Harrisburg Inspiring Connections Outdoors (HICO) is an all-volunteer group dedicated to getting urban youth outdoors.
Take the commercialism out of Christmas. You and your family can make a holiday wish come true for any number of nonprofits and the community they serve. Below is a list of wishes of items or services needed by nonprofits, near and far.
Every little bit helps. Some wishes are simple, such as cat litter, toothpaste and small boxes of cereal. Some are large wishes, including a riding mower, vans and even a building. Many just need a little bit of your time.
Look for an agency that follows your passions -- the outdoors, books, animals, theater, children or humanity. Visit their websites and learn a little about them. And keep them in your thoughts in the upcoming year.
Look for PennLive's "Wish List" in the Sunday Patriot-News on Dec. 2.
American Mental Wellness Association, 25 Spruce Road, Marysville, PA 17053 -- The AMWA is a one-stop resource for information on mental wellness and mental health problems which includes substance use disorders. Wishes: Sponsors for its National Conference: A Healthier Mind is a Happier Life in Hershey; help with the printing of its "free" Prevention/Early Intervention 5 x 7 handout cards. Info: www.americanmentalwellness.org. Contact: Sharon Engahl at info@americanmentalwellness.org, 717-957-3432.
Amiracle4sure, 1735 State St., Harrisburg, PA 17103 -- To improve the quality of life for individuals and their families whose lives have been impacted by negative life experiences; and to provide education, mentoring and advocacy for individuals and their children as they successfully transform their lives after incarceration and/or substance abuse.
Wishes: Household items such as twin sheets, single comforters, dishes; personal care items; gift cards (Walmart, Target, Giant, Weis) for household, personal items and food.
Info: www.amiracle4sure.com Contact: Mike Lair at amiracle4sure@gmail.com, 717-919-6658.
Annie E. Sterline Library, 308 Market St., Lewisberry, PA 17339 -- A free public library, housed in a former brick 1854 schoolhouse, offering books, audio/video tapes, DVD's and free wi-fi.
Wishes: Volunteers to help with day-to-day operations; donations for book purchases.
Contact: Bev Bozis at Robebobo@gmail.com.
The Arc of Dauphin County, 2569 Walnut St., Harrisburg, PA 17103 — Offers services and supports to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Dauphin County and south central Pennsylvania to enhance quality of life and community.
Wishes: Monetary donations ($650 total) to cover cost of new signage for headquarters (families, patients and consumers have a hard time finding the location.); a volunteer to help with grant writing/other writing projects (good understanding of Microsoft Word, Constant Contact and databases helpful), two hours or more a week, even from home; money to purchase laptop computer for psychological counselors to take out in the field (total needed is $450).
Info: www.arcofdc.org Contact: Craig George, president, cgeorge@arcofdc.org, 717-920-2727.
The Art Center School and Galleries of Mechanicsburg, 18 Artcraft Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 — Promotes growth and appreciation of the arts for artists, students and patrons of all ages and abilities since 1954; offers programs, classes and exhibits in art education and enrichment.
Wishes: Monetary donations to purchase new member management and publishing computer programs; paper products (paper towels, toilet paper, copy paper, etc.); volunteers to assist with outdoor maintenance, accounting tasks, grant writing, and the annual craft show.
Info: www.theartcenterschoolandgalleries.com Contact: Julie Witmer at art.center@verizon.net, 717-697-2072.
Beacon Clinic for Health and Hope, 248 Seneca St., Harrisburg, PA 17110 — Inspire hope, health and well-being by providing high quality, free, faith-based primary health care to uninsured and underserved adults in the greater Harrisburg community.
Wishes: A total of $250.00 for A!C Now+Monitor Cartridge and additional strips; a volunteer CRNP - provider of adult primary care; monetary donations for medications for diabetics (total of $2,000).
Info: www.beaconclinicPA.org. Contact: Ruth I. Stoll at ruthbak20@gmail.com.
Bethel Assembly of God, 1412 Holly Pike, Carlisle, PA 17015 -- Holds a toy outreach each December for families in the local community. All activities that day are free, including food, inflatable rides, candy, and a free toy for every child along with a family gift.
Wishes: New toys in the cost range of $15-$20; financial donations to cover costs of toys, food and inflatable rides.
Info: www.bethelcarlisle.com Contact: Alan Brunner at abrunner@psecu.com, 717-712-4032.
Bloomfield Public Library, 23 E. McClure St., — To provide books and other materials to meet recreational and informational needs of all segments of the population, and to provide special programs.
Wishes: Air Purifier with HEPA filter (total cost about $110); two adjustable activity tables for kids, 30" x 60" (cost about $220); monetary donations to purchase replacements for worn out copies of books in multiple collections that are part of book series.
Info: www.pecoinfo.org/library-hours/new-bloomfield Contact: Craig Mcgee, director, bplcircdesk@gmail.com, 717-582-7426.
Brethren Community Ministries (bcmPEACE), 219 Hummel St., Harrisburg, PA 17104 -- Serves Allison Hill in becoming a safer, healthier community, empowered by God's peace.
Wishes: Folding shopping cart with swivel wheels; monetary donations for 15 high schoolers to attend its college/post-secondary school tour (these youth are active in its youth development initiative in nonviolent conflict resolution and social change; volunteers to assist on planning teams for the Zumba Glow Party Fitness Party (Feb. 24, 2018) and the Strike Out Violence Bowlathon (October).
Info: www.bcmPEACE.org. Contact: Ron Tilley at rtilley.bcm@gmail.com, 717-234-0415, ext. 18.
Capital Area Greenbelt -- Five Senses Gardens, on Route 441 behind Dauphin County Prison, Harrisburg -- Provide community garden for public viewing and education.
Wishes: Volunteers for many services for spring 2018; volunteers for basic gardening (weeding, trimming, mulching, edging).
Info: CAGA.org. Contact: Al Saxton at 717-571-2943.
Carlisle Area Family Life Center, 155 N. Hanover St., Carlisle, PA 17013 -- As Carlisle's only crisis pregnancy and family resource center, it provides families in Cumberland, Perry, Dauphin and Franklin counties with material support such as needed baby items (diapers, formula, etc.), pregnancy tests and ultrasounds and all free of charge. Volunteers offer encouragement and referrals.
