Tag: Impact Giving

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]

The upgrades were made possible by a $250,000 donation from Business for Good, aimed to improve a space that works to help at-risk youth in the Capital Region.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Business for Good’s latest philanthropy effort targets an organization whose mission matches its own, word for word: giving back to move forward. The Frank Chapman Memorial Institute located in the city of Albany works to help equip at-risk youth in the Capital Region. By helping to enhance the lives of children who most need it, the hope is that those children grow into adults who will become thriving members of the community. Business for Good donated $250,000 to the community recreation center to assist with recently completed building upgrades that include:

o Updated security system for the facility
o New carpet and flooring, fresh paint, and new LED lighting throughout the building
o Updated bathroom fixtures, plumbing, and lighting
o Window replacements and cleaning, where needed
o New HVAC split ductless system for the gym and basketball court
o New gym wall mats

“The Frank Chapman Memorial Institute houses more than just hoops,” said Business for Good CEO Jahkeen Hoke. “The rec center has diverse offerings for all ages, including reading programs and youth and senior services. BFG is so happy to donate to an organization that is truly an impactful space for many and does so much good.”

“My wife Lisa and I started Business for Good not just to make monetary investments, but investments in people, too,” said BFG co-founder, Ed Mitzen. “Our donation to the Frank Chapman Memorial Institute is one that we believe will go a long way to improving the lives of children, and in turn, the future.”

Jahkeen Hoke and Ed and Lisa Mitzen recently toured the newly renovated spaces, along with Jamil Hood (founder of Hood’s House of Hoops), and co-founders of the new Albany Black Chamber, Anthony Gaddy and Corey Ellis.

The media is welcome to tour the new spaces as well and see all of the good that is happening! Interviews are also available with anyone mentioned within this release.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

About The Business for Good Foundation™

With values rooted in equity, access, opportunity, and prosperity, Business for Good has advanced the model of traditional venture philanthropy to Do Good and Give Back to communities in the Greater Capital Region of Albany. Formed in 2020, BFG seeks to give back to move forward and is rooted in the core principle of “for good, not gain.” Comprised of a mission-focused team, Business for Good™ believes no challenge is insurmountable through hard and thoughtful work. With a goal to provide businesses and organizations with sustained support, BFG invests in people for the long term and in every way. Business for Good: building better businesses, stronger communities, and a more equitable world. To learn more, visit www.bfg.org

[icon color=”extra-color-1″ size=”regular” icon_size=”” image=”fa-file-pdf-o”] Download Press Release

[/vc_column_text][social_vc_father][social_vc_son margin=”0″ url=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flinkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fbfgfoundation%2F” icon=”fa fa-linkedin”][social_vc_son margin=”0″ url=”url:http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FBFGFoundation” icon=”fa fa-twitter”][social_vc_son margin=”0″ url=”url:https%3A%2F%2Finstagram.com%2FBFGFoundation%20″ icon=”fa fa-instagram”][/social_vc_father][vc_custom_heading text=”#4GoodNotGain” font_container=”tag:h5|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1629821006143{padding-top: -10px !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]

THOROUGHBRED RETIREMENT FOUNDATION RAISES OVER $50,000 FOR HERD THROUGH WINTER CAMPAIGN, AIDED BY $25,000 GRANT FROM BUSINESS FOR GOOD

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]PRESS RELEASE – The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation’s annual Winter Appeal, highlighting the growth of the TRF’s Second Chances program in New York, has raised over $50,000 for the organization’s herd of over 450 retired racehorses thanks in part to a $25,000 grant from Business for Good.

“The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation offers sanctuary for life for a herd of over 450 retired racehorses throughout the country,” said Pat Stickney, the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation’s Executive Director. “We have a rich history in New York and are excited to continue to grow and expand our TRF Second Chances programs in the state through the generosity of individual donors and this wonderful grant from Business for Good.”

The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation announced the expansion of its TRF Second Chances program in February. The flagship Second Chances program at Wallkill Correctional Facility, which began in 1984 and continues to operate today, will be joined by the TRF Second Chances Program at Wyoming Correctional Facility in Attica. Work is underway at the property to prepare the facility for the arrival of horses. To start, the program will welcome ten retired racehorses to the facility and as the program grows and strengthens, additional fencing will be added to accommodate up to a maximum of 25 retired racehorses at the facility.

“Business for Good is proud to support the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, an organization that has tirelessly fought to save and care for retired racehorses in our Capital Region,” said Lisa Mitzen, co-founder of Business for Good. “With our donation-match program, we’re thrilled to rally the generous people who also care about this worthy cause as much as we do.”

