BEFORE YOU HIRE A GRANT WRITER

Grant funding is a valuable monetary resource that can help nonprofit organizations secure necessary funds to offset the expenses associated with implementing or sustaining projects and programs that benefit their communities.

Smaller nonprofit organizations simply do not have the funds to hire a permanent grant writer; therefore, hiring a professional, independent grant writer may be the solution. Here are a few things to consider before hiring a grant writer.

Grant writing is a skill that is perfected with experience. Most professional grant writers are certified as either a Certified Grant Writer (CGW) or Certified Grant Consultant (CGC).

REFERENCES

An independent grant writer often operates under a contracted confidentiality agreement with regards to their clientele and grant awards. Therefore, asking for references may not be an option. Would a prospective grant writer provide you with a bad reference anyway?

GRANT WRITER PAYMENT

It is unethical for a grant writer to be paid on contingency, percentage or from grant award funds. These ethical standards are supported by most professional grant writing associations including: The Grant Professionals Association and the American Grant Writers Association. Keep in mind that a grantor is not going to provide you with funds to ask them for money. The cost of hiring a grant writer should be written into the organization’s annual operating budget.

Some grant writers charge by the hour, others by the grant and still others by retainer. Separate services may be available such as, Grant Research, Award Reporting, Application Review and Strategic Development.

GRANT WRITING GUARANTEE

No one can guarantee grant funding. A professional grant writer’s job is to ensure that your application has the best opportunity for funding consideration. Matching the organization's mission to the mission of a potential grantor, is critical. A qualified grant writer will first identify what type of funding the organization is seeking and whether or not they are eligible for grant funding. This information is gathered at the time of an initial consultation. During the initial consultation, a grant writer will typically ask the following questions:

What is your Mission Statement?

Have you applied for grant funding before?

When was the organization founded?

Does your organization have a 501 (c) 3 IRS Designation Letter?

Does your organization have Articles of Incorporation?

Is your organization documentation up-to-date on Guidestar?

Does your organization have a detailed organization budget?

Did your organization file a 990 or e-Postcard 990-N (if revenues were under $50,000)?

What are the organizations projects and/or programs?

Are these projects/programs new or continuing?

How many volunteers does your organization have?

Does your organization have a spread sheet of volunteer names, contact info and qualifications?

Does your organization have a written list of qualifications for every employee?

Does your organization have an odd number, Board of Directors listing?

Is your Board of Directors 100% giving to your organization? (If those closest to your organization do not support it monetarily, why would you ask someone outside the organization to fund it?)

Does your organization have a written Mission Statement, Vision Statement and Non-Discriminatory Policy?

Does your organization have routine outside audits of books?

Does your organization have budgets developed for each program and/or project? (This is used to identify the funding request amount and discern the number of grants that may have to be written for a particular project or program.)

Has the organization developed demographics such as: Number of people served, income level of people served, ethnicity, ages and so-on?

GENERAL TIPS

The question, “How many grants have your clients received?”, will not tell you whether or not the grant writer can effectively write grants for YOU. Just because someone has written one grant and may have received one large award, does NOT demonstrate grant writing success. A prospective grant writer will explain their application strategy for securing funds for your specific organization during the initial consultation.

Beware of percentage boasts of success and misleading statements. Example: A grant writer boasts that they have 100% ROI (Return on Investment). In reality, the grant writer received two grant awards for their client, but failed to reveal that they only submitted two grant applications; thus making the statement 100%, accurate but misleading.

A grant writer should always obtain approval and signature from the organization before submitting any application.

A signed contract between the organization and the grant writer is essential. A contract is not solely for protection, but serves as a written expectation of understanding for both the grant writer and the organization.

LAST BUT NOT LEAST - Beware of Scams!

Never send money to someone who claims to be able to guarantee that you will receive funding.

An individual CANNOT obtain a grant to START A BUSINESS, GO BACK TO SCHOOL or BUY A HOUSE.

Use caution if a grant writer offers to write a specified number of grants for a flat rate, without asking a number of questions about your organization.

When in doubt, contact a reputable grant writing company. To find a reputable company, search resources such as, the Better Business Bureau, local Chamber of Commerce and Professional Grant Writing Associations.

Still have questions about grant funding?  Visit our website at www.writefunding.com or give us a call at 812-589-1575. 