Wishes: Diapers (especially sizes 3-6 and pull-ups of all sizes); Similac Advance Powdered Formula; diaper bags.
Info: www.carlislefamilylife.org Contact: Jackie Phillips at carlisleaflc@embarqmail.com, 717-243-6544.
Capital Area School for the Arts Charter School, 150 Strawberry Square, Harrisburg, PA 17101 -- To provide students with a rich, rigorous, arts-infused high school program that enables them to succeed in college and careers.
Wishes: Monetary donations or sponsorships for its series of 2017-2018 performances (renting of performance venues); a complete wireless microphone sound system with 20 microphones; donations to purchase updated laptops for student use.
Info: www.casa-arts.org Contact: Timothy Wendling at 717-732-8450.
Carlisle Biddle Mission Park Labyrinth, 311 E. North St. -- Maintain a labyrinth to serve the people of the Carlisle area.
Wishes: People to purchase memorial bricks honoring loved ones. The purchase supports the labyrinth project, including maintenance. People to walk the labyrinth to find peace.
Info: www.hollymom.wixsite.com/labyrinth Contact: Roger Spitz, board member, spitzrc@aol.com or 717-249-5079.
Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, 3908 Cory Road, Harrisburg -- The food bank receives thousands of requests for frozen turkeys throughout the holiday season and to meet this need, it holds an annual Holiday Turkey Drive. (A donation of $25 provides a traditional holiday meal for a family facing hunger.)
Wishes: Frozen turkeys; coupons or funds to purchase turkeys; nonperishable ingredients for side dishes.
Info: www.centralpafoodbank.org, 717-564-1700.
Central Pennsylvania Symphony, P.O. Box 55, Hummelstown, PA 17036 -- Provides a varied repertoire of high-quality classical, modern and popular symphonic music, accessible to diverse audiences. Research has proven that the arts provide social and academics benefits.
Wishes: An updated website/new design; monetary donations to purchase new music; money for advertising, including printing flyers to be distributed around the community.
Info: www.centralpasymphony.org. Contact: Angela Kauffman at edukatetress@gmail.com, 717-329-5745.
Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, 5 N. Orange St., Carlisle, PA 17013 -- To inspire, educate and enrich lives through training in and performance of classical ballet.
Wishes: Flammable storage cabinet; wardrobe storage cabinet; chairs.
Info: www.cpyb.org. Contact: Travis DiNicola, director of development, dinicola@cpyb.org or 717-254-8945.
Churches Affiliated Child Care Center Inc. (CACCC), 417 S. 22nd St., Camp Hill, PA 17011 -- An educational child care program serving children, ages 6 weeks through 15 years, by way of child care centers, school age programs, and a summer camp. This nonprofit was created by several area churches, as a mission outreach, funded in part by the affiliated churches, to assist families in financial need with the child care costs.
Wishes: Monetary donations to purchase an educational preschool light table; monetary donations to provide tuition scholarships for families struggling to pay for child care services; gift cards to local stores to purchase healthy snacks, classroom supplies and cleaning products.
Info: www.cacccinc.org. Contact: Barb Hallahan, bhallahan@cacccinc.org, 717-737-4515.
Cocoa Packs Inc., P.O. Box 613, Hershey, PA 17033 — A weekly food assistance program in Derry Township School District, providing a nutritious breakfast, lunch and dinner items to more than 250 students.
Wishes: Cases of water and sports drinks; individual cereal boxes; monetary donations to purchase food items.
Info: www.cocoapacks.org Contact: cocoapacks@gmail.com
Communities In Schools of Pennsylvania, 1429 N, Third St., Harrisburg, PA 17102 -- The nation's largest dropout prevention organization bringing coordinated, integrated student services into public schools to meet the needs of at-risk students. Brings caring adults into schools to meet unmet needs and provide links between educators and community.
Wishes: Office elevator, office chairs; office computers.
Info: www.cisofpa.org Contact: Jenna Lewis at jenna@cisofpa.org, 717-645-6696.
Communities Rising, 2908 Rathton Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011 -- Provides out of school programming for students from underserved, rural villages in south India, teaching English, math, Tamil, computer education, art, music, dance, problem solving and decision-making strategies.
Wishes: Monetary donations to buy books; Easy Reader Books (four copies for one classroom/serving 30 classes); student-sized magnetic white boards. (Call for visit website for details on books and white boards.)
Info: www.communities-rising.org. Contact: Betsy McCoy at betsmcc@gmail.com, 717-576-1279.
Community Check-Up Center of South Harrisburg Inc., 38 C Hall Manor, Harrisburg, PA 17104 -- Works in partnership with the community to improve the health and wellness of low-income women, men and children through high quality compassionate care.
Wishes: Children's books; copier paper; office cleaning supplies.
Info: www.communitycheckupcenter.org Contact: Catherine Mentzer at cmentzer@communitycheckupcenter.org, 717-991-4025.
Diakon Adoption & Foster Care, 960 Century Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 -- Bring permanence to the lives of waiting children and youth through foster care, foster-to-adopt, special needs and domestic adoption.
Wishes: Stickers, colored sand and gel pens; gift cards to craft stores and Walmart; various sizes of pajamas and diapers (size 3 and up).
Info: www.diakon.org/adoption. Contact: Deena Stehman at stehmand@diakon.org, 717-795-0320.
Do Over Ministries, 750 S. 29th St., Harrisburg, PA 17111 -- Aid those who are struggling in central Pennsylvania with addiction and experiencing homelessness, as well as assisting the heroic veterans.
Wishes: Money for a security deposit; canopy/pop-up tents.
Info: www.facebook.com/dooverministries Contact: Jan Gardiner at 717-805-0711.
Dog TAGS Program, in Mechanicsburg, PA -- To train, assist, guide and serve veterans who have been diagnosed by a licensed mental health care provider with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and/or traumatic brain injury (TBI) through the operation of the Service Dog Program.
Wishes: Monetary donations ($4,000 total) to sponsor a veteran dog team; donations ($50) towards purchase of a dog crate; an indoor ADA compliant training facility.
