Non-profit

LakewoodAlive is proud to celebrate Mark McNamara, our Community Engagement Specialist, winning the 2024 Golden Achievement Award presented by Benjamin Rose.The Golden Achievement Award honors individuals 60 years of age or older who have achieved distinction in their professional field of expertise and/or community leadership. Nominees' commitment to rethinking aging and defying stereotypes serves as a model for others. 

Having spent the majority of his career working for the Cuyahoga County Department of Children and Family Services, Mark was a social worker who handled child abuse, neglect, and adoption cases. After retiring from his initial career, he returned to the workforce, joining LakewoodAlive in 2015 as a part-time Community Engager. Rather than slowing down over the years, Mark expanded his responsibilities by transitioning to full time employment as Community Engagement Specialist, allowing him to connect with more residents, particularly in the Birdtown and Scenic Park neighborhoods. 

Working primarily with low-to-moderate-income and senior residents, Mark helps fellow seniors age in place safely by conducting assessments of their daily routines and providing recommendations to improve their homes. This allows Mark to build relationships with fellow residents and helps grant them access to other programs such as weatherization, exterior paint, and more.

"Why Is Democracy Important To Preserve?"

As a citizen of the United States, I recognize how easy it is to take democracy for granted. I never think twice about how lucky we are to have the opportunity to give our say in issues. My parents growing up were not this lucky. They grew up in Albania during the communist regime. I remember inquiring about what it was like to live in a communist country, even before I learned what a communist country even was. They told me about silly rules that I would've never thought of, like that all boys had to keep their hair cut short. There were some rules that were more unnerving, such as no speaking ill of the government or the dictator. I was told that the voting process was warped—everyone had to vote for the incumbent dictator, otherwise they would be sent to jail.

The stark contrast between a democratic country like America and a communist country like Albania in the 1950s and 60s is appalling to think about, even decades later. While Americans experienced an economic boom under Ike, Albanians were forced to only eat rations—and their words. As Americans, we are endowed unalienable rights to free speech and the right to vote. However, the idea of a “right” is intangible. These entitlements were characterized by the founding fathers to be given to us from birth, they are natural rights. These rights, though it goes against the meaning of a right, can be taken away. Though it's not morally correct, there are times when a country can capsize. It is so important for democracy to be preserved and even strengthened in order to ward off corrupt coercion and political repression that can so easily swallow it whole.

There are a myriad of affairs in which the power of democracy has benefited the common good of the people. For example, abortion. Putting this matter in the hands of the people who are directly affected by it, the citizens, was the correct way to deal with this issue. Democracy is important because it includes a plethora of voices that would go unheard with a dictator. Though no candidate is perfect, the ability to have a say in who you want as president is gigantic. Putting this power into the hands of the people is what generates new leaders with a zest for politics and what it could mean for their constituents.

The Healthy Lakewood Foundation (HLF) invites the Lakewood community to an in-person public meeting on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at 7:00 PM. The meeting will be held at Cove Community Center at 12525 Lake Avenue in Lakewood.

HLF’s annual community meeting offers an opportunity to community members to learn about HLF’s grantmaking, collaborations, and community engagement work over the past year. Childcare is available onsite with advanced registration.

This year's community meeting guest speaker is April Walker, Founder of Philanthropy for the People. HLF recently worked with April on an equitable grantmaking framework that will direct HLF's future work.

At the Community Meeting, April will discuss the intersection of equity and philanthropy and provide insights into the resources and support the non-profit sector needs to serve those most impacted by systemic “isms.”

There will be time for discussion and questions. There is no charge to attend the meeting. For more information and to register, visit HLF’s website at www.healthylakewoodfoundation.org.

Positive Steps for single moms in public housing BEGIN with hope and END with financial independence – the end goal is always getting a job, and earning enough money to move out. There are so many programs that currently address opportunities for child care, job training, transportation, and job placement.

But nobody is providing for the FIRST STEP – giving hope by boosting positivity and confidence.  Scented lotions and personal care items address that First Step.

Studies have shown a strong relationship between scent and positive attitude, self-esteem, and confidence. Think about that boost you get from lighting a scented candle. The scent from a lotion follows you, giving you that boost all day. A reminder that someone loves you and supports you.

