January 2024 Newsletter

Lamar served 12 years in the United States Navy before being honorably discharged. He saw combat in Grenada and visited dozens of countries across the world. While his service was the highlight of his life, Lamar says it also left him with a lot of scars that haven’t healed. 

“You see things when you’re in the military that never leave you. You lose friends, and see terrible things happen to innocent people. A lot of bad memories stuck with me – a lot more than I wanted to admit when I was discharged. I had all the symptoms of PTSD, but I just didn’t deal with it when I should have.” 

A few decades later down the line, his PTSD finally caught up with him. Lamar had retired on a fixed income and suddenly had little to fill his time with. Thinking and reminiscing about his experiences in the military chipped away at his mental health. Then his wife of over 20 years became terminally ill. Lamar felt like his life was slowly unraveling in front of him, and there was nothing he could do. He was often isolated at home for long stretches of time as he cared for his wife. 

“I couldn’t keep up with medical bills on top of rent and utilities, I mean I don’t have a lot of money. My whole life I thought my military service and social security would provide enough for me to at least get by in retirement, but that didn’t happen at all. So we ended up homeless, and that was rough.”

Lamar and his wife ended up on the streets for a long time, until a community outreach advocate connected them to A New Leaf for housing and support. This is when everything in his life started to change for the better. He and his wife were placed into an affordable apartment at A New Leaf’s La Mesita Community and were provided with access to free healthcare care support.

“Not only did I get a roof over my head after being homeless, I went into counseling for the first time in my life. That was life-changing. All these thoughts and feelings I had bottled up for so long, I finally had someone to talk to about them. A New Leaf brought a lot of healing into my life, and thank God for that.”

A year after moving into their apartment, Lamar’s wife passed away. It was a challenging time for him, but thankfully he had a community around him to provide support. Lamar got involved in the community at A New Leaf’s La Mesita, attending classes, making friends, and showing up at resident meetings. He even enrolled in grief counseling and worked hard to process his pain.

“A New Leaf saved me from homelessness as much as it saved me from the loss of my wife. We were married over 20 years, and I miss her to this day. I am so thankful for all the kindness that has been shown to me here. I can’t imagine where I would be, or how I would have dealt with losing her if it hadn’t been for the help I got. Thank you, truly.” 

Last year, incredible volunteers dedicated over 43,000 hours of their time to A New Leaf. They made a huge impact on communities across the valley, and changed countless lives. More than 2,000 individuals joined us in service to those facing crisis. This year, we will continue to provide food and shelter to those experiencing homelessness with your help.

The event brought together interns from a diverse array of programs, providing them with a unique opportunity to connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. It was inspiring to see so many young, enthusiastic individuals in one place, all united by a common goal of making a positive impact in their community. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy and ideas, as interns exchanged stories of their experiences and aspirations.

If you are interested in helping your local community, get involved today! A New Leaf is looking for Shelter Support Volunteers at four locations: East Valley Men’s Center (EVMC), West Valley Housing Assistance Center (WVHAC), Faith House (FH), and the Community Alliance Against Family Abuse (CAAFA). As a Shelter Support Volunteer, you will play a vital role in helping those who seek shelter, food, and support. Your contributions will make a significant difference in the lives of so many families.

Here are some of the important tasks you’ll be involved in:

• Helping with food donation pick-ups and meal preparations.
• Sorting and organizing donations, including food, clothes, and toys.
• Providing directions and essential information to shelter visitors.
• Assisting with event preparations and clean-ups.
• Keeping our facilities clean, sanitized, and organized.
• Completing assigned tasks from the shift list, based on location.
• Providing valuable support to our administrative team by assisting with tasks like copying, scanning, answering phones, and greeting visitors.

By volunteering, you’ll not only help those in need but also gain valuable skills and connect with other volunteers like you. Importantly, A New Leaf will provide you with the training and skills needed to serve those most in need in your community.

Your commitment as a volunteer at A New Leaf will make a lasting impact. Your service ensures that shelter, food, and hope are given to those who need it most. Please submit an application through our website or email us at Volunteer@turnanewleaf.org.