Info: www.dogtagsprogram.org Contact: Eileen at dogtagsprogram@gmail.com.
Dress for Success | Tied to Success, Programs of Suits to Careers Inc., 29 S. Tenth St., Harrisburg, PA 17101 -- Helps transform the lives of women and men of low socioeconomic status throughout Dauphin, Cumberland, York, Lebanon, Perry and Adams counties by providing them with professional interview and employment attire to help them get jobs.
Wishes: Volunteers to do grant writing, web design, graphic design or event coordination; professional business clothing donations that are modern to today's clothing trends (donations can be accepted at the boutique in Harrisburg or any Classic Drycleaners); monetary donations for clothing purchases.
Info: www.suitstocareers.org. Contact: Heather Stevens at hstevens@suitstocareers.org, 717-232-1333, ext. 106.
Duncannon EMS, 16 Shermanta Drive, Duncannon, PA 17020 -- To provide services and programs to ease the pain and suffering of the ill and injured in Eastern Perry County.
Wishes: Funding for or a 4WD quick response vehicle; certified personnel to staff ambulances; volunteers for fundraising support.
Info: www.facebook.com/dems29 Contact: Kraig Nace, company chief, dems29nace@yahoo.com, 717-834-5904.
Friends of Midtown -- Working to improve the area bound by Front, Forster, Seventh and Maclay streets. Our all-volunteer initiatives focus on making Midtown Harrisburg a safe, clean, fun, and prosperous community for residents, businesses, and visitors.
Wishes: Monetary donations, small and large, to fund a dog park in Midtown; volunteers for the Events Committee to attend a monthly meeting helping to plan and run events; a centralized storage location to store supplies.
Info: www.friendsofmidtown.org Contact: Shawn Westhafer, president, info@friendsofmidtown.org.
Friends of Manheim Community Library, 15 E. High St., Manheim, PA 17545 -- Provides programs and free services to the community.
Wishes: Volunteers for Holiday Crossings event at the Historic Train Station fundraiser Dec. 1-3; moveable book shelves to facilitate sorting for the books donated during spring and fall book sales (one or two sided); library lovers to join the Friends Board, an auxiliary group supporting the programs and services (meetings are held 7-8 times per year to coordinate a Friends membership drive, the Murder at Mount Hope dinner, book sales and Holiday Crossings).
Info: www.timetosignup.com/ManheimLibrarybooks. Contact: Stacey Gibble Barrick at rbarrick5@aolco, 717-766-4555.
Friends of New Cumberland Public Library, 1 Benjamin Plaza, New Cumberland, PA 17070 -- Promotes the library's services and facilities, and by acting as a catalyst to safeguard its future.
Wishes: IPads to be be used for children or teen coding programs, for STEM camps and the after school STEM club, plus curriculum enhancement lessons; monetary donations toward a new rug and furniture for the Children's Library Room; Legos any size, any kind for ongoing Legomania programs.
Info: www.cumberlandcountylibraries.org/NCU Contact: Kate Pursel, library director, kpursel@ccpa.net or 717-774-7820.
Friendship Center, 5000 Commons Drive, Harrisburg, PA 17112 -- Welcomes the community, of all ages, to participate in family, fun and fitness.
Wishes: Monetary donations ($1000 goal) for kids play equipment for the indoor playground; donations ($2000 goal) for lounge furniture for social areas; volunteer groups to assist with special events (tree lighting, breakfasts, movies, etc.).
Info: www.friendshipcntr.org Contact: lwuestner@lowerpaxton-pa.gov.
Friendship Community, 1149 East Oregon Road, Lititz, PA 17543 -- Provide loving, safe homes and meaningful daytime opportunities for individuals with intellectual disability and autism in Lancaster and Lebanon counties.
Wishes: An 8 x 10 foot, walk-in resin shed ($1,100); new flooring in the center ($7,000); commercial dehumidifier ($1,000).
Info: www.friendshipcommunity.net Contact: Cynthia Beebe, director of development, cbeebe@friendshipcommunity.net.
Gather the Spirit for Justice, 1508 Market St., Harrisburg, PA 17103 — We provide basic services for people in need of help, and we bring people together on common ground to strengthen the community on Allison Hill.
Wishes: Funds for community breakfasts; funds for State I.D.'s; toilet paper to distribute to the community.
Info: www.gatherthespirit.org Contact: Ann Van Dyke at avandyke3@outlook.com, 717-982-1050.
Gaudenzia, 2930 Derry St., Harrisburg, PA 17111 — Helps people affected by chemical dependency, mental illness and related conditions to achieve a better quality of life, accomplished through comprehensive treatment and prevention methods guided by mutual concern and responsibility. Gaudenzia also conducts research and educates the community.
Wishes: Gift cards for clients in need of clothing and other essentials; personal care items (non-alcohol) for men, women and children; crafts for adult/children in its care.
Info: www.gaudenzia.org Contact: Jim Ingolio at jingolio@gaudenzia.org, 717-579-3636.
Gemma's Angels, 15 E. Main St., No. 25, Hershey, PA 17033 -- Provides fresh fruits and vegetables to homeless shelters, soup kitchens and food banks in Dauphin and Lebanon counties, and encourages at-risk children and their families to make healthier food choices.
Wishes: Donors to join the $10 for Good Campaign (donate at least $10 a month to help purchase fresh produce in the off-season, and pay other day-to-day costs; gifts for children (ages infants to 17) for its Christmas parties on Dec. 15; volunteers to drive and staff its Mobile Farmer's Market and All-Kids Mobile Farmer's Market and to staff outreach events in Dauphin and Lebanon Counties.
Info: www.gemmasangels.org Contact: Mike Macchioni at volunteer@gemmasangels.org, 717-298-1050.
GOAL Project, 313 W. Liberty St., Suite 260, Lancaster, PA -- To educate, train and empower communities in addressing the challenges of addiction and recovery.
Wishes: HP 902XL magenta, cyan and yellow ink; brochures and marketing materials from Vistaprint; money for payroll to run monthly workshops. Info: www.goalproject.org
Contact: Elaine Pettinato-Collins at mail@goalproject.org.