Join us as we walk to show support for single moms living in public housing, Saturday, September 28 from 10:00am to noon, at Lakewood Park. Meet at the Picnic Shelter and walk the beautiful trails within Lakewood Park: 1, 2, or 3 miles.

There is no registration fee, instead, you are invited to bring donations of name-brand, scented lotions, soaps, candles, etc. A free will offering will also be collected, to be fully directed to the needs of Single Moms.

Items may also be dropped off at the church, 1549 Rosewood, any Sunday in September between 10am-noon.

Please register at gracepresbyterian@att.net

The Healthy Lakewood Foundation is excited to announce that it is accepting online application requests for Neighborhood Opportunity Grants funding starting on Monday August 19, 2024.

Neighborhood Opportunity Grants support hyperlocal community-based projects and initiatives that increase engagement, creativity, and connection. Funding is for projects in Lakewood that:

• Build and support community engagement through activities, events, programming, and/or resource sharing.
• Address one or more social determinants of health.
• Advance our understanding of the needs of community members through innovative and creative projects.

Neighborhood Opportunity Grants funding ranges between $1,000 – $7,500. The grant application, along with additional steps, support and resources, can be found on our website at healthylakewoodfoundation.org. HLF staff support is also available on our site.

Applications will be accepted through Friday, September 20, 2024, with funding awards announced in November. To learn more about this opportunity, please visit HLF’s website.

When it comes to your home, there’s no better time than now to take proper care of this important investment, and LakewoodAlive is here to help you every step of the way.

LakewoodAlive announces the Fall 2024 schedule for this free educational series intended for homeowners looking to sustain and improve their homes inside and out. This series is designed to help homeowners learn about home maintenance best practices, give them the confidence to tackle necessary repairs and improvements, and focus on sustainability. 

Open to all homeowners in the greater Cleveland area, not just Lakewood residents, this series is intended for:

· Those considering a home DIY project

· Those planning to hire a contractor

· Those simply interested in better understanding how their home works

The second installment of 2024’s home education program features a collection of seven workshops taking place from August through October. Led by industry experts, most of the workshops are in presentation format and those that can be held on location aim to offer a hands-on feel, providing homeowners step-by-step direction on how to complete specific repairs. The goal of this series is helping to remove the guesswork from daunting home repairs and improvement projects, getting the work done correctly the first time, and saving your precious time and money.

Participants of last year's hunt had so much fun, we're doing it again. This year's contest will run from October 7 through October 21. Keep an eye on the Lakewood Ohio Division of Aging Facebook page and The Lakewood Observer, and watch for flyers around town for how to sign up. We hope to start taking registrations early in September. Then get ready to scour the city to find the features/places around town, provided in photos on October 7. Correctly identify all the locations to be entered into a drawing for prizes. All proceeds benefit the Lakewood Division of Aging.

Believe it or not, it’s that special time of year again. Back to School shopping! While most of you probably remember the excitement of picking out new school supplies, there is just something about the possibilities of a brand-new notebook and a sharpened pencil, many of our local students’ families are unable to afford even the most basic of school supplies. 

That is where our amazing community comes in: Supplies 4 Success (a committee of the Lakewood Area Collaborative and a member group of The Lakewood Foundation) has joined with H20, area business and local churches summer of collecting school supplies. Our combined group aims to support the families and students who find themselves unable to purchase school supplies.

This year we need your support again to make sure each student has the tools they need for academic success – from crayons to binders! We firmly believe all students should have the opportunity to learn regardless of need. It has been proven that a student starting their school year off with all of the tools they need will have a better chance at a successful academic year. It is far too easy for these students to fall in-between the cracks and drop off the academic track.

It is our goal to have a brand new supply for any student that expresses a need. We do accept gently used supplies that our teachers can use in their classrooms.

Supplies 4 Success will collect supplies until Sunday, August 18th. Items can be dropped off at various locations throughout the city. We are happy to do the shopping for you! A monetary donation can be made through The Lakewood Foundation (with S4S in the subject line), 12525 Lake Ave, Lakewood, OH 44107 or through the Lakewood Foundation page. Please contact us at lkwdschoolsupplies@gmail.com for questions regarding the collection or additional information on how to help.

