Philanthropy – volunteers and nonprofits
Her Job Helps Kids Be Just Kids
Lily Raphael is program manager for a nonprofit organization that has a soft spot in my heart, UpSpring. If you are unfamiliar, each year UpSpring removes barriers in the way of classroom and life success for more than 3,000 Greater Cincinnati youth experiencing homelessness. The 
organization recently wrapped up a very successful school supply drive. Being a part of it, getting to see firsthand the impact of so many generous volunteers and donors on young people, and just working everyday around students showing such fortitude in the face of truly difficult circumstances has been life changing for Lily. She shares some of her thoughts below.
“Working with young people is so inspiring and energizing. I love that my work challenges me to create, think quick, and problem solve, and that each day is different. I also love working for an organization that creates environments and experiences for kids to just be kids. Due to the trauma and challenges that children experiencing homelessness face, their living situation often asks of them to act more like adults, causing their childhood to be accelerated in some ways but then unlived in other ways. For me, this work has taught me the importance of consistency and stability, and how easily it is taken for granted by people who have it.”
About the School Supply Campaign
“One of the highlights of our campaign regarding our donors and volunteers is how many people got their children involved in supporting this effort. All in all, around 25 kids assisted with filling backpacks at donor and volunteer backpack stuffing events. When kids learn about the work we are doing and the effects of being homeless as a child, it is so powerful to see their willingness and enthusiasm to help out. After all, some of the kids we serve could very well be their peers, and we feel that is really impactful for kids to realize this.
Since the need was much higher than we anticipated this year, I was initially concerned about being able to fulfill all the requests we had. But we did it, and we certainly have many people to thank for that. Through amazing individuals and groups coming together to lend their support, we were able to make sure that every request we had was met, ultimately serving more than 1,100 children experiencing homelessness this season. It feels really good knowing that we didn’t have to turn anyone away. Delivering the resources was a great opportunity to connect with our partners. I was so happy to hear from them how helpful all these resources are for the families and children they serve. I even had the opportunity to deliver directly to one of the families whose children were in our Summer 360° program. Since we don’t typically meet the families we provide resources to, I appreciated being able to connect personally with the grandmother who shared some of what her family’s experienced with me. As she discussed how important education was to her family, I admired her determination and selflessness in ensuring that her grandchildren could continue to go to school in spite of their living situation being in flux.
For the recipients of these resources, this effort is a huge help. Back-to-school season involves so many expenses, none of which can really be cut out. With extra support for uniforms, transportation, and school supplies, parents are able to meet the requirements for their kids’ schools. And ultimately, this ensures that the children we serve do not have to miss out on (or be singled out during) those critical first days of school because they didn’t have what they needed.”
Kathy Wade Inspires Through Art
On a corner of Over-the-Rhine, down a long hallway and behind glass doors, there is a place where imaginative ideas take shape. Hanging from the two-story lofted office space are whimsical characters and brightly colored banners. Two of the corners of the main meeting space include a piano and a banquet sized table with dozens of children’s books displayed on top.
This is the home of Learning Through Art, Inc., a Cincinnati nonprofit organization that has benefited over 1 million people with its innovative cultural arts programs aimed to increase opportunities for collaboration, arts education, artistic grown, community engagement and economic development.
A few of its programs are:
Books Alive! For Kids, a four-time EMMY nominated, national award-winning, performing arts literacy program, that makes books come alive through sight, sound, and touch with phenomenal success. Targeting Pre-K through third grade, readers experience interactive, hands-on activities aligned to the new national Common Core Standards.
Mosaic Entertainment programs that bring arts education programs to students and faculty through lectures and performances.
Kathy is a twice EMMY nominated producer and award-winning international jazz entertainer who was twice voted Best Singer by Cincinnati Magazine. She and her nonprofit received the Cincinnati USA Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Joseph P. Dabney Award for Diversity; and, in February, 2014, Kathy was voted resolution from the City of Cincinnati Council for more than 20 years of dedication to engaging, empowering and educating our global communities.
Lisa: You have such an incredible passion for lighting that spark in young minds. Was there anyone or an experience in your childhood that inspired you?
Kathy: At home my parents surrounded us in Jazz. I picked up on the music and began to imitate the instruments and voices I heard. In school, Ms. Flowers, my second grade teacher, sparked so much for me with her enthusiasm to teach and our making her proud to learn. Reading was always important in our house, so books were my friends and stories my vehicle to travel anywhere. My grandmother was a published children’s author who was very influential. Proper English, reading and education were the norm growing up.