Halifax Area Historical Society, Third and Market streets, Halifax, PA 17032 -- Preserve the history and artifacts of the Halifax area. Current project: rehabilitation of a one room school house (Taylors School) to show how past generations were educated.
Wishes: Monetary donations (total of $1200) to provide spray-on insulation in the building so volunteers can continue to work during the winter; monetary donations (total of $1600) to purchase tongue and groove ceiling boards; volunteers to help with the restoration of Taylors School.
Contact: Charles Funk at 717-877-3544.
Harrisburg Adventist School, 424 N. Progress Ave., Harrisburg, PA 17109 -- Provides a Christian education to students in the Harrisburg area, preparing them to be productive citizens and developing their character.
Wishes: Monetary donations (1) to provide financial aid to needy students; (2) to support repairs and maintenance, and (3) to purchase classroom computers.
Info: www.haschool.org Contact: office@haschool.org.
Canoe training by Harrisburg Inspiring Connections Outdoors (HICO), an all-volunteer group dedicated to getting urban youth outdoors.
Harrisburg Inspiring Connections Outdoors (HICO), P.O. Box 282, Dauphin, PA 17018 — An all volunteer group dedicated to getting urban youth outdoors. Its screened leaders organize hiking, camping, backpacking, bicycling, canoeing, and kayaking activities that allow participants to explore and learn about nature.
Wishes: Donations/grocery gift cards to buy food for lunches; donations of new or used canoes/kayaks/water shoes; monetary donations for transportation (rental vans and gas).
Info: www.harrisburgico.org Contact: Deborah Rudy, HICO chair, 717-350-8909.
Healthy Steps Diaper Bank, 6400 Colchester Ave., Harrisburg, PA 17111 -- Provides diapers to families in need to keep children clean, dry and healthy.
Wishes: Racks/shelves for its warehouse space (cost of the racks is $1,000); children's diapers in sizes newborn through pull-ups; volunteers to help with packaging diapers for distribution (packing occurs at Mission Central in Mechanicsburg).
Info: www.healthystepsdiaperbank.com Contact: Amanda Barnes at abarnes@healthystepsdiaperbank.com, 717-919-2590.
Heartz of Gold, 823 Lewisberry Road, Lewisberry, PA 17339 -- Provides a warm crocheted/knitted hat, scarf or blanket for those in need; whether it be a cancer patient, elderly or homeless.
Wishes: Monetary contributions to help with postage to out of state venues; new or used yarn; volunteers to help crochet/knit throughout the year.
Contact: Amy Harkins at heartzofgold@comcast.net/heartzofgold@frontier.com, 717-648-5085.
Helping Hands Ministries of Harrisburg -- Serves a hot meal to the homeless and hungry (no one is turned away). Serving times are 4:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, as well as on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Wishes: An upright freezer; money to buy paper products, plastic cutlery, hot chocolate, coffee, sugar and creamer; large meat items such as venison, hams and turkeys.
Contact: helphhm@yahoo.com or 717-919-4383.
Hershey Hearts, at Penn State Hershey Medical Center -- Supports, helps and educates families of children with congenital heart disease, achieved through a visitation program and "Survival Kit" bags.
Wishes: Fun gifts for kids (coloring books, crayons, new small stuffed animals); toiletries (i.e. shampoo, soap, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes); monetary donations made out to Hershey Hearts to purchase the above items.
Info: www.hersheyhearts.org Contact: Russ Alves, president, rnlalves@gmail.com.
Highmark Caring Place, Lemoyne -- Support children and their adults with grief after loss of a loved one.
Wishes: Craft supplies safe for children; money to purchase craft supplies safe for children.
Contact: John Kajic at John.Kajic@highmark.com or 717-302-8404.
Homeland Center, 1901 N. Fifth St., Harrisburg.
Wishes: Volunteers to be one-to-one companions; volunteers to maintain the aviaries; volunteers with any of the following talents: music, sewing/crocheting, cooking, crafts and scrapbooking.
Info: www.homelandcenter.org Contact: Gillian Sumpter: glawrence@homelandcenter.org, 717-221-7919.
HOPE 717, Inc. (Helping Overcome Poverty Everywhere), 825 Yale St., Apt. 104, Harrisburg, PA 17111 -- Working to end hunger in Harrisburg. Helping all people in need regardless of race, color, creed, religion, way of life/lifestyle, age, etc.
Wishes: Monetary donations and a local facility to house a full Christmas dinner for less fortunate individuals and families (with a target of $4,000); a volunteer individual or business to help the organization obtain a facility in Harrisburg to operate a food kitchen and food storage space; a large box truck or van with cargo capacity to deliver meals to the elderly, homeless and less fortunate.
Info: www.hope717.org Contact: Kimberly Stratton, founder, at hope717@outlook.com or 717-623-4321.
Infinity Charter School, 5405 Locust Lane, Harrisburg, PA 17109 -- A brick and mortar K-8 public charter school serving intellectually-gifted children. Offers a theme-based, holistic approach and flexible curriculum.
Wishes: Computer desks so the keyboards are at the correct height for young students (24 needed); computers with 4GB of RAM, at least 100 GB solid state drives for computer lab (24 needed); student desk and chair sets (45 needed at $130).
Info: www.infinityschool.org Contact: Dawn Brotherton at dbrotherton@infinityschool.org, 717-236-1880.
JDRF International, 3009 Market St., Camp Hill, PA 17011 -- Accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat Type 1 Diabetes and its complications.
Wishes: Five Ipad or Ipad Mini's to use at fundraising events; monetary donations for type 1 diabetes research; volunteers to help with events and general office needs.
Info: www.centralpa.jdrf.org Contact: MaryAnn Pruden mpruden@jdrf.org, 717-901-6489.
Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg, 3333 N. Front St., Harrisburg, PA 17110 -- A forward-thinking, mental health and social service agency dedicated to helping people achieve their full potential while honoring choice, diversity and Jewish values through every stage of life. Provides counseling, foster care and adoption, and senior services.
Wishes: Giant Foods gift cards for fresh food for its food pantry; craft store gift cards for foster children; a projector for presentations.