Items needed:

• 3 Ring Binders (1” and 1 ½”)
• Calculators (TI-30x)

Throughout recent years, Americans have experienced a variety of threats to our democracy. The fabric of our country is woven through threads of freedom and justice, and without our democracy, we would simply cease to be. The United States was founded under the idea that we all have individual rights that are worth protecting, and we all have individual voices that are worth hearing. Democracy promotes our individuality, allowing us to have our own say in how the government operates, making it critically important to preserve. 

About 75% of Americans (regardless of political party) believe our democracy is in danger. This threat has left Americans spiraling, fearing that their voices may no longer be heard. Our democracy allows us to share our voices, expand on new ideas, and progress forwards into broader horizons. We get to see the changes we want made in our own country by using our own voices. We can directly vote on the future of our nation instead of having to convince higher-ups to consider our ideas. A nation without the freedom of democracy is a nation divided and controlled. Many Americans fear losing our democracy not only because the balance of our country depends upon it, but also because their individuality depends on it as well. Without democracy, we all become worker bees providing for a system that will not provide for us. As long as our democracy is in place, the government will exist to serve the people, as it should be. 

When we think of progression, we often think of linear movement. However, democracy expands the idea of progression, allowing us to move in every direction all at once. Every voice can be heard and considered, meaning a multitude of changes that will benefit a multitude of different groups can be made all at the same time. We don’t have to challenge or progress one worldview at a time, we can benefit everyone despite potential disagreements. Without democracy, the ideas within our government become limited. America is a diverse nation, meaning that there are a variety of different identities that need to be represented. It would be impossible to have one leader who could accurately represent every single member of our society, meaning it is up to us to represent ourselves. 

Tyson is up for adoption now!

Tyson is a lovable tank of a dog who finds himself at the Lakewood Animal Shelter through no fault of his own. He gets a good case of the ZOOMIES when let out of his kennel to play. And he is a gentleman when taking treats.

Come visit him at the Lakewood Animal Shelter - 1299 Metropark Drive, just past the Dog Park. (216) 529-5020

Animal Shelter Hours:  10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Monday through Saturday, closed on Sunday.

This message is shared by the Citizens Committee for Lakewood's Animals and Shelter (CCLAS). CCLAS is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization committed to safeguarding and enhancing the lives of Lakewood's companion animals. We provide financial assistance and other resources to the Lakewood Animal Shelter for the quality care of abandoned, orphaned, sick and injured animals. In addition, we promote adoptions and advocate for animal welfare through community outreach and education. Visit us at www.cclas.org

Each year, the Lakewood Women’s Club (LWC) awards a scholarship to young woman  graduating from high school who plans to continue on to a higher education institution. 

This year we are proud to announce that Emily Potoczak, Lakewood High School graduate, Class of 2024, is this year’s scholarship honoree. Emily applied to almost 20 universities, and has declared Biology/Pre-Med as her major at The Ohio State University. 

Emily has achieved at a high level in the classroom, on the volleyball court and softball diamond, and in our community. She has been recognized as a 5.0+ GPA Fall and Spring athlete (Volleyball and Softball), and graduated from high school with an overall GPA over 4.75.
She began high school classes in middle school, and earned college credits while in high school. Her class schedule over four years of high school was filled with numerous AP and advanced classes.

The Dissolution Of The Weimer Republic: A Cautionary Tale

In 1919, out of the rubble of World War One, the Weimar Republic emerged. Founded on many of the same principles as the United States, the Weimar Constitution held democracy at its core, beginning with, “Political authority emanates from the people.” The Weimar Constitution ensured all of its citizens equality before the law, universal suffrage, and fundamental civil rights. Despite this facade of an ideal democracy, most Americans are more familiar with the Weimar Republic under the name Nazi Germany. What could have transformed a seemingly perfect democracy into one of the most inhumane regimes in human history?