Lisa: When was it that you knew you had such a love for the arts and creative expression?
Kathy: I have always had an interest in performing. From pretending to do commercials in our basement in front of our new washing machine to taking the required dance and flute (selected instrument) lessons. I always saw a creative solution to problem solving, but the summer arts enrichment activities my mother enrolled me in were by far the moments where my creativity was truly inspired.
Lisa: How did you get started pursuing ways to teach and engage through the arts?
Kathy: While working and waiting for my star to ascend as a Jazz entertainer, I decided a good sign of success is performing at your alma mater or any school. I had an idea for what is now A Black Anthology of Music, a lecture performance now known as Edutainment, about the history of Jazz and learning the importance of ‘finishing what you start’. What started out as a Black History Month assembly at old Washington Park Elementary became the foundation of Learning Through Art, Inc., ‘to augment the dwindling arts in schools.’ Once I discovered performing arts used as a method of teaching could turn on the light for learning, my late husband, Dan Jenkins, and I co-founded the non-profit 501c3 organization dedicated to building community through art inviting kids of all ages to …”don’t just learn… experience.”
Lisa: You are doing so many innovative programs and activities through Learning through Art, Books Alive! being one of them. What are the plans for expansion of this program?
Kathy: As we plan for our 25th anniversary, we are working to expand distribution of Books Alive! For Kids® in schools, communities and homes with our book boxes and backpacks. We are particularly excited to expand The Big Read: Books Alive! For Kids® Family Literacy Nights empowering parents and caregivers to engage their children to read. The nights promote family/parent engagement while taking the mystery out of how to engage your child to read making them lifelong learners. Each child takes their backpack home with them which includes the book at the end of the literacy night. We look forward to sharing The Big Read: Books Alive! For Kids® Family Literacy Nights across the country.
Our next program Books Alive! For Kids® Emerging Authors will provide us a platform to introduce new authors, their book, which LTA will publish and create Books Alive! For Kids® collateral program materials. This will give Learning Through Art the seamless production of all the materials from book to box or backpack contents.
Lisa: What is the greatest satisfaction you receive from the work that you do?
Kathy: Seeing the light of learning turn on in a child’s eye; watch the interaction of parents and caregivers when working with their children during family literacy nights; providing access to institutions whose admission cost may be prohibitive for many families and individuals; seeing neighbors meeting neighbors while learning about other cultures through music, crafts, dance and animals from around the world; knowing you can make a difference.
Lisa: What is a personal challenge you have overcome in life? What are lessons learned?
Kathy: Moving forward after the sudden death of my late husband who was such an integral part of the founding and shaping of Learning Through Art and my life. Taking one step at a time; building collaboration and support; Breathe!
Lisa: What is some advice you would give to others about pursuing their passion in life?
Kathy: When you pursue your passion you will become your best you.
Lisa: What is something about Kathy Wade that people may not know?
I have had the pleasure of performing the National Anthem for then candidate and now President Barack Obama three times. Amazing to be part of the country’s history.
For Jeff Stone, It Is More Than A Job
I’d like to introduce you to Jeff Stone, a direct care professional for Stepping Stones, a Cincinnati nonprofit whose mission is mission is to increase independence, improve lives and promote inclusion for children and adults with disabilities. Jeff began working at Stepping Stones as a summer camp counselor in 2012, and quickly added more responsibilities before joining their team as a full-time direct care professional at in 2014.
Each year the organization honors one of its employees who exemplifies its mission, and Jeff was this year’s recipient.
These are some of things his co-workers had to say about him.
“One only has to work with him for one day and you’ll see the care he puts into his second family at Stepping Stones.”
“This job is so much more than a job to him. His passion is inspiring and I love working with him.”
“He is one of the most selfless, compassionate and dedicated staff I’ve ever had the privilege to work with.”
Let’s get to know more about him.
Lisa: Please tell us about your job, what you do as a direct care professional, how long you have been at Stepping Stones, and what you enjoy most about your job?
Jeff: I have been with Stepping Stones for about four years. I started as a unit counselor at Camp Given in 2012 and have worked several Saturday Kids Clubs and Young Adult Clubs throughout the Fall and Winter. This is my third year at our UCP Campus as a direct care professional. One of the best things about being a DCP is understanding how rewarding it is to be in this field. At Stepping Stones we help individuals find pathways to independence. We offer several activities here for the participants such as, Art, Recreation, Continuing Knowledge, Technology (Computer Lab), Sensory, Life Skills, and Employment Exploration for those who are interested in finding a job some day. I also offer assistance with personal care (feeding, toileting).
