Season of Gratitude

I read that “Gratitude is a virtue every man should cultivate. Yet gratitude means nothing if you haven’t mastered the art of expressing it. A man should use every opportunity to express to those around him how much he appreciates their love, support, and generosity.”

As our “community” heads into the sacred season of counting our blessings and giving back to others, so too are all of us at The Community House; our leadership, staff and TCH beneficiaries, counting our blessings. For it is without all of our cherished supporters; our donors, corporate sponsors, class takers, child-care families, event guests, community partners, dancers, travelers, and our dedicated corp of volunteers – that our work would not be made possible. Saying “thank you” never seems to be enough, but it’s a place to start.

In today’s fast-paced world, many of us have forgotten to say thank you for even the simplest courtesies that we receive, from a bagger in our grocery store, to a server in a restaurant, to an operator giving us a phone number—even for an invitation or an event we are privileged to attend.

As a 94-year old non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, The Community House relies solely on the kindness and generosity of others – to deliver on our mission – and to provide the community critical programs and services, programs and services which benefit and enrich the lives of others in our great community – some, without the ability to pay.

It is during this time of thanksgiving and important reflection that The Community House pauses to humbly acknowledge and remember the many kindnesses and extraordinary generosity from those that have been entrusted with much...and to offer all of you, from all of us - a big “Thank You.” Happy Holidays!

LIMITED SEATING – TICKETS ON SALE NOW

The Community House Dance Academy is thrilled to present two performances of The Nutcracker on December 17. Directed and choreographed by our award-winning Dance Academy Coordinator Liz Walker-Kreutziger, along with other members of the teaching staff, the performances encompass members of the Dance Academy as well as guest members from other studios around our community. This marks the first time in many years that we will present this ballet right in our own Wallace Ballroom. Enjoy this famous holiday tradition with performances at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at communityhouse.com or by calling 248-594-6416.

END OF THE YEAR GIVING – THE COMMUNITY HOUSE ANNUAL FUND

The end of the year is almost here and the last chance to support our critical 2017 Annual Fund Drive is upon us. Please give a tax deductible gift to The Community House today, which will ensure that we can remain the important educational and community resource that thousands of individuals rely on. To make a gift to The Community House today, you can send a donation by mail, give online at communityhouse.com/donate or by calling 248-594-6417. Please help us help others.

SAVE THE DATE – THE BATES STREET SOCIETY DINNER

The Bates Street Society was created to help recognize donors who make significant charitable contributions to support the work and mission of The Community House. Members will be acknowledged annually at The Bates Street Society Dinner, an extraordinary evening hosted by TCH’s Board of Directors. The 2018 BSSD keynote speaker will be philanthropist and musician, Ethan D. Davidson. The Bates Street Society Dinner will also recognize TCH’s annual Pillars of Vibrancy; Education, Culture, Wellness and Philanthropy. 2018 Pillar Awardees include Dr. David DiChiera, Julie Rodecker, Katie Valenti, Paul W. Smith, Dr. Robert Folberg, Judge Gerald E. Rosen, Geoffrey Hockman. Save-the-Date: Saturday, February 3, 2018. Seating is limited. Tickets on sale now.

For reservations, tickets or more information about these and other happenings at TCH, please go to communityhouse.org or call 248.644.5832.

William D. Seklar is President & CEO of The Community House in Birmingham.