Clients in the News–February 2019
Spikes Are Not the Answer
In a compelling article in Common Wealth magazine, Pine Street Inn Executive Director Lyndia Downie describes the real-world solutions to homelessness that Pine Street is implementing, with great results. She and co-author Laura Sen concur that putting up barriers—like metal spikes under an overpass in San Francisco—to discourage homeless people from taking shelter from the elements, is not the answer. They outline the sensible solutions that are working to dramatically decrease homelessness in Boston, thanks to Pine Street’s innovative work.
Goodbye, Gidget L
Monterey Bay Aquarium recently announced the death of its playful sea otter Gidget, with great sadness for the Aquarium, and the community. “Gidget touched millions of people with her beauty, charm, and an exuberance of mischief,” said Aquarium veterinarian Dr. Mike Murray. “She is an example of why we do what we do, for the animals in our care and for their wild kin.” Gidget was found alone on a state beach as a tiny pup, and because she was too inexperienced to be released back into the wild, she became a popular member of the Aquarium’s sea otter exhibit, and served as a surrogate mother for four rescued otter pups. Visit MBA’s website to learn more about the lasting impact of this little furry friend and what her genome tells scientists about her species.
Museum Makeover!
After 41 years and 369 million visitors, the busiest museum in the world is getting a make-over! The National Air and Space Museum’s major renovation is underway, and all 23 of its galleries will be transformed in two phases over the next seven years. The Museum will be open to the public throughout the refurbishment, although not all galleries will be available to visit at all times. The NASM website has a sneak peek at how some of the new galleries and the redesigned Museum exterior will look, as well as a FAQ section on the renovation so you can plan your visit.
Shutdown Drives Increased Demand for Services
The heart-breaking effects of the recent federal government shutdown could be felt across the country. In Washington, DC, approximately 70,000 government workers had no pay for 35 days, so Bread for the City joined other social service organizations to step up its outreach accordingly, helping 30% more people who needed assistance. BFC has served Washington DC’s low-income residents for 40 years, providing food, clothing, medical care, and legal services to 5,000 people per month. Visit BFC’s website to watch a brief, compelling video on BFC’s work during the shutdown, and to learn more about how you can help.
A Lifeline for Hungry Marylanders
A recent study found that about 40% of Americans are just one missed paycheck away from poverty. So the government shutdown really hit the 172,000 federal workers in Maryland hard. But the Maryland Food Bank—with the help of its volunteers, donors, and local businesses—was able to provide some relief. MFB expanded its Pantry on the Go Program, bringing trucks of food to needy people around the state, providing a lifeline to thousands. Many furloughed workers described being food bank volunteers in the past, but now needing MFB’s services themselves. To read more about this effort and learn how you can help, visit Maryland Food Bank’s website.
Start Up Success!
In a recent post on LinkedIn, Society for Science & the Public’s Chief Advancement Officer Bruce Makous shared the great news that the Society has doubled its individual giving revenue in just two years! He credits their success at getting out the word on the impact the Society has—through its journalism and science education programs that impact a greater and greater number of people. This includes the Outreach and Equity programs that provide educational opportunities for traditionally underrepresented students. Avalon has been honored to work closely with the Society over the past few years to help them reach this tremendous new level of success. Please visit LinkedIn to read Bruce’s full post.