   

Valentines Day--Recall the Romance

     As Valentine’s Day approaches, it seems like the economy has been taking a toll on relationships. This year, refuse to get caught up in the hype. This Valentine's Day, allow your thoughts and actions to precede and replace the mindset of a frantic purchasing driven quandary.

     Like many married couples, I remember well the economic struggles in the beginning.  With a mix of blind faith and an unrealistic belief that together forever, we could simply “live on love", we were ready to take on the challenges of the world, naively believing we knew what the challenges would be.

     It was a simple time, basking in contentment, solace and joy. We lived paycheck to paycheck without furniture or for that matter, any luxuries; but we laughed and were happy, truly happy. 

   Eventually, the reality train radically collided with the non-problematic world in which we were residing, and with the birth of our children and bills and trials, we were forced to “grow up”

   Now, twenty-seven years later, we shake our heads in disbelief, as we remember and wonder how we survived those painstakingly, difficult years. However, for many couples, the economic downturn of the past few years has meant that those difficult times have not remained a memory but have returned, resurrected and manifested in the form of financial setbacks, as well as, job and home losses.  This final proverbial "straw that broke the camels back" has triggered the demise of many marriages. 

    As an observer of human behavior, I have found that, most often, the root of a problem is not in the remembrances of past struggles that resurface in the present, but failing to recall our, then, reactions to similar circumstances. It is the reaction, therefore, not the circumstances that ultimately are reflected within the relationship.

     This Valentines Day, try to think back to when you first met your spouse.  Remember the tough times, but recall the way the two of you endured and overcame the challenges.  I decided to do this myself; this is what I remembered.....yet often failed to recall.

• I remembered a time when we did not have furniture….but failed to recall that we sat on a pallet on the floor, eating fried bologna, spinach and applesauce (hey, it was a meat, a vegetable and a fruit), watching a 13” Black & White TV, without cable and LIFE WAS GOOD!
• I remembered working a “crap” job at the mall, but failed to recall the big snowfall that covered my car, made the roads treacherous and learning that my spouse had arrived early to clean off my car and follow me home and LIFE WAS GOOD!
• I remembered living in that “dumpy duplex”, but failed to recall the times we would laugh at the silliest things until tears streamed from our eyes and LIFE WAS GOOD!
• I remembered when we couldn’t afford a babysitter or eat out; but failed to remember the simplicity and the romance of eating baked chicken and rice, smothered in cheese, the kids ate spaghetti AND we all laughed and enjoyed dinner......by candlelight and LIFE WAS GOOD!
• I remembered the time when other families were going to Disney World and taking vacations and we felt as if our kids were cheated; yet failed to recall the Friday night game nights that instilled memories they still cherish as adults and LIFE WAS GOOD!
• I remembered a horrible time when our work schedules conflicted because of different shifts and making the decision to quit the best paying job I had ever had; but failed to recall that it was the best decision of my life; it saved our marriage, restored communication and reestablished our friendship. Yes, friendship. Your spouse should always be your “best friend" and LIFE WAS GOOD!

   Whether, your matrimonial state is that of a newlywed couple or a long relationship that has experienced both good and bad days, the key lies within the ability to laugh, enjoy each day and eventually realizing that, in the end, everything else is just………..STUFF and LIFE IS GOOD!

    For parents, particularly new parents, it is important to retain the mindset of a “couple” identity. When hectic schedules are allowed to monopolize all of your time, there is little time to talk about anything else but “the kids.” Eventually children grow up and a couple can find themselves left with……..each other!   It is what you do in the interim that can make the outcome fantastic or disheartening knowing that LIFE IS GOOD!

    Finally, with Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, many couples are feeling like they are caught in a vise. Expectations from advertisements imply expectations of grand romantic illusions. Illusions that can be costly, increase stress, cause depression and plunge one further into debt, making one forget that together, LIFE IS GOOD! 

   This year, when Valentine’s Day rolls around, if you can afford gifts, GREAT, give them; however, if you can’t, accept it. Either way, this year, plan now to make Valentine’s Day 2013 memorable through genuine, LOVE DRIVEN ACTION and realize that love combined with laughter means embracing what life has to dish out, take circumstances (good and bad) as they happen and recognize that a lifetime is but a fleeting spec in the universal time-frame.  Learn that time spent together is forever embedded into memories and those memories live forever and that makes LIFE GOOD!  

Happy Valentines Day!!!!

