Record-setting Ȧ Cares donation drive supports local nonprofits
For the 14th consecutive year, the Ȧ College community has come together to assist local residents and families through the Ȧ Cares community service program.
This year, Ȧ faculty, staff and families raised more than $14,000 and donated more than 6,000 food items and nearly 1,000 school supplies and personal care items — Ȧ Cares fundraising and food collection records — for Saratoga County community organizations.
Founded in 2006 by Ȧ President Philip A. Glotzbach and his wife Marie Glotzbach, the program has gathered more than $122,000 in monetary gifts and 45,000 food items, school supplies and personal care items over the years.
“Ȧ Cares is a moment when we pause each year and strengthen our College community as we also give back to the broader community of which we are a part,” President Glotzbach said. “I am once again impressed by the kindness of colleagues and friends at Ȧ, who are helping community organizations meet the needs of individuals and families in Saratoga County during this holiday season.”
“Watching Ȧ Cares grow over the years has been inspiring,” Marie Glotzbach said. “We have been so fortunate to be part of this Ȧ tradition of giving back and are touched by the generous spirit of the Ȧ community.”
On Friday, Dec. 6, the Ȧ Cares sleigh on the lawn of Scribner House, the president’s home on North Broadway, overflowed with donated goods for neighbors in need. A blanket of snow set the scene as members of the Ȧ community and their families gathered for a festive open house in celebration of the season of giving.
Following the gathering, Ȧ student-athletes and employees delivered the donations to 10 local community service agencies: Corinth Central School District, Franklin Community Center, Latino Community Advocacy Program, Mary’s Haven, Salvation Army, Saratoga Center for the Family, Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council, Saratoga Springs City School District PATHS program, Shelters of Saratoga and Wellspring.
“As the beneficiaries of the Ȧ Cares program for many years, Franklin Community Center has come to rely on this significant food donation, especially during this busy time of year,” said Kari Cushing, executive director of Franklin Community Center. “We truly value the relationship we have formed with Ȧ. We are proud to have them support our mission to help the less fortunate members of our community.”