Doing Good in the Neighborhood Archives
Each week, hear about some of the amazing and selfless acts happening throughout our area in our doing good in the neighborhood segment!
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, every week, The Peak has featured a variety of people and organizations doing good deeds within our communities. From free food events, to local children helping animals, to fundraisers that benefited a variety of non-profits… during some of the most difficult and trying times, people came together to assist those in need, to selflessly donate their time to assist those less fortunate.
The Peak is currently looking for new fundraisers, food drives, and unique events to be featured. Please email us at info@thepeakradio.com if you’d like to be featured in doing good in the neighborhood.
1/31
Give someone you care about a delicious treat AND support the Lions!
1/24
Keene, NH Ice & Snow Festival | Facebook
1/10
Late Saturday night, a fire erupted at Cobblestone Ale House in downtown Keene. This fire quickly spread throughout the building, triggering a 5-alarm fire. All three businesses… Cobblestone Ale House, Dominos Pizza, and the seasonal ice-cream shop, The Piazza, were destroyed, along with all rental units on the second floor.
Within hours of this tragic fire, former long-time Cobblestone bartender, Trevor O’Brien, organized a GoFundMe to benefit the Cobblestone staff and other displaced by this fire. In about 24 hours, it had already surpassed $15,000.
If you ever stopped in for a pint, mixed drink or maybe a delicious taco on Taco Tuesday, considering donating to this fundraiser.
1/3
11/22
This week we feature Ted’s Shoe and Sport in downtown Keene, where right now through December 31st, Ted’s will donate $25 to the United Monadnock Way with every purchase of a pair of Parrish classic shoes. There’s only a limited number of pairs left, so make sure you get yourself down to the store to check them out! The money raised will go towards the Monadnock United Way’s “Stronger Together” campaign, which will directly assist our friends and neighbors in need.
11/8
THIS WEEK THE FOCUS IS ON BULLDOG DESIGN’S ANNUAL COMMUNITY DAY AND WHOOPIE PIE FUNDRAISER TO BENEFIT THE COMMUNITY KITCHEN IN KEENE. THE EVENT IS THIS SATURDAY FROM TEN TO THREE AT BULLDOG DESIGN, 147 WINCHESTER STREET IN KEENE! GET YOUR HANDS ON SOME OF JOE’S FAMOUS WHOOPIE PIES, AND EVERY OTHER CASH DONATION OVER $5 RECEIVES A SPECIAL EDITION EVENT TEE. ALL MONEY WILL GO TO THE COMMUNITY KITCHEN.
11/1
This week we spotlight the Rotary Club of the Deerfield Valley who is hosting their Rotary Winter Sports Sale Saturday from 9am to 4pm at the Twin Valley Elementary school in Wilmington. This is an annual winter equipment and consignment sale to benefit the local community. This year the rotary has added a raffle element to bolster donations – first prize is a 2 night stay at the Mount Snow Grand Summit Hotel including (2) all-day youth lessons with rentals. Second prize is a pair of Whitewoods XT-25 adult snowshoes and XT-17 youth snowshoes. Third prize is ski or snowboard tuning. Tickets are $25 each or 5 for $100 and can be purchased at http://givebutter.com/AyUl19.
10/25
This week we spotlight Ruck-Up, a 501c3, made up of Veterans servings as volunteers, to help fellow Vets and their family members who are in crisis, disabled, or homeless… filling gaps when the VA and other agencies aren’t enough – focusing on advocacy, outreach and counseling.
Join Ruck-Up on Thursday, November 11th in Keene for their Suicide Prevention Walk to benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Register the day of the event or contact Ruck-Pp’s offices at 603-903-1255 or login to register or sponsor a walker HERE. Help Ruck-Up and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention fight suicide amongst our Military and our Veterans!
10/18
This week we focus on Groundworks Collaborative in Brattleboro, and their Give60 challenge. This is a no-pressure, family-friendly walk, run and roll event. Get your 60-minutes in at your own pace between 10am and noon this Saturday. Join them at the parking lot behind the Marina Restaurant at the head of the West River Trail. This event is a great way to get in 60 minutes or more of walking, running or strolling to meet a goal for the Give60 Challenge. Individual participants are encouraged to raise a minimum of $50. The suggested minimum for teams is $250. All proceeds benefit Groundworks Collaborative supportive housing and shelter programs.
10/11
This week we spotlight Beeze Tees Screenprinting and Embroidery and its owner, Tim Pipp. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Beeze Tees is currently selling hats and t-shirts with a custom designed “Fight for a Cure” logo on the apparel. All proceeds will go directly to the New Hampshire Breast Cancer Coalition. Visit beezetees.com, and click the “Fight for a Cure” logo, where you can Choose between men and women styles of apparel.
10/4
THIS WEEK WE SPOTLIGHT RAFFI OF KEENE, A 12 YEAR OLD ISLANDERS HOCKEY CLUB GOALIE, WHO IS TAKING PART IN THE OCTOBER SAVES GOALIE CHALLENGE. RAFFI WILL MAKE HIS SAVES COUNT TOWARD CANCER TREATMENT AND SUPPORT FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN THROUGH PRE-SAVE PLEDGES AND FLAT DONATIONS.
THIS IS RAFFI’S THIRD YEAR TAKING PART IN THIS FUNDRAISER, AND LAST YEAR HE RAISED MORE THAN $22,000 TO HELP OTHERS. THIS YEAR HE’S FUNDRAISING LOCALLY FOR JOY’S NETWORK, WHICH SUPPORTS CANCER PATIENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES THROUGHOUT THE MONADNOCK REGION OF NEW HAMPSHIRE BY PROVIDING FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AND CANCER CARE PACKAGES.
DONATIONS AND PLEDGES CAN BE MADE AT OCTOBERSAVES.ORG; SEARCH FOR “RAFFI” IN THE FIND A GOALIE BOX OR CLICK THE BOX BELOW.
Doing Good in the Neighborhood is brought to you by:
9/6
THIS WEEK WE SPOTLIGHT THE HUNGRY LION BIKE TOUR SPONSORED BY THE DEERFIELD VALLEY LIONS CLUB. THE TOUR IS DESIGNED TO PROVIDE CYCLISTS WITH A GREAT RIDE THROUGH THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY ROADS OF SOUTHERN VERMONT DURING THE WONDERFUL FALL FOLIAGE SEASON.
FUNDS RAISED THROUGH THIS EVENT WILL HELP THE LIONS COMBAT FOOD INSECURITY WITHIN THE REGION IN ADDITION TO SUPPORTING OTHER CRITICAL INITIATIVES IN OUR COMMUNITY. SPIN YOUR WHEELS FOR MEALS (OR WALK!) IN THIS YEAR’S HUNGRY LION BIKE TOUR SEPTEMBER 25TH.