Active Faith Action

An Insight into the Alarming Decline in Church Attendance

Statistics and data can either scare you to the point of hiding your head in the sand and waiting for the next brick to fall or motivate you to take Active Faith Action to fulfill your respective missions.

Case in point…..Church attendance is declining in America at an alarming rate! A Gallup poll conducted in March of 2012 http://www.gallup.com/poll/153479/Mississippi-Religious-State.aspx, found only 40% of ALL Americans listed themselves as religious with Mississippi being the most religious at 59%, while New York and Rhode Island tied for least religious at 32%; Indiana was identified as “very religious” at 45%.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Vanderburgh County’s current population is 180,305. Using these statistics, 81,137 Vanderburgh County residents consider themselves to be religious; 99,168 do not. “One-Third or 27,046 people, who consider themselves religious, do not regularly attend a worship service,” states John Shook, Ph.D., Director of Education and Senior Research Fellow, Center for Inquiry, in his article Church-Goers Now A Minority in America, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/john-shook-phd/churchgoers-now-a-minorit_b_1537108.html. This translates to a mere 54,091 people (or an average 135 people per church) who regularly attend services in Vanderburgh County.

So, what’s the deal? Why the decline? Most importantly, what can be done?

Congregational growth and addressing decreased revenues are among the two top issues facing church leaders today. Although individual giving, traditionally has surpassed other charitable giving methods and statistically is still listed as such, reality speaks volumes….and quite frankly, statistics do not pay the electric bill.

Today’s, teeter-totter, economy has drastically affected individual giving patterns. Although, the economy shows signs of recovery, many people continue to struggle financially. Some are struggling as a lingering result of the turbulent past economic downturn, others are experiencing lay-offs, which seem to be on the rise again and many individuals, who have managed to secure employment, are now among those listed as “underemployed.”

It is imperative to recognize that 10% of 0 is 0. As more and more Americans find themselves working two, and in many cases, three jobs, individual donations and volunteer efforts have a tendency to decrease. Therefore, the question remains, as a church, do you sit around and wait for the next brick to fall or pursue Active Faith Action by taking a hard look at what is working and, most importantly, what isn’t?

1. Identify strengths, weaknesses and goals.

2. Outline all of the specifics that apply to services, operating expenses, activities, outreach, and in-reach programs.

3. Define details of each of the above (number of services, average attendance, responses, participation) and associated outgoing expenses.

4. List funding revenue methods utilized: Individual donations, distinctive campaigns, fundraisers, grants and direct mail pleas. Once revenue methods have been categorized, look for ways to incorporate funding resource methods not currently in place.

5. Review the organizations current approach for attracting visitors and be willing to revise if results are not achieved.

First and foremost, collectively, seek God and pray for direction as you begin to apply and incorporate a variety of funding resource methods while increasing, not decreasing, overall outreach programs that benefit the community.  God desires for His message to be shared, His love to showered and His compassion to be an example.  

Nostalgia....Tomorrows Yesterday

I have finally arrived at the age where I can reflect back on “The Good ‘ol Days”.  How far back I travel depends upon the day.  When I reminisce about growing up in Evansville, I remember…..(Insert fuzzy cloud and 70’s music fade in):

• Lloyd, was the name of our Mayor; Division Street connected east to west travel
• Sears was downtown
• Washington Square Mall was built
• Drive-ins were common
• Lockyear was a Business College
• High School curriculum consisted of two lanes (business and college)
• Burger Chef (and Jeff)
• Leo’s Hamburgers
• Rosedale Pharmacy and Market
• Ayr-Way
• Shopper’s Fair
• Weinbach Shopping Center
• Red Goose Shoes and the Golden Egg
• In libraries, the Dewey Decimal System identified book titles
• 8-Track Tapes
• Beta Video Tapes
• Soft Drinks in Glass Bottles (that you returned or paid a deposit)

 

As memorable as these things are, it is important to note that the next generation will have their own reflective moments, just as generations past have theirs.  So…why blog about nostalgia?  Today’s world often seems filled with anxiety, worry, fear, violence and uncertainty.  The days that I remember so fondly now, were also filled with the above emotions. 

Many forget that the 70’s were also a time of turmoil. 

• October 6, 1973, the Yom Kippur War began when Egypt and Syria attacked Israel from two sides.  During this time, our country experienced extreme gas price hikes and a shortage of fuel.  Lines formed outside gas stations and people waited hours for fuel. 

