"Together, we can do so much," asserts Linda Mitchell, executive director of NAC Have A Heart Foundation based in Newtown.
She says the Foundation's mission is to identify and raise awareness through both advocacy and fundraising regarding community causes that affect the quality of life of local residents.
While the Foundation assists many causes, its board members and supporters have focused on raising research funds for ALS to help find a cure for the disease, as well as supporting advocacy for health-related causes that affect the terminally ill. Other causes supported include autism, cancer, literacy needs and reversing opioid usage.
To date, Linda says more than $5 million was raised for Augie’s Quest through Matt’s Mission and the Newtown Athletic Club. She adds that financial donations can be directed to specific causes.
Founder of the foundation and Board Chairman is Jim Worthington, NAC owner. Board of directors are: Matt Bellina, Cailtin Bellina, John Cordisco, Esq., and Brian Herman.
For three-plus years, the Foundation's supporters have been dedicated to their "52k in 52 Weeks" initiative, donating $1,000-$5,000 each week to a different local charity or nonprofit. Linda says these organizations support a range of causes, including food banks, homeless shelters, animal rescues, youth programs and illness-related charities.
She explains, "There's so much unmet need in our own community that many people don’t even realize exists. Our mission is to ‘Spread the Wealth and Spread the Word’ while raising awareness for these organizations and inspiring others to support them through donations, volunteerism and more.”
Linda says local charities or nonprofits can apply for donations on the Foundation's website.
Each year, Have A Heart Foundation hosts an annual fundraising gala. Linda says this year the event will be held in September. "This event is attended by hundreds of local community supporters who appreciate supporting their own community through the work of the NAC Have a Heart Foundation."
Additionally, the Foundation's volunteers are developing an Equine Therapy Program for veterans at their newly established Village Farm, where horses and other animals are housed just 1 mile from the NAC in Langhorne. "This program will become available to veterans throughout Bucks County and beyond," Linda assures.
215.968.0600, extension 114
NACHaveAHeart.org