8/30
This week we spotlight The Boys & Girls Club Brattleboro, a youth-focused non-profit organization, that offers a wide variety of opportunities for everyone who walks through their doors. Their nature-based outdoor after school program is going on at retreat farm for grades k-5. They’re also offering full teen club skills-based programming for ages 12+ at their flat street location – including academic support, skate park, art, music, and more.
The Boys & Girls Club of Brattleboro also offers volunteer opportunities at Windham County Humane Society, a LGBTQ+ group, art with River Gallery School, and School of Rock, where members learn how to play instruments in their music room. Transportation available from all Brattleboro schools. Click HERE for more information!
The Boys & Girls Club of Brattleboro | Facebook
8/16
This week we highlight 100+ Women Who Care-Cheshire County, a giving circle dedicated to making a difference in our local community. The concept is simple: the group meets for one hour, four times a year. Each member commits to donating $50 per quarter and, at each meeting, the members select a different local non-profit organization to receive their donations. They are more than 300 women strong, and more are always welcome!
After 100+ Women Who Care’s August 2nd meeting, it was determined that Keene Health Center of Planned Parenthood of Northern New England will be the latest recipient of a collective donation from their chapter. PPNNE’s Keene Health Center provides reproductive and sexual health care for more than 2,000 uninsured and underinsured patients every year. Their funds will help to address the $123,000 shortfall in the recently-passed New Hampshire state budget.
8/9
THIS WEEK WE SPOTLIGHT THE BRATTL
EBORO FOOD CO-OP AND THEIR ROUND UP FOR CHANGE MONTHLY CAMPAIGN, WHERE THEY OFFER CUSTOMERS THE OPTION TO ROUND UP THEIR PURCHASES TO THE NEXT DOLLAR… THE DIFFERENCE IS THEN DONATED TO A SELECTED RECIPIENT. THE ROOT SOCIAL JUSTICE CENTER WAS FEATURED IN JULY AS THE RECIPIENT OF ROUND UP FOR CHANGE WHICH RAISED $7,611.84.
AUGUST’S ROUND UP FOR CHANGE RECIPIENT IS THE FOOD CONNECT’S FARM TO SCHOOL PROGRAM, THAT SUPPORTS OVER 30 SCHOOLS TO INCREASE LOCAL FOOD PURCHASING, SCHOOL MEAL PARTICIPATION, FOOD, FARM, AND NUTRITION EDUCATION.
THE FUNDS RAISED IN AUGUST WILL HELP THE FARM TO SCHOOL PROGRAM WORK WITH TEACHERS TO INCREASE FOOD AND FARMING EDUCATION AND WORK WITH SCHOOL NUTRITION PROFESSIONALS TO INCORPORATE MORE LOCAL FOOD INTO SCHOOL MEALS.
JOIN ELISE VALENTINE FRIDAY AT 5:05PM WHEN SHE CHATS WITH THE BRATTLEBORO FOOD CO-OP’S MARKETING AND COMMUNITY RELATION’S MANAGER, JON MEGAS-RUSSELL TO HEAR MORE ABOUT THE STORE’S ROUND UP FOR CHANGE PROGRAM.
7/19
THIS WEEK WE FOCUS ON JOE CERNIGLIA, A COMPETETIVE TRI-ATHLETE, WHO’S SPORTS ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM HELPS DEVELOP LOCAL HIGH-SCHOOL ATHLETES FROM THE INSIDE OUT.
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS EXCEL IN TEACHING STUDENTS PHYSICAL, SPORT SPECIFIC SKILLS, BUT OFTEN LACK IN DEVELOPING THEIR MENTAL, MOTIVATIONAL AND EMOTIONAL REGULATION SKILLS.
SPORTS ENHANCEMENT FOR LIFE LOOKS TO REMEDY THIS BY WORKING WITH STUDENT ATHLETES BY INTEGRATING THE MIND AND BODY ENHANCING MENTAL, SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT. TEACHING THEM HOW TO USE THEIR MENTAL, EMOTIONAL, AND SOCIAL SKILLS TO UNLOCK THEIR PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AND IDENTITY.
7/12
This week we highlight Keene Parks and Recreation who hosts a couple of different and fun “series” this summer. First, join them for summer concerts every Wednesday at the central square common in downtown Keene. All concerts are free and open to the public. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket!
Also, beginning this month, Keene Parks and Rec teamed up with the Monadnock International Film Festival to present Free Movies Under the Stars! On select dates, catch family friendly movies at Fuller Park on Washington Street in Keene. All movies begin at dusk. seating is limited for each showing so registration is required at keenesummermovies.eventbrite.com.
For Keene Parks and Registration’s full concert series lineup and movie listings, follow them on Facebook:
7/5
This week we highlight the Deerfield Valley Rotary Club and their 2nd annual Garden & Live Music tour happening July 17th from 12pm-4pm. Visit beautiful gardens in the Deerfield Valley, Vermont… some with magnificent views, and see local musicians too! it’s a self-guided tour, in which you can visit some or all of the gardens in any order you would like.
6/28
This week we feature NH Gleans… a network of organizations working to increase the availability of fresh and local produce that is distributed to and through New Hampshire food pantries, soup kitchens, community suppers, and schools. In 2020, more than 200,000 pounds of fresh food was rescued. Rather than let food go to waste, gleaning gathers the leftover fruits and vegetables and distributes them to eligible recipients.
The act of gleaning and sharing food connects and nourishes our community to build stronger relationships and a deeper appreciation for our food. Please tune in Friday at 5:05pm when Elise Valentine speaks with Jacob Sherwood, the gleaning coordinator serving Cheshire County, to hear more about gleaning and his role in connecting with farmers and food producers around the country. If you’re interested in volunteering, click HERE.
6/14
6/7
This week we’re spotlighting 21 Bar & Grill on Roxbury Street in Keene, who is currently looking for nonprofits to be the recipient of the Philanthropist cocktail… every month the ingredients of the drink change, and $1 of each cocktail sold goes to the nonprofit.
5/31
Each week, hear about some of the amazing and selfless acts happening throughout our area in our Doing Good in the Neighborhood segment!
This week we spotlight The Kiwanis Club of Keene who will once again host its Kool Wheels Family Bike Safety Day on Saturday, June 5th, from 10 am to 1 pm (rain or shine) at the Keene Parks & Recreation Center, 312 Washington St, Keene. This is a free family event where children ages 4-12 may select a new bicycle helmet, learn about bike safety, and speak to representatives from community organizations offering resources for children’s health and safety. The event is being extended from two to three hours this year due to limitations on how many families can be inside the Rec Center at any given time and anticipated longer wait times.
