Hands4Hope

Youth Volunteer Spotlight: Emily

2012-02-24T10:34:00.002-08:00

Emily got involved with Hands4Hope about 2 years ago, after hearing about the organization from her dad, who joined the Hands4Hope Board of Directors. Soon after getting involved, Emily jumped head first into helping develop the Hands4Hope Club at Oak Ridge High School. Last summer, she joined 13 other teens from other high schools at the Hands4Hope Leadership Retreat in Coloma.

“My experience at the Leadership Camp was really unique,” she said. “I was one of the younger ones there and I didn’t know any of the members. We were all from different grades and schools, yet everyone was so welcoming and motivated.” Emily said the camp helped her feel ready to help lead the Oak Ridge Club.

Emily said the interaction with those she serves is what makes her experience in Hands4Hope so special. She realized how special it was after the first time she volunteered. “I was volunteering at Green Valley Community Church and had never experienced anything like it before. I wasn’t just handing out food and clothes to people, I was having conversations with them. Some would thank me, and I thought, what am I even really doing that deserves such a heartfelt thanks? I had given up one Saturday morning, and by doing so, I was helping families have food on their table.” Emily said she wasn’t new to volunteering, but her experience with Hands4Hope is unique. “The biggest difference in Hands4Hope is how truly hands on it is. I get to see the faces of the people I am helping, and honestly, that makes it so much more inspiring.”

Emily said being a part of Hands4Hope has taught her a lot about herself. “I’ve come to realize that some of the best rewards from helping others come from seeing all the little things you do come together to fulfill a great cause. Not every act has to be recognized to be meaningful. I’ve learned that once I start something, I definitely intend to finish it. Dedication is one of my core values.”

Emily loves volunteering with Hands4Hope, and definitely doesn’t intend on stopping any time soon. “There is so much to give and gain from this experience. I have met all of the people involved with Hands4Hope and it’s members (and leaders) are so dedicated and compassionate.. In one of our Team Inspire Meetings, we were all commenting on how we just can’t believe Jennifer (Bassett) does it all. She really is a role model and hero.”

“It feels great volunteering with people who care about each other and the community,” she said.

Emily, we appreciate all you do with Hands4Hope. Thank you for being such a dedicated volunteer!

A Unique Youth Partnership

2012-02-24T09:36:00.001-08:00

On a chilly December afternoon, local youth from the Hands4Hope youth outreach organization congregated in front of the WIND shelter in Sacramento. Equipped with layers of fleece, the youth entered the shelter, eyeing the place with admiration.

There were teenagers everywhere, playing their instruments, talking amongst themselves, and ultimately having a good time. The walls were decorated with art and inspirational quotes made in graffiti lettering.

The Hands4Hope youth started making blankets for the youth at the WIND shelter, and the WIND kids began to help. Although awkward at first, soon the youth from both organizations worked together and started enjoying themselves, engaging in small talk and starting to form acquaintances.

Events like these benefit the youth at WIND many of whom were and some that still are subjected to life on the streets. Hands4Hope helps the organization frequently, making blankets and providing meals for the WIND youth. On Friday, March 2, 2012, you can help too.

Hands4Hope youth will be holding Spaghetti Feed Fundraiser at Lakehills Church in El Dorado Hills to benefit the underprivileged teens at the WIND shelter in Sacramento. The event will be from 5:30 to 8:30pm and will cater to kids and adults alike. Tickets $12 per adult and children 6 and under are Free. Spaghetti will be served along with salad, garlic bread and lemonade. There will be a dessert auction and raffle and two youth bands will provide entertainment, one from Oak Ridge High School and one from Wind Youth Center. Seventy percent of the proceeds will benefit youth at the WIND shelter in Sacramento. Thirty percent will benefit Hands4Hope’s Team Inspire (high school group) and their local outreach projects.

Attending the event is a great way to learn more about and help Wind Youth Center, www.windyouth.org. Wind is an organization that houses and serves homeless teens. According to the organization’s website, their mission “is to engage youth experiencing homelessness who need safety from the streets and access to resources to help them move from crisis to healthy functioning and independence.” In the past year at WIND, over 100 youth were provided a safe place to sleep, 19,754 meals have were served, 237 youth were engaged in life skills classes, and 179 youth have received advocacy services. The center in Sacramento has classrooms, computers, a music room, showers, and a kitchen to house the WIND kids and ensure a successful life for them. Each youth who stays at the shelter even gets a youth advocate to help them get plan goals and provide assistance. The proceeds from the spaghetti feed event will help sustain the organization and cater to their needs.

-Written By: Samita

Twin Lakes Food Bank Visit

2012-01-26T12:04:00.000-08:00

Last Tuesday we went to visit the Twin Lakes Food Bank in Folsom and were welcomed by the director, Tammy. She informed us about the program she is running. Everyday, Twin Lake's trucks pick up the extra food from Raleys, Whole Foods, and Savemart and then re-use it for the needy families in Folsom and our surrounding areas. The people in need are welcomed any day of the week from 9-12:30 and Tuesday nights from 4-7. Those families are provided with a months worth of groceries, clothes, purses, and anything from diapers to shaving cream. Twin Lakes usually gets around 70-80 people per day. This program holds a huge event on Good Friday every year where they give over 600 families an Easter dinner bag and Easter baskets for the kids. Thanks to the community, Twin Lakes is able to provide such a great service for the families. Anybody is able to donate their goods, so don't forget to drop off your used clothing or extra groceries at anytime!

While we were there, it was surprising to learn how many people use this food bank in our area. Families are dependant upon this bank for their groceries. We have never had to worry about running out of food for the month. Many hours of hard work are put in for these people to have fresh milk, produce, and eggs everyday. The organization is run by dedicated volunteers that inspired us. Twin Lakes Food Bank opened our eyes to poverty going on around the corner and how easily it is to jump in and help.

During our visit, we were able to capture a few shots of this outstanding organization.

