SunStone is continuing our tradition of celebrating the holiday season by selecting a worthy charitable organization to donate in the SunStone team’s and our clients’ names. The recommendations came from various members of our team, and all are worthy of donations. The winner for our $10,000 donation is the Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASA), as recommended by Alicia Kauffman:
“Here is my nomination request for the amazing SunStone Tradition! I want to nominate CASA- Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children for the 2025 Spirit of Giving. It is with a heavy heart that this foundation is in such high demand for our nation's most vulnerable children. As I sit and write this now, I can hear my daughter in the other room playing with her kitty, Ruby, and giggling, as every child should. Unfortunately, it is far too easy in the hustle and bustle of our own lives to forget or omit the thoughts that innocent children are living without giggles… living day to day and sometimes hour to hour without even a voice. Surviving, without being seen or heard by the ones that are court and legally appointed to care for them, and a court system that seems to go deaf far too often. It is far too comfortable for me to avoid and overlook the abuse and neglect that goes on in my community, far better to mind my own business, as my mother taught me at a very young age. I nominate CASA for many reasons, one being that studies have shown that children who have experienced abuse or neglect fare better in life with a CASA volunteer by their side. Thus, this volunteer-based program shows that children are more likely to find a safe, permanent home, succeed academically, and are half as likely to re-enter the foster care system. Amazing, right? Not only does this group work with and advocate for the best interests of the child, but it also collaborates with legal and child welfare professionals, educators, and service providers to ensure that the Judges involved have a broader picture of the child’s life to make the most well-informed decisions for each child. This volunteer work is not for the light-hearted, and I imagine the heartbreak it may bring day to day. However, can you imagine the good that comes from one volunteer, one beacon of light for a child on a dark path? I can’t imagine how beautiful it is to watch a child thrive and to know that a safe space is provided in an otherwise chaotic life. Today I choose to speak up for the children who can’t. I ask you to please consider CASA for this year's donation. My voice may be little, but every donation is BIG!”
We had great participation this year, and will also be making a $250 donation to the following charities, in your name:
American Cancer Society, as recommended by LaDonna Cook:
“I choose American Cancer Society because I lost my mother from cancer and the organization has touched my heart since my loss. Since my loss I have wanted to donate to Cancer Societies, and this would be a great opportunity to do so. Cancer patients need a lot of medical treatment, and some cannot receive what is needed because of their insurance coverage. I believe everyone should have an opportunity to receive treatment. “
Animal Rescue, Inc. , as recommended by Candice Shaffer:
“This year I would like to nominate Animal Rescue Inc, located in New Freedom Pa. They are a no kill sanctuary for dogs and cats. They offer spay and neuter clinics to the community at lower costs than veterinary offices. This is an important rescue to me because of my love for animals. These types of rescues are especially important around the holidays because people buy pets for presents then don't end up keeping them, or they drop their senior pets off because they can't handle the activity level of a puppy or kitten. The Animal rescue offers many events for the community to donate and adopt. This gets everyone out to learn about the rescue and see the animals up for adoption. I think this helps because people can do something with their family and current pets while helping the rescue. I personally really enjoy the events that they organize. They do a doggie easter egg hunt every year. My dog loves this and is very good at opening the plastic eggs and getting the treats out. They also offer Santa/Grinch photos with your pets. The last couple years they have done a doggie trick or treat. Vendors can sign up for a spot to hand out dog treats to everyone. More and more shelters are being forced to become a traditional or open-admission shelter, which may euthanize healthy animals due to limited space, resources, or time constraints. It is very important to support the no kill shelters to help save the lives of animals who don't get a say. “
Community Volunteers in Medicine, as recommended by Brian Malley:
“Located in Delaware and Chester County, CVIM provides multiple healthcare services to those without health insurance. CVIM provides complete medical and dental care, behavioral health services, medications, health and nutrition education, and social services support. All services are free to eligible patients.“
Break the Mold, Inc., as recommended by Tony Berkebile:
“This year, the organization I am choosing is Break the Mold, Inc. My close friend, Drew Shubik, who I graduated high school with and played D1 basketball at Sacred Heart University is the founder and executive director of Break the Mold. Break the Mold is a fully licensed, nonprofit organization that brings Jesus to prisoners through the sport of basketball. Their vision is to use the mutual love of basketball as the common ground to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with prison inmates and help them become productive, successful members of society. To date, Break the Mold has played over 40 games in over 10 institutions, both State and Federal, across Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Connecticut. They have reached and met with over 5,515 inmates since their inception to change their lives and get them on a successful path in life. This is something that Drew is extremely passionate about, and I very much respect him for.”