Info: www.jfsofhbg.org Contact: Rachel Kuhr at Rkuhr@jfsofhbg.org.
JFT Recovery and Veterans Support Services, 300 Market St., Lemoyne, PA 17043 -- Provides safe, structured and compassionate housing for those seeking recovery, as well as provide addiction education and advocacy for the recovery community in central Pennsylvania.
Wishes: Tax deductible donations to its generosity.com fundraiser (find link on website); furnishings and equipment for its coffee shop; professional printing services.
Info: www.jft-rvss.org Contact: Steve Barndt at justfortodayrsinc@gmail.com, 717-880-8068.
Keystone Musical Arts Center, 3705 Trindle Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011 -- The West Shore's new and only nonprofit school of music providing lessons and classes on various instruments and voice.
Wishes: Soundproofing materials (insulation, acoustic panels, etc.); studio piano(s); volunteer assistance with soundproofing/studio construction projects.
Info: www.kmacenter.org Contact: Terry Selders at terry@KMACenter.org, 717-737-5622.
The Kidney Foundation of Central PA, 900 S. Arlington Ave., Suite 134A, Harrisburg, PA 17109 -- Educate the community about chronic kidney disease through outreach and screening; provide services and support to those whose lives are impacted by kidney disease; and advocate for more living organ donations in order to reduce the wait for a life-saving kidney transplant.
Wishes: Laptop computer so volunteers can help in the office; gift cards to support patient emergency assistance fund; art supplies to support Camp Kydnie.
Info: www.kfcp.org Contact: Joan Line, Joan@kfcp.org, 717-652-8123.
Lebanon Community Theatre, Theatre Drive and East Maple Street, PA 17046 -- Entertain, educate and enrich the public through the presentation of a diverse selection of high-quality theatrical productions while encouraging the involvement of all members of the community.
Wishes: Monetary donations for building needs, most importantly a new roof; monetary donations for audio/video equipment; volunteers with building and carpentry expertise.
Info: www.lebanoncommunitytheatre.org Contact: Mindy Harmon at 717-497-5305.
Leg Up Farm, 4880 N. Sherman St., Mount Wolf, PA 17347 -- Enrich the lives of individuals with special needs and their families through support and customized programs. Offers physical, occupational, aquatic and speech therapy, in addition to counseling and nutrition services, therapeutic horseback riding and other educational and recreational opportunities.
Wishes: Donations to help cover cost of therapy sessions; iPads for therapy sessions; volunteers to assist in Equine Department.
Info: www.legupfarm.org Contact: Maura Musselman, mmusselman@legupfarm.org or 717-266-9294.
LGBT Center of Central PA, 1306 N. Third St., Harrisburg, PA 17102 — Create common ground for the LGBT community and allies by providing services through educational, cultural and community activities that foster wholeness.
Wishes: Boxes of copy paper (letter size); gift cards to purchase food for programs/events; a water cooler.
Info: www.centralpalgbtcenter.org Contact: Pat Van Horn, pvanhorn@centralpalgbtcenter.org, 717-920-9534.
Loving Memories, 660 Boas St., Harrisburg, PA 17102 -- To give toys to children whose family members were victims of gun violence.
Wishes: Monetary donations to purchase the toys; money for wrapping paper, tape and stocking stuffers; transportation needs such as gas to be able to deliver the gifts.
Contact: Kimberly Belle at 717-443-5766 or 717-551-9201.
Lyme Yarnbombs Inc., P.O. Box 416, Hockessin, DE 19707 -- Educate, raise awareness and bring hope to Lyme disease patients by sharing facts, prevention tips, and lime green sweaters called yarnbombs. Yarnbombing is a form of street graffiti using yarn instead of paint.
Wishes: A colored laser printer; business cell phone; yearly service car wrap.
Info: www.lymeyarnbombs.com Contact: Roxanne Molnar at rox.molnar@gmail.com, 717-304-0771.
Manada Conservancy, Hummelstown, PA -- A land trust dedicated to preserving the natural, historic, agricultural and scenic resources of Dauphin County through land conservation, environmental education, and community engagement.
Wishes: Monetary donations to fund streamside tree plantings along the Swatara Creek; volunteer graphic design assistance; people to purchase memberships.
Info: www.manada.org or office@manada.org Contact: Jennifer Hine, executive director, jhine@manada.org or 717-566-4122.
MASD Operation Wildcat, 100 E. Elmwood Ave., Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 — To pool the resources in our community to help Mechanicsburg Area School District students and families in need.
Wishes: Underwear for all sizes for females and males; blankets all sizes, especially twin; sheet sets, especially twin.
Info: www.mbgsd.org (select Community). Contact: Leslie Collins at 717-795-7372.
Mechanicsburg Area Meals on Wheels, 201 E. Green St., Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 -- Provides meals for seniors.
Wishes: Monetary donations to offset the rising cost of food; volunteer cooks to help prepare meals; drivers to deliver meals.
Info: www.facebook.com/MechanicsburgAreaMealsOnWheels Contact: Karen Stine at 717-697-5011.
Medard's House, 1120 Drexel Hills Blvd., New Cumberland, PA 17070 -- The only afterschool program for junior and senior high school kids in the area, Medard's House offers youth mentoring, tutoring, sports, the arts and more. And provides early intervention to stop the progression of at-risk behavior.
Wishes: Monetary donations to help pay the high utilities of its new facility; volunteers for youth mentoring, cleaning, yard work, marketing, office work and food preparation; a van to transport students.
Info: www.medardshouse.org Contact: Saundra L. Colello, executive director, at 717-578-3181 or 717-774-2633.
The Melita B. Snedden Fund, 1377 Ridge Master Drive, State College, PA 16803 -- Focuses brain aneurysms and traumatic brain injuries (founded by a State College Area High School student athlete and Lock Haven University D-1 student athlete) to make a positive impact on those who suffer from brain aneurysms and traumatic brain injuries and their families through awareness and research.
Wishes: Funding for awareness and research; volunteers to assist in spreading the message of the dire need for awareness and research.
Info: www.centre-foundation.org/funds/355-the-melita-b-snedden-fund Contact: Jackie Snedden, founder, JacquelynSnedden@gmail.com or 814-321-8191 .