-Lindsay Lee and Audrey Hayden

Oak Ridge High School Seniors

MLK Day is about serving others...

2012-01-25T13:03:00.000-08:00

Martin Luther King Jr was an important man who taught others the importance of equality and helping others. Every year, Hands4Hope likes to do our Homeless Outreach on this Monday to participate in celebrating him and his teachings!

Our volunteers put together more than 200 sack lunches filled with bean burritos, chips, a cookie and a piece of fruit to feed the homeless. Then, we all carpooled down to Sacramento to feed those who were hungry.

"An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity."

~Martin Luther King, Jr.

Youth Volunteer Spotlight: Dylan & Sam

2012-01-25T12:01:00.000-08:00

Dylan (left) and Sam

Brothers Dylan & Sam started volunteering with Hands4Hope to fulfill school requirements, but quickly learned they love being a part of Hands4Hope and getting out in their community.

12 year old Dylan says Homeless Outreach Sacramento is his favorite event to volunteer at. "I was kind of scared at first but then I liked talking to them. It made me feel happy because they're funny and special," he said. "[Being on the street] has taught me not to judge or make guesses about people," he said. "Some people are born into this but I don't need to judge people, I just need to help them."

10 year old Sam says he also loves the Homeless Outreach, the Food Bank Blitz, but recently he had a unique experience at our Winter Boutique. "One time while I was sorting clothes, I saw a kid from my school come in [to receive free assistance]. It made me realize kids at my own school didn't have enough money for clothes," he said. "At first, I wasn't friends with him, but now I have a better understanding about him."

Both boys said volunteering has made them realize how fortunate they are. "I love volunteering, it teaches you to be more generous and compassionate," Dylan said. "I never realized I could make a difference, but little actions can make a big change."

"I thought it was normal to have a house and family, and now I have realized not everyone does," said Sam.

Both boys have spent at least one weekend a month volunteering, and both say they are happy they got involved with Hands4Hope.

"I certainly hope I volunteer forever... it just teaches you to be a better person," said Dylan.

Thank you for all you do, boys! We are so happy to have you on our Hands4Hope team.

New Year's Neighborhood Food Drive

2012-01-03T10:21:00.000-08:00

The demand for food has increased an alarming 40% in the last two months... and this is on top of the increases over the last two years!

In mid-December, Tammy, the director of the Twin Lakes Food Bank which serves Sacramento, El Dorado and Placer Counties, put out a plea for soup, cereal, ham, and prayers. The food they received from the Kids Can school drives, which normally holds them over until February, was gone, their shelves emptying quickly.

In response, Hands4Hope, with the help of many of our incredible families, threw together a New Years Neighborhood Food Drive to help get food back on the shelves... and WOW! We made a big difference in a very short time!!

Hands4Hope volunteers passed out grocery bags with a note explaining the needs on doorsteps through out their neighborhoods. On January 1st and 2nd, they revisited the homes and collected the bags of food filled by their neighbors.

In total, volunteers collected 2,134 pounds of food.

Enough to feed 215 families!!

{The Twin Lakes Food Bank truck after just one day!}

Tammy from the food bank sent a text message thanking our volunteers...

"OH MY GOODNESS! That's a whole lot of food!!! It's amazing what kids can do. They are shining examples."

"It was heartwarming to see the generosity of our neighbors and watching my girls pull the overflowing wagon up and down the hill. They were able to be involved from the start to finish of this project and felt very proud. I want my daughters to know that they can make a difference by helping others even at their young ages. We look forward to helping out again soon!" - Megan, mother of H4H volunteers

"I am so glad the food drive was such a success. It is amazing to see how many of our neighbors wanted to help! There are so many great people in the world!" - Jan, mother of H4H volunteers

"I am so proud of all of you! I'm proud of the way you took hold of this last-minute drive with an excitement and eagerness to help those in need and made it a huge success. I'm proud of your willingness to ask your neighbors to support this effort. I'm proud of the way you took time out of your busy holiday schedules to make this happen. It truly makes me beam with pride when I tell people what our young volunteers have accomplished. The power of our youth is endless and spectacular!"

- Jennifer Bassett, Founder/Executive Director of Hands4Hope

Thank you to our volunteers and community members who helped make a difference!

Gifts of Mercy Dinner

2011-12-28T10:25:00.000-08:00

Gifts of Mercy is a holiday dinner serving families in need who live in a local Mercy housing development.

Many of our volunteers baked cupcakes and donated them for this event. We also had our volunteers help greet and serve our guests. Thank you!

Here is a letter from the organizer of the event:

"Dear 2011 Gifts of Mercy Volunteers,

Thank you again for your time and talents in making the 5th Annual Gifts of Mercy event a success and blessing to the residents and children of White Rock Village. It was a memorable night for all! We had approx. 80 volunteers who helped setup, coordinate, cook, make desserts, take photos, decorate, serve, sort and distribute gifts. There were over 160 children who received Christmas gifts and we served 225 meals."

Thank you volunteers!

Together, we helped make a difference for many families this holiday season!

Homeless Outreach Sacramento: Cookies, Cards, & Cocoa

2011-12-28T10:14:00.000-08:00

December was such a busy month for our volunteers, and one of the events that filled up with volunteers very quickly was the Homeless Outreach in Sacramento with the cookies, cards, and cocoa theme.

Our volunteers worked with youth from WIND in Sacramento decorating cookies and writing cards to take out to the streets for the homeless. With more than 600 cookies, 200 holiday cards and lots of cocoa, they made the holidays a little brighter for more than 200 hundred people.

Thank you to all of our volunteers who donated cookies, decorating supplies, and items to distribute! It was a very fun way to get into the holiday spirit of giving.

Winter Boutique in Town Center

2011-12-28T09:54:00.000-08:00

Many families are in need of warm clothing, pajamas, and undergarments like underwear, bras, and socks.