This past December, Sundt Construction Inc. turned the holiday’s around for sheltered families. They arrived at the donation center with six trucks full of toys and bikes to ensure children could get a gift this holiday season. This heartwarming donation brought joy to families in homeless shelters all across the Valley

These children got their holiday wishes because of Sundt and donors like you. You create a positive difference in the lives of many. This generous gift serves as a great reminder that you make an impact on those in need.

A New Leaf looks to keep the spirit of giving this new year. You can create an impact on your community by continuing to show your support. Items that are often taken for granted could be someone’s lifeline. The donation center is urgently looking for:

These donations can make any empty space feel like a home. Your generous donations will give those moving out of homelessness a comfortable and warm place to live. Dropping off a donation is more than just getting rid of items you don’t need, it is a symbol of hope for someone in your community.

Enter entrepreneur and philanthropist Michael Pollack who made a life-changing $20,000 donation to give 20 families in need a life-changing shopping spree, including Brittani. Each of the participating families received $1,000 to spend on anything they wished at a local Target. With this money the families bought groceries, clothes, toys, and anything else to make the holidays happier.

“I can’t explain the joy and life it brought back into me and my kids,” Brittani said in an interview about Pollack’s generous gift. “I just don’t have words”. 

The target shopping spree wasn’t the only time Michael Pollack has given back to his community. This tradition of helping families started years ago when Michael Pollack felt the urge to support members of our community facing financial challenges.

“If I can do anything to brighten up people’s lives, and brighten up the holidays, then that’s what I’m all about” stated Pollack. Each year, he partners with a different local charity to assist these families. Mr. Pollack’s generosity created a holiday season that will be truly unforgettable for many families. He hopes that his kindness will inspire others to make a difference in their communities.

In 2023, A New Leaf teamed up with 87 companies, foundations, and community groups. Together, they provided a total of $4,814,994 in grants. Each of these remarkable donations helped to ensure that families across the Valley would have access to food, shelter, and safety

Here is a breakdown of just some of what you helped accomplish:

You didn’t just give money. You donated essential items, volunteered, and took on crucial roles in A New Leaf. You helped connect with the community and provided vital support to those who needed it most. You made 2023 a year of hope and change. Your ongoing kindness will touch even more lives, provide even more resources, and create a better future for your community.

Thank you for changing so many lives last year. 2024 will be even stronger with your continued support.

Camaraderie Registration is now open! Secure your tickets and tables at TurnANewLeaf.org/CAM24. Kicking off the new year is A New Leaf’s annual Camaraderie Gala! It is an annual meeting for participants to come together as one and create change for your community. This wonderful evening is themed “A Night in Positano.” It is encouraged to dress your finest and immerse yourself in the Italian coast. 

All proceeds from these auctions go towards those experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, and other heart-breaking crises. No one deserves to be without clothes, food, and shelter. With your participation in Camaraderie Gala, those in need will receive these resources and more

Date and Venue:

 

Mark your calendars for March 23, 2024, and join us at the luxurious JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa, located at 5350 E Marriott Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85054.

 

Schedule of the Evening:

 

• 5:30 pm: Begin the night with a Cocktail Reception and a chance to browse our Silent Auction.
• 7:00 pm: Enjoy a sumptuous Dinner followed by an engaging Program.
• 9:00 pm: The celebration continues with an After Party, featuring dancing and live entertainment.

 

Live Auction Prizes: 

 

Proceeds from the live auction all go to families in crisis.

 

• a 7-day cruise! 
• a 5-night resort stay! 
• A year-long membership in the Arrivia Travel Package!
• An African Safari adventure!

 

Dress Code:

 

The attire for the evening is Black Tie optional. We encourage you to dress in your finest, ready to be whisked away to the Italian coast.

The “Night in Positano” Camaraderie Gala is so important for families experiencing heartbreaking circumstances. Your participation makes a difference. Share the excitement with your friends and family, and help those in your community at this unforgettable gala! For any questions or assistance please reach out to me, mschnepf@turnanewleaf.org!