Small ways that you can make a big difference for nonprofits
With the Wildcats
Members of the Exchange Club of East Dallas are all about the Woodrow Wildcats; in fact, many of its members attended the local institution themselves. So setting up a scholarship fund was a no-brainer when the club was looking for ways to support students in their next chapter of life. Since 2013, the club has presented $2,000 scholarships to a handful of standout Woodrow Wilson High School graduates. The scholarship is renewable every year for four years, as long as students maintain a full class load and a 2.5 GPA. Funds for those scholarships are raised during the Woodrow Alumni Fest, when Wildcats from all generations gather to feast on pizza and share stories from the good old days (don’t worry, the public is welcome too — it’s not just for Wildcats). The event includes a performance by the O’s and takes place Saturday, May 14, from noon to 5 p.m. at the Pour House, 1919 Skillman. Tickets are $20-$35 and available at exchangeclubofeastdallas.org.
Fighting the stigma of mental illness
One in five people in Texas is afflicted by a form of mental illness, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is here to help. The organization offers free therapy and support services to anyone in need, for both those suffering from mental illness, and their families who help them cope. NAMI hosts its fundraising walk to bring awareness and fight the stigma many face living under the cloud of mental illness. The 11th annual NAMIWalks Dallas is set for Saturday, May 14, at 8 a.m. at Fair Park featuring honorary chair, Miss International, Elise Banks who is herself a therapist. Supporters can form teams, get sponsors and spend the morning walking for a cause. For details, contact John Dornheim at 214.335.8334 or johnd@namidallas.org.
Know of ways
that neighbors can spend time, attend an event, or purchase or donate something to benefit a neighborhood nonprofit? Email your suggestion to launch@advocatemag.com.