The Kool Wheels event will follow current Covid-19 guidelines, including social distancing and mandatory masks for all those who attend, both inside and outside while waiting in line. To minimize personal contact, parents will receive a disposable measuring tape to measure their child’s head to determine the proper size helmet. Children will choose a new bicycle helmet from a colorful selection (while supplies last). Trained helmet fitters will properly fit and adjust the helmet, working with one family at a time. Families are asked to move through the venue as a group to visit the community partner tables. To effectively maintain social distancing, only one family group at a time may visit with any of the community partners. There will be markings on the floor to indicate where families can wait for their turn to move forward.
Children may bring their bikes to the event for a safety inspection and tune-up by representatives from Pedals for People and Monadnock Cycling.
The Keene Police Department and Cheshire County Sheriff’s Department will bring their cruisers, and the Keene Fire Department will provide a fire engine for children to learn about these emergency vehicles.
Kids may bring a favorite teddy bear or doll for casting by the Orthopedic staff of Cheshire Medical Center/Dartmouth-Hitchcock Keene. This activity helps decrease future anxiety children might experience from injuries. In addition, Miller Orthodontic Specialists will provide dental information and free fingerprint kits will be offered by Liberty Mutual Insurance.
Every child who comes to Kool Wheels will be entered into a drawing for a new boy’s and girl’s bike, donated by Walmart. Other raffle items include prizes donated by the SwampBats and Cheshire Children’s Museum. Raffle drawings will be done the day after the event and winners will be notified. Children will receive a to-go bag of healthy snacks as they leave the event, plus bug balm donated by W.S. Badger Co. (while supplies last) and a postcard on how to download activity and informational handouts from the Kiwanis website.
According to statistics, nearly half a million children are treated for bicycle-related injuries each year. Statistics also show that only about 30% of all child cyclists wear a helmet, and head trauma causes over 60% of the injuries and deaths that occur from bicycle accidents. The Kiwanis Club is committed to educating children and parents on the importance of wearing helmets, with a goal of preventing as many bicycle accidents as possible.
Visit the Kiwanis website at keenekiwanis.org for updates on the Kool Wheels event. Major co-sponsors for this event are Mascoma Savings Bank, C&S Wholesale Grocers, Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD), and the City of Keene Parks and Recreation Department.
5/24
This week we’re focusing on The Community Kitchen in Keene, who is participating in New Hampshire’s “Giving Tuesday” event on June 8th. With the assistance of “NH Gives”, The Community Kitchen hopes to raise $3000 to augment their free pantry program with provisions for all of their pantry families’ needs for their kids’ lunches over the summer.
“NH Gives” is an initiative of the New Hampshire center for nonprofits. “Giving Tuesday” is a powerful, statewide 24-hour online fundraising event that is designed to build community, connect donors to local nonprofits and generate excitement about the nonprofit sector. “NH Gives” provides eligible nonprofits the opportunity to reach potential new donors and provides the type of visibility that only a state-wide effort of this type can generate.
5/17
CORNERSTONE MOTORCYCLE MINISTRY SEEK TO COME ALONGSIDE ALL BIKERS WITH LOVE, RESPECT, LOYALTY, AND HONOR WITH OUR PRIMARY PURPOSE BEING TO SHARE THE GOOD NEWS OF GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST.
5/10
This week we spotlight the Monadnock United Way and The Local Crowd Monadnock who have teamed up to launch the “Start Small, Think Big” campaign going on now through June 11th. All gifts given to TLC’s crowdfunding platform during this time will benefit Monadnock United Way’s signature early childhood initiative, Impact Monadnock, which seeks to improve outcomes for all children in the Monadnock Region from birth to age eight and their families.
Impact Monadnock is about giving children the best possible start in life so that they can lead healthy, happy lives and become productive members of our community. Many children from Cheshire County live in poverty and suffer from child abuse and/or neglect. A gift to the “Start Small, Think Big” campaign will support IM programs that address these issues through home visiting programs, parent education and support, access to high quality child care, promotion of family friendly business practices, and social emotional supports for children and their teachers.
This week we spotlight SERVPRO of Cheshire County who recently held a very successful cornhole tournament – with the challenging year we’ve all had this past year, they wanted to create an event that was positive, focused on our local community, and emphasized an appreciation for first responders. The tournament consisted of 29 teams, and raised almost $3000 between registration fees and raffle ticket sales, which will benefit Swanzey Firefighters Association, Walpole Firefighters Auxiliary, Chesterfield Fire Department and Westmoreland Fire-Rescue Department. Raffle prizes were donated by 30 local businesses in the community.
4/26
THIS WEEK WE SPOTLIGHT THE ROTARY INTERACT CLUB AT KEENE HIGH SCHOOL WHO WILL AGAIN HOST ITS ANNUAL HANGING BASKETS FUNDRAISER. BRIGHTEN YOUR PROPERTY BY ORDERING A BEAUTIFUL, LARGE FLOWERING PLANT, $20 EACH. IMPATIENTS, PETUNIAS, BEGONIAS, HANGING GERANIUMS, FUCHSIAS AND LOTS OTHERS. THE SALE WILL BEGIN TUESDAY, MAY 4TH, IN TIME FOR MOTHERS’ DAY GIFT-GIVING. ALL PROFITS FROM THIS FUNDRAISER ARE DONATED BACK INTO OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY AND TO INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS HELPING CHILDREN.
STUDENT MEMBERS OF THE INTERACT CLUB HAVE ALSO BEEN WORKING THIS WEEK AT THE ASHUELOT RIVER PARK ON WEST STREET IN KEENE AS THEIR SERVICE PROJECT. SINCE THEY WEREN’T ABLE TO TRAVEL THIS YEAR, THEY WORKED ON A REVITALIZATION PROJECT FOR THREE DAYS… THEY PURCHASED A PORTION OF THE NEW GAZEBO FOR THE PARK ALONG WITH INSTALLING A NEW PERGOLA, FRESHENING UP THE GARDENS, AND RAISED THE COBBLESTONES.
4/19
Throughout this pandemic, the NH Army National Guard has been instrumental in providing aid and assistance within the region to help combat COVID-19. From setting up “surge” facilities, to most recently helping to rollout the COVID-19 vaccines, the National Guard’s help has been unmeasurable.
4/5
April is sexual violence awareness month, and this week we spotlight Women’s Freedom Center, a local domestic and sexual violence organization serving both Windham and Southern Windsor counties in Vermont. WFC works toward ending men’s violence against women while offering support and advocacy to all survivors of domestic and sexual violence, as well as prevention and educational activities to help create a community in which violence is not tolerated.
