This article was contributed by Mark Paxton with Community Foodbank.
As it embarks upon its eighth year of supporting essential community services through local nonprofit organizations, the 12 Days of Giving holiday season fundraising campaign is inviting proposals from other potential participants.
The 2018 campaign generated more than $152,000, continuing a trend of annual growth since its inception. Participating organizations currently are CASA of San Benito County, providing advocacy, support and resources for foster children; Chamberlain’s Children Center, offering a home-like environment for at-risk foster youth; Community FoodBank of San Benito County, offering food assistance; Emmaus House, a place of shelter and assistance for women who are victims of domestic violence; and Sun Street Centers, which offers the first residential recovery home in San Benito County for women seeking release from addiction.
12 Days of Giving was the brain child of Bob Tiffany of Hollister. By seeking sponsorships from local businesses and civic organizations, participating nonprofits generate a pool of funds that is used to match individual support during the campaign. United Way of San Benito County offers further support to the matching fund each year through its annual fall Gala.
The growing success of this effort creates the opportunity to invite other qualifying nonprofit organizations in San Benito County.
To qualify, an independent nonprofit organization must be a registered 501(c)(3) working to fill essential needs with an office located within San Benito County. Additionally, the organization also must currently be a United Way of San Benito County partner, and participate fully in planning and executing the campaign with the other participating nonprofits.
Organizations are welcome to submit proposals to Denise Cauthen-Wright by email (denise@chamberlaincc.org) by April 15 at 5 p.m.