The TRF Second Chances Program is a unique and pioneering program where incarcerated individuals build life skills while participating in a vocational training program in equine care and management as they provide supervised care to retired racehorses. The program has successfully expanded to six other states where incarcerated individuals have the opportunity to participate in a rigorous training program where they learn horse anatomy, how to care for injuries, equine nutrition and other aspects of horse care. Graduates of the program receive certification based on the level of expertise they have mastered. After their release from prison, graduates of the TRF Second Chances Program have gone on to careers as farriers, vet assistants, farm managers, grooms, and other jobs in the equine industry.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

About the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society (renamed The Lisa Mitzen Animal Care Center)

Founded in 1983, the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation is a national organization devoted to saving Thoroughbred horses no longer able to compete at the racetrack from possible neglect, abuse, and slaughter. As the oldest Thoroughbred rescue in the country, the TRF provides sanctuary to retired Thoroughbreds throughout their lifetime.
Best known for its pioneering TRF Second Chances program, the organization provides incarcerated individuals with life-changing vocational training through its accredited equine care and stable management program. At nine correctional facilities across the US, including one juvenile justice facility, this program offers second careers to its horses and a second chance at life for program graduates upon release from prison. For more information visit: http://www.trfinc.org/

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

About The Business for Good Foundation™

With values rooted in equity, access, opportunity, and prosperity, Business for Good has advanced the model of traditional venture philanthropy to Do Good and Give Back to communities in the Greater Capital Region of Albany. Formed in 2020, BFG seeks to give back to move forward and is rooted in the core principle of “for good, not gain.” Comprised of a mission-focused team, Business for Good™ believes no challenge is insurmountable through hard and thoughtful work. With a goal to provide businesses and organizations with sustained support, BFG invests in people for the long term and in every way. Business for Good: building better businesses, stronger communities, and a more equitable world. To learn more, visit www.bfg.org

[icon color=”extra-color-1″ size=”regular” icon_size=”” image=”fa-file-pdf-o”] Download Press Release

[/vc_column_text][social_vc_father][social_vc_son margin=”0″ url=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flinkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fbfgfoundation%2F” icon=”fa fa-linkedin”][social_vc_son margin=”0″ url=”url:http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FBFGFoundation” icon=”fa fa-twitter”][social_vc_son margin=”0″ url=”url:https%3A%2F%2Finstagram.com%2FBFGFoundation%20″ icon=”fa fa-instagram”][/social_vc_father][vc_custom_heading text=”#4GoodNotGain” font_container=”tag:h5|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1629821006143{padding-top: -10px !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]

Mohawk Hudson Humane Society receives historic donation from Business for Good and Lisa & Ed Mitzen; humane society reveals new name for the organization

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]PRESS RELEASE – It’s the single largest gift in the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society’s 135-year history, a moment that comes as the result of a donation from Business for Good and Lisa and Ed Mitzen. The $1 million gift also comes with a new name for the state-of-the-art facility that houses the Humane Society’s many programs and services: The Lisa Mitzen Animal Care Center.

“We are humbled that Business for Good has recognized the good work happening at Mohawk Hudson Humane Society and has chosen to not only give us a tremendous financial gift, but also to align with us in a very personal and visible way,” said Ashley Jeffrey Bouck, Mohawk Hudson Humane Society’s CEO. “Much more than a gift, this is a collaboration, and we are already exploring ways to work together to fulfill each of our missions and to achieve greater equity in our communities.”

Bouck became CEO of the Humane Society in May of 2020, tasked with figuring out how to deliver essential services to the community while keeping staff and volunteers safe. Signature fundraisers became virtual, and the Mitzens served as the honorary chairs for the 2021 Gala for Animals.

“Their generosity helped make the event the most financially successful gala we have ever had,” said Bouck. “That is when we really got to know Lisa and experience her lifelong passion for helping animals. In Lisa, we have found an ally for the animals and their people, and we could not be more grateful or proud to partner with Business for Good as they fulfill their vision for a better world.”

In the spring of 2017, Lisa Mitzen asked her husband Ed how he felt about building a small barn to house three goats and a few chickens so they would have farm fresh eggs. The Handsome Cock Farm was officially established in the fall of 2017. What started as a hobby farm with five goats and a handful of chickens quickly turned into much more; today the farm has grown to include 11 goats and more than 30 chickens! All of the proceeds from the farm are donated to local charities.

“Animal causes have been a passion since my youth, as has been my passion to give back,” said Lisa Mitzen. “It is an absolute honor to partner with the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society and align with their mission of animal care and health.”