Adolf Hitler knew how to play the political game. Like many young German men at the time, Hitler had a strong sense of national identity in a country that was drowning in disparities, debt, and humiliation in the aftermath of the war. In his founding of the Nazi party, Hitler harnessed this mass insecurity and promised his followers a remedy to the pathetic condition their country was in. His remedy? Annihilate the Jewish race and culture. With the overarching cause of German disparity being unclear, Hitler pointed a finger at the Jews — a group that had historically been discriminated against. Quickly, it became an us-versus-them battle. Hitler spoke to thousands of reactionary Germans with similar yearnings for the prosperity that they once enjoyed and mobilized them against a chosen victim and the rest is history. 

The Weimar Republic is not as different from the United States as it may seem. While there are key differences between the republics and their cultures, all democracies face similar threats. The Weimar Republic ended in tragedy when factions of the population turned against another and dehumanized the enemy. Democracies can only function with a certain level of respect for one’s fellow citizens. We can only enjoy our freedom to choose our leaders when we can respect the opinions, beliefs, and presentation of others. The current political polarization in the United States mobilizes similar “us-versus-them” ideologies that pose great threats to our democracy. While the United States is not yet on a trajectory to execute the next Holocaust, we as Americans should take heed of the downfall of the Weimar Republic. The Weimar Republic is living proof that democracies need to be consistently maintained and checked in order to be preserved. It is a cautionary tale of what may happen when the fabric of society unravels in the absence of a true democracy. 

A little less than a month away, the Lakewood Summer Meltdown is sure to be the event of the season! Sponsored by Melt Bar & Grilled 

and presented by LakewoodAlive, this beloved summer tradition will return to Downtown Lakewood for its 16th year, on Saturday, July 20, from 4 to 10 p.m.

As one of the region’s most anticipated events, the Lakewood Summer Meltdown brings together nearly 15,000 attendees from across Northeast Ohio for a lively celebration of community spirit. Taking over Detroit Avenue between Marlowe and Arthur Avenues, this free event showcases the vibrant essence of Lakewood with a 5K race, sponsored by Cleveland Clinic Lakewood Family Health Center, a 1 Mile Family Fun Run & Walk, sponsored by Lakewood City Schools Community Recreation & Education Department, a street festival, sponsored by Bee My Baby Lakewood, games, food vendors, drinks, live music, and more!

The festivities cater to all ages, featuring activities hosted by local businesses and nonprofits. Highlights include the popular "Water Moose" sprinkler park, sponsored by Healthy Lakewood Foundation, interactive fitness demonstrations, and a skateboard park offering thrills for everyone.

and presented by LakewoodAlive, this beloved summer tradition will return to Downtown Lakewood for its 16th year, on Saturday, July 20, from 4 to 10 p.m.

As one of the region’s most anticipated events, the Lakewood Summer Meltdown brings together nearly 15,000 attendees from across Northeast Ohio for a lively celebration of community spirit. Taking over Detroit Avenue between Marlowe and Arthur Avenues, this free event showcases the vibrant essence of Lakewood with a 5K race, sponsored by Cleveland Clinic Lakewood Family Health Center, a 1 Mile Family Fun Run & Walk, sponsored by Lakewood City Schools Community Recreation & Education Department, a street festival, sponsored by Bee My Baby Lakewood, games, food vendors, drinks, live music, and more!

The festivities cater to all ages, featuring activities hosted by local businesses and nonprofits. Highlights include the popular "Water Moose" sprinkler park, sponsored by Healthy Lakewood Foundation, interactive fitness demonstrations, and a skateboard park offering thrills for everyone.

The third annual Lakewood GardenWalk will be held on Saturday, July 20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., when residents, community organizations and businesses throughout Lakewood will open their gardens and yards for free self-guided tours.

The list of participating gardens and a map will be posted in early July to the GardenWalk Lakewood website at www.gardenwalklakewood.org. The event will be held rain or shine. Gardens of all types will be open for visitors -- vegetable gardens, flower gardens, native plant oases, pollinator gardens, and porches and patios brimming with plants. 

“We are so excited about how this event has grown to include gardens of every type in virtually every corner of Lakewood, said Claire Campbell, GardenWalk Lakewood’s founding board chair. “While of course it’s fun to view the hard work of the participating gardeners, the real value is in bringing neighbors together and forging relationships across fences, streets and neighborhood blocks. Thanks to all who have opened their gardens to the community for this special day.”