This December, our volunteers organized and set up our 2nd Annual Winter Boutique in Town Center. Invited were Foster and Kinship families, along with others in need, associated with local Hands4Hope partner agencies. They were all invited to come inside and shop for free.

Many of the items from our boutique were collected during our Warm & Fuzzy Drive, and others were private donations made by the generous people in our community. Our racks and tables were lined with thousands of items, and the people who came to pick them out were very grateful.

The boutique was open for two days serving the people in our greater community, but it boutique took about 4 days for our volunteers to set up.

Thank you to our wonderful volunteers (including the Marina Village Middle School Club) who helped make this happen.

Many families in our community were very grateful.

Youth Volunteer Spotlight: Olivia

2011-12-23T10:18:00.000-08:00

{Olivia is on the right}

Olivia started volunteering for Hands4Hope 3 years ago after being recruited by family friends. Since then, she has become very involved with the organization and with the Marina Village Middle School Club.

Most recently, she helped plan and coordinate the Winter Boutique in Town Center for families in need to shop during the holidays. "It's really cool because you get to know the people and families who come in," she said. "Everyone is so grateful and kind." While working the boutique she said she pick out clothes and assist a family with a little boy who she will always remember. "I met a foster boy named David and he was being fostered by a good family. He was so cute!"

Olivia says her favorite volunteer event ever with Hands4Hope was the Sacramento Homeless Outreach for the holidays. "I loved going down to WIND and making cookies," she said. "We had a lot of time to talk and really get to know the less fortunate people. I had some great conversation with them."

She says working with the homeless has made her realize a lot. "Homeless people are like us and they need care just like anyone else," she said. "(Doing this) opens your eyes and makes you realize how much you have and how often people take things for granted."

Olivia says she is grateful for Hands4Hope. "I've changed a lot and it made me a better person. I get to come up with my own ideas and do them."

Olivia has recruited many of her own friends and says she loves spreading the word about the organization. "I like everyone that I have met and I like that Hands4Hope is youth based and we get to go out and help the community while spending time with our friends."

Thank you for all you do, Olivia! We are so lucky to have you.

Youth Volunteer Spotlight: Kory

2011-12-07T15:58:00.000-08:00

Kory started volunteering with Hands4Hope in 2010. His first event was Homeless Outreach in Sacramento, and he said the event surprised him. "I've done other volunteering before, but Hands4Hope is very direct," he said. "It was much different than what I expected because it was hands on and we got to meet the people we were serving and they ended up helping us get set up when we arrived. What's most shocking are the people with out the basic needs."

Kory has been a key player in getting a Hands4Hope club started at Ponderosa High School. He attended the high school leadership retreat in Coloma for three days in August. "This is my first time being involved in a leadership role and it has really helped me with public speaking and becoming more out going," he said.

"I really enjoy it and I believe high schoolers can inspire the next generation." The Ponderosa H4H club has grown quickly and is off to a great start!

Kory said another event he really enjoyed was the blanket making party he attended with some of his friends. "I liked making them for people, especially during the winter months."

Overall, Kory said volunteering has been a positive experience. "It has really made me more empathetic, I know I can't relate but I understand," he said.

"I have learned a lot of people in our community need help and it's great to make a difference," he said.

"I think Hands4Hope is successful because it's direct and we're doing something from both sides. I believe youth can have a big impact on our community"

We are so grateful for you, Kory!

Volunteer Spotlight: Kimberly

2011-11-28T15:35:00.000-08:00

Hands4Hope is very fortunate to have Kimberly as one of our dedicated and hard working adult volunteers.

Kimberly got involved with Hands4Hope as it was becoming a non profit and has since spent tireless hours to help develop, lead, and fundraise for our programs. She is the Secretary for the Hands4Hope Board of Directors, and has been a key volunteer for the Haunted House and many of our outreach events.

She says she's always had a desire to volunteer. "I did it in high school and I always wanted to do it with my kids," she says. "As a family it helps us stay grounded and feel thankful for what we have."

She remembers the first time she and her kids volunteered to collect toiletries for the Warm & Fuzzy Drive in 2008. "My kids were asking me why we were collecting toilet paper and I had to explain to them that some people can't afford it."

"My favorite event is Homeless Outreach because my kids get to see not everyone has enough to live." she says. "My daughter Hallie asked why we just can't build them all a house," she says, "but handing out the items from the Warm & Fuzzy drive at least lets us fell like we can do something."

Kimberly says her family has done many memorable things by volunteering with Hands4Hope. "It makes us grateful to be a family because so many people don't have one."

Kimberly says she's happy to see youth getting involved in the community. "Hands4Hope has helped me fulfill my passion for volunteering. I am glad to do it in our community. It's non denominational, and kids of any age can participate. I am grateful to do it and pass it on to my kids."

Thank you for all you do, Kimberly! We appreciate all of the valuable time you spend to help make Hands4Hope what it is!!

2011 Haunted House A Success!

2011-11-16T17:41:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pictures from the Hands4Hope Haunted House. It's the biggest fundraiser we put on and our volunteers have the best time.

For 3 months - volunteers (youth and adult) build and decorate our elaborate Haunted House. Each year (this was our second year) the theme changes, and the characters and props inside change too. This year - those who dared visited The Haunted Saloon!

The majority of all of the items inside are donated... and all of our live "characters" inside are youth volunteers. It is so much fun to see it all come together... and the kids have a great time scaring the poop out of our visitors on their 5 minute journey through the saloon. During the 3 weekends we were open, our Haunted House had more than 3,000 visitors!

Our youth and adult volunteers spent thousands of hours making this happen.

Each night - about 25 different youth volunteers were dressed up as characters to make the haunted house scary...

They did an awesome job and it was so much fun to be there and watch the visitors come out!

We got so many wonderful reviews... and most importantly, we raised a lot of money to support our community programs and youth outreach activities that support the great mission of Hands4Hope.