During the unveiling, an array of elected officials were present to offer comments about the incredible work of the Humane Society and its bright future, including Senator Jim Tedisco, Assemblyman John McDonald, representatives for Assemblywoman Pat Fahey and Albany County Executive Dan McCoy, Albany County District Attorney David Soares, and Albany Mayor, Kathy Sheehan. The unveiling was led by President and CEO of the Capital Region Chamber, Mark Eagan and the President of the Rensselaer County Regional Chamber of Commerce, Kate Manley.

“Through venture philanthropy, entrepreneur support, and impact giving, the Mitzen’s mission is to build stronger communities and a more equitable world,” said Eagan. “Today’s historic donation to the Humane Society is indicative of their ongoing philanthropic generosity.”

“This organization does so much more than shelter animals,” added Manley. “Their growing humane law enforcement program and its efforts to bring animal abusers to justice is just one example of how the work of Mohawk Hudson Humane Society keeps all of us safer. The Mitzen’s donation is a tremendous gift to our community and will go far in continuing the excellent work the humane society does on a daily basis.”

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

About the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society (renamed The Lisa Mitzen Animal Care Center)

Founded in 1887, the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society (MHHS) is the oldest and largest animal protection organization in New York’s Capital Region, serving Albany, Rensselaer and surrounding counties. In addition to providing shelter and care for stray, abused and unwanted animals, MHHS provides an ever-increasing array of services for animals and those who care for them. These programs contributed to a 95.6% live release rate in 2021. This includes low-cost spay/neuter and wellness services, vaccination and microchip clinics, stray housing for municipalities, dog training, a pet food pantry and humane education programming for all ages.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

About The Business for Good Foundation™

With values rooted in equity, access, opportunity, and prosperity, Business for Good has advanced the model of traditional venture philanthropy to Do Good and Give Back to communities in the Greater Capital Region of Albany. Formed in 2020, BFG seeks to give back to move forward and is rooted in the core principle of “for good, not gain.” Comprised of a mission-focused team, Business for Good™ believes no challenge is insurmountable through hard and thoughtful work. With a goal to provide businesses and organizations with sustained support, BFG invests in people for the long term and in every way. Business for Good: building better businesses, stronger communities, and a more equitable world. To learn more, visit www.bfg.org

[icon color=”extra-color-1″ size=”regular” icon_size=”” image=”fa-file-pdf-o”] Download Press Release

[/vc_column_text][social_vc_father][social_vc_son margin=”0″ url=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flinkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fbfgfoundation%2F” icon=”fa fa-linkedin”][social_vc_son margin=”0″ url=”url:http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FBFGFoundation” icon=”fa fa-twitter”][social_vc_son margin=”0″ url=”url:https%3A%2F%2Finstagram.com%2FBFGFoundation%20″ icon=”fa fa-instagram”][/social_vc_father][vc_custom_heading text=”#4GoodNotGain” font_container=”tag:h5|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1629821006143{padding-top: -10px !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]

Featuring New York Times best-selling author of Maid, and inspiration for the global Netflix hit series, Stephanie Land.

Hattie’s Restaurants, part of the Business for Good family of companies, will donate 100% of the day’s proceeds from their Saratoga Springs and Wilton locations to Wellspring.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]RELEASE — Wellspring, the domestic violence and sexual assault resource for Saratoga County, and Business for Good™ recently announced that they are partnering to bring this important event to Universal Preservation Hall on Thursday, May 5th. The first 200 tickets released were sold out in days. Due to high demand, additional tickets have been made available to the public.

Stephanie’s memoir, Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive, recounts a harrowing saga as a single mom trying to make ends meet for herself and daughter. As her story unfolds, Stephanie’s journey reveals the real culprits of her situation: domestic violence, unmanageable minimum wages, high housing costs, and systems that sometimes create more barriers than solutions.

Netflix’s miniseries based on Stephanie’s memoir launched in October 2021 and has become a critically acclaimed global hit, putting a much-needed spotlight on the subject matter.

“The impact of Maid – both the book, and show – have already impacted Wellspring’s services” says Wellspring’s Executive Director, Maggie Fronk. “A now client recently called our hotline and shared, ‘I’ve been having a lot of emotions come up lately and I think it’s because I’ve been watching the show, Maid, on Netflix. I always knew I was in an abusive relationship but watching the show has really empowered me and made me feel like I could leave.’ Those who are not victims of abuse, have been reaching out too. They want to learn more about how this impacts our own community and how they can help. Already the book and show have been transformational. We think this event will only deepen the impact.”