This month, Women’s Freedom Center has a few events planned, including a film and discussion night of “The Bystander Moment: Transforming Rape Culture at its Roots” and a bystander empowerment workshop.
WFC wants to raise awareness that we can all help as active bystanders to shift conversations and unsafe situations, and how male allies in particular can be part of the solution.
Please tune in Friday at 5:05pm when Elise Valentine speaks with Shari, the Community Outreach Advocate at the Women’s Freedom Center, to hear how more about this organization.
3/29
This week we spotlight Fenton Family Dealerships, who since 1986, have been supporting nearly 100 local charities and organization annually through volunteer work and sponsorships. Their top four supported non-profits include The Monadnock United Way, The Community Kitchen of Keene, The Monadnock Humane Society, and the Keene Family YMCA. The Monadnock United Way is an umbrella organization of the Cheshire County area that works closely and funds over 22 life-changing programs and services in the greater Keene area.
Earlier this winter, Operation Warm, sponsored by Fenton Family Dealerships, Professional Firefighters of Keene IAFF Local 3265 and DA Brothers Contractors, LLC raised $14,240 for children in need and were able to give 712 kids a winter coat.
Another incredibly generous act of kindness by Fenton Family Dealerships and their Subaru of Keene location was in the form of a $10,000 donation to Cheshire Medical Center’s Cheshire Health Foundation. This non-profit fundraising initiative is currently focused on raising funds for their COVID-19 efforts.
One of Fenton Family Dealerships largest annual fundraisers is their Charity Golf Tournament to benefit the Community Kitchen in Keene – this year’s 29th annual is set to be held June 27th with an alternate date in September if circumstances necessitate due to the complications of COVID-19. Last year’s event raised $42,279! Click HERE for sponsorship information.
3/22
This week we spotlight McClure’s Tree Service in Keene, who does so much to support local businesses and help people as much as they can! They were fortunate to stay open throughout the pandemic as they were deemed “essential”… and now they are trying to give back and brighten the lives of our community members who are struggling through these difficult times.
Recently, McClure’s Tree Service teamed up with Toy City to give away a $500 gift card to one lucky recipient – a customer decided to match the $500, plus owner Joey Parrott chipped in some of his own money, and they were able to make the days of multiple children and families!
Going on right now is a giveaway with Septic Pro, where they’ve teamed up to give away a free septic pump to one lucky winner!
Tune in Friday at 5:05pm when Elise Valentine chats with owner Joey Parrott about how McClure’s tree service gives back to the community.
3/15
This week we focus on the Vermont Suitcase Company whose mission is to bring community people together to laugh with them and with each other, as they tour live, active theater to Vermont towns. Their goal is to make ticket prices affordable for all, to encourage people to support local theater and the arts. The Vermont Suitcase Company is planning a 2021 July tour and they need your help; they’re currently fundraising through GoFundMe, looking to raise $3000… this will allow them to make all tickets free to children and youth, safely employ their actors in their home communities, and ease the pandemic-era hardship of Vermont venues by subsidizing production costs and ticketing.
3/1
This week we’re focusing on The Monadnock Restaurant Project – The Local Crowd Monadnock, Culinary Journeys, and Food Connects partnered to launch this stimulus effort to help boost Keene and the local area’s restaurant economy. The project is investing $10,000 in gift cards from participating locally owned restaurants, and they will be strategically dispersed throughout the community through other partnering businesses. These establishments will share these gift cards with their staff and ask them to spend these cards quickly, providing an immediate boost to Keene’s local economy.
The anticipation is that the community members will spend twice the amount of their gift cards when redeemed, doubling the impact of this project by infusing $20,000 to these cash-strapped businesses.
2/22
THIS WEEK WE SPOTLIGHT HEAVEN HAIR GALLERY SALON ON PARK STREET IN KEENE – THIS LOCAL SALON STRIVES TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY BY GIVING BACK IN SO MANY WAYS. THEY DONATE TO LOCAL NON-PROFITS LIKE JOY’S NETWORK, CEDARCREST, THE COMMUNITY KITCHEN, FAST FRIENDS RESCUE, AND MANY MORE.
OWNER ANJALEE AND HER STAFF CAN BE SPOTTED DOING RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS, LIKE BUYING LUNCH FOR DIFFERENT FAMILIES, OR DONATING SHEETS TO THE MONADNOCK HUMANE SOCIETY, OR TREATING STRANGERS TO COFFEE AT BREWBAKERS, THE STAFF AT HEAVEN HAIR GALLERY ARE KNOWN BEYOND THEIR STYLING TALENTS, BUT ALSO HOW AMAZINGLY KIND THEY ARE!
AT CHRISTMAS, THE STAFF TOOK DONATIONS TO HELP A LOCAL FAMILY IN NEED AND RAISED $500! THEY BOUGHT A TARGET GIFT CARDS SO THE FAMILY COULD PURCHASE FOOD, GIFTS, OR WHATEVER THEY NEEDED.
THE BIG BOX STORES OR ONLINE GIANTS DON’T SUPPORT YOUR KID’S LOCAL BALL TEAM – HEAVEN HAIR GALLERY DOES!
2/8
This week we focus on Kyle Woodward, a local young man known as TSparkle99 in the gaming world… who has pledged to play games and raise money for Boston Children’s Hospital… Kyle is collaborating with friends and associates from Wal-Mart store #3549, and is participating in “Extra Life 2021”, held Saturday, November 6th, 2021 – this is a fundraising and gaming marathon to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. He’s joining thousands of gamers and will be dedicating a day to play games and get donations from people like you. 100% of the donations will go to Boston Children’s Hospital, and together, we will make a difference for sick kids!
2/1
This week we’re focusing on Jake’s 5 Star Convenience Store in Keene and their Valentine’s Day Fundraiser to benefit Amazing Grace Animal Sanctuary in Sullivan, NH. Purchase some sweets for your honey for Valentine’s Day and help out this amazing non-profit that operates as a therapeutic community to unwanted, mistreated, and abandoned animals. All orders must be in by February 12th.
1/25
This week we focus on the local rock painting group, “Rock Kindness”. If you’ve been out for a walk in the greater Keene area and came across a painted rock, there’s a good chance it was designed by a “Rock Kindness” member. Formed by Kelly Ballou, Rock Kindness consists of local individuals who paint rocks with the idea of hiding them for others to find, in hopes to spread love and kindness. Each member puts their own artistic touch on the rocks, often with inspirational sayings. Men, women and children belong to Rock Kindness, and the group is always looking for new members.