Written By: Tracy Lesher, Communications Coordinator

Painting The Gracie Bus

2011-11-09T10:41:00.000-08:00

Winter is just around the corner, and already, our temperatures have dropped.

Each year, many people in Placerville are left to freeze on the streets. This year, our youth helped paint a donated bus to help transport these people back and forth between shelters and keep them warm.

It was painted with lots of love!

Thank you volunteers!

Many people will appreciate the hard work and love you put into painting this bus this winter.

Blanket Making Party

2011-11-08T10:36:00.000-08:00

Each winter, many people in our community can't afford to stay warm.

Our youth are doing their part to try and help!

They hand made (with love) more than 70 blankets... we made a difference, and it was fun!!

These blankets will be distributed at our outreach events in Placerville & Sacramento.

Thank you volunteers!

Sponsor A Blanket for our Warm & Fuzzy Drive

2011-10-29T10:31:00.000-07:00

Our Warm & Fuzzy Drive is going on NOW!

We are collecting new and gently used items to keep people in our community warm.
All sizes appreciated – Infant through Adult XL
{no summer clothes please}

Most Needed:
Sweatshirts, Sweatpants, Pajamas, Adult Socks, Blankets, Sleeping Bags

Also Needed:
Warm Pants, Long-Sleeve Shirts, Sweaters, Hats, Gloves, Scarves

Greatly appreciated:
Gift Cards to Payless Shoe Source, WalMart & Target

Accepting Donations At These Locations:
Oak Meadow Elementary School (NOW thru Nov 4)
Marina Village Middle School (NOW thru Nov 4)
Oak Ridge High School (Nov 1 – 11)
William Brooke Elementary School (Nov 7 – 18)

{Donations may be dropped in large blue bins outside school offices or in collection boxes inside classrooms.}

Sponsor a hand made blanket made with love by our youth.
The cost is $12 for supplies.
{We accept all major credit cards}

This year, we are running low on supplies for our blanket making. We would love your support!

Sponsor 1 Blanket – $12.00

To Sponsor... Click here!

{These are our youth making blankets last year!}

Youth Volunteer Spotlight: Andrew

2011-10-28T13:44:00.000-07:00

Andrew has been a very important part of Hands4Hope since it began.

"My mom (Jennifer) started Hands4Hope because she wanted to teach my brother and me to appreciate all we have," he said. "At first, I had no choice whether I wanted to volunteer or not, but after doing a couple events, it started making me feel like I am important and making a difference."

Andrew said Hands4Hope has made him appreciate more about his life and the things he has to be thankful for, including his mom. She has taught him quite a few things since starting Hands4Hope. "I'm really glad my mom started this. She's always wanted to make a difference and she taught me that when you set your mind to something, you can achieve it. I'm proud of her."

Although he loves many events, he said working at the Green Valley Community Church Kid's Cafe is one of his favorites. "There is this little boy that comes that I have really connected with," he said. "I feel like I am a role model for him because he doesn't have any older siblings."

Feeding the homeless has made him realize the importance of doing well in school and staying away from drugs. He also said it made him feel more connected to the community. "A woman came up to me and said 'it's because of people like you that make me want to keep on living'. I will never forget that."

"I'll always be a volunteer," he said. "Life is different for me because of Hands4Hope. I've been enlightened and have a lot more gratitude because of it."

Andrew has volunteered countless hours setting up and working the Haunted House. "I love it," he said. "Building it has been awesome!"

Thank you, Andrew, for all of your hard work!!

Youth Volunteer Spotlight: Nicole

2011-09-28T09:03:00.000-07:00

Nicole started volunteering with Hands4Hope in 2008 when the organization began.

When she first got started, she says she was a little nervous. "I didn't know how to react, or what to say," she said. It's a step out of your comfort zone, but "I hope to see more people in our community take the steps to make a difference," she said.

Nicole likes helping those in and around her community. "I love seeing a direct impact on our local area," she said. "I think a lot of other organizations make a difference around the country, but we help people who live around us."

Nicole says her favorite volunteer event is the Sacramento Homeless Outreach. "I love going down there because there are no other agencies, we are just directly helping people that we serve."

"I remember there was this little family, a woman and her children and all of their belongings fit into a shopping cart," she said. "They were so thankful to get basic toiletries and I remember thinking, we have a whole house, and all they have is a shopping cart."

Nicole says Hands4Hope has offered her a unique experience in her community. "I've made friends with people from other schools and made connections with people who have the same interests as me."

She says Hands4Hope has taught her a lot about life. "I've learned to appreciate everything I have and the people in my life," she said. "It's also taught me that I have the ability to make a difference if I am willing to work hard and put the time in."

Nicole has worked very hard to help create a Hands4Hope Club at St. Francis High School. So far, more than 130 students have taken an interest in seeing what the organization does! "Being a part of Hands4Hope gives me a sense of belonging and thankfulness and I think others want to feel that same way."

Thank you for all you do, Nicole!

Food Bank Blitz - Fall 2011

2011-09-19T11:10:00.000-07:00

Our Fall Food Bank Blitz 2011 was extremely successful!

Thank you to all of our fabulous volunteers (almost 200 of them!) who came out and spent 2 hours of their weekend collecting food, gift cards, and cash to help feed the hungry in our community! The generous people in our area helped us raise...

$8,480 in cash in gift cards

and

3,861 pounds of food

Volunteers,

Twin Lakes Food Bank would like to say an Extra Special "THANK YOU" to the HandsHope Youth. This Food drive ROCKED! We weighed in 2,661 pounds of awesome food. As you can see in this picture (below), the actual "shelves" were getting bare and these baskets of food poured in with perfect timing!

This was another grateful week at the food bank with lots of smiles on the parent's faces and even some giggles were heard from the kids when they saw the extra special goodies and juices!!!

Hands4Hope made a difference in the lives of over 132 families this week and the weeks ahead. Way to go! :)

In Joy,

Tammy

Director at Twin Lakes Food Bank

Thank you!!!