Mental Wellness Awareness Association, 25 Spruce Road, Marysville, PA 17053 -- Building healthier lives free of mental health problems through educational outreach through public education values prevention, early intervention, scientific research and cures of mental health problems.
Wishes: Monetary support for its PA School Mental Wellness Initiative: A Comprehensive Approach for Mental Wellness; sponsorship of a Mental Health First Aid Training in the community; agencies or businesses hosting a Mental Wellness Presentation.
Info: www.mentalwellnessawareness.org Contact: Sharon Engahl at mwaa@mentalwellnessawareness.org, 717-957-3432.
Mission of Mercy Inc., clinic located at Brethren In Christ Church, 2217 Derry St., Harrisburg (two Thursdays per month) — To restore dignity, healing through Love, providing free healthcare, dental care and medications to the uninsured and underinsured via a mobile medical unit.
Wishes: Funding ($1500) for steroid injections medications; volunteer physical therapist and volunteer diabetic nutritionist (two Thursdays per month).
Info: www.amissionofmercy.org Contact: Jennifer White at jwhite@amissionofmercy.org, 301-682-5683, ext. 204.
North Shore Friends Inc., York County area -- A "Secret Santa" organization to help underprivileged kids in central Pennsylvania -- through community outreach programs -- have a Christmas they might otherwise not have.
Wishes: Money/gift cards to help purchase gifts or give as a gift; new clothing, shoes and toys, three dehumidifiers.
Info: www.nsf4kids.com Contact: nsf4kids@gmail.com
Northeast Fire and Rescue, 202 Third St., Summerdale, PA 17093 -- All volunteer organization that provides fire protection, fire prevention and rescue services to the residents/visitors of East Pennsboro Township, and surrounding areas.
Wishes: Firefighters, tactical side of operations (must be 18+, participate in trainings and achieve certifications); support members, non-active on tactical side (must be 18+, participate in fundraising, fire prevention activities); Junior Firefighters to learn about fire service careers (ages 14-17, adhere to PA child labor laws and fire company bylaws).
Info: www.nefr20.com Contact: 717-732-0047 and ask for Chief Matter.
NutriPacks, at Central Dauphin Middle School, 4600 Locust Lane, Harrisburg, PA 17109 -- Distributes 6 to 10 pounds of food per week during the school year to elementary students in need in Central Dauphin School District. Promotes the social, emotional and academic well-being of children in need.
Wishes: Canned fruits and canned vegetables; boxed pasta (any kind); financial donations to Central Pennsylvania Food Bank -- designating CDSD NutriPacks as recipient (100% will go directly to NutriPacks for food to help the program).
Info: Cdsdnutripacks.com Contact: Pam Jones/Linda Dallago at admin@cdsdnutripacks.com
Orthodox Christian Charities of Greater Harrisburg, doing business as Agia Sophia Coffee House & Bookstore, 225 Market St., Harrisburg -- Provides a place to witness faith through service, charitable contributions, and educational support to the community.
Wishes: Funds toward the purchase of a replacement espresso machine; leather-like couch for customer use in the sitting room; volunteers to clean or work in the kitchen preparing food.
Info: www.agiasophiaharrisburg.com Contact: Robbin Staller, manager, 717-233-2033.
Oyster Mill Playhouse, 1001 Oyster Mill Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011 -- An all-volunteer, non-profit theater company serving the community with high quality, entertaining and thought provoking theater.
Wishes: Volunteers -- on and off stage; parking lot repair, including crushed stone and heavy equipment to move it; housewares (toilet paper, paper towels, cleaning supplies, light bulbs, cases of bottled water).
Info: www.oystermill.com Contact: Dawn-Michelle Lewis at lewisdawnmichelle@gmail.com, 717-758-5262.
Paxton Ministries, 2001 Paxton St., Harrisburg, PA 17111 — Provides affordable housing and support services to adults in need with Christ-like love.
Wishes: Extra long twin sheet sets; full-sized tubes of toothpaste; items from our Amazon Wish List..
Info: www.paxtonmin.org Contact: Diane Buckwalter at dibuckwalter@paxtonmin.org, 717-236-5508.
Pennsylvania Family Support Alliance, Harrisburg — Protects children of Pennsylvania from abuse, by educating people on recognizing and reporting child abuse.
Wish: Sheetz gas cards for travel across the state; journals, crayons, color pencils for classes; copy paper (8 1/2 x 11 inch) for printing training materials.
Info: www.pa-fsa.org Contact: Jill Whitmyer at jwhitmyer@pa-fsa.org, 717-238-0937.
Pennsylvania Friends of Agriculture Foundation, 510 S. 31st St., Camp Hill, PA 17011 -- Preservation/promotion of agriculture by enlightening the public about farming; create educational programs for children not exposed to agriculture; train teachers on agricultural concepts; fund scholarships for post-secondary agriculture studies; and promote career opportunities in agriculture.
Wishes: iPad (full size) for Ag Literacy Outreach activities for kids; portable microphone/speaker system to use on Mobile Ag Ed Science Labs to help teachers; GPS system for its Ag on the Go vehicle that travels to schools in inner-cities.
Info: www.pafbfriends.org Contact: Kellan Kernisky at kmkernisky@pfb.com, 717-724-9414.
Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network Inc., 118 Locust St., Harrisburg, PA 17101.
Wishes: Monetary donations ($368 total) to purchase a laptop; monetary donations ($1259) to purchase an AED device (defibrillator).
Info: www.palegalaid.net Contact: Sam Milkes at info@palegalaid.net, 717-236-9486.
Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation, 1845 Market St., Suite 202, Camp Hill, PA 17011 — Inspire stewardship of Pennsylvania's state parks and forests through public engagement in volunteerism, education and recreation.
Wishes: Office volunteer to help with office tasks a few hours a week; $25 bus scholarships for children to participate in a state park or forest program; new or gently used outdoor recreational equipment (including fishing rods, tackle boxes, field guides, binoculars, walking poles).
Info: www.paparksandforests.org Contact: Amanda Trimmer, atrimmer@paparksandforests.org, 717-236-7644.
