When the Dominican Republic (DR) comes to mind, many of us envision stunning all-inclusive resorts located in Punta Cana. However, for Jennifer Yin, a resident of Peachtree Corners, the country’s appeal goes beyond indulging in crystal-clear waters and delicious cuisine.

She doesn’t find herself continuously in the Dominican Republic for luster and splendor, but rather for something much humbler and wholesome. 

Yin previously worked as a schoolteacher but found a calling to work to improve safe water supply to developing countries. To help provide clean, safe water, Yin started a simple lemonade stand in her front yard with her two sons. 

From this modest lemonade stand, Yin was redirected by neighbor Dan Blevins to look into Water at Work. Blevins is the Executive Director of the Water at Work Ministry. Their mission is to transform the lives of over one million of the poorest people in the Dominican Republic through clean water production plants, business development and access to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Water at Work

Water at Work had humble beginnings. Over 10 years ago, Tom Flaim created the Water at Work Ministry after visiting the DR with his church group and being astounded by the lack of clean water available to residents.

Since then, the ministry has created a partner organization in the DR. Water at Work establishes small water businesses in the country through partnering with local churches and ministries, helping to provide many communities access to clean and safe water.

Yin, the Director of Donor Relations, visits the DR annually. Her last trip was in the middle of June. On every trip, Yin continues to connect with residents like Rosemary, a staff member who leads community development efforts and recently created mobile dental clinics in the communities they serve for a very low cost. 

During the mobile dentist clinics, Yin saw the fruit of her efforts and witnessed Rosemary and other dentists enter the Consuelo community and treat over 50 people in eight hours with no running water or air conditioning. 

Additionally, on this most recent trip, Yin visited House of Light, an orphanage for disabled children where Water at Work had installed a water purification system 10 years ago. However, the upkeep of the basic water purification system had become too expensive for the orphanage to maintain, so the ministry began installing a new system. 

“We are in the midst of building them a completely renovated, state-of-the-art water purification system where they will be able to provide clean water for all the orphans who live there,” said Yin. 

Through this system, they will also be able to bottle and sell water to residents nearby and use those profits to benefit the orphanage. It’s not charity, it’s a sustainable business model.

Thinking beyond your borders

Yin has greater aspirations for Water at Work but needs support. She wants to challenge the Peachtree Corners people to look beyond their own community. 

“I challenge people to think outside of their immediate communities because I’ve found that when you’re able to do that, it opens up your heart and your mind to so much more,” said Yin. “It’s amazing. The joy that you can get from helping others is something that is indescribable.”

There are many ways to support the Water at Work Ministry, one of which is Giving Tuesday. On the Tuesday after Thanksgiving this year, November 28, Water at Work will have a fundraiser. 

“It is a fundraiser we do every single year, and we’ll have a matching donor for it,” said Yin. “Every dollar that is donated on Giving Tuesday will be matched 100% by someone else. So that’s a great way to band together with other people worldwide to make a difference in the nonprofit world,” Yin explained.

Also, becoming a donor is a great way to support the ministry and its mission at any time. 

“We love when folks sign on to be monthly givers. It costs just $17 a month to provide one person with clean, safe water going forward for their lifetime,” she said.

Churches can easily get involved in the ministry’s efforts too. Simpsonwood United Methodist Church and Peachtree Corners Baptist Church put together Water and Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) bottles before Yin’s trip to DR. Later, those WASH bottles made in Peachtree Corners were handed out to DR residents during dental clinics.

Learn more about Water at Work Ministry at wateratworkministry.org, or contact Jennifer Yin at jyin@wateratworkministry.org.

Giving Tuesday is a global day for giving back. It falls on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, following the shopping frenzies of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. 

Launched in 2012 by New York’s 92nd Street Y and the United Nations Foundation, the day aims to shift focus from consumerism to charity. Some ways to celebrate include donations, volunteering and doing social good. 

Over the years, it has become an international movement, inspiring generous acts worldwide.

This Giving Tuesday, consider the impact you can make in your local community. There is competition for donations from large, national nonprofits. Yet, local organizations provide an opportunity for meaningful, close-to-home contributions. 

Below are five local organizations worthy of your attention and support. 

