SEARCH Foundation: Ending the Month of Love with A Little Help for Our Friends

Dear Friends,

It's almost time to store our Hearts and Roses decor items as February draws to a close. Before it's over we wanted to remind you of the very deserving mission of our industry's SEARCH Foundation.


Kelly Dolan, SEARCH First Vice-Chairperson and Donations Committee Chairwoman, wrote this very informative piece for Special Events on June 18, 2013.

Those familiar with the SEARCH Foundation know that this non-profit organization which supports special event professionals confronted with a catastrophic occurrence, is the only charitable foundation dedicated to the special events industry and its people. “We are truly the Red-Cross of this industry,” says Kelly Dolan, SEARCH First Vice-Chairperson and Donations Committee Chairwoman for the past four years. “I have seen applications for funding from weather related loss including floods, hurricanes and tornadoes. We also process applications for those who are experiencing serious illness or injury which prevents them from working or running their business.” Often these funds are crucial in helping people get back on their feet. “We are absolutely honored to be able to give back to this amazing industry in such an impactful way”. In the 15 years since the SEARCH Foundation has been founded, it has distributed over $250,332.00 to event professionals in crisis. So how do you know if you, a loved one or colleague is qualified to apply? 
Anyone in the special events industry is eligible for a SEARCH Foundation grant, whether they are a planner, supplier, individual or business. All applications remain confidential – even to the SEARCH committee members who review the applications. “ Over the years event professionals have been extremely generous with their time and financial support to help us continue our mission but we cannot help those in need unless they apply” urges Dolan.
If you find yourself in a crisis, or know an event professional who needs help, simply go to the website: www.searchfoundation.org and click on “request assistance” to download the detailed directions and application. After the application is received, it is reviewed by a group of SEARCH committee members who determine the amount of the grant. The maximum grant per person per year is $5,000. There are three easy steps and you will receive a decision within 30 days of the application review process. It’s as simple as that."

I have been a "Friend of SEARCH" for many years and I personally know event pros who would not be able to be healthy, hard working individuals today without the assistance from SEARCH. But we cannot do this without donations from our friends and supporters in this industry.

It only takes a couple of minutes to make a pledge. Many levels are available to suit your personal situation! Please see the online form by clicking here:

http://www.searchfoundation.org/please-donate.html

Thank YOU!
With love,
Janet