Click —-> HERE <—- to visit and/or join the group!
1/18
This week we focus on the Putney, Vermont Fire Department and their Junior Firefighter Program – they’re looking for young men and women who have a strong desire to learn about fire and emergency medical services. The program is structured around safety, pride, learning, and a commitment to their local community. All applicants must be between the ages of 15 and 18, and live in the towns of Putney, Dummerston, Westminster, and the Greater Brattleboro area. For additional information, visit the Putney Fire Department’s Facebook page, or our website, thepeakradio.com.
1/11
This week we’re focusing on the Monadnock Rugby Football Club and their “Shave to Save” Campaign which benefits the Norris Cotton Cancer Center at Cheshire Medical Center in Keene which assists those struggling with cancer in the region– the lads of Monadnock Rugby are busy growing face forests for you to have your say – by pledging different amounts, you will determine on whether the players’ beards are shaved or saved! With pledge amounts ranging from $25 to $500 in both categories, you could go as light as “plucking a whisker” to having a player shave their face as smooth as a baby’s… well you get the point!
1/4
This week we focus on Nick Koloski, who is well known for his kindness in the greater Claremont region. This past fall, he started a program where he collects and gives vital medical equipment to people in need for FREE. Just recently, he gave away 357 pieces of medical equipment to people who could not afford to purchase and/or had insurance that would not cover specific pieces of equipment. Through a community effort, he was able to find usable goods and rehome them to residents in Vermont and New Hampshire.
Other notable good deeds… on Christmas eve, Nick took part in his annual toy delivery to Mt. Ascutney Hospital, Valley Regional Hospital, and Alice Peck Day Hospital. As a local Claremont firefighter, he receives a $750 stipend that he plans to donate to the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth Hitchcock. The stipend will also be matched by a local coffee shop! He also recently received a large gift of lifesavers candy… so he sent them to troops, hospital staff and police & fire depts. in NH and VT. “Lifesavers for Lifesavers”. More than 100 cases shipped out!
12/14
If you’re ready to get rid of 2020 as much as we are, here is your chance to do it together… separately! This week we focus on the Run From 2020 Virtual 5K… a virtual run/walk event to help raise your spirit, do something fun for the new year, and help out those in need at the same time, with proceeds going to the Community Kitchen in Keene. You can register now through Sunday, with the actual event occurring December 31st – January 1st, and you can participate from anywhere and run or walk your own 5k! The Run From 2020 Virtual 5K is sponsored by Bulldog Design, Ted’s Shoe & Sport, Modestman Brewing and HurtSkurt®.
Click —>HERE<— to register
12/7
This week we focus on Retreat Farm in Brattleboro… as a part of the Community Food Project, Retreat Farm has put together holiday boxes for 65 Brattleboro families. These boxes are a true testament to our generous community. They are full of donated products from local businesses, Vermont grown vegetables, pantry staples from the Vermont Food Bank, local meat, cheese, and recipes from the community.
In the wake of the COVID-19 crisis, Retreat Farm initiated its new Community Food Project. beginning as an emergency food pantry that provided bags of groceries to 20 families in March, the program grew to provide 65 families every week with produce, eggs, milk, and nutritious staple foods.
Join Elise Valentine Friday at 5:05pm when she speaks with Carissa Brewton, Retreat Farm Community Food Project Coordinator, to learn more about the holiday boxes and the Community Food Project.
11/30
11/23
THIS WEEK WE’RE FOCUSING ON THE UNITED WAY OF WINDHAM COUNTY AND THEIR “KIDS IN COATS” PROGRAM, WHICH PROVIDES AN ESSENTIAL SERVICE TO FAMILIES IN WINDHAM COUNTY. THIS PROGRAM USES FUNDS TO PROVIDE MUCH NEEDED WINTER GEAR TO THE STUDENTS WHO WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO ACCESS THESE WARM CLOTHES WITHOUT ASSISTANCE. GROWING THE “KIDS IN COATS” FUND IS IMPORTANT EVERY YEAR, AND THIS YEAR, IT IS CRITICAL.
THE UNITED WAY OF WINDHAM COUNTY COULDN’T DO THIS WORK WITHOUT SUPPORTERS LIKE YOU, AND ARE ALWAYS GRATEFUL TO ALL OF THEIR DONORS, PARTNERS, AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS FOR THEIR HELP. VISIT OUR WEBSITE, THEPEAKRADIO.COM, TO FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN DONATE TO “KIDS IN COATS”.
DONATE HERE!
11/16
This week we focus on “Modern Day Village” – an online marketplace that recently launched in Vermont, built for Moms to help other Moms. Whether you’re a “working Mom” or a “Stay-at-Home Mom”, you know the feeling of trying to be the best Mom you can be. Modern Day Village taps into a network of Moms with vast skills, knowledge, and the desire to work together, to help one another.
Visit ModernDayVillage.com to find rewarding work, create a profile to showcase your skills, and connect and collaborate with other Moms. It takes a village – one of incredible women, located anywhere, connected by technology through Modern Day Village.
Kerry Glanz Co-Founder
Lee Genung Co-Founder
11/9
This week we’re focusing on 13 year old Sarah Hall and 12 year old Mason Bauer from Essex, Vermont, who are determined to help animals in any way they can! After they started M.A.P.S Dog Walking Service, as well as making and selling Paw Wax, they donate $100 of their earnings to different no-kill animal shelters one shelter at a time, until they reach their goal of donating to every no-kill shelter in Vermont. To date, they’ve donated over $3,400 and they recently donated $100 to the Springfield Humane Society in Springfield, VT.
11/2
This week we’re focusing on Eric and Lark Parker of LE Parker Properties and their “Powering the Love” fundraiser to benefit the Monadnock Humane Society in Swanzey, NH. Over the summer, a huge storm swept through the area, knocking down trees and taking down power lines, and MHS was without power for nearly 3 days. the temps were high and they desperately needed the care for the over 70 animals in the shelter. Going through this difficult situation made MHS realize the importance of having a back-up generator – two people in the community also recognized, and immediately stepped up to offer help. Eric and Lark Parker of LE Parker Properties decided to make a commitment to help raise the funds needed to purchase a generator that would power the entire facility should MHS lose power again.
LE Parker Properties kicked off the “Powering the Love” fundraiser with a donation of $2,500, as well as pledging 10% of all profits over the last few months to this cause. Nearly $10,000 has been raised so far, but with a goal of $40,000, there is still a ways to go.