• Americans experienced terrorism and were in shock when the Iran Hostage Crisis happened in 1977 where 52 hostages were held for 444 days. 

•  Lay-offs began and unions were dismantled. 

Yes, I could name others, but the point is…..we survived!

Therefore, once we recognize that emotions cannot change facts and understand that action, not wishing, impacts outcomes; then, and only then, can we see beyond the smog that clouds our vision.  Just think, if we learn to appreciate the people and positive happenings that occur each day, strive to make a difference in our community, gripe less and move forward, imagine how much greater your reflection will be 20 years from now. 

Yes, I have finally arrived at the age where I can reflect back on “The Good ‘ol Days”.  How far back I travel depends upon the day……………..  

I SHOULD WRITE A BOOK

     If the words, “I should write a book” or “I could write a book” have ever crossed your mind, then rest assured that you are not alone.   According to http://publishingperspectives.com/2011/05/200-million-americans-want-to-publish-books, 81% or 200 million people say they would like to publish a book; yet, statistics prove that very few pursue authorship status.     

     The publishing industry, undeniably, has experienced dramatic changes over the past twenty years.  The most prevalent changes have included the advancement, acceptance and surge of self-publishing houses and e-books.  In 2010, 2,776,260 titles were self-published, compared with 316,480 titles published by traditional publishing houses, as reported by Bowker.  Regardless of the method of publishing, people love to read and books are still in demand.      

     As you consider entering the wonderful world of writing, you may be wondering what genre, Fiction or Non-Fiction, promotes the most book sales.  USA TODAY’s Best Selling Book List found that Fiction sales rose from 67% in 2007 to 78% in 2011, whereas, Non-Fiction sales trail slightly with the categories of History, Biographies and Religious/Spirituality, ranking as the most popular. 

     The publishing industry estimates that ghostwriters write more than 50% of all books; however, this figure is difficult to confirm for several reasons, ghostwriter anonymity, author recognition and contractual agreements, to name a few.

     Possibly, you are thinking the time has arrived to stop procrastinating and put paper to pen or…. fingers to keyboard, as the case may be.  BUT wait……….not so fast!  Before you race to the computer to impart powerful words of wisdom, write the great American novel or search the internet to find a ghostwriter, it is imperative to understand that the publishing process involves much more than merging a great idea onto printed material.  The goal is to sell your writing and avoid having hundreds of book copies stored away in a closet.  Listed below are a few things to consider before writing that first word.      

IDENTIFY YOUR BOOK PROJECT:

·         Genre-Fiction/Non-Fiction

·         Category-(Ex:  Mystery, Sci-Fi, Humor, History, Religious/Spiritual, Poetry)

·         Self-Publishing or Traditional Publishing (Note:  Traditional Publishing usually requires securing an agent)

·         Define your target audience

·         Objective for the reader

·         Anticipated word count-(varies by genre, audience and topic)  

·         Develop a website and social media pages

·         Speaking tours for promotion

·         Book signings

·         Obtain an ISBN (International Standard Book Number) CAUTION:  P.O.D. publishers (publish on demand) often take a large percentage of sales and does not market your book.

·         E-book version (Every type of book version requires a separate ISBN)

·         Graphics

·         Book size

·         Printing

·         Obtain a copyright - http://www.copyright.gov/help/faq/faq-general.html#what

     With your basic writing starter kit compiled, it is time to begin.  Isolate yourself from everyone for a few hours, sit comfortably at your computer or pick up a pen and paper, grab a cup of hot coffee and let the inspiration, begin.

OUTSOURCING GRANT-WRITING SERVICES CAN BE BENEFICIAL

Nonprofit organizations, particularly smaller organizations, operate with a limited budget, a skeleton staff and exist on donations.  Although, these organizations rely on fundraising, grant funding, individual donations and volunteers to survive; the majority of these organizations do not have full-time grant writers or development personnel on staff.   Unfortunately, the fundraising responsibilities then fall to the Executive Director, whose plate, most often, has passed the point of full to arrive at obligation overflow.        

A depressed economy, declining monetary support and increased anxiety have led to an increase in the.....

MASS DEPARTURE OF EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

When an Executive Director leaves a nonprofit organization, they often take with them vital information and partnership contacts.  The affected organization may experience a decrease in donations, as well as, resignations by both board members and staff.    

