A week or so ago, our daughter mentioned that one of her favorite bands was going to be in town for the South Sound Block Party this Friday, August 25, and Saturday, August 26. Trying not to feel my age, I started asking some questions about the event and learned that the official nonprofit partner is 4 the Love Foundation.
4 the Love Foundation was founded in 2021 by community leaders Tessa Effland and Nicole Andres, out of a shared vision to strengthen the community by helping neighbors in need. Effland and Andres recognized the power of collaboration and united their efforts and resources to create a powerful network that provides a soft landing for those facing hardship.
Joined by six dynamic, passionate women, their team is committed to filling essential gaps and addressing the challenges that exist in Thurston County. According to Charli Terminelli, Communication and Media Coordinator, 4 the Love Foundation expresses their mission as “With a singular, unwavering goal, we stand united in our mission: In Unity, We Rise! Together, through acts of love and kindness, we strive to elevate and empower all members of our community, shaping a brighter, more equitable future for Thurston County."
4 The Love Foundation encourages everyone within their network and beyond to join in this community aid endeavor to make a transformative difference, one act of love at a time.
Recently, 4 The Love Foundation partnered with another local nonprofit, Together!, to support a Thurston County family in need. According to the 4 The Love Foundation’s Facebook page, “a mother was battling chronic illness, overwhelming medical debt, and the inability to seek employment. Together! reached out to us (4 The Love Foundation) and we were able to gift this mother a much-needed wheelchair. This combined effort shows the power of collective action and kindness”.
“With the unwavering support of our community, we extend a helping hand to those confronting challenges such as homelessness, domestic violence, and the aftermath of natural disasters,” says Terminelli. “We offer essential items to those lacking life's basics. Recognizing the profound impact of overall assistance, we've stepped in to purchase vital medical equipment for those unable to bear the expense”. However, there are other expenses that the group may cover. “We understand the significance of connectivity in today's world, so we work to settle cell phone bills for those in distress.”
Let’s talk turkey. 4 the Love Foundation has truly embraced the spirit of giving by providing over 4,000 turkey dinners during festive seasons and ensuring that the magic of Christmas reaches foster kids by purchasing and delivering gifts to them.
In addition to meeting the urgent needs of individuals and families, the group also provides for the future. “We recognize education is the cornerstone for future success, therefore we sponsor tutoring sessions for students within Thurston County,” says Terminelli.
The 4 the Love Foundation thrives due to the joint efforts of various businesses, organizations, individuals, and schools. According to Terminelli, the community’s unwavering support is the backbone of the organization’s sustainability. “The abundant compassion of Thurston County often leaves us in awe, and we sometimes overlook expressing our gratitude,” says Terminelli.
The partnership with other organizations to host the music block party is one such activity. “We also will be hosting an annual community gala to generate funds for our cherished community,” says Terminelli. “Moreover, to bring families closer, this year we took part in hosting a mini-triathlon, cornhole tournament, live music sessions, and food truck gatherings—all to celebrate the radiant spirit of Sally Otton, (a Tumwater resident who passed away in 2022). We will continue our service together. We challenge you to join us as well as encourage you to reach out if you are in need or know someone in need. In UNITY we RISE.
For more information, visit their website www.4thelovefoundation.com to learn more about how you can contribute to their cause. “Whether it's volunteering, donating financially, or participating in upcoming events, your involvement matters and helps us create a better future for all.” Says Terminelli.
4 the Love Foundation is teaming up with Team Tomorrow to host the South Sound Block Party and volunteers are needed for a variety of tasks on Friday, August 25, and Saturday, August 26. For a complete list of tasks and times, click here. If you would prefer to just listen to the music, follow this link for ticket information.
The 2023 Fall Gala and Auction benefiting Family Support Center of South Sound will be held on Saturday, September 16 in Olympia. This is the organization’s largest fundraising event and for it to be a success, they need volunteers. According to Keyla Cea-Benites, Family Resource Services Navigator, there are a number of shifts to choose from and they are also able to work with your schedule. “We ask that you sign up to help with the 'Event Support' that you stay the entire time” says Cea-Benites. For more information contact Keyla at keylacb@fscss.org or follow this link to the volunteer page.
Soliciting your ideasIf you know of a nonprofit that is doing something great, celebrating a success, needs some outstanding volunteers, or hosting an event, let me know! This column (aside from a little education) celebrates nonprofits! Mary Beth Harrington, CVA (Certified Volunteer Administrator) lives in Tumwater. She travels the country speaking at conferences and to individual organizations articulating issues facing nonprofits. Send your ideas to her at MaryBeth@theJOLTnews.com |
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