Youth Recognition Dinner Slideshow

2011-09-12T16:28:00.000-07:00

At the end of August, we had our annual Youth Recognition Dinner! It was a fabulous event to recognize our amazing youth who dedicate their time to volunteering with our organization.

Our founder, Jennifer Bassett, led the night as we honored some AMAZING youth!!

Here is the slideshow from that night... pictures from the dinner are coming soon :)

{you may have to click on the video to take you to our Hands4Hope YouTube Channel}

Youth Volunteer Spotlight: Brayden

2011-08-21T12:23:00.000-07:00

Brayde started volunteering with Hands4Hope a little more than a year ago. He is a 5th grader at a local Elementary School.

Brayden said the Homeless Outreach events are his favorite. "I guess it just makes me feel good to know I am helping other people," he said. "It makes me realize that a lot of people don't have food, clothes, and shelter like I do."

He also said he likes the Homeless Outreach because it's fun. "I like cooking and making food and knowing it's going to a good cause."

When Brayden was asked what volunteering with Hands4Hope has made him realize about his own life, he said it makes him grateful. "We are lucky to do a lot of things like go on vacation, have Birthday parties, read books, and play lacrosse."

He also said it's changed his outlook. "If I want something and I don't get it, I have learned not to feel mad because some people don't have food."

"I try not to ask for too many things or be spoiled. I feel lucky to have food, clothes, and shelter to live in."

Brayden and his family have been great volunteers with Hands4Hope and we are so lucky to have them!

How YOU can make a difference!

2011-08-04T20:12:00.000-07:00

Here is a message we received from a director at the Twin Lakes food bank. If you are considering signing up to volunteer at the Food Bank Blitz on September 10th, here is where your hours of service pay off!

Dear Hands4Hope volunteers,

"We are always grateful for the Hands4Hope food drives including gift cards and the monetary portion.

We log in our gift cards and here are the examples we were able to use from the last event:

1) Senior Citizen recovering from Cancer and going through Chemotherapy has a list of special food items her Doctor will allow her to eat. We are able to assist her monthly with a gift card allowing her to buy special Soy Milk, Wheat products, and special vitamins.

2) A mom with 2 teen boys-1 boy just had a brain tumor removed. He is recovering very nicely. He is at home and needs home schooling. We are able to help the mom buy extra food products for her son as he's growing and at home all the time. He no longer gets the hot lunch or breakfast at school.

3) A homeless couple around 30 years old, Vet served in Iraq 5 years and fiance' were able to buy them ice for 3 weeks for their ice cooler and supply them with "special needs" items for camping out at Beals Point Campground. (miracle story, he has job in EDH working for Large Company and getting a house next month)

4) We have a family and their daughter is a diabetic with special needs. We are able to provide them with grocery store cards for low/no sugar items.

5) Baby Food Baby Food Baby Food!!! We ran out at least 3 times and we were able to gather some gift cards and purchase bags of Baby Food products.

6) Gas Cards-Wal Mart/Sam's 2 emergency needs mom working and getting children to/from daycare just didn't have enough to stretch her gas for the week.

7) Mac N Cheese. We are seeing huge increases in families and have run out of Mac N Cheese 2 times. We were able to use the monetary funding for Mac N Cheese.

8) Purchased Soy milk for special Doctor's order

9) Purchased low salt food products for special diets and Dr.'s orders

10) 85 year old gentleman needed some special items and we were able to get his basic needs met.

11) Single Mom-3 kids hours have been cut and we were able to supplement her groceries for the kids.

12) Milk and eggs for the "PM" shift. We were completely wiped out of fresh milk and eggs for the Tuesday afternoon shift. We were able to purchase 30 dozen eggs and 30 gallons of milk for the families coming in to the food bank after work hours.

I just want to make sure you know how important Hands4Hope is to us as a food bank. We are very appreciative and look forward to working with you in the future."

Sincerely,

Tammy

Director

(Twin Lakes Food Bank)

To sign up for the next Blitz, click here!

Volunteer Spotlight: Kaela!

2011-07-26T12:36:00.000-07:00

Kaela has been an outstanding volunteer since 2008!

Her favorite event to volunteer for is the Homeless Outreach in Sacramento. She said her favorite part is "seeing people happy and helping them."

Kaela says doing outreach has made her realize a lot about the world. "I learned that homelessness is real. Some people really don't have a home, or food."

Kaela has encouraged her friends to start volunteering with her. "The first time I volunteered, I got my friends to come, too. We have fun volunteering together."

The first time she volunteered, it was for a school requirement, but since then, she has donated many hours of her time because it makes her feel good. "If I were in their situation, I would want help, too," she said.

Overall, Kaela says volunteering with Hands4Hope has taught her a lot. But most importantly, she says, "it has taught me to look out for other people."

Thank you so much for volunteering with us Kaela, we are so lucky to have you!

Volunteer Spotlight: Christine Klekman

2011-07-21T19:07:00.000-07:00

Christine Klekman started volunteering with her family and Hands4Hope shortly after the organization began. As a friend of the founder, she heard the information and jumped on board right away!

"Growing up, I watched my Dad serve his community in many different volunteer capacities, and I followed in his footsteps, and also made up my mind that my children would do the same," she said. "I have always told them that we are here on earth to help people and animals whenever we can!"

Christine believes Hands4Hope has had an "illuminating" impact on her family. "The effect on my kids has been eye-opening," she said. "I believe they now no longer feel they live in an entitled world and have realized that some people live differently than they do...and that's ok!"

Christine said her best advice to parents thinking about getting involved with the organization is to participate with them. "It's great because we get to do projects together as a family," she said. "Also, if your children see you doing something good to help someone else, they are more likely to follow in your footsteps!"

Christine said she has many great memories from Hands4Hope over the years. Her favorite has been watching her daughter become "empowered over youth leadership".

"I believe in this organization because it empowers youth to make things better in the community around them," she said. "Hands4Hope teaches them to become leaders, and to recognize that they are the future, and they can contribute to their community."