Typically, a nonprofit Executive Director is responsible for the overall operation of the organization, serves as a liaison between staff and board members and is responsible for promotions, fundraising and the financial health of the organization.  While responsibilities may vary, depending on the size of the organization, ultimately the Executive Director receives accolades for success and assumes the consequences for failure. 

According to a nonprofit survey conducted by the United Way of King County in Seattle, Washington, the average tenure for an Executive Director, within the nonprofit sector, averages 6.1 years.  In addition, a July 2011 article, http://www.philanthropyjournal.org/news/top-stories/exodus-executive-directors-expected, entitled Exodus of Executive Directors expected, highlights a Meyer Foundation study citing “Sixty-Seven percent of executives plan to leave their jobs within five years.” 

Stress, burn-out, low wages, lack of benefits and board member conflicts are just a few reasons attributed to this staggering, high turnover rate.  Although these statistics are alarming, the departure effect on the nonprofit organization is, often underestimated, unsettling and sometimes tragic. 

The relevance, of whether the Executive Director chooses to leave by his/her own volition or the decision is mandated by a Board of Directors, is moot; either way, the organization suffers as a direct result of an Executive Director departure unless a transition plan is in place. 

Outsourcing grant- writing services can be an essential part of a successful transition plan.  An independent grant writer can help provide stability during this pivotal transition time by allowing the Board of Directors the freedom to search and identify a qualified candidate to fulfill this vital role without worrying about the financial health of the organization. 

Listed below are a few of the benefits of outsourcing grant-writing services:

1)  Copy retention of valuable organization documentation including:

• 501 (c) 3 IRS Determination Letter
• Mission and Vision Statements
• Non-Discriminatory Policy
• Organization Operating Budget
• Form 990
• Staff Qualification Descriptions 
• Project and Program Budgets
• Organization’s Target Audience, Demographics and Statistics

2)  Awareness of programs, projects, expectations and future initiatives

3)  Grant monies requested, received and required reporting

4)  Campaign and grant application deadlines

5)  Funding resource strategies

Outsourcing grant- writing services can also be an asset once a new Executive Director is hired.  Grant writing involves hours of research to identify funding opportunities that match the funder and the organization mission, areas of interest (support), geographic location and monetary requirements.   

An independent grant writer affords a nonprofit leader the ability to concentrate on implementing the programs and projects that benefit their respective communities.  This freedom can increase the likelihood that the Executive Director will remain in the position longer, as well as, foster a sense of organization stability.        

COMMENT SPAM - PROTECT YOUR SITE

Do you blog?  Do you have a website?  If so, beware!  A barrage of Comment Spam may soon be appearing.    

Comment Spam tries to hide itself behind a veil of, what may first appear to be to be, a genuine comment.  Listed below are a few tips to help discern, identify and protect your’ blog or website from unwanted spam.   

1)      Adjust blog and website comment section settings to require comment approval rather than allow automatic posting. 

2)      Avid blog readers become followers, they do not continuously comment on a website about a blog.

3)      Beware of vague compliments sent from a business or non-personal email that do not refer to specific content contained on your website.  Never respond to the comments as the intent is to generate a response aimed at increasing search engine rankings. 

4)      Comments that originate from a business or website email rather than an individual name.

5)      Non-specific questions about a website set up or its’ content. 

6)      Comments that contain missing words within the sentence, random letters, gibberish, excessive compliments, severe grammar mistakes, misspelled words or vain attempts to offer advice. 

7)      Comments that have odd numbers or letters, such as spAm or sp&1am.

          Listed below are a few actual examples of Comment Spam:

·        Wow! Thank you! I always wanted to write on my web site something like that. Can I incorporate a portion of your post to my website?

·        It is really a nice and helpful piece of info. I am happy that you shared this useful info with us. Please stay us informed like this. Thank you for sharing.

·        Thank you for the good write up. It in fact was a amusement account it. Look advanced to more added agreeable from you! However, how could we communicate?

·        We're a group of volunteers and starting a new scheme in our community. Your website offered us with valuable info to work on. You've done a formidable job and our whole community will be thankful to you.

·        I'm still learning from you, but I'm making my way to the top as well. I definitely enjoy reading all that is written on your blog. Keep the articles coming.I liked it!

·        Very interesting info!Perfect just what I was searching for!

·        Ajieljdildkdidls;soepw[q;,.urke;loel.

