It’s that time of year again … time to celebrate the season and spread the holiday spirit.  Every once in a while I find myself wanting to give more to those who need it. Often there are times when I don’t know where to begin in terms of which charity organization to give my donations to. This year, however, we got the chance to interview Charlie Becker, Director of Camp Courageous in Monticello, IA. After the interview I found that I really appreciate what the camp does and wanted to help. The camp runs on donations, with no government funding, no formal sponsorship and no one paid to raise money for the camp. They run through the generosity of donations given by people and companies. Please view the video below [...]

We would like to end our Raising awareness series with Hillcrest Family Services. This versatile non-profit organization has many different departments.  The various branches of Hillcrest are divided by age groups, gender, and specific needs of the children.  Hillcrest has helped countless kids as they mature into outstanding individuals. However, there is always a need for volunteers, especially in the role of a big brother big sister to one of the kids. If you would like to help out the kids please read on to learn more and to see how to volunteer. Hillcrest Family Services John Bellini, director of residential education, spoke with us about how Hillcrest helps youth grasp a rich and successful education.

The holiday season is here and spirits are up for most especially at the East Dubuque Giving Tree organization. It’s a time of reflection and giving thanks as they say. But when is the last time you really thought about how you could give back to those who aren’t as fortunate as yourself? I would like to introduce to you the Runde’s Raising Awareness Series. The goal of this series is to bring awareness to various non-profit organizations around the Tri-State area that provide truly selfless services for those in need of help. These organizations run mainly through donations and volunteer work and are almost always in need of contributions or further assistance. We ask only one thing if nothing else is gained through this series: that you realize and acknowledge that these good deeds are being done in our very own community. Our first organization is The City of East Dubuque:  

The Foodpack Program in Dubuque is something with no downside.  It’s just a good idea that helps children and families in need in the local area.  There are things that make you happy on the inside. Perhaps seeing someone you love prevail in something they always wanted to do, or watching a cartoon while sitting on the couch at home all snuggled up with your family, or maybe it’s something so small as to hear the crunch of Fall leafs under your feet. Hopefully reading about the Foodpack Program in Dubuque is something that makes you feel like the world is steering itself in the right direction.  The selflessness of some who make sure that the less fortunate are taken care of is [...]