As fall begins and the holiday season is soon upon us, this is traditionally a time to give thanks. While there is much to be thankful for, it may be more difficult this year to experience the fullness of joy that often accompanies this season. If you find yourself in that situation, I encourage you […]
News
Leadership Notes: Chris Asbill, Board Chairman
An enthusiastic VISTE supporter and volunteer for many years, Chris Asbill joined the Advisory Board in 2009, became a Board Member in 2016, was Vice Chair in 2018, and for the past two years has served as VISTE’s Board Chairman. Chris has a supportive and effective leadership style and typically works quietly behind the scenes. […]
From the Development Director: How You Can Help
It is coming up on a year that I have served as VISTE’s first Development Director. Of course, I could never have imagined how 2020 was going to unfold – none of us could. But one thing I learned from the first day I started is that VISTE has incredibly loyal donors. When the virus […]
Volunteer Spotlight: Southeastern University Athletics Department
As soon as most of the students left the campus of Southeastern University (SEU) to comply with COVID-19 requirements, the Athletics Department staff knew they needed a little something more than Zoom meetings. Athletic Director Drew Watson reached out to VISTE on behalf of the Department, and the group has stepped up to help VISTE […]
President’s Message: Hope Springs Eternal
Hope Springs Eternal. That proverb originated from an essay written by Alexander Pope in 1732 in which he states: “People always hope for the best, even in the face of adversity.” Over time, however, the cares of this world have cast doubt on this aspirational view of the human spirit. That is especially true for many […]
Client Spotlight: Ms. Willie Ester Lewis
VISTE client Ms. Willie Ester Lewis lived alone in Lakeland for many years and appreciated receiving hot meals from VISTE, delivered by a friendly volunteer. Her daughter, Shirley Lewis Johnson, was living out of town at the time, as were other family members, but Willie wanted to stay in Lakeland in the house her husband […]
In the Spotlight: Jeannette Purdum
This month VISTE would like to recognize volunteer Jeannette Purdum! Jeannette normally volunteers in the VISTE office, but now, as many of us are isolating or working from home, Jeannette is making excellent use of her time at home by calling VISTE clients. One of VISTE’s most popular programs involves decorating and delivering homemade birthday cakes […]
Mission Moment: Why I Volunteer
My grandmother raised me while she lived on a small, fixed income. I remember standing in lines with her when I was young – picking up our commodities or visiting local churches to receive supplemental groceries. I know personally how much this extra help, and things like love sent via a birthday cake, mean to […]
President’s Message: May 2020
What an unusual turn of events it is that the social isolation we strive to overcome among our elderly clients is now so instrumental in keeping us all safer. As you know, it is not in VISTE’s DNA to isolate and turn away volunteers, so this has been a challenging time for us as well. […]
The CARES Act & Charitable Giving
On March 27, President Trump signed the Coronavirus, Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The CARES Act includes significant statutory changes to federal law that will impact charitable giving, philanthropic planning, and financial planning. In many ways, the CARES Act enhances the tax benefits of supporting charities like VISTE. Key provisions that may impact […]