Pennsylvania State Sunday School Association, 5915 Fox St., Harrisburg, PA 17112 -- Promote, equip and encourage leaders, teachers and workers in local Christian churches of all denominations to be effective in their ministry through Biblical training and resources.
Wishes: An upgraded desktop PC for the part-time bookkeeper; updated software for bookkeeping and accounting; update the director's Mac desktop computer.
Info: www.SundaySchoolHelp.org Contact: Rodney L. Pry, executive director, office@sundayschoolhelp.org, 717-652-1930 (office) or 717-215-2614 (cell).
Pennsylvania Veterans Foundation, 1209 Georgetown Circle, Carlisle -- Provide assistance and support to Pennsylvania veterans and their families. Its current focus is on ending the suicide epidemic among veterans in Pennsylvania.
Wishes: Veterans as potential board members; sponsors.
Info: www.paveteransfoundation.org Contact: Michael Gould, chairman, mggpvf@gmail.com or 717-961-0507.
Please Live Inc., Mechanicsburg, PA -- Provides education and awareness of youth mental health challenges, particularly depression, anxiety and suicide prevention.
Wishes: Volunteers with diverse backgrounds and experiences to help ensure Please Live is reaching as many people as possible; dedicated and motivated volunteers who may be interested in leadership positions; monthly supporters to join the Support Squad by visiting https://tinyurl.com/SupportSquad2017.
Info: www.PleaseLive.org Contact: Alexa Moody at amoody@pleaselive.org
Residents Against Heroin, in Carlisle -- A new nonprofit being formed to combat the heroin epidemic. To run a hotline 24/7 for tips and information about drug activity happening in Cumberland County.
Wishes: A computer or laptop; donations to help pay for hotline telephone.
Contact: Pam Kuhn at 717-385-4368.
Rolls-Royce Foundation, 189 Hempt Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 -- Preserve the heritage of Rolls-Royce and Bentley cars.
Wishes: Volunteers to detail cars; volunteers with library experience and computer skills; monetary assistance in purchasing archival material to preserve historical documents.
Info: www.rollsroycefoundation.org Contact: Charlotte or Joe 717-795-9400.
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central PA, 745 West Governor Road, Hershey — To serve children and their families by providing compassionate and accessible support through programs and healthcare partnerships, and provides services to the families of pediatric patients being treated at Penn State Health Children's Hospital.
Wishes: Cash donations to offset the cost of guest stays ($100 provides one night at the Ronald McDonald House for a family); gift cards for supplies and food (Giant, Karns, Weis, Walmart); single-serve food items (granola bars, cereal, peanut butter crackers, chips).
Info: www.rmhc-centralpa.org Contact: Patrice Stillwell, pstillwell@rmhc-centralpa.org, 717-533-4001, ext. 158.
Roseglen Christian Nursery School, a ministry of Roseglen United Methodist Church, 722 New Bloomfield Road, Duncannon, PA 17020 -- Provide quality Christian preschool classes for ages 2-5 at an affordable price.
Wishes: Two portable CD players for classrooms; mulch for the playground; construction paper.
Contact: Amy Moyer, director, 717-834-6411.
RSVP of the Capital Region Inc., 50 Utley Drive, Suite 500, Camp Hill, PA 17011 -- Provide meaningful volunteer opportunities for persons 55 years of age and older, providing value to the community, such as helping homebound seniors and cancer patients.
Wishes: Monetary donations for volunteers' mileage expenses; computer items, such as laptops and a high capacity color laser printer; a riding mower to maintain the acre and a half "Nature Play" youth gardening program in Dauphin County.
Info: www.rsvpCapReg.org Contact: Matt Trimble at office@rsvpCapReg.org, 800-870-2616.
Safe Harbour, 102 W. High St., Carlisle, PA 17013 -- Provides housing and support services for individuals and families to help them achieve independent living by increasing their basic life skills.
Wishes: Toiletries; new or unused linens; canned goods or nonperishable food items. Info: www.safeharbour.org
Contact: Katie Crane, director of development & communications, kcrane@safeharbour.org, 717-249-2200.
Sew for Peace, at Paxton United Methodist Church, Progress Avenue, Harrisburg, PA 17109 — Bring hope and self esteem to families by sewing clothing for girls who are victims of loss locally, nationally and internationally; also hats, mittens and scarves; cloth bags for two ministries who fill them with personal care items.
Wishes: Fleece or flannel for making tops, and corduroy for pants; binding for lap robes; monetary assistance to buy sewing supplies; sewing volunteers.
Contact: Dotty Sellers at 717-564-9492.
Shalom House, 9 S. 15th St., Harrisburg -- Provides shelter for women and children at several locations in the city of Harrisburg. Programs include emergency shelter, permanent housing for women, and transitional housing for female veterans and their children.
Wishes: Gift cards to grocery/department stores; volunteers to assist with mentoring and fundraising needs.
Info: www.shalomhouse.net Contact: Denise Britton, executive director, dbritton@shalomhouse.net.
Shining Light Thrift Shop, 1310 N. Third St., Harrisburg, PA 17102 -- Serves the needs of economically, disadvantaged individuals by providing free or low-cost clothing and domestics. Also is a retail, nonprofit establishment offering quality clothing, household items and furniture for sale to the public.
Wishes: Men's clothing (athletic shoes, winter coats, hats, gloves); gently-used furniture and household items; monetary donations to purchase clothing items for the needy.
Info: www.stpatrickcathedral.com/Ministries/SocialJustice.aspx Contact: Gail Kline, manager, at 717 234-2436.
Sojourner Truth Ministries, 501 High St., Williamsport, PA 17701 -- Provides breakfast, lunch and clothing, as well as offering classes, groups and social service assistance to those in a perpetual or seasonal state of need (mental health, life struggles, addictions, etc.).
Wishes: Volunteer grant researcher and writer; volunteer on Tuesdays and/or Fridays (from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.) to help package food, prepare and serve meals, spend time with guests, and help clean up after meals; Proctor Silex 24850 4-slice commercial toaster with 1 1/2" wide slots (approximate cost $120).
Info: www.stmwilliamsport.org Contact: Rev. Velinda Smith, director, at 570-971-7117.