“Wellspring is well-aligned with Business for Good’s mission, and our partnership is one rooted in how best to serve the community. Introducing different opportunities such as this speaker engagement is how we can also make a much-needed impact,” says Jahkeen Hoke, CEO of Business for Good.

“Domestic violence is real, and it does not discriminate. It is happening here in our OWN community,” adds Connie Frances Avila, Chief Brand Officer of Business for Good™. “We hope that by bringing Stephanie Land to speak to our community we will not only highlight that domestic violence does happen here, but that Wellspring is a trusted local resource that can provide help and hope.”

“We are grateful for the opportunity to give back to Wellspring and support the important work they are doing,” says Beth Alexander, Hattie’s General Manager. “Hattie’s is deeply rooted in giving back to the community and we keep Miss Hattie’s legacy alive by continuing to support organizations, such as Wellspring, that provide access to resources to those who would otherwise go without.”

Wellspring helps over 1,000 people throughout the community each year. The pandemic has only increased the need for Wellspring’s services. According to the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, the number of domestic violence incidents in Saratoga County in 2021 rose 22% over the five-year average.

Stephanie Land’s keynote presentation will highlight the story of her own experience and explain significant barriers that many victims of relationship abuse face.

“We are so fortunate to partner with Business for Good™ on this momentous event” says Stevie Fellows, Director of Philanthropy and Community Engagement at Wellspring. “Business for Good is covering 100% of the cost so that this can be a free event for our community. Our hope is that this will help attendees better understand the complexities of domestic violence and why leaving an abusive relationship can be so difficult. We want guests to leave the event feeling empowered to create change to prevent abuse from happening in the future.”

Prior to the event, Wellspring will host a 4-part conversation series to discuss important themes highlighted throughout the book and Netflix’s show. This series will focus on why simply just leaving an abusive partner is so complex, and sometimes unsafe.

Topics include, the stigma associated with domestic violence, financial abuse as a leading reason why victims of abuse cannot leave, barriers and red tape that victims of abuse face when trying to navigate systems designed to ‘help’, and why finding employment as a victim of abuse is much more complicated than just filling out a job application.

These events are free for everyone in the community. To sign up today visit http://www.wellspringcares.org/maid.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

About Wellspring

Wellspring is the domestic violence and sexual assault services resource for Saratoga County residents and the sexual assault resource for Washington County. Wellspring’s mission is to support survivors and engage the community to end relationship and sexual abuse. Wellspring provides emergency shelter, a 24-hour phone hotline, counseling, legal advocacy, housing assistance, innovative programs, and more. All services are free, non-judgmental, and confidential.
Wellspring believes that increasing awareness will help prevent abuse from happening in the future. Wellspring provides educational programs for youth, law enforcement, educators, health care workers, high school and college students, local businesses, parents, professional organizations, and more.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

About The Business for Good Foundation™

With values rooted in equity, access, opportunity, and prosperity, BFG has advanced the model of traditional venture philanthropy to Do Good and Give Back to communities in the Greater Capital Region of Albany. The foundation, formed in 2020, seeks to give back to move forward and is rooted in the core principle of “for good, not gain.” Comprised of a mission-focused team, The Business for Good Foundation™ believes no challenge is insurmountable through hard and thoughtful work. With a goal to provide businesses and organizations with sustained support, BFG invests in people for the long term and in every way. Business for Good: building better businesses, stronger communities, and a more equitable world.

[icon color=”extra-color-1″ size=”regular” icon_size=”” image=”fa-file-pdf-o”] Download Press Release

[/vc_column_text][social_vc_father][social_vc_son margin=”0″ url=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flinkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fbfgfoundation%2F” icon=”fa fa-linkedin”][social_vc_son margin=”0″ url=”url:http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FBFGFoundation” icon=”fa fa-twitter”][social_vc_son margin=”0″ url=”url:https%3A%2F%2Finstagram.com%2FBFGFoundation%20″ icon=”fa fa-instagram”][/social_vc_father][vc_custom_heading text=”#4GoodNotGain” font_container=”tag:h5|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1629821006143{padding-top: -10px !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]

Wellspring, the domestic violence and sexual assault resource for Saratoga County, and Business for Good™ are partnering to bring Stephanie Land, NY times-bestselling author of Maid and inspiration for the popular Netflix series, to Universal Preservation Hall on Thursday, May 5^th.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]RELEASE — Stephanie’s memoir, Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive, recounts a harrowing saga as a single mom trying to make ends meet for herself and daughter. As her story unfolds, Stephanie’s journey reveals the real culprits of her situation: domestic violence, unmanageable minimum wages, high housing costs, and systems that sometimes create more barriers than solutions.