Boy with a Ball: transforming communities through youth

Boy With a Ball, a nonprofit rooted in faith, collaborates with a diverse network of leaders, donors, volunteers, religious groups, educational institutions and businesses. 

The organization’s core mission is to empower young people to make sustainable changes in their communities. According to Communications Director Molly Johnson, Giving Tuesday serves a purpose beyond a single day of fundraising. 

“It’s not just a 24-hour donation window for us,” Johnson said. “It actually kicks off a season of impactful giving that extends through the end of December.”

During this giving season, the organization solicits contributions and releases special content to underscore the long-term effects of these donations. 

“From Thanksgiving to December 31, we share updates and insights about the tangible impacts of giving,” Johnson explained. “We also outline our vision for the upcoming year. It’s an exciting and crucial time for our mission.”

Financial transparency is a hallmark of Boy with a Ball. 

“These funds are used to broaden our efforts in communities and schools,” Johnson said. 

Donations can serve multiple purposes, such as providing snacks for the mentoring program or funding tutoring for a student for an entire year.

In fact, Giving Tuesday has evolved into one of the nonprofit’s most crucial fundraising days, often drawing first-time donors. On some occasions, the day’s contributions have funded specific initiatives like Velocity, a school-based mentoring program.

Boy with a Ball is committed to transforming Gwinnett County by empowering its young population and strengthening family bonds. 

“We’re here to help young people realize their dreams, bolster family cohesion and, in turn, build a safer, more vibrant community,” Johnson added.

Those interested in contributing can do so either by volunteering or offering financial support. 

“Both kinds of giving make a transformational difference in young lives across Gwinnett County,” Johnson said. 

Monetary gifts grant access to resources and mentorship, while volunteers contribute to the personal development of emerging leaders.

For more information or to get involved, contact Maria Bortolucci at Maria.Bortolucci@boywithaball.com or visit the organization’s website at boywithaball.com.

Cultivation Foundation
Cultivation Foundation, stemming from Cultivation Brewery in Norcross, Georgia, established its roots in the late summer of 2022. 

Born from a modest brewery, this philanthropic endeavor prioritizes community relationships. 

Its vision revolves around supporting local charities and the local environment. This foundation’s mission is to create positive change for the underprivileged members of its local community.

The term “cultivate” deeply resonates with the team at Cultivation Foundation. They have ambitions to leave a lasting mark on the Norcross community. By identifying and supporting local charities that mirror their values, they aim to fill gaps where assistance is needed. 

Their contributions include donations to local food pantries, aiding in setting up family holiday gift stores, and collaborations with organizations like Norcross Cooperative Ministries. 

They also partnered with Peachtree Corners’ newest meat market, Union Brothers Market, to raise money with a whole pig roast in 2023. Such activities further highlight the vast scope of charitable work that lies ahead.

This Giving Tuesday, the spotlight shifts to hyperlocal philanthropic initiatives as the holiday season commences. The foundation works hard so that its impact in Norcross remains innovative, substantial and beneficial to those in need.

As part of its journey, the foundation is unveiling the 2nd Annual Cultivation Cup Golf Charity Tournament, scheduled for October 30, 2023. 

Profits from this event will bolster both the Cultivation Foundation and Norcross Cooperative Ministries. Interested participants can register on their website.

Those wishing to support Cultivation Foundation can learn more at cultivationfoundation.com or email info@cultivationfoundation.com.

Georgia Center for Opportunity: investing in lives and communities
The Georgia Center for Opportunity aims to break down the barriers that perpetuate poverty, working both at the grassroots level and advocating for policy change at state and federal levels. 

In addressing community challenges, the Center believes a multifaceted approach is essential. 

The organization goes beyond meeting immediate local needs by actively engaging with the community to gather insights. These interactions inform wider policy initiatives aimed at fostering a thriving environment. 

This Giving Tuesday, the center is spotlighting transformative tales and introducing fresh pathways to support its mission, like Ms. T‘s journey.

After a separation, Ms. T, a mother of five, grappled with homelessness, losing her apartment and vehicle. 

The Lawrenceville Response Center, an instrumental partner, stepped in to provide shelter and later put her in touch with the Georgia Center for Opportunity in June. The center connected her to a local business and coordinated an interview with partnering employers. 