I love my job because every day is different and I learn something new. There are many amazing people here, staff and participants and I have made some great friends. I love seeing the participants every day and having fun. I love making them laugh and making their day better. And I especially love making a difference in people’s lives.
Lisa: Tell us about Fred (pictured with you) and your relationship with him.
Jeff: I would have to say that Fred is one of my best friends. He is such a funny person and is loved by so many. We always have a great time together every day because we make each other laugh. Fred is extremely smart and always cares about the other participants. He is always wanting to help me throughout the day and even letting me know if I miss something. He is very observant. Another thing I admire about Fred is his patience. Even when I am having a rough day, he understands and is always trying to make me feel better. If I need him to wait for a little bit, he will and not complain about it. Being with Fred for quite some time, I’ve noticed that he loves art. He will sit and paint if I give him a canvas using several different colors. Fred also loves nature, especially birds. I can relate that to him because my mom was a birdwatcher and has shared with me her experiences and knowledge of birding. I can show him a picture of a Cardinal and he will know what that is. Fred even just finished painting his very own birdhouse not too long ago. I know for a fact though that one of Fred’s favorite things to do is laugh because you can always hear it no matter where you are in the building.
Lisa: How have you grown as a person as a result of the people whom you work with?
Jeff: The people I work with bring a whole new view on those with disabilities. A long time ago where I didn’t understand someone having a disability, I would try and avoid them because I had no idea how to approach them. My parents had to tell me that they were “special” because they also did not know how else to explain it to me when I was that young. Today, I can tell anybody that individuals with disabilities are people just like us. Maybe some of them might need our assistance in doing some things but they have rights too and should never be denied doing something they enjoy. I honestly feel like a whole new person due to my job and also feel like a better person too. I have a lot more patience, I understand situations and views better, and respect those other people who work with individuals with disabilities.
Lisa: What is a piece of advice or words of wisdom that you have received that has stuck with you?
Jeff: One of the most important things that has stuck with me is “CCF” or Campers Come First. In this case now it is “PCF” or Participants Come First. We should always try to help them first and not think about ourselves, even when we are doing something we don’t want to do. If we are watching a movie, a staff member should not pick something that they want to see only because they like it. The staff and participants should communicate and agree on what movie to watch. If a staff member has a rough day and they just do not feel like being there one day, they can do several things to calm them down (take deep breaths, take a 5 minute break, exercise after work). Staff should always remember that they should make sure the participants have a good day because it’s for them. We assist them, make friends, and should work to know them better every day.
Lisa: Who is someone who has been an influence in your life and how?
Jeff: I have met so many people and have made so many friends here at Stepping Stones. There have been several people who been an influence in my life but someone who has always stood by me no matter what is Amanda Kay. She was my boss back when I was a part of summer camp and is my boss now here at Stepping Stones/UCP. Amanda has a love for the people she works with and has helped me get to where I am today. She messaged me out of the blue asking if I wanted to interview for a job at the adult program in Norwood because I was recommended by several people. I’m really glad I did and got a job here. I can definitely call her a fantastic boss, a role model for others, and a friend.
Lisa: Outside of work, what are some of your simple pleasures?
Jeff: I love the city of Cincinnati even though my heart will always be in Cleveland (GO CAVS!!). I love going out with friends downtown and Newport, going to concerts, bowling, going Reds, Bengals, Cavs, Indians, and Browns games, kayaking, hiking seeing movies, checking out new breweries, playing basketball and football, and just being with my family. I just enjoy living life and having fun with those who I am close to.
Lower Price Hill Getting A Makeover
July 28 is going to be a big day for Lower Price Hill as hundreds of volunteers transcend on the ballfields at Evans Playground for a major renovation, the creation of a community garden, greenspace, AND a transformation of the Espy Boys & Girls Club into a youth center.
From the ribbon cutting at the 2015 Community Makeover recipient: West End: Seven Hills Neighborhood Houses, Sands School playground and Dyer ballfields
It is all happening because Procter & Gamble, the Cincinnati Reds and the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden have chosen the Cincinnati neighborhood of Lower Price Hill as the winner of the 2016 Community Makeover.