"I am grateful and proud that Hands4Hope is a part of our lives," she said.

Christine has also been a go-to volunteer for our founder, Jennifer Basset, through the years. We are so grateful for you, Christine! Thank you!

Food Bank Blitz

2011-07-21T13:29:00.000-07:00

Fill It Up . . . FOOD BANK BLITZ!

Benefiting our local food banks!

WHEN: Saturday, September 10, 2011 10 a.m. – 6 p.m

WHERE: In front of participating grocery stores, from Orangevale to Placerville (Safeway, Nugget Market, Raley’s, Bel Air, and Wal Mart)

WHO: Youth and adult volunteers from Hands4Hope and the community will be manning tables at each store to collect donations of food, cash and gift cards. Shoppers will be given a wish list they can use to purchase and donate needed items.

WHY: In this economic downturn, the amount of people and families turning to local food banks is steadily increasing and donations are down.

VOLUNTEER: Sign ups for the Blitz will begin shortly… stay tuned for details on signing up!!

In 2010, Hands4Hope organized two mass food drives (Blitzes) benefiting the Food Bank of El Dorado County and the Twin Lakes Food Bank. With the help of approximatele130 volunteers at ten stores each time, Hands4Hope volunteers collected a total of 9,700 pounds of food and $14,500 in cash/gift card donations.

Our September 10, 2011 our GOAL is: 200 volunteers, 5,000 pounds of food and $8,000 in cash/gift cards.

All food collected will go to local food banks. Cash and gift cards will be divided 50/50 between the food banks and Hands4Hope.

Make a difference for the hungry in our community!

For more information, please email us at volunteercoordinator@hands4hopeyouth.org

Packing boxes to send to our soldiers

2011-07-13T18:24:00.000-07:00

Today, we gathered together with members of the Honor our Troops Team and packaged all of the items and letters we collected for our troops over the last few weeks. Thank you to our amazing community for being so generous.

In total, we collected more than 2,500 items, and hundreds of cards and decorated stars for the packages. We also gave a check for more than $350 to the team to pay for shipping the boxes and items for future drives.

We are so thankful for our brave troops!

4th of July Celebration at Town Center

2011-07-11T12:15:00.000-07:00

The 4th of July Celebration at Town Center in El Dorado Hills was a big success for Hands4Hope!

We collected items & money and the community decorated stars and letters for soldiers.

{two of our youth organizers for the Soldier Care Package Drive}

It was a fun afternoon collecting!

This week, we will be gathering to package all of the items and send them off to our soldiers.

It was a successful drive and we couldn't have done it with out the support from our community!

Thank you!

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-04T07:19:00.000-07:00

Hands4Hope wishes you and your family a Happy Independence Day!

Today is about celebrating our freedom and the brave men and women who give us that freedom.

Our soldier care package drive continues through today, and we will still accept donations for the remainder of the week!

Donate!

Support our troops!

Volunteer Spotlight: Jacob

2011-06-29T14:24:00.000-07:00

Jacob's roots in the organization run deep, from the very beginning. He's spent much of his time since 2008 volunteering and helping build the organization.

"Even if I am having a bad day, I will go to an event and have a lot of fun," he said. "You get a warm feeling inside that you did a good thing, and it makes you feel good about yourself."

Jacob says his favorite event is the Warm & Fuzzy Drive. "I like it because you help so many people. A 10 dollar sweater will make a big difference to someone."

Another one of Jacob's favorite things is homeless outreach. "I used to see a woman in her 40's and I would remember her. She was so nice to us and I was making a difference in her life. She was always so happy to see us."

He also said he has some good memories of doing homeless outreach with friends. "We talk about what we're doing together and we get to share the happiness."

"I used to be a little greedy," he said, remembering his 'earlier' years. "But now, (Hands4Hope) has turned me around. It made me realize (life) could be a lot worse than losing a video game, some people lose their home. I guess I didn't really see that before."

Jacob says the main reason he volunteers is because it makes him feel good. "You make someone happy, you get happy."

Thank you, Jacob, for your hard work. Keep it up!

Cat Food Drive

2011-06-25T09:59:00.000-07:00

Team Dream (our middle school team) decided they wanted to raise money and help out an animal facility in need.

Here's the story from Andrew:

"During the cat food drive we made a goal to collect $1000 worth in cat food. The drive lasted two weeks and took place during the first two weeks of April. The drive took place at Rolling Hills Middle School and Marina Village Middle School. All cat food and money collected was going to AGEE wildlife sanctuary.

In the end the total was approximately $800 worth of cat food. The check was presented to the founder of AGEE at the AGEE facilities."

Walk 'N Rock 2011

2011-06-23T13:11:00.000-07:00

This year, Hands4Hope participated in the Walk 'N Rock for Kids in Downtown Sacramento!

Together, we raised money for WIND Youth Services.

It was a beautiful morning to walk around the city!

Our Soldier Care Package Drive!

2011-06-13T14:43:00.000-07:00

{the committee preparing the boxes & bins to collect items in}

The Hands for Hope Soldier Care Package Drive is a truly wonderful drive held in Town Center by Hands for Hope. The items that we collect and package are sent out to the soldiers after the 4th of July. We hold the drive to show appreciation for the soldiers that fight for us as we go about our everyday lives. Looking at letters that we have received in the past from soldiers, we can see just how much of a difference our drive makes. The drive is the perfect way for us to support our soldiers. We may not be able to call the soldiers and personally thank them for their dedication, but we can show our gratitude through the letters and care packages. The soldiers love receiving treats and items like beef jerky and hand wipes, and the letters truly touch their hearts.

I just joined Hands for Hope, and this is the first project I have participated in, and definitely not the last. I feel so fortunate that I have had the opportunity to help put together the drive. It is important that all Americans reach out and make a difference in lives besides their own, and now the people in El Dorado Hills have that chance. The members of the drive committee are satisfied in knowing that we have put our hearts into the cause to help the soldiers. I believe that the other members of our community will do the same- step out of their homes, donate, and make a difference.