WEEK OF 10/26
This week we shine the spotlight on Masks4Missions – an organization that partners with Vermont nonprofits to design, make, distribute and sell subsidized COVID-19 masks. Their mission is to deliver improved health for mask users and their communities, increase the wearers’ affinity to nonprofits and local businesses, and broaden the public’s awareness of nonprofits and local businesses – all in the service of building stronger and healthier communities.
Masks4Missions was founded by Doug Altshuler, who graduated high school only a few months ago. Due to the pandemic, Doug wasn’t able to participate in his summer job at Shelburne Farms, so he came up with the idea to design and sell masks bearing the Shelburne Farms imagery. Word got out about his “little” project, and shortly after, Masks4Missions was made! Now Doug is managing this statewide youth-led and youth-centric effort to design and provide COVID-19 masks that promote Vermont’s local non-profits and protect the health of all Vermonters.
WEEK OF 10/19
This week we focus on The Loose Knit Group (LKG), an independent service organization comprised of members and non-members of the West Dover Congregational Church. Proceeds from its fundraising activities are donated to the church and to other charities in the community as are in keeping with the church’s mission. The LKG is a great example of how service can be selfless as evidenced by the joyful and spirited nature of this force for good in our valley.
The LKG orchestrates several community-centric events throughout the year – an attic and treasure sale, a marathon apple pie baking event, a souper supper… when the pandemic hit, the LKG sewed facemasks free of charge for the community, and soon they’ll be sponsoring a “mitten tree” displayed at the church where folks are encouraged to hang mittens, hats and scarves on the tree for those who may be without.
One of their major outreach programs in the community is “Food 4 Kids”, a direct response to food insecurity among some elementary children. For children identified by the principals of the Twin Valley, Wardsboro, Marlboro, and Dover elementary schools, volunteers from the church and community pack bags of non-perishable food and sends these bags home with the children each Friday. The food is purchased by monetary donations, fundraisers, churches and locals who donate food. The Food 4 Kids program continues to grow as a result of the needs of the school children.
WEEK OF 10/12
This week we focus on Hunger Free Vermont, and the 3SquaresVT Program. The COVID-19 Pandemic is impacting all individuals and families across Vermont, and many are experiencing the consequences of reduced working hours and wages, school closures, and limited access to services and transportation due to social distancing. 3SquaresVT is an important Federal Food Program that can help households buy food during the crisis. When you use 3SquaresVT benefits, you can buy the foods you like to eat – you’ll get a plastic card that looks like a credit card, and you can use it at most grocery stores, convenience stores, markets, and co-ops. To find out if you qualify, visit hungerfreevt.org.
WEEK OF 10/4
This week we highlight The Rotary Club of the Deerfield Valley and Operation Warm, an initiative that purchases new winter coats for children in need. Operation Warm partners with local schools and uses community outreach to find recipients. The Rotary Club of the Deerfield Valley purchases the coats, at a very reasonable cost through the Operation Warm organization, and the coats are distributed free of charge to the recipients. Last year, over 200 new winter coats were distributed to local school children. With the help of generous donations, The Rotary Club of The Deerfield Valley will continue to help keep kids warm in the winter months.
This Friday at 5:05pm, Elise Valentine will chat with Sarah Shippee from The Rotary Club of the Deerfield Valley to learn more about Operation Warm.
WEEK 9/28
This week we focus on The Greater Keene Rotaract Club and their “Send a Scarecrow” fundraiser! Join them in welcoming in fall and giving back to the community. It’s designed to be socially distanced, where you can send a “Russell and Sheryl scarecrow” to a loved one in the Keene area from the comfort of your own home. The proceeds of this event will benefit Rotaract’s local service projects which include work with Hundred Nights shelter and The Community Kitchen, among other non-profits.
Friday at 5:05pm Elise Valentine will chat with Beth Woods to hear more about The Greater Keene Rotaract Club’s “Send a Scarecrow” fundraiser.
WEEK OF 9/21
This week we spotlight Cedarcrest Center for Children with Disabilities and their 9th annual Walk & Roll fundraiser. The money raised through the Walk & Roll will help fund operating costs that are not covered by Medicaid or other funding sources. Cedarcrest works so hard to provide all the medical, respiratory support, therapy and special education programming for infants, children, and young adults.
While the Walk & Roll event may look different this year due to COVID, the fundraising is still as important than ever – you can register to walk and complete your 2.1 miles anytime between now and October 3rd. You can also make a direct donation to help Cedarcrest hit their $23,000 goal. Click HERE to register and for more information.
Friday at 5:05pm, join Elise Valentine as she chats with Patty Farmer of Cedarcrest to learn more about their Walk & Roll fundraiser.
WEEK OF 9/14
This week we focus on Reading on the Road, a student-run initiative that collects children’s books and distributes them throughout The Monadnock Region. In doing this, Reading on the Road hopes to promote healthy reading habits and provide access to books for all children. Since the beginning in 2018, they have provided books to various organizations including Head Start Daycares, The Keene Rec Center, The Keene Community Kitchen, The Salvation Army, Keene Community Education, and various after school programs in the region.
Since the onset of the pandemic, Reading on the Road has distributed over 10,000 books to kids, free of any charge, by partnering with Feeding Tiny Tummies and Southwestern Community Service’s free lunch program… they’ve also begun offering deliveries of books to families that request them.
This Friday, join Elise Valentine at 5:05pm, as she chat with Georgia and Amelia from Reading on the Road to hear more about this wonderful organization.
WEEK OF 9/7
This week we focus on the Connecticut River Conservancy and the thousands of volunteers like YOU to help make water cleaner, river banks safer, and wildlife happier, in the annual “Source to Sea Cleanup”… an annual trash cleanup of the Connecticut River and tributaries across NH, VT, MA & CT.
Due to COVID-19, the annual cleanup has been extended to the entire month of September, and participants can clean up any time during the month to ensure safe physical distancing. Get involved as an individual, or as a group… click HERE for more information!
WEEK OF 8/31
This week we’re focusing on Ryker! A small boy with a huge dream! He started a project called Pawsome Box in October 2019… inspired by his Mom who is a veterinary technician, he became envious that she helps animals every day, so he decided he wanted to help too. With the help of local donations and fundraising, Ryker sends Pawsome Boxes to local shelters, humane societies, and rescues in NH, VT and MA. The boxes are filled with food, toys, treats, and other items that animals need. Most recently, Ryker sent boxes to animals who were affected by Hurricane Laura down in Louisiana.
If you’d like to help Ryker continue to send Pawsome Boxes, you can visit his Amazon Wishlist and purchase items or gift cards, or donate to his GoFundMe!
Follow along with Ryker’s journey on Facebook too!