The mentoring initiative addressed Ms. T’s challenges, like participation and childcare constraints. Collaborating with Heirborn Servants, the center facilitated Lyft transport for her interview. 

By June’s end, Ms. T secured a warehouse associate position that started in July, which offered a sustainable wage. Working with her new employer, the center ensured a morning shift, facilitating afternoon time with her children and minimizing childcare hurdles.

Her contributions at work didn’t go unnoticed. Employers commended her proactive participation, spotlighting her zest during the company’s backpack drive project.

Reflecting on her two-month tenure, Ms. T remarked, “Things are going great. I’m beyond pleased with the job. It’s hard to believe it’s approaching two months; it feels longer.”

The center emphasizes that continuous backing, via one-time or recurring donations, provides stability.

Beyond financial aid, it encourages mentorship and volunteering, allowing the community to aid peers in their ascent from poverty. To collaborate with the Georgia Center for Opportunity, reach out to Info@foropportunity.org or dial 770-242-0001.

Growing Leaders: cultivating tomorrow’s trailblazers

Marking its 20th year in 2023, Growing Leaders focuses on more than just academics. The organization places equal emphasis on helping students develop emotional intelligence, interpersonal skills and academic achievement. 

Giving Tuesday is a key funding moment for them, attracting both longtime supporters and newcomers. These financial contributions allow the group to expand its reach, helping underserved students gain essential life skills and emotional well-being.

Growing Leaders celebrated its 20th anniversary in September 2023, marking two decades of imparting life skills and leadership to 2.8 million children.

At the event, the organization also shared its future plans, including a merger with the Maxwell Leadership Foundation and a goal to reach 40 million students.

Unlock lasting impact by becoming a partner with Growing Leaders. Your year-round volunteer efforts or financial commitments don’t just sustain the organization — they power transformative work in underserved schools and enrich extracurricular programs. 

It’s more than a contribution; it’s an investment in shaping tomorrow’s leaders. For opportunities to make a long-term difference, reach out to Anne Machemer at Anne@GrowingLeaders.com.

Promise686: changing lives in the child welfare system

Aiming to drive positive change for vulnerable children in the child welfare system, Promise686 has embarked on a campaign to amass $50,000 this Giving Tuesday. 

These designated funds offer a lifeline to families in the adoption pipeline and ensure they aren’t financially strained.

Promise686 channels approximately $300,000 in grants annually to families in the adoption process. A snapshot of this impact resonates in Eliana’s narrative, as shared by her adoptive parents.

“Eliana was introduced to us via a hosting program for Ukrainian orphans. At age 10, she spent six weeks under our roof. As her departure neared, she was candid: she wanted to stay,” they recalled. 

“Echoing her sentiments, we had, unbeknownst to her, already initiated the adoption process, nearing the tail end of our home study. Regrettably, she returned to Ukraine amidst a myriad of paperwork awaiting clearance. Over the subsequent six months, amidst a sea of forms, medical exams, and fingerprinting sessions, a Promise686 grant emerged as our saving grace,” they added.

“It bridged our financial gaps, setting Eliana’s adoption in motion. Six months down the line, our voyage to Ukraine marked a celebratory reunion. Today, as we vie for a Post Placement Support Grant to bolster Eliana’s educational needs, our gratitude runs deep.”

But Promise686’s fundraising isn’t restricted to Giving Tuesday. The organization offers many donation avenues, from tapping into their bespoke software to grassroots engagement in local church, Family Advocacy Ministries. 

To learn more about partnering with the organization, John Flores, VP of Strategic Growth, encourages you to reach out to him at JFlores@Promise686.org.

ReClif Community: amplifying autism support through collective giving

Since its launch in 2019, ReClif Community has emerged as a haven for families touched by autism, providing invaluable resources and events ranging from sensory-friendly movie outings to intensive parent communication training workshops. 

As they gear up for this year’s Giving Tuesday, the spotlight is on the collective power of small donations, which have been a game-changer for this growing organization.

What started as discounted events has blossomed into a rich catalog of fully funded community activities, thanks to the generosity of Giving Tuesday supporters in previous years. 

