First Quarter Updates from the SNG Team!

A Spooktacular Season of Safety and Community! 🎃 As the crisp autumn air rolls in and spooky decorations light up our neighborhoods, Seattle Neighborhood Group is brewing up more than just Halloween treats-we're stirring up exciting initiatives that strengthen community ties and ensure everyone feels safe, no matter the season. Whether carving pumpkins, donning costumes, or trick-or-treating, October is a great reminder of the power of coming together as a community. This month, we're unmasking new ways to make our neighborhoods safer, highlighting important upcoming events like our inaugural Community Safety Summit and the much-anticipated IMPACT! Safe Schools Student Leadership Conference . So, while you enjoy the thrills and chills of Halloween, remember to stay engaged in our ongoing efforts to create safer, more resilient neighborhoods. From ghoulish gatherings to impactful conversations about safety, there's something for everyone this fall. Let's make this season one to remember!

East African Senior Meal Program We've seen a remarkable increase in activities for female seniors this year, marking a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to support East African seniors, refugees, and immigrants. By focusing on more engaging activities, we've created a vibrant and welcoming environment at Yesler and Northgate Community Centers, as well as Rainier Beach Urban Farm and Wetlands. In addition to these activities, we've expanded our support efforts for food relief. This includes distributing gift cards for groceries and providing accessible transportation to ensure that seniors can easily attend our programs and access essential resources. These initiatives reflect our commitment to building a safer and more supportive community, empowering individuals to thrive within their neighborhoods.

As we begin a new year, let's start a journey of purposeful giving that will leave a lasting impact. We strongly believe that thoughtful generosity has the power to create positive change. Here are some ways that you can prioritize giving in 2024 and make a real difference: Monthly Giving for Sustained Impact: Join our community of monthly donors committed to creating a steady and sustainable impact. Your consistent support provides a reliable source of funding for our initiatives throughout the year, making a meaningful difference in the lives we touch. Leverage the Power of DAFs (Donor-Advised Funds): Maximize your philanthropic efforts by utilizing Donor-Advised Funds. DAFs offer flexibility and strategic planning, allowing you to recommend grants to causes you care about. Let's work together to channel your passion into purpose. Transform Stocks into Social Change: Consider donating appreciated stocks as part of your giving strategy. This not only provides tax advantages for you but also unlocks the potential for greater impact. Together, we can turn financial assets into real change. Craft Your Legacy with Estate Planning: Explore the transformative impact of estate planning. By including Seattle Neighborhood Group in your will or estate plans, you leave a lasting legacy that extends far beyond your lifetime, ensuring your values and commitment to positive change endure. Join us to make 2024 a year of purpose and impact. Your support fuels our mission to create a better world together. Click to explore giving options! Thank you for being a beacon of change.

As the calendar turns to another year filled with hope and promise, I find myself reflecting on the incredible impact that Seattle Neighborhood Group has made – all thanks to the unwavering support of friends like you. 2023 was a year of challenges but also remarkable achievements. From enhancing safety in our neighborhoods to empowering community members with the tools to thrive, your contributions have been the cornerstone of our success. As we step into 2024, our mission to build safer and more inclusive communities in Seattle remains as vital as ever. But to continue this work, we need your help. Would you consider starting the New Year by making a donation to Seattle Neighborhood Group? Your gift will go directly towards programs that foster community engagement, crime prevention, and the overall well-being of our neighborhoods. Many of our supporters give stock, grants from Donor Advised funds, or make a Qualified Charitable Distribution, all of which are more “tax-smart” than giving cash. Click below to learn more about these giving options. Your generosity is more than a donation; it's an investment in the heart of Seattle. It's an opportunity to join other supporters in creating a tapestry of diverse, vibrant communities where every member can live without fear and with a sense of belonging. Last year, your support helped us achieve incredible milestones. We saw neighborhoods come together to advocate for their safety, youth programs that steered our young people towards positive paths, and initiatives that brought resources to those who needed them most. This year, with your continued support, we can reach even greater heights. As the Executive Director of Seattle Neighborhood Group, I am personally inviting you to be part of our 2024 journey. Together, we can build upon the foundations of trust, collaboration, and empowerment that make our neighborhoods truly special. Thank you for considering a gift to Seattle Neighborhood Group. Your support is the lifeblood of our community's future. Wishing you a peaceful and prosperous New Year, Thomasina Schmitt Executive Director Seattle Neighborhood Group