WEEK OF 8/24
This week we feature 6 year old Ella Wilson who loves helping people. Throughout this pandemic her Mom Jewels has been trying to encourage openness and explain it to Ella in kid friendly terms. Recently, the two were watching the news and Ella heard how many people are out of work. She became really upset and worried about it and asked if she and her Mom could do something to help. Her Mom told her she thought it was a great idea. After brainstorming they decided to try and raise some money to buy grocery gift cards for families in their Winchester, NH community in need. They would like to help at least 5 families in our community as a starter goal, but would love to keep it going as long as they can! They would really appreciate any donation you are able to make to support Ella’s passion of helping others!
WEEK OF 8/17
This week we chat about the “Music Under the Stars” Drive-In Concerts Coming August 28 and 29.
A throwback to the 1950’s, drive-in concerts are turning out to be this summer’s entertainment salvation. This popular phenomenon has been happening in big cities like Chicago and L.A. and now, in small towns like Brattleboro.
On August 28 and 29 the Brattleboro Music Center and Retreat Farm will present two live drive-in concerts for the community’s enjoyment, as part of their “Music Under the Stars” series that was so popular last summer and named one of Vermont’s Top Ten Summer Events.
On Friday evening, August 28 the BMC Pops Orchestra 2020 with conductor Zon Eastes will perform Mozart, Britten, Montgomery and Joplin. On Saturday evening, August 29, the VJC Seven will take the stage with jazz vocalist Wanda Houston. The rain date for both events is Sunday evening at 6pm.
Both concerts are free and everyone is welcome. A suggested donation of $20 per car is very much appreciated to help defray costs.
The events will take place on the Concert Stage at Harris Hill on Cedar Street in Brattleboro. Bring your lawn chairs and a picnic as you enjoy live music in a magical Vermont setting, safe and socially-distanced. Gates open at 5pm and concerts begin at 6pm.
Advance reservations are required. You will be assigned a space for your vehicle as well as the adjacent space for outdoor seating! No walk-ins will be allowed.
We hope to see you this summer for our “in your car” concerts!
Reserve a Ticket HERE!
Visit the event page on Facebook!
WEEK OF 8/10
This week we shine a little light on the Everyone Eats! program in Brattleboro. For the past six weeks, Foodworks along with several other local partners, has been helping to implement this program, using Federal Funds to pay restaurants to prepare meals for those impacted by COVID-19. Everyone Eats! provides high-quality meals for and wide: to our neighbors staying in hotels, to human service and social justice organizations, as well as to families and individuals – no questions asked – every Monday through Thursday throughout August from 4pm to 6pm at the C.F. Church building on Flat Street in Brattleboro.
WEEK OF 8/3
This week we’re focusing on Groundworks Collaborative in Brattleboro, Vermont, a shelter and supportive services for those suffering from homelessness and extreme poverty offering food support services for anyone in need. They support basic needs with dignity through their shelters, food shelf and a range of services. When COVID was advancing toward Vermont, with the state’s support and guidance, Groundworks quickly moved everyone experiencing homelessness into local motels, allowing for separation and limiting the spread of COVID. So far no infections! Groundworks also changed how they provide food, moving to a delivery model. The number of people accessing food supports has doubled. Groundworks is currently working on options to keep people in housing, as they’ve interrupted homelessness – and they don’t want to go back to ‘normal’.
Tune in Friday at 5:05pm as John Bailey interviews Laura Chapman from Groundworks Collabortive to hear more about how the organization continues to assist and support the homeless.
To learn more, visit the Groundworks Collaborative website HERE.
Follow Groundworks Collaborative on Facebook HERE.
WEEK OF 7/27
This week we’re focusing on the Hops For Hope 5K, an annual fundraiser for the American Cancer Society which provides the necessary funds for us to support cancer survivors, caregivers and their communities.
2020 will be a new adventure as we turn this into a Virtual Event! Join from across the street or across the country – The fight for a world without cancer reaches far and wide! There are 2 registration options (both are a 100% tax-deductible donation) for individuals or teams.
Participants are encouraged to complete their 5K anywhere that that have the ability to safely run, walk, ride, roll, etc. Each Monday in August registered participants will receive a new WEEKLY CHALLENGE in their inbox which enters them into a weekly prize.
The Top Fundraiser will WIN A Northeast Value Epic Pass, valued at $599 donated by Mount Snow. When a participant FUNdraises $100 or more they are automatically entered to win 1 FREE night stay at the Vermont Huts Association Chittenden Brook Hut. More giveaways will be announced on our Social Media accounts throughout the month.
Register or Donate HERE
WEEK OF 7/20/2020
This weekend, Thursday July 23rd through Sunday July 26th, Thanksgiving in July is back, a local fundraiser collecting monetary and non-perishable food donations to assist hungry children in need.
Keene Elm City Rotary, Greater Keene Rotaract Club, and the Monadnock Understands Childhood Hunger Coalition (M.U.C.H) are coming together to ensure that the hallmark fundraising effort doesn’t fall victim to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Children in our region are food insecure, and, unfortunately, this problem isn’t just not going away, it is becoming dire.
There are a couple different ways to make your contribution to help feed local children! Visit the Thanksgiving in July website HERE and click “DONATE” to place your monetary donation, or drop off your shelf-stable goods in the drop box in front of Ted’s Shoe and Sport in downtown Keene. All funds will directly support local children in need of food.
WEEK of 7/13/2020
This week we focus on The Deerfield Valley Rotary Club — Due to COVID-19, the Rotary Club had to cancel its traditional fundraisers so instead, is hosting an outdoor Garden and Live Music Tour this Saturday, July 18th, from 12-4pm, rain or shine. It will be a self-guided tour where you can visit beautiful gardens in our valley in any order you would like, and see live musicians perform! Visit some or all at your own pace. Tickets are a $25 donation, and can be purchased HERE or at the Chamber of Commerce in Wilmington when they are open. There will be a limited number of tickets sold, so get your tickets while supplies last!
The Deerfield Valley Rotary raises money to then donate to the local community where it is needed, so you can enjoy a great afternoon while giving back to the local community at the same time!
For information about this event and to see the list of musicians that will be performing as well as descriptions of some of the gardens, click HERE. There will even be a couple of artists selling their crafts/art, including a local favorite, Ann Coleman!
Follow The Deerfield Valley Rotary Club on Facebook!