There are a variety of programs designed to help prevent spam.  It is a personal decision whether or not an investment of this type is warranted as it depends upon the amount of spam received.  

Last but not least, remember a website or blog is a reflection of you and your business.  Therefore, it’s important to approve all comments and check your website and/or blog regularly to ensure the content is protected.      

BLOGGING FOR BUSINESS

A Web-Log or Blog, as it is affectionately known today, was designed to be a platform where individuals could post random thoughts and stories and share them through the internet.   

Whether you love blogs or hate them, the fact remains that blogs are changing the way we do business.   Customers are savvy and utilize internet search engines to locate information about products, services and companies.  They also look for tips, advice and general information about a variety of topics and subjects. 

It is important to note that blogging is NOT usually a method of direct advertising; however, exceptions can apply.  A well written blog engages your target audience, establishes you as an expert in your field and can ultimately drive traffic to your website or place of business.  The goal of a blog is to attract readers to become followers.  Followers like what they have read and choose to be notified of your next intriguing entry. 

Blogging requires time and time is a luxury that many business owners, particularly small business owners, do not have.  This is why many businesses are choosing to save time and money by utilizing professional writers to ghost-write their blogs.  Your approved blog copy can simply be pasted it into your existing blog.  You can then share your blog link through social media sites, printed materials and websites; the written material belongs to YOU.    

To learn more about ghost-blogging for your business, visit www.writefunding.com .

MINI-VAN MAMA

The 90’s will be remembered for a variety of events, promotions and inventions, some of which include:  Cloned Sheep, Bill Clinton, The Gulf War, Barney®, and · Madonna

However, the 90’s may be remembered most, as the era of the…………Mini-Van.  The Mini-Van was much, much more than just a vehicle; it was the most sought after automobile of choice for every modern, American mom.  The marketing campaign for the Mini-Van birthed an entirely new advertising iconic concept--the “family” vehicle.

How naïve we (moms) were in the 1990’s.  We believed that we were independent thinkers who could not be persuaded or affected by the advertising industry.  We assumed that our purchasing habits and decisions were solely our own.  Typically, sales pitches and TV ads were unchallenging, as we quickly acquired the talent of bargain shopping and developed the gift of haggling.

1997, I subconsciously succumbed to the hype of an advertisement and yes, I purchased a Mini-Van. I was totally unaware that the vehicle I was purchasing could actually change my life and the way my life was viewed by others.  Within a few short years, the metamorphosis had occurred.  I hardly recognized myself.  I had become the epitome of domesticity.

Unbeknownst to me, a person reeks of Mommy-hood behind the wheel of a Mini-Van.  A Mini-Van is a vehicle that is constantly traveling (running errands) without ever really identifying a true destination. Throughout history, since the invention of the automobile, there has never been a vehicle that has stereotyped its owner quite as effectively as the Mini-Van.

A Mini-Van Mama is usually a coupon clipping, PTA certified, T-Ball inclined, financially challenged, laundry sorting, meal preparing female.  A Mini-Van Mama proudly displays her accomplishments on the back window of her vehicle with stick figure decals that reveal every person in the household along with the family dog and cat.  Of course, honor student bumper stickers and marching band decals often complete the decorative motif.

It is important to note, however, that the resale value of a pre-owned Mini-Van is extremely low.  Primarily, because most Mini-Vans are driven until they drop.  In addition, I am certain that the smashed candy inside the armrests, mud stains and spilled cherry cola throughout the interior combined with the permanent indention of small footprints imbedded onto the back of the driver’s seat greatly attribute to this decrease in value. 

Although a Mini-Van can seat seven people comfortably, for some reason, one more seats are always needed.  A Mini-Van Mama inadvertently adds passengers, not through labor and delivery, but by pick up.  A Mini-Van Mama often finds herself moonlighting as a transportation liaison for other children as well.

A Mini-Van is a mobile packing company, ready to roll at a moment’s notice and can be identified easily by the array of objects contained in the back compartment.  Some of the more common necessities include: Baseball bats, bicycles, strollers, diaper bags, groceries, lawn chairs, stuffed animals, blankets, duffle bags containing snacks, books and baby wipes, umbrellas and so-on.

The most amazing transformation I witnessed was in the persona of a Mini-Van Mama, as it was very easy to spot a fellow co-hart, particularly within the confines of a department or discount store.  A Mini-Van Mama would have two or more children with her, wore sweat pants or possibly blue jeans, tennis shoes (no brand name), little or no makeup, a hurried look and keys in hand at the register.

