivan were prepared for this scrutiny when they were selected to present their charity of choice, Thea Bowman Center, which provides adult education, youth programs, and support services to residents of Cleveland's Mount Pleasant neighborhood. Says Sullivan, "This group is thorough; you have to know what you're talking about. When h e a Bowman Center was selected, it was thrilling, and they were so joyous. h i s is such a feel-good group. And it's always nice to network with such sharp women." At tonight's meeting, the organization that secures the group's donation is Malachi House, which provides hospice care to the homeless. Says one member, " I didn't get my f r s t choice tonight, but that's okay with me. Majority rules, and the women have spoken. I just wish I could give to them all." h e group's robust membership is a testament to the next generation's commitment to caring for our community. "Cleveland has a long history of philanthropy, but that does not automatically guarantee a philanthropic future," says Shah. "When you join forces with a group of 100 women, it deepens Members of 100 Women Who Care CLE-Eastside who have a Shaker connection include (l-r) Amy Wain Garnitz, Julie Raskind, Beth Wain Brandon, Robin Robinson Johnson, Cathy Wain Stamler, and Koyen Parikh Shah. your awareness and your impact." To learn more about the group's contributions, or to join, visit their website at 100womencle-eastside.com. SL Caring for Our Community Since 2013, the members of 100 Women Who Care, CLE-Eastside, have donated a combined $100,000 to nine area non-profits serving a wide variety of needs, including: • Welcome House The funding supported recreation for residents of homes for developmental^ disabled adults in the Cleveland area. Activities include travel, bowling, and sporting events. Thea Bowman Center The funding provided general support to The Thea Bowman Center, which is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the Mt. Pleasant community of Cleveland through adult education, food support, youth programs, and resource services. • Rose Centers The funding paid for repurposing a van for delivering hot meals to the frail elderly in Cleveland. The Rose Centers work to advance health, independence, and dignity for older adults. • Art Palace Operating funds were needed for the Buckeye neighborhood drop-in art center. Art Palace is an arts incubator to discover, support, and promote community improvement projects for residents of Cleveland and East Cleveland. • Transitional Housing Operating funds were needed for temporary shelter housing (up to 24 months) for women with diagnosed drug and alcohol problems. Services include assessment for skill development, permanent housing, and self-sufficiency. Heights Youth Theatre Funding helped move costumes and sets to a new warehouse so that the theatre could operate in a new venue. HYT promotes quality live theater that entertains audiences and educates, encourages, and inspires young artists to grow. InMotion Funds were needed for a center serving adults with Parkinson's disease and other neuro-movement disorders. Services include group therapy, research library, and group exercise classes with trained instructors. Magnolia Clubhouse This agency promotes vocational, educational, and recreational activities for adults with mental illness. The Clubhouse is a gathering place that serves as a hub of activity and training to connect adults with mental illness to prevent social isolation. • Malachi House Funding was needed to provide comfortable furnishings for residents of the home, which provides end-of-life care to the homeless, without regard to gender, race, or religion. S H A K E R LIFE | WINTER 2016 53
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