Activities include age-appropriate, sensory-friendly movie outings featuring titles like “Top Gun” and “Dungeons & Dragons,” family trivia nights, bowling at Bowlero and specialized events such as painting workshops.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, ReClif pivoted in its mission to emphasize scholarship opportunities, providing financial assistance to families impacted by autism. 

Now, with the easing of pandemic restrictions, the focus is back on organizing more community outings, including a potential visit to the Fernbank IMAX or Planetarium, an initiative strongly championed by founder Reece.

The organization’s rise has been assisted by enduring relationships within the Lilburn community and beyond.

Among them are Janice and David Whitcomb, title sponsors of the yearly “Aces FORE! Autism” golf fundraiser. Matt Olson, Atlanta Braves first baseman, along with his wife, Nicole, continue to be strong advocates and supporters of ReClif. 

Over 95 families have attended free Braves games through partnerships with the Atlanta Braves Foundation, cementing community ties.

With Giving Tuesday just around the corner, ReClif Community is optimistic about building momentum. The global movement has not only enabled them to expand their reach, but also allows them to make their offerings free to participants.

For those interested in contributing to the impactful work of ReClif Community, involvement isn’t just a donation; it’s an investment in a cause that transforms lives every day. 

For more information, reach out to Reece at reece@reclif.com. Participation in Giving Tuesday can have a lasting impact, creating a ripple effect of goodwill that benefits not just individuals, but the entire community.

Building community together

As Giving Tuesday continues to grow in prominence globally, its message remains clear: even during rampant consumerism, we must prioritize giving back.

Embracing this spirit, focusing on local organizations can lead to tangible change right in our backyards. The efforts of such groups, often overshadowed by larger entities, serve as a cornerstone of community welfare. 

This year let’s redirect our attention to those working tirelessly nearby and recognize that sometimes, the support we can give is closer to home than we think.

Those who advocate for those in need find it necessary to reach out to the community for assistance. While numerous nonprofits receive generous grants and other forms of financial support, the majority host at least one major event a year to keep the lights on and the aid flowing.

Rainbow Village is no exception.

Benefit gala info

The 2023 “We Are Family” benefit gala is set for a 6 p.m. start on Saturday, October 7 at Atlanta Athletic Club. This annual event supports and celebrates Rainbow Village as it works to transform the lives of families experiencing homelessness, one family at a time.

The black-tie optional affair includes a champagne reception, a seated dinner with complimentary wine, silent and live auctions, a famed wine wall and a raffle.

Besides the entertainment, guests will also hear an emotional account from a Rainbow Village graduate, detailing the impact the organization had on her life and the lives of her children.

The work at Rainbow Village is crucial because every day there are families with children who find themselves in unsafe environments with no place to turn, no one to turn to and no place to call home. Through the provision of transitional housing and transformational programming, Rainbow Village is endeavoring to change that.

According to its literature, the nonprofit utilizes a model that takes different goals and starting points into consideration. This allows residents to see their progress and build confidence in their individual journey towards economic self-sufficiency.

“Our gala is a night filled with great food, lots of laughter and the occasional tear as we are reminded of the ‘why’ that has brought us all together,” said Melanie Conner, CEO of Rainbow Village, in a press release.

“With housing prices at historically high levels, affordable housing is harder than ever to come by. Homelessness is at crisis levels in many communities, including our own,” she continued. “By arming families with the tools, they need to not only survive but thrive beyond our village, our organization, along with the individuals and partners that support us, is paving the way for them to confidently embark on the journey to self-sufficiency.”

Goals past and present

As it has for the past few years, Rainbow Village is hoping to raise at least half a million dollars to further its mission. Even the pandemic couldn’t keep local wallets shut. The nonprofit has met and exceeded its fundraising goals for the last few years.

Nobody wants this to be the year that it isn’t successful. Last year, 2022, saw a total of $501,970 raised and in 2021, $500,030 was raised.

While every dollar is precious, major sponsors such as Northside Hospital are leading the charge. The medical provider is the presenting sponsor.

Both ticketed and non-ticketed sponsorships for the event are always welcome. All sponsorships can be purchased online through the Rainbow Village website at RainbowVillage.org.