Direct Relief Fund, as recommended by Angie Short:
“I would like to nominate the Direct Relief Fund for the annual charity donation. I chose this fund because it assists those in Jamaica. My husband and I recently celebrated our 10th anniversary in June at Jamaica, and it was truly heartbreaking to witness the living conditions there. There is a lot of poverty in Jamaica, which compelled me to do more to help those in need and to incorporate more frugality into my life. I have always worked hard to achieve what my family has, and I feel so blessed. However, seeing others who work just as hard and are genuinely good people with a strong sense of faith in God was eye-opening for me. It made me want to appreciate what I have more and not take it for granted! During our stay, I made a conscious effort not to waste any food or drink, as resources are very scarce for the local population. While we were at a resort where food was plentiful, outside of those walls, many people may not have had enough to eat that day. We made some good friends with the locals and often brought them snacks. It’s also disheartening to see how little the resort workers are paid—only $5 for an entire day’s work! My husband and I have kept in touch with the friends we made, and they were severely impacted by the latest hurricane. They lost their homes and have been living out of hotels (if any are available), the grocery stores are bare, and they are fighting hard for survival. For these reasons, I am voting for the Direct Relief Fund 😊. Thank you for providing such a wonderful opportunity to give!”
Gigi Project, as recommended by Regina Tocylowski:
“I just learned of this organization recently through an event at my daughter's school. While the organization serves many causes, the one that touched me most is the work they do with Pediatric Specialty Care patients, especially those who are in long term facilities because their families are unable to care for them. Last week, I had the pleasure of meeting the family who started this organization and hearing about their meaningful visits with these medically fragile children and their Christmas toy deliveries, etc. I am so fortunate to be surrounded by family, that it was difficult to learn that in some cases, the Gigi Project volunteers are the only people that these sick children ever get a visit and a gift from. This is a very local organization that supports a number of causes in Bucks County, Philadelphia, and the surrounding areas.”
Habitat for Humanity, as recommended by Bob Marcavage:
“I would like to submit the Habitat for Humanity of Harrisburg for my recommendation this year. By donating to Habitat for Humanity of Greater Harrisburg, you’re helping transform lives through safe, affordable housing and vital community programs. SunStone’s gift would support the Affordable Homeownership Program, where families partner to build or renovate homes with affordable mortgages, creating lasting stability. It fuels the Critical Home Repair Program, which provides essential fixes like roof replacements, plumbing, heating, and accessibility upgrades so families can remain safely in their homes. Donations also sustain the Habitat ReStore, a nonprofit shop that sells donated furniture, appliances, and building materials at discounted prices, keeping usable items out of landfills while funding housing projects. Even vehicle donations through Cars for Homes are converted into resources that build and repair homes. Beyond construction, our support powers creative fundraisers like Art Builds Homes and the Home-In-One Golf Tournament, which bring the community together to raise awareness and funds. Every dollar we give strengthens neighborhoods, empowers families, and builds a brighter future for Harrisburg.”
March of Dimes, as recommended by Laura Ehrlich:
“This year, I recommend donating our holiday funds to the March of Dimes. This cause is deeply personal to me. My daughter planned her first pregnancy carefully, making sure she was in the best shape she could be at 32. Things went well until 31 weeks, when she developed gestational hypertension and then pre-eclampsia. All her dreams for a normal pregnancy were dashed when she was then hospitalized with pre-eclampsia. Little is known about the mechanism of pre-eclampsia, though the most widely accepted theory is that it begins with abnormal development of the placenta early in pregnancy, but why this happens is still unknown. The March of Dimes actively funds research on preeclampsia. Their goal is to discover causes, develop new diagnostics and create treatments for conditions like preeclampsia that threaten maternal and infant health. After struggling with pre-eclampsia for a week in the hospital, my daughter was told by the doctors that she was in danger, and the baby had to be delivered immediately. Her son was born at just 32 weeks and 3 pounds 1.7 ounces-a moment filled with fear, uncertainty, and hope. After birth, he suffered a collapsed lung requiring a chest tube and ultimately required mechanical ventilation. He struggled with feeding and oxygenation, but after 7 weeks was able to leave the hospital and come home with family. Watching that tiny life fight to grow and thrive opened my eyes to the challenges so many families face when a baby arrives too soon. What I didn’t know is that one in ten babies in the US is born prematurely. That’s thousands of families each year facing the same fears ours did. The March of Dimes is dedicated to changing that story for countless families. They work tirelessly to prevent premature birth, birth defects, and infant mortality through research, education, and advocacy. They provide resources and support for parents during the most difficult times and fight for better healthcare for mothers and babies everywhere. Indeed, the resources and education offered in the NICU where my grandson was hospitalized were exceptionally helpful at a time of so much uncertainty for my daughter and son-in-law. Our hope is with time and research through the March of Dimes, the incidences of prematurity from all causes will continue to decrease.”