-Ameilia, Team Inspire

H4H Homeless Panel Hits Home With Youth & Adults

2011-06-06T11:15:00.000-07:00

More than 100 people came together to listen to a panel of three homeless individuals talk about their walk through life. More than half of the attendees were kids, some learning about homelessness for the first time.

Jessie Mills, a teen currently living at Wind Youth Shelter; Donnie Maggard, a homeless man residing in Placerville; and Vivek Anand, a 24-year-old from Sacramento, captured the attention of the crowd as they discussed the harsh realities of homelessness, taking time to answer questions from the audience very openly and candidly.

Their stories touched the hearts of the attendees, many noting that it sparked family conversations and reminded them that every homeless person has a story. Each speaker, when asked what they would like to do in the future said they would like to help others who are struggling as they are now. They may not have much to give financially, but they have loads to give . . . and so do we.

Read more about the event by reading the article in Village Life.

Volunteer Spotlight: Samita!

2011-06-02T10:58:00.000-07:00

Samita is one of our hard working high schoolers! She joined Hands4Hope at the beginning of her freshman year of high school in 2009. Since joining, she has gotten very involved with our Team Inspire group and spends several hours volunteering.

Samita says one of her most memorable moments happened while working with a young boy at the Kids Cafe in Placerville. "I told him he was good at math and his whole face lit up! I realized how hard it is for kids to get attention when they have their lifestyle."

Samita says she loves Hands4Hope because it allows her to directly interact with people. "My favorite part of the organization is going to the Green Valley Community Church on Saturdays," she said. "I get to work hands on with people and you can see the appreciation for everything in their face."

Her involvement in Hands4Hope has also given her the opportunity to realize things about her own life. "I feel so privledged and lucky for everything I have," she said. "It never registered to me until I started volunteering that some people don't have clean water to brush their teeth."

Getting other friends involved is something Samita enjoys doing. "I tell them how amazing it feels to actually make a difference. I've gotten so much out of this."

Thank you, Samita, for your hard work. Keep it up!

Spring Blitz: Best to Date

2011-06-01T11:14:00.000-07:00

Hands4Hope held its bi-annual Spring Food Bank Blitz on April 2, 2011. The event was a huge success, with more than 200 volunteers helping to spread awareness of hunger to shoppers at 10 grocery stores from Orangevale to Placerville.

Partnering with volunteers from various organizations throughout the area, such as Holy Trinity Community Church, Boy Scout Pack 454, Twin Lakes Food Bank, and Light of the Hills Lutheran Church, we collected more than 4,000 pounds of food and $10,400 in cash and gift cards. The food and money collected will help feed hungry people in Sacramento and El Dorado Counties.

If you missed out on this Blitz, you can sign up for our second one coming up in August. Keep checking our website for more information on dates and sign ups.

Youth Volunteer Spotlight: Maddy & Elena

2011-05-24T12:35:00.000-07:00

Maddy & Elena were chosen as our youth spotlights because of their dedication to Hands4Hope since the organization began in 2008. The girls say volunteering has changed their perspective on life. "Being a part of (Hands4Hope) has taught me to be grateful for what I have because not everyone has the basic things we take for granted," said Maddy.

Elena says one of her favorite activities is making soldier care packages. "It's touching to know we are changing their lives because being a soldier is hard ant it's always nice letting them know how much we care," she said. Recently, both of the girls attended the Hands4Hope homeless panel at the CSD with their family. They said the panel of people talking, especially the teenager, really changed how they see the world.

Both girls say they plan on volunteering and being a part of their communities for the rest of their life.

Their mom, Bobbi, has dedicated her time to volunteering with the girls and help organize events for our elementary school students in Team Hope. "I think this organization has helped develop the girls into responsible, empathetic and aware people. They needed an avenue to do that, and Hands4Hope was a good one," she said. "We live in a nice community and it runs the risk of our children not being aware of what really is going on in the world. (Hands4Hope) cancels out that false impression and allows them to appreciate what they have through exposure."

Bobbi remembers a few good conversations that were sparked after volunteering. "We were driving home and the girls asked why none of the homeless people were taking the apples. I explained how hard it was to eat an apple with out teeth and it got us talking about dental care and what a privilege going to the dentist is."

Hands4Hope wants to thank Maddy & Elena for their time volunteering with Hands4Hope. We also want to extend a big thank you to Bobbi for helping add to the success of our mission!

Emergency Bag Assembling

2011-05-11T11:55:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, May 5th, Hands4Hope Team Hope and Team Dream met to assemble emergency bags for children who are removed from their homes and placed into Foster Care.

The evening went quicker than we expected. Our youth worked efficiently as a team to get the bags put together. They decided to have toiletries, a pair of pajamas or a nightgown, a new outfit, a new pair of underwear, and a new pair of socks in each bag.

The event wrapped up well when a foster mom, Bonnie, came in and talked about how important these bags are to the children who receive them. She explained how these children are taken very quickly from their homes and do not have time to take any of their belongings. Bonnie explained the process of foster care and talked about her own experiences with the children she has worked with over the years.

Bonnie also started an organization to make these bags for the foster children. Together, Hands4Hope kids made more than 75 bags to distribute to youth around the county.

Bonnie talking to our youth.

Reminders of what goes in to every bag

"Toiletries" :)

Listening to Bonnie

We make a difference!

Why our family joined Hands4Hope

2011-04-27T08:31:00.000-07:00

Our family has been involved with Hands4Hope since January of this year. We were excited to find something that we could do together, as a family. I had been looking for a way for our family to serve in our community for a while. We have two boys, ages 8 and 10. We have been blessed in so many ways and wanted to be able to give back and serve others who are in need.