South Central PA Sickle Cell Council, 2000 Linglestown Road, Suite 103, Harrisburg, PA 17110 -- Provide support to clients, families and caregivers who are affected by this life threatening, painful disease through advocacy, increased public awareness, intervention, and education.
Wishes: Monetary donations to help pay clients' utility bills; scarves for clients' need to stay warm during winter; Staples Easy Close #10 Security-Tint Envelopes, 100/box for office use.
Info: www.scpascc.org Contact: Judy Chandler, coordinator, 717-234-3358.
Stop the Violence Ministry, 1678 S. Cameron St., Harrisburg, PA 17104 -- Helping children who are victims of violence, providing a safe haven and whatever support and comfort they need to move on with their lives and become well-adjusted members of the community.
Wishes: A dependable, used van or used truck to pick up food from food bank and items needed to help people who may be homeless; new or slightly used coats for adults who work and whose pay only covers rent/food; monetary donations to buy coats.
Info: www.stoptheviolenceharrisburg.com Contact: Rev. R. Mim Harvey at stoptheviolence1678comcast.net, 717-236-2444.
Steelton Community Development Foundation, 123 N. Front St., Steelton PA 17103 -- To provide for and assist in projects bettering the community.
Wishes: Money to purchase items for the holiday meal; food items for the holiday meal; volunteers to serve the holiday meal.
Info: www.steeltonpa.com Contact: Keontay Hodge, KeontayRHodge@gmail.com or 717-503-8484.
Susquehanna Sewing Guild, at Mount Zion Methodist Church, 4685 Mount Zion Drive, Enola, PA 17025 -- Conducts several year round philanthropic projects, such as sewing muslin cloth "comfort dolls" which are donated to local hospitals so young patients can see on the doll how their procedure will be performed. The guild also works to increase interest and proficiency in sewing and camaraderie among its members with workshops, lectures and hands-on projects.
Wish: New polyester fiberfill for stuffing muslin comfort dolls.
Info: sites.google.com/site/susquehannasewingguild Contact: Kathy Kellie at krkellie@gmail.com.
Teddys Toys and Treasures, 1855 Roberts Valley Road, Harrisburg, PA 17110 -- Provides toys to all children and siblings at the Penn State Children's Hospital for Christmas.
Wishes: Toys; cold weather accessories; gift cards.
Contact: Taunya Robison at taunyamw@gmail.com.
Tri-County Housing Development Corporation, 1514 Derry St., Harrisburg, PA 17104 -- Develop and promote affordable housing for low-moderate income persons/families primarily in Dauphin, Cumberland and Perry counties.
Wishes: Three new desktop computers; monetary donations to purchase materials to rehab a home at 245 Hummel St., Harrisburg; volunteer services to assist with Grant writing.
Info: www.tchdc.net Contact: Gary Lenker, executive director at 717-231-3604, ext. 137.
Upper Adams Food Pantry, 99 N. Main St., Biglerville, PA 17307 -- Provides food to struggling families in the Upper Adams School District.
Wishes: Five Seville 5-shelf rolling carts ($120 from Sam's Club, #795277, model #48245B); one Avanta GDC40-HC 48" black, swing 2-glass door refrigerator ($1,800 from The Restaurant Store); one Beverage AirMMF44 47" 2 section glass door freezer ($5,800 from The Restaurant Store) to start offering frozen, more healthy vegetables and meat instead of canned goods.
Contact: Phil Wagner, logistics coordinator, oldwarrior6@gmail.com or 717-262-8960.
Vision Resources of Central Pennsylvania, 1130 S. 19th St., Harrisburg, PA 17104-2912 — Support and promote the interests of people who are blind, visually-impaired and otherwise disabled, and provide blindness prevention services in Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin and Perry counties.
Wishes: Cash donations as part of its annual holiday appeal; gift cards to grocery stores or pharmacies.
Info: www.vrocp.org Contact: Paul Zavinsky, director of development and public relations, 717-238-2531.
Vista Adult Services, 24 Northeast Drive, Hershey, PA 17033 -- Provides an array of home, community, vocational and residential services to help adults with autism to maximize their potential.
Wishes: Vans; small kitchen/household appliances; monetary donations to expand services for adults with autism.
Info: www.vistaadultservices.org Contact: Alexis Kern at akern@thevistaschool.org, 717-583-5102, ext. 2028.
The Vista Foundation, 1021 Springboard Drive, Hershey, PA 17033 -- Provides educationally-integrated behavior support to students enrolled at The Vista School. Also provides outreach services to assist public school students with autism, and recently launched an Early Intervention Program for young children newly diagnosed with autism.
Wishes: Fitness equipment; therapeutic toys; monetary donations to expand early intervention services for children with autism.
Info: www.thevistaschool.org Contact: Alexis Kern at akern@thevistaschool.org, 717-583-5102, ext. 2028.
The Vista School, 1021 Springboard Drive, Hershey, PA 17033 -- A licensed private school for children and families living with autism, employing the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in a consistent and intensive manner, and act as a resource to the community for information and training on methods for the treatment of autism.
Wishes: Vans; adaptive bikes; monetary donations to expand services for children with autism.
Info: www.thevistaschool.org Contact: Alexis Kern at akern@thevistaschool.org, 717-583-5102, ext. 2028.
West House Personal Care Home, 616 W. Edwin St., Williamsport, PA 17701 -- Enrich residents' lives by providing compassionate, resident-centered care. Everyone is welcome at West House. The services are provided without regard to sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, race, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, disability or HIV status or ability to pay.
Wishes: Money for heat; toilet paper; laundry detergent.
Info: www.westhouseinc.com Contact: Kirsten Burkhart, personalcarehome@gmail.com or 570-419-1990.
Young Life South Central PA, 64 E. North St., Carlisle, PA 17013 -- To introduce adolescents to Jesus Christ and help them grow in their faith.
Wishes: A projector to display videos and presentations for events; monetary donations to purchase 100 Bibles ($400 total) for kids to read during meetings; Wal-Mart (or other store) gift cards for volunteers to buy program supplies.
Info: www.scpa.younglife.org Contact: Mike Barbetta at 717-609-7731.
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