September 2024 Newsletter
A New Leaf
Dedicated to helping end homelessness, domestic violence, poverty, and other community challenges in Arizona.
As we step into September, it is crucial to acknowledge the diverse and often unexpected paths that can lead families and individuals to homelessness. Homelessness can affect anyone, regardless of background or circumstances.
This month, we share the story of Jenee, who, after overcoming significant personal challenges, including incarceration and addiction, sought a fresh start through the supportive programs at A New Leaf. Thanks to people like you, Jenee was able to get back on the path towards stability. Jenee is currently working at an addiction treatment center, and is helping others get back on their feet.
A New Leaf is committed to removing barriers and providing essential support to families and individuals of all backgrounds. No one should have to experience the challenges of homelessness alone.
Jenne’s story is a powerful reminder that no matter what happens in your past, you are always deserving of a helping hand in the future. In this newsletter, you can learn more about how your support continues to make a critical difference in the lives of those like Jenee, and even more ways to help your community in need.
Thank you for your unwavering kindness.
Sincerely,
Joe Dulin
Chief Philanthropy Officer
A New Leaf
September 2024 Impact News: You gave Jenee a Second Chance!
“I got out of prison a few months ago, and I knew I wanted to change my life. I’d overcome a crystal meth addiction and I just couldn’t live the way I was anymore. I had to make some big changes, so I joined a program that A New Leaf offered to people being released. That changed everything for me.”
“A New Leaf would help me pay for my halfway house for up to three months while I got myself together. It would give me some support, which I really needed. I was starting over completely, and I don’t have any family here to help me. That was step one.”
“Second, I knew that finding a job after I got out would make or break me. When you can’t provide for yourself or afford a roof over your head, you start making bad decisions. So I got a job at a local addiction treatment center and worked as many shifts as I could. If I wanted to stay involved in A New Leaf’s program, I had to work.”
“The last big obstacle people don’t think about is a car. You want a job? You better have a car. You want a car? You better have a job. So most of the time, people like me end up without a job and without a car. Again, that can lead people to make poor choices.”
“A New Leaf changed the game by guaranteeing transportation if I found a job. They help me book rideshares that take me to and from work, until I can save up for a car. I cannot tell you what a huge difference it makes knowing that I’ll be able to get to work every day on time.”
“Even if you manage to find a job, you’re still an ex-convict. If you show up late a few times because you had to take three buses to get there, you’re gonna get fired. Any little misstep and my whole life could collapse on itself, you know.”
“Everything is so fragile when you first leave prison, so it’s important to remove all of those small barriers that can prevent your success. If I can just focus on working every day, staying sober, and staying out of trouble, then I will be successful. Thankfully, I’ve been able to do that and it’s changed my life.”
September 2024 Volunteer News: Volunteer Today to Leave a Lasting Impact On Your Community!
A New Leaf is actively seeking dedicated volunteers to fill a variety of roles spanning across multiple locations in the Valley. We are looking for amazing community members like you who are committed to making a difference in the lives of thousands of families each year. By joining our volunteer team, you can contribute to the vital services that provide help and hope to those in need.
We are currently looking for volunteers for the following positions across our various locations:
West Valley Housing Assistance Center (WVHAC):
Faith House (FH):
East Valley Men’s Center (EVMC):
Administration Office (AO):
Financial Wellness (Mesa Location):
Workforce Development (Mesa and Phoenix Locations):
Whether you’re assisting behind the scenes or front and center in the kitchen, your time and talents are invaluable to thousands of people every single year. If you’re ready to make a difference and help those in need find stability and support, apply today and make a difference in your community.
September 2024 Donation Center News: Essential Items for Those In Need!
A New Leaf is immensely grateful to Dr. Kevin Ross from The Power Company and Dr. Kevin LeBlanc from Rooted Chiropractic for their incredible generosity and commitment to helping their community. Their recent delivery of essential items to our donation center, including towels, pots and pans, diapers, and food, has made a significant impact on the lives of those we serve.