WEEK Of 7/6/2020
This week we focus on two juniors from Keene High School, Mike Mariani and Devin McLaughlin who recently set out on a “Pedaling for Prevention” Tri-State bicycle journey (approximately 700 miles through NH, VT & ME) raising awareness for suicide prevention and honoring Mike’s brother Nathan Mariani, who died by suicide in 2018. Shortly into the trip, Devin suffered a knee injury, so the trip unfortunately had to end, however, determined to continue to spread their message that “long journeys can lead to beautiful destinations”, they altered their plans, regrouped and set out on a suicide awareness speaking tour. They completed this tour on Monday 6/30 and were greeted with a hero’s welcome in Chesterfield, NH. When medical staff allow it, Mike and Devin plan to redo their New England ride, and also plan to cross the country (their original plan before COVID-19) in the summer of 2021 just after their Keene High School graduation.
The amazing team at Bulldog Design helped the boys create a line of Pedaling For Prevention apparel. All proceeds benefit the ride and suicide prevention. Click HERE to order your apparel. The store is open through July 15th. New items have been added, including face masks.
Any proceeds from their “Pedaling For Prevention” ride benefits The Samaritans, a local suicide prevention agency.
Donations can made at any Savings Bank of Walpole branch or mailed to:
Pedaling For Prevention, c/o Savings Bank of Walpole, PO Box 744 Keene, NH, 03431.
Letters of support can be mailed to:
Pedaling For Prevention, PO Box 303, Spofford, NH 03462.
Email: PedalingforPrevention2020@gmail.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pedalingforprevention2020/?hl=en
Venmo: https://venmo.com/pedalingforprevention2020
FaceBook: https://facebook.com/pedaling4prevention2020/
Go Fund Me: https://www.gofundme.com/f/sq26t-pedaling-for-prevention
For more information please visit: http://pedalingforprevention.com.
WEEK OF 6/28/2020
This week we focus on Stuart and John’s Sugar House and Windyhurst Dairy Farm, in Westmoreland, NH.
WEEK OF 6/22/2020
This week, we focus on the company MAMASEZZ, a local company that delivers fresh (never frozen) delicious, hearty, whole food plant-based ready to eat meals to your door… when the pandemic hit, they not only set up an in-house food store for everyone who works for them along with providing MamaSezz meals to their employees, but they are also continuing to donate hundreds of meals per week to food shelves and community pantries in the two towns where they have a base of operations, Brattleboro and Keene. MAMASEZZ is also working with a group of Brattleboro folks to provide restaurant food for people in town in a four-week pilot project that they hope to continue here and around Vermont. They are planning to offer logistics and their van to help move food safely to the distribution locations.
WEEK OF 6/15/2020
This week we highlight The Local Crowd Monadnock and their 4Ward Initiative — through a variety of crowd-funding campaigns, you’re empowered to support the local business you wouldn’t want to live without! The dollars raised helps these locally owned businesses weather the COVID-19 crisis, meet changes in community needs, and seize new opportunities to move towards a more local, green and fair economy in the Monadnock Region. Consider donating today to help one of the several businesses through TLC Monadnock’s 4Ward Campaign like: The Monadnock Food Coop, Orchard Hill, Archway Farm and Prime Roast.
WEEK OF 6/8/2020
This week we spotlight the Rotary Club of Keene – the organization is hosting their annual Lobster Feast Raffle Fundraiser with money raised being put back into the community through Jane’s Kids, which outfits local children in-need. Raffle tickets are only $5.00 each and there are 3 prizes (complete dinners for 10 delivered to the location of your choice within in the Monadnock Region *delivered uncooked due to constraints around COVID*). Contact your favorite Rotarian to purchase – or email info@keenerotary.org.
WEEK OF 6/1/2020
This week, we spotlight Nicole Reisman of Brattleboro – Operator of Nicole’s Community Kitchen, and known as “The People’s Chef”. When we all began social distancing at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals became housebound. Nicole selflessly stepped up and began using her culinary skills to provide hot home-cooked meals for her fellow Southern Vermonters during this time of need. Through her Facebook group page “Nicole’s Community Kitchen“, she makes meal announcements and takes orders, and with the help of volunteers, delivers these meals to people in Brattleboro and the surrounding area.
KRISTOPHER RADDER — BRATTLEBORO REFORMER
KRISTOPHER RADDER — BRATTLEBORO REFORMER
KRISTOPHER RADDER — BRATTLEBORO REFORMER
WEEK OF 5/25/2020
This week, we’re focusing on Becky Arbella of Shires Housing, who helped create a temporary food shelf in Dover, Vermont in the Sundance Base Lodge of Mount Snow. Through different funding, including a GoFundMe account that surpassed her original request of $2500, an emergency grant, and food/beverage donations from the Vermont Foodbank, River Bend Farm Market, Mount Snow, and other local givers, she started the COVID-19 Temporary Emergency Dover Food Shelf.
As the need from local families grew, Becky found it difficult to purchase items in bulk for the food shelf, so she decided to take the remaining funds and purchase several $25 gift cards to each of Dover and Wilmington’s small grocery stores to give to families, so they could purchase their own items while keeping the money in the valley.
COVID-19 Dover Food Shelf Schedule
WEEK OF 5/18/2020
This week we focus on Brooke Kaplan of Vermont’s own Darn Tough Socks. The company is selling the “Foodbank Farmer’s Market” sock, with every penny from the sale going straight to the Vermont Foodbank. This lightweight lifestyle sock has a purpose beyond keeping you comfortable, it provides comfort to others… and so far, has donated over 170,000 meals to Vermonters in need.
WEEK OF 5/11/2020
This week, we’re featuring Joe Tolman, owner of Bulldog Design in Keene, who launched “the great grey tee project” in Keene and Brattleboro. Since early April, customers could order Oxford grey t-shirts with logos of local businesses and organizations in dark grey on the fronts, with “community support team, grey tee project member” printed in all caps on the left sleeve.
The shirts cost $19 each, and $10 from each sale went to the business that customers chose to support. Since many businesses were affected throughout the stay-at-home order, this was a way for Bulldog to help the community make it through COVID-19 related closures. In just over a month, nearly $100,000 was raised to assist local businesses!
WEEK OF 5/4/2020
This week, we’re featuring Jim Westbrook of CherryRail Farm who has put together a free food event on weekends in May and June for the public at The Retreat Farm in Brattleboro, VT.
Free breakfast sandwiches are available to the public on Saturdays and Sundays starting in May. Just come down to the Retreat Farm in Brattleboro between 9 am – 12 pm for a sausage or cheese egg sandwich made fresh with local eggs and sausage. To honor the social distancing details, you’ll place your order at the drive-up order area and then drive up to the pick up station. Socially distanced walk ups are welcome also. Sausage donation and catering by CherryRail Farm with additional donations and support from Pete and Gerry’s Eggs, Against the Grain, Brown and Roberts, Leader Home Center and Wendy’s.
For more information email Jim at CherryRailFarm@gmail.com.