What’s it all about?
To the editor:
Over the past few months I have heard enough discussions around the Island to sense that the Beacon may have fallen short in adequately explaining its mission, and that many islanders may not know what the Beacon is really all about. In a word, it’s all about HOPE.
When an individual first comes to the Beacon seeking immediate help just to get from Monday to Sunday, the staff determines and responds not only to their immediate need but looks to discover the reason for the need. They are then introduced to other appropriate public assistance programs, including several local groups, and then to work training and work placement programs that help them return to self-sufficiency. Several of the resources are now available locally even though they are not located on or near Pine Island.
We also conduct early educational assistance through Students Achieving Success, the after school mentoring program that provides learning assistance for Pine Island Elementary students.
The Beacon is a not-for-profit organization that has the same requirements as any other business. It has a Board of Directors tasked to envision and implement a Community Service mission that will meet the Island’s needs. The Board monitors and controls all activities of the Beacon including operational requirements, staffing, new programs, partnerships and budgets — all with the goal of providing the best Community Services for the community it serves.
Because these Community Service programs generate no revenue the Board has to identify other sources that include contributions from local clubs and individuals, churches, plus alignment with organizations such as the United Way. The United Way contributes funds to the Beacon on a yearly basis and, contrary to popular rumor, it requires nothing in return other than we display their sign and don’t advertise for our own contributions during the United Way’s traditional six week campaign in October and November. They do not sit on the Beacon Board, nor do they impose any restrictions or demands. They do, however, provide access to many of the programs that help us provide the assistance needed on the island.
To obtain the additional capital needed to run the organization the Board opened and expanded the Thrift Store that currently provides 85% of the necessary capital. We could not continue as the Beacon without the revenue from this store, and while the store presents itself as the face of the Beacon it is really the means to an end.
The Thrift Store attempts to maintain pricing at a level that not only provides useable everyday items at a price reasonable for all members of the community, but offers a win-win situation. Shoppers find bargains and Community Services receives the necessary funding. If you have a question about certain pricing, ask. If you think an item is underpriced kick in a little more – it all goes to the funding of HOPE.
I hope the foregoing presents a clearer picture of the Beacon’s mission, how it functions, and how it is managed. The Board has four permanent members from the four originating Churches plus seven other individuals. From time to time a vacancy may occur, so if you are interested please contact Elsie Stearns, the Board President at e-mail: elsie.stearns@swcapitalbank.com. Currently the Board membership is Elsie Stearns, David Grueser, Carylyn Herring, Rev Edward Kellum, Father Ryan Wright, Mickey Lewin, Caryle Regan, Mary Kaye Stevens, Bill Thacher, Nicole Lauber-McQuade and myself. Betsy Haesemeyer is the program’s Executive Director.
It’s all about H.O.P.E. – Helping Our People Everyday
Ron Lueth
Bokeelia