Are you (or were you) a Mini-Van Mama?  The following list contains a few common and/or typical characteristics of a Mini-Van Mama:

1. Room mother at school

2. Disagreement arbitrator

3. Education assistant

4. Cook/crockpot guru

5. Housekeeper/laundry

6. Financial coordinator (pays bills, balances checkbook)

7. Utilizes call-waiting feature often

8. Coffee anytime during the day

9. Cookie/cereal crumbs on the floor that get caught between your toes when barefoot

10. Hamburger mixes

11. Deep fryers

12. Electric skillets

13. Microwaves

14. Uses paper plates and plastic dishes that burp

15. Embraces lay-a-way

16. Writes a list for everything

17. Forgets to look at the list

18. Christmas shops on Black Friday

19. Decorates the day after Thanksgiving

20. Plans to exercise after the first of the year (every year)

How many of the above characteristics did you identify with?

12-20- Congratulations you are a true Mini-Van Mama

10-12- Not bad, probably drive an SUV that looks like a Mini-Mini-Van

0-10 – That's o.k. - Sedan driver – no kids or hires a nanny

Although, the popularity of the Mini-Van, in many cases, has since been replaced by the SUV, the fact remains that the Mini-Van has/had one other not so obvious, unpublicized attraction.  To this day this continues to be a Mini-Vans greatest benefit. This benefit did not become evident to me until 2004, when my then, 16, year old explained that he would rather WALK to school than drive the family Mini-Van.

Now THAT’S what I call an advertising concept!  

SEEING THROUGH EYES OF FAITH

These days, I spend the Christmas season reflecting upon blessings rather than focusing on the many worries of life. I am often mesmerized by the twinkling of various light displays and eagerly anticipate the first snowfall of the season. My mind is captivated by the beauty of each tiny, carefully designed, snowflake as it cascades through the glare of a street light. I take time to experience and bask in the glow and warmth of the Christmas tree and find myself fascinated by the lights as they flicker on and off, in silence.

Yes, Virginia, miracles still happen and my daughter is living proof of that. In June 1995, my daughter’s vision was attacked by a rare virus, causing clouding of the cornea which resulted in blindness. Barely, three years old, she was referred to Washington University’s Children’s Hospital in St. Louis, MO. At the time, we were told that the only chance to save her vision would be a cornea transplant and our hope was that she would be able to tell a cat from a dog.

August 24, 1996, a donor was identified.  Her donor was only 18 years old, yet he and his family demonstrated the ultimate act of love; giving everything he had to someone he had never met so that others might have life or an enhanced life.  How can one ever adequately say thank you for such a sacrifice?

As a mom, I was devastated to learn that my daughter would have to endure this. Yet, in the midst of heartbreak and trial, I quickly learned how fortunate we were. Our daughter’s transplant was not considered life threatening as were some of the transplants children were receiving that day. As several other anxious parents filled the waiting area for news about their little ones; the effects of stress were evident.

The wait seemed like an eternity and thankfully everything went great; however, I was not prepared to see my baby girl in recovery. There she was, so tiny, so fragile, her eye covered with a patch and her arms placed inside braces to prevent her from touching her eye. In addition, IV’s, monitors and other equipment was hooked up to her. We recognized that the long road to recovery was about to begin.

Looking back, a lot of things about that time seem to be blurred; that said, I do know that my prayers were answered. My baby girl, Sarah can see! She plays with dolls, loves music, reads her books and fights with her big brother. Sarah and I now spend much of our time as advocates for organ and tissue donation. It is humbling to realize that as a registered donor, you become a miracle waiting to happen.

Christmas is a time when Christians, like me, celebrate the birth of a miracle more than 2000 years ago. The birth of Jesus Christ paved the way for miracles that do still happen today. Do you HAVE to believe in miracles….no, you most certainly do not. Do I believe in miracles….you bet I do!  Faith is defined as believing without seeing; yet in this particular case I guess one could surmise that, Seeing IS the result of Faith Believed!

Side Note: 2011-Sarah is 19 and a Music Performance Major in college. She is currently celebrating her 16^th year as a cornea recipient, is an outstanding flute player, an avid reader, transposes music, loves to write and drives a car. For information about becoming an organ and tissue donor visit: donatelife.net.