Dr. Ross has been a steadfast supporter of the community through his “Christmas in July” initiative, which has been brightening the lives of A New Leaf’s shelter residents for nearly 25 years. His dedication to including new doctors like Dr. LeBlanc in this effort exemplifies the spirit of community and compassion that drives positive change.
These essential supplies are crucial for the families and individuals in our shelter programs, providing the necessities of daily living, and a sense of stability and care. Thank you so much for all that you do for your community in need.
You can help those experiencing homelessness this year. Our donation center is still looking for:
These donations can make any new place feel like a home. Those transitioning out of homelessness can focus on getting back on their feet without having to worry about basic necessities. Basic household items can be taken for granted, but you can change the lives of thousands of families and individuals with just one donation.
For your convenience, our donation center (2245 W. Ella Street, Building A Mesa, AZ 85201) is open Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 4 pm, and on Friday from 9 am to 3 pm. If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to call us at (480) 464-4648 or email us at donationcenter@turnanewleaf.org.
September 2024 Donor News: Have You Thought About Your Legacy?
Did you know that August was Make-A-Will Month? I wanted to share the importance of creating a will and planning your estate, and wanted to remind you of the significant impact you can make on your community.
A behind-the-scenes tour will give you a glimpse into the efforts and resources that are necessary to support those on their journey to a permanent home. Don’t miss out on this experience that promises to be as educational as it is heartwarming.
Creating a will offers you:
A New Leaf has invested in FreeWill, a free, online platform that guides you through the process of creating a will. Over a million people have already used this resource, and you can be one of them!
I invite you to take the next step in securing your future. Consider including A New Leaf in your will to help continue our compassionate support, empowering individuals and families to move from crisis to stability. Create your will online and be part of our lasting legacy.
If you have already included a gift to A New Leaf in your legacy, please fill out this form. We would love to thank you for your generosity.
For more information about giving from assets, year-end deadlines, and other charitable strategies, please contact Suzanne Percy, Charitable Giving Advisor, at (480) 708-1358 or email spercy@turnanewleaf.org.
September 2024 Community Partner News: PNC Invests in Education!
Now that back to school season is almost over, A New Leaf wants to give a special thank you to PNC Bank and its Grow Up Great initiative that helps prepare children from birth to age 5 for success in school and life.
The PNC Foundation offers support to nonprofit organizations with a focus on early childhood education and economic development. PNC Grow Up Great is the Foundation’s signature program that seeks to positively impact school readiness and contribute to stronger, smarter, and healthier children, families and communities.
PNC supports A New Leaf’s Phoenix Day Early Childhood Education program. Phoenix Day offers high-quality bilingual education to help kids grow up without having to worry about a lack of access to a great education. With PNC’s help, the children we serve have their unique developmental and academic needs supported, and have a stable foundation for success in school and in life.
Economic development, including housing, job training, and community services, is another focus area for the PNC Foundation. Since 2020, the PNC Foundation has provided more than $120,000 in support for Phoenix Day and A New Leaf’s economic development programming.
For more information about partnering with A New Leaf, please contact Laura Bode, Vice President of Philanthropy, at lbode@turnanewleaf.org.
September 2024 Event News: Camaraderie 2025 Theme Announcement!
A New Leaf is excited to unveil the theme for A New Leaf’s 2025 Camaraderie Gala: “The Jazz Lounge.” This enchanting evening will transport you to a premier jazz setting, complete with live jazz musicians and a decor that echoes the timeless elegance of the Jazz Age. Scheduled for March 8, 2025, at the luxurious Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, this gala promises to be a night full of fun, entertainment, and meaningful giving.
Immerse yourself in the sultry sounds of live jazz as you mingle with people who are passionate about making a difference in their community just like you. Every ticket purchased, every auction item bid on, and every donation made during the evening will directly go towards helping your neighbors in need.
Mark your calendars, dress in your jazz-inspired best, and prepare to be a part of a spectacular night of fun, that also gives critical resources thousands of families and individuals experiencing homelessness.
Stay tuned for more details, including how to secure your tickets and information about sponsorship opportunities. We look forward to seeing you there for a night of fun!
For any questions or assistance please reach out to me, mschnepf@turnanewleaf.org!