Netflix’s miniseries based on Stephanie’s memoir launched in October 2021 and has become a critically acclaimed global hit, putting a much-needed spotlight on the subject matter.

“The impact of Maid – both the book, and show – have already impacted Wellspring’s services” says Wellspring’s Executive Director, Maggie Fronk. “A now client recently called our hotline and shared, ‘I’ve been having a lot of emotions come up lately and I think it’s because I’ve been watching the show, Maid, on Netflix. I always knew I was in an abusive relationship but watching the show has really empowered me and made me feel like I could leave.’ Those who are not victims of abuse, have been reaching out too. They want to learn more about how this impacts our own community and how they can help. Already the book and show have been transformational. We think this event will only deepen the impact.”

“Wellspring is well-aligned with Business for Good’s mission, and our partnership is one rooted in how best to serve the community. Introducing different opportunities such as this speaker engagement is how we can also make a much-needed impact,” says Jahkeen Hoke, CEO of Business for Good.

“Domestic violence is real, and it does not discriminate. It is happening here in our OWN community” adds Connie Frances Avila, Chief Brand Officer of Business for Good™. “We hope that by bringing Stephanie Land to speak to our community we will not only highlight that domestic violence does happen here, but that Wellspring is a trusted local resource that can provide help and hope.”

Wellspring helps over 1,000 people throughout the community each year. The pandemic has only increased the need for Wellspring’s services. According to the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, the number of domestic violence incidents in Saratoga County in 2021 rose 22% over the five-year average.

Stephanie Land’s keynote presentation will highlight the story of her own experience and explain significant barriers that many victims of relationship abuse face.

“We are so fortunate to partner with Business for Good™ on this momentous event” says Stevie Fellows, Director of Philanthropy and Community Engagement at Wellspring. “Business for Good is covering 100% of the cost so that this can be a free event for our community. Our hope is that this will help attendees better understand the complexities of domestic violence and why leaving an abusive relationship can be so difficult. We want guests to leave the event feeling empowered to create change to prevent abuse from happening in the future.”

Prior to the event, Wellspring will host a 4-part conversation series to discuss important themes highlighted throughout the book and Netflix’s show.

This series will focus on why simply just leaving an abusive partner is so complex, and sometimes unsafe.

Topics include, the stigma associated with domestic violence, financial abuse as a leading reason why victims of abuse cannot leave, barriers and red tape that victims of abuse face when trying to navigate systems designed to ‘help’, and why finding employment as a victim of abuse is much more complicated than just filling out a job application.

These events are free for everyone in the community. To sign up today visit http://www.wellspringcares.org/maid.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

About Wellspring

Wellspring is the domestic violence and sexual assault services resource for Saratoga County residents and the sexual assault resource for Washington County. Wellspring’s mission is to support survivors and engage the community to end relationship and sexual abuse. Wellspring provides emergency shelter, a 24-hour phone hotline, counseling, legal advocacy, housing assistance, innovative programs, and more. All services are free, non-judgmental, and confidential.
Wellspring believes that increasing awareness will help prevent abuse from happening in the future. Wellspring provides educational programs for youth, law enforcement, educators, health care workers, high school and college students, local businesses, parents, professional organizations, and more.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

About The Business for Good Foundation™

With values rooted in equity, access, opportunity, and prosperity, BFG has advanced the model of traditional venture philanthropy to Do Good and Give Back to communities in the Greater Capital Region of Albany. The foundation, formed in 2020, seeks to give back to move forward and is rooted in the core principle of “for good, not gain.” Comprised of a mission-focused team, The Business for Good Foundation™ believes no challenge is insurmountable through hard and thoughtful work. With a goal to provide businesses and organizations with sustained support, BFG invests in people for the long term and in every way. Business for Good: building better businesses, stronger communities, and a more equitable world.

[icon color=”extra-color-1″ size=”regular” icon_size=”” image=”fa-file-pdf-o”] Download Press Release

[/vc_column_text][social_vc_father][social_vc_son margin=”0″ url=”url:http%3A%2F%2Flinkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fbfgfoundation%2F” icon=”fa fa-linkedin”][social_vc_son margin=”0″ url=”url:http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FBFGFoundation” icon=”fa fa-twitter”][social_vc_son margin=”0″ url=”url:https%3A%2F%2Finstagram.com%2FBFGFoundation%20″ icon=”fa fa-instagram”][/social_vc_father][vc_custom_heading text=”#4GoodNotGain” font_container=”tag:h5|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1629821006143{padding-top: -10px !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row]