Midwest Food Bank, as recommended by Debbie Emery:
“I truly love this, and it was one of the many aspects that impressed me about SunStone when I reviewed your website before being hired. Thank you for the opportunity to participate. There appears to be a growing number of people in our country who are experiencing hunger. Therefore, I would like to recommend the Midwest Food Bank. This organization has twelve locations that serve counties across various states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, and Tennessee. Additionally, the Midwest Food Bank extends its support to regions in East Africa and Haiti, making its impact far-reaching. In 2022, after Hurricane Ian devastated several communities in Southwest Florida, my daughter, some of her friends, and I volunteered at the Midwest Food Bank location in Fort Myers. This location serves over 230 agency partners across 39 counties in three states, with weekly distributions. We helped sort and pack boxes of food items for delivery to various locations within the community. Since then, we have had the opportunity to return with members of our local Girl Scout troop to sort and pack more items for distribution, and we hope to do so again. While serving, we learned that the Midwest Food Bank not only assists with disaster relief—supporting organizations like the Salvation Army—but also helps local communities combat hunger daily. They serve non-profit organizations such as food pantries, homeless shelters, and churches, which then distribute food to those in need. Their assistance during disasters includes Hurricane Helene victims in Florida, Georgia, Tennessee and the Carolinas; Hurricane Debby victims in Georgia and Florida; Hurricane Beryl as well as Flood victims in Texas; Tornado victims in Nebraska and East Texas, and it has received a four star rating from Charity Navigator, which includes a score of 100 for its actual impact on the lives it serves! The Midwest Food Bank relies on volunteers, donations, and strategic leadership to help those in need. An impressive 99% of every donation goes directly toward providing food to individuals and families in crisis. This is why I believe it is a worthy charity for SunStone to support this holiday season.”
New Hope Ministries, as recommended by Stacy Deeley:
“I think that a donation to New Hope Ministries, they are WONDERFUL. They help with everything food, shelter, rent assistance, utilities etc. My daughter and I volunteered with them for a badge for girl scouts! Given the hardships many Americans are having right now with food insecurity and struggling to afford basic needs this would be make a huge impact on this charity. Growing up I lived in a homeless shelter with my mom for a short time (that was in the 80s) and they struggled to keep items in that time. I see on social media and just being out in the area the struggle people are facing. This would be a huge help and would guarantee to make an impact no matter how big or small.”
No One Dies Alone (NODA) , as recommended by Cathy Archuleta:
“Recently, a national initiative called No One Dies Alone (NODA) caught my attention. AdventHealth Hospital in Parker, Colorado, not far from my home, was looking for volunteers to assist with end-of-life presence and support by sitting beside with patients. Hospice patients and patients in facilities often do not have family or friends, or perhaps they do, and they're simply unable to be with their loved one or get there in time. I had never even considered this possibility but think this is a definite "care gap" and one that can readily be filled with caring, non-clinical people. While this can simply be someone to hold a hand, or play soothing music, it still requires training, coordination, and a certain amount of administrative infrastructure. It struck me as entirely cruel and tragic that anyone would die alone. The thought is almost unspeakable. Therefore, I'd like to nominate the AdventHealth Parker Foundation's NODA program for consideration of a donation from SunStone to help them fully develop and execute this initiative. Admittedly a bit morbid, especially during this season of hope and joy, it is truly a gift to be able to be with someone as they take their final breaths.”
Not One More, as recommended by Meredith Flanagan:
“I think that the organization we should donate to this year is Not One More York PA Chapter. This organizations mission is to raise awareness and prevent drug abuse in the community through education and community partnerships. This organization not only helps those that are struggling with addiction, but they also help the families. I have lost many friends to opiate addiction because they did not know about Not One More. In 2019 I ran a 5K with former employees to raise awareness and donations.”
Phoenix Children’s Hospital, as recommended by Debby Brettfield:
“I would personally like to recommend Phoenix Children’s Hospital on behalf of the work and services they provided for my son, Richard, when he was an infant. Richard received services from Pediatric Urology (and surgery), Gastroenterology services, Speech/Language Therapy, Pediatric Eye Therapy (and 2 surgeries), OT, PT, and Intensive Feeding Therapy as he was born a preemie. The care, love, compassion, and time they provided along with their empathy was so refreshing to our family. The cases and children we saw while in Richard’s care were far worse than we experienced, and our family will be forever grateful for their support as if Richard was the worst-case scenario they’ve seen. Richard received the best care while we were there, and his Dad and I received the best support we could have ever imagined. All aspects of PCH, from their main hospital to their specialty clinics, still benefit our son today. Richard would not be the thriving young boy without their intervention early on. Thank you for your consideration and care in supporting organizations such as these.”
Consistent with our annual tradition, SunStone has made these donations with all your names as a way of thanking you for your business, your friendship, and support of our collective ongoing success.
We wish you all a very Merry Christmas, a Happy Holidays, and for you and your families a healthy and prosperous New Year!
Warm regards,
Greg St.Clair, and all your friends at SunStone