I was introduced to Hands4Hope after volunteering at the El Dorado County Food Bank distribution at Christmas-time. Hands4Hope is a great fit for us; it's something we can all do together. Since joining Hands4Hope we have done the Placerville homeless outreach two times. On both occasions it was cold and snowy. It was a real eye-opener to the fact that there are people who have to try and survive in weather like that. We have enjoyed meeting the people we are serving, asking their names and hearing their stories. It has sparked some really great conversations with our boys. They love it and look forward to serving again.

-Tracie H.

The Warmth of Volunteering

2011-04-19T15:32:00.000-07:00

On Saturday April 9^th, I was able to visit Green Valley Church with Hands4Hope. I had the opportunity to help out at the store in which every shopper was allowed to take his or her choice of 50 items in the store for free. It was such an amazing program and the women in charge put in countless hours of work sorting and folding the clothes. I felt like I was in a GAP store rather than a room in a church. It was great to help out by folding the clothes and helping people pick out what they needed. The pay of a friendly smile, and a “good-morning” was greater than any dollar amount.

It may sound cheesy, but giving back and helping those who need it is truly a wonderful experience, and I have enjoyed it tremendously. When I am able to give out a lunch I made to a homeless man, I see genuine appreciation. Picking out a church dress with a little girl brings genuine warmth. Becoming involved with Hand 4 Hope, I always leave smiling and happy that I took the time to get involved. These are such rewarding experiences. Sometimes, it just takes waking up a little earlier. The payback is worth it, and I am always glad that I was able to offer help to those who need it, and at the same time growing closer to my community, God and myself.

Alexa- Age 16

The Lasting Impact of Volunteering

2011-03-22T18:54:00.000-07:00

My name is Madi and I have been involved in Hands4Hope for the last year and a half. I joined the program because I wanted to help my community and give to others less fortunate than myself.

I started with intent of entering to help others but I have learned so much about myself as well.

Today I was fortunate enough to participate in the Sacramento Outreach program. At this outreach we make lunches and go disperse them to those in need in Sacramento area. We made about 250 lunches, and loaded the car with blankets, socks, soaps, books, shoes, and tooth brushes.

We set up camp around 12:00 and the turn out was amazing. All the items went so fast, we needed more of everything!

One of the most memorable moments was when these four men came up to our table, soaking wet. It was not raining yet but it was extremely cold out. The men opened up to us and told us their story:

They live on the river bottoms, off Richards Blvd. They set up their whole lives there. The storm the last few days has caused the river to rise, as well as water being let out of the dam. This morning their whole lives were washed away. They lost everything, every single thing they owned. The four men were wet because they were trying to save anything they could.

Seeing these men reminded me and my peers about how fortunate we are and opened our eyes to the amount of giving that needs to occur for those in need. There is still so much that could be done!

With each of my outreaches I learn something about others and myself, they continue to open my eyes and heart. Hands4Hope teaches youth to make a difference in others lives, my experiences will stay with me the rest of my life and I know I will continue to serve those around me.

You help those in need, and they help you.
We went there to fill their stomachs and they filled our hearts more then they'd ever know.

What would you do with a pot of gold?

2011-03-16T13:01:00.000-07:00

It's the week of St. Patrick's Day and to help bring the green spirit to one of our food distribution locations, our parent volunteer, Inga, brought St. Patties pictures for the kids to color.

We call our kids spot the "Kids Cafe" which allows parents to have some time to get what they need and not worry about their children.

6 year old Mary Jane made her first visit with her dad to the kids cafe last week. While she was there, she met our founder, Jennifer, who was volunteering at the event.

Mary Jane colored a beautiful picture. It was a multi colored rainbow with clouds, a leprechaun, and a pot of gold.

When she brought it over to show Jennifer the picture, Jen said, "wow, what a great picture, you even have the gold colored in with a gold crayon! What would you do with a big pot of gold?"

Mary Jane thought for a minute or two before she looked up at Jen and said, "I would save it."

Jen replied, "what would you save it for?"

Again, Mary Jane thought for a moment. Then she said, "food. I would save it for food. Lately, we haven't had a lot of it at our house."

Jennifer looked around the room at all of the youth volunteers who were working the event. They had all heard her say that. Each of them felt a connection to Mary Jane. Not only was it a reminder of the issues of hunger and the people it affects, but how young some children are being affected.

picture courtesy of

The impact of homeless outreach.

2011-03-15T21:08:00.000-07:00

My name is Tracy, I was recently hired on part time to work with the Founder of Hands4Hope.

I feel so lucky to be involved with this organization. I love how it gives youth the chance to make a difference in our community.

Recently, I volunteered with a handful of kids and adults for one of our homeless outreach events. The homeless outreach events tend to fill up fast. The reason: unbelievable connections are made with the youth and the people they are serving.

Our morning started early. At 6:30 a.m., I had a large pan of refried beans heating in our oven. At 8:30, we met up with the group in the conference room at a local supermarket. There, we set up an assembly line and spent time putting together sack lunches. The kids hand made the bean burritos. Then they assembled the bags with chips, and cookies.

After caravanning to our site - the kids had fruit, bottled water, and hot chocolate to offer.

Within minutes of arriving... more than 100 people had lined up to take advantage of a good meal.

We parked along a back alley and pulled fold up tables out and set them up with the different stations of food.

The last station had donated items: clothing, books, toiletries, and bags. (The toiletries go fast - toothpaste, hand sanitizer, soaps, ect)

The assembly line of H4H kids

Circled up after the event discussing our experience.

The group of volunteers (minus Jen, our founder, who took the picture)

We served lunch to more than 250 people.

The morning was amazing for me. I saw kids talking to these people who are truly struggling. It helps put the world into perspective for all of us.

I saw one of our kids get approached by one of the men getting help. He was a little scary looking, but he just wanted to shake his hand and say thank you. When he put his hand out, I saw some hesitation at first from our kid, but then he looked up into his eyes and shook his hand and said "you're welcome, sir."