Elements of the Community Makeover will include:
- Evans Field and Playground: Upgrade existing baseball fields and park amenities
- Community Gardens: Develop largest greenspace in Lower Price Hill with natural playscape and learning gardens for children
- Espy Center: Upgrade the former Boys & Girls Club in partnership with Community Matters and Santa Maria Youth Services
Other project partners include Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and Interact For Health and partners from the community include Community Matters, Santa Maria Community Services, Community Learning Center Institute, Bloc Ministries, Cincinnati Recreation Commission and the City of Cincinnati’s Neighborhood Enhancement Program (NEP).
P&G, the Reds and the Zoo’s investments in Lower Price Hill will provide significant and sustainable impact, including reducing operating costs and energy usage and investing in the long-term development of the community and its residents.
To learn about needed donations and how you can help, please contact the Reds Community Fund at 513-765-7231 or CommunityMakeover@reds.com.
P&G and the Reds Community Fund have partnered for the Community Makeover since 2010 and the Cincinnati Zoo joined the partnership in 2013 and brings a wealth of experience in horticulture, sustainable design and maintenance to the projects.
The goal of the annual program is to choose a neighborhood renovation project that improves local youth baseball and softball programs while making a significant impact on the community and its residents.
Past Community Makeover projects:
- 2010: Winton Place: Brandon Phillips Field and P&G Field
- 2011: North College Hill: High school field and community center plus youth field in Winton Place
- 2012: Cheviot: Memorial Fields, historic grandstand and Cheviot Memorial Fieldhouse
- 2013: Avondale: Gabriel’s Place, Hirsch Recreation Center and Hirsh ballfields
- 2014: South Cumminsville: Wayne ballfields and Millvale Recreation Center
- 2015: West End: Seven Hills Neighborhood Houses, Sands School playground and Dyer ballfields
Cincinnati Area Donors Honored
It has been such a privilege to be working with the Greater Cincinnati Planned Giving Council for the 7th year in promoting some of our region’s incredibly generous philanthropists through the Voices of Giving Awards. This year the organization honored donors on behalf of 25 nonprofit organizations whose important work is supported 
by their decision to give a planned gift (and much more in heart and time). Those Greater Cincinnati philanthropists are strengthening local neighborhoods, families and individual lives through their actions.
“Our Voices of Giving honorees have such diverse interests, often with deep rooted passion from personal experiences. They represent the true spirit of philanthropy and their gifts will touch thousands of lives directly and indirectly in our region, for generations to come. Their donations will help these important causes that are close to their hearts to be sustainable for future generations,” said Voices of Giving Co-Chair Molly Talbot, VP of Advancement at St. Ursula Academy.
Several hundred guests attended the Awards Event that was held at CET and emceed by Local 12’s John Lomax.
2016 Honorees included: (please note that honorees from two organizations asked to be left out of publicity and are not listed) Carson Smith (honored posthumously) on behalf of the American Cancer Society; Fran Cohen on behalf of CET – Greater Cincinnati Television Educational Foundation; Joe and Sandy Dominiak on behalf of The Children’s Home of Cincinnati; Thomas Ernst Huenefeld on behalf of Cincinnati Museum Center; Digi France Schueler on behalf of Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park; Mary Rose J. Zink on behalf of Cincinnati Public Radio; Mace Justice on behalf of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra; Dr. Steve and Diane Dumbauld on behalf of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden; Patricia Armstrong on behalf of the CISE Foundation; Doug Spitler on behalf of Episcopal Retirement Services; Richard Hildbold (honored posthumously) on behalf of the Freestore Foodbank; Jerome and Suzanne Teller on behalf of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute and Isaac M. Wise Temple; Val Schube on behalf of Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation; Rick and Julie Kantor on behalf of the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati; Rev. Dr. Joseph and Blanch Graham on behalf of Life Enriching Communities Foundation – Twin Towers; Donald L. Neyer on behalf of Life Enriching Communities Foundation – Twin Lakes; Lawrence Klosterkemper on behalf of Mount St. Joseph University and Roger Bacon High School; Jerry W. Warner, Ph.D. on behalf of Northern Kentucky University; Bill and Helene Sedwick on behalf of People Working Cooperatively; Margaret ‘Tuck’ Fraser (honored posthumously) on behalf of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Cincinnati; Ursulines of Cincinnati on behalf of Saint Ursula Academy; Lisa O’Brien on behalf of United Way of Greater Cincinnati; and Dan and Julie Murphy on behalf of Xavier University.
Please click the link to read the honorees’ brief bios: 2016 Voices of Giving honoree bios
The Greater Cincinnati Planned Giving Council is a professional association for people whose work includes developing, marketing, and administering charitable planned gifts for non-profit institutions and a variety of other legal and financial settings.
