EAPA annual holiday event benefit the pantry of broward

December 30, 2009
Ft Lauderdale, FL -

At this month's Annual Holiday Party, the members and guests of the Employee Assistance Professional Association (EAPA) South Florida Chapter opened their hearts and their wallets to benefit The Pantry of Broward County.

Present to receive checks and over 250 pounds of food were The Pantry's Founder BJ Buntrock and Bruce Harris, Director of Development. In addition, attendees were treated to the jazzy Christmas music performed by youth from Olsen Middle School, led by their teacher, Emily Scott.
 

Food Donations	EAPA Chapter President Joe Gisondo, BJ Buntrock, Bruce Harris of The Pantry" of Broward
The Pantry of Broward Founder, BJ Buntrock (right) accepts check donations" from EAPA President Joe Gisondo	Jazz Musicians from Olsen Middle School led by their teacher, Emily Scott"

Established in 1971, EAPA is the world's oldest and largest membership organization for employee assistance professionals, with 5,000 members in the US and 30 other countries. EAPA offers training and resources to enhance the professionalism of its members and the industry. EAPA South Florida Chapter supports its members with training, certification and effective public policy. Meetings are held monthly on the third Thursday. For more information about EAPA, visit www.sfleapa.org

De Bianchi Winterfest Party To Benefit Bella's Group Along With The Pantry of Broward and Forever Family

BY KEVIN LANE - AROUND TOWN ~ DECEMBER 4 - 17, 2009
Society ~ Florida Fashions and Essentials

'Bella's Group,' the non-profit organization created to support grandparents and other relatives who are raising children that are not their own, will be the recipient of funds raised at a festive Winterfest Boat Parade Celebration, hosted by Valerie and Paul De Bianchi. In addition to benefiting Bella's Group, Forever Family and The Pantry of Broward will share in the total donations.

The event takes place on Saturday, December 12th starting at 6:30 p.m. In addition to ring-side waterfront seats to view the Winterfest Boat Parade, guest will enjoy a buffet dinner, wine and soft drinks. Donations are $50.00 per adult, with children with parents free. Guests are encouraged to bring food for the Pantry of Broward.

"We are so appreciative of the DeBianchi's decision to earmark the funds they raise from this year's Winterfest Boat Parade Celebration. They have been good friends of our family for many years," Dr. Marietta Glazer enthused. "Bella's Group has been creating fun parties throughout the year that are free for children and the family members that are raising them.

"With no regular funding from government grants, donations from the public and fundraisers like the DeBianchi's party make a huge difference." By partnering with Forever Family and the Pantry of Broward, Bella's group has expanded its scope. At each party, the children are encouraged to bring food to donate to The Pantry of Broward as a way to supporting the food distribution programs and to learn the importance of giving back to those in need.

It was through the help of friends of the Glazer's and the Children's Services Council, Handy, Kids In Distress, Channel Six TV, Forever Family and other community partners, Bella's Group was formed and many kinship providers are now receiving the support they need and deserve. Through the generous donations of families and foundations, all the events are free for the children and their families.

To sponsor an event or join the group, call 1-888-365-FAMILY. To make donations, send to:

Forever Family - Bella's Group, 24 S.E. 9th
Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 33301 or
call (954) 303-5802.

MARCH OF DIMES' "WOMEN OF DISTINCTION"

The Pantry of Broward's Founder, Elizabeth "BJ" Buntrock and CEO, Penny Loughan were chosen by the March of Dimes Broward Division as "Women of Distinction."

Seen here with Gale Butler, they were recently honored at the 14th Annual "Women of Distinction" Luncheon with 10 other women whose outstanding achievements, both professionally and personally, serve as an example to the Broward County community.