GardenWalk Lakewood is an all-volunteer organization that operates with the support of the Lakewood Foundation and the Healthy Lakewood Foundation and through the contributions of individual donors. 

About Garden

Three Arches Foundation, a community-focused grant making foundation, welcomed three new members to its board of directors and elected Gina Gavlak as its new chair. Domonic Hopson, Selina Pagán, and Lee Peña joined the 19-member volunteer board. The Foundation also recognized the leadership contributions of outgoing chair Mary Anne Crampton and departing directors Mike Carlin, Jay Carson, and Jeff Milbourn.

Gavlak will lead the Foundation as it carries out its work of investing in the advancement of solutions that impact equitable access to care, specifically those that remove barriers and improve behavioral and physical health. With over 30 years of experience in leadership, program and fund development, advocacy, and direct patient care as a registered nurse, she has focused her career on increasing access to high-quality, affordable, and equitable health care for everyone. Gavlak is vice president of development for Neighborhood Family Practice (NFP) where she leads fund development, community engagement, and advocacy initiatives. She also serves as president of the North Coast Health Foundation, a supporting organization which works to advance the mission of NFP by raising awareness of services and fostering philanthropic support.

Hopson is president and CEO of Neighborhood Family Practice, a Federally Qualified Health Center delivering high quality, affordable primary and preventative health care in a medical home setting with seven locations across Cleveland’s west side neighborhoods and Lakewood. Throughout his career, Hopson has led efforts to enhance community health outcomes and address health disparities.

If you are passionate, committed and dedicated to taking an active role in improving your community, you may be excited by, and ready for, one of two valuable leadership development programs. NLDP and CDCLP are programs of the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation. Both programs are at no cost to participants.

The Neighborhood Leadership Development Program (NLDP), for 17 years, has offered community engagement leadership training for residents of Cleveland, and its inner ring suburbs, who are working on projects in the City of Cleveland and who are determined to make a positive impact on their communities.

The Community Development Corporation Leadership Program (CDCLP) just graduated its third cohort. CDCLP is the Cleveland area’s only leadership program specifically designed for Community Development Corporation Executive level leadership.

Both programs are currently seeking applicants for their 2024 cohorts.

The Healthy Lakewood Foundation is excited to announce the appointment of Kim Fennell to its Board of Directors. Kim, a Lakewood resident for the past decade, was appointed at HLF’s March Board meeting and brings a strong background in therapeutic recreation and a passion for community engagement and inclusion. Currently, Kim works at Rec2Connect as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, where she not only works with clients in the water as an aquatic therapist, but also implements land-based programs, oversees adult program outreach, and manages volunteers.

Kim graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Recreation from the University of Toledo and is currently working to complete her Master of Nonprofit Administration with Louisiana State University. Her diverse experience spans across various roles, including Recreation Therapy Coordinator at Clear Vista Geriatric Behavioral Health Unit and as the Center Director of the Lakeshore Rose Center for Aging Well. Kim is also a dedicated volunteer, notably at GiGi's Playhouse and the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

Melissa Federman, HLF’s Board Secretary and Chair of the Governance Committee, notes, “Kim is an enthusiastic Lakewood resident who is eager to contribute to the Healthy Lakewood Foundation's mission. She brings experience as a recreation therapist in both non-profit and health care settings, in building community partnerships, and a dedication to equity and inclusion. Kim’s experience makes her a valuable asset to the foundation's board.” Join us in welcoming Kim to HLF’s board!

It is time for the Lakewood Historical Society’s annual Sale on the Grounds! The sale will be held at the Nicholson House and its grounds from Thursday June 20 to Sunday June 23. Times for the sale will be 9 AM to 3 PM Thursday-Saturday and Noon to 3 PM on Sunday.

The Sale on the Grounds has something for everyone including furniture, sets of dishes, glasses, pots, pans, kitchen utensils, linens, toys, games, puzzles, artwork, frames, small appliances, tools, collectibles, and much more. Cash, checks, and charges are accepted. It is a sale that you should not miss, and all proceeds go to the benefit the work and operations of the Historical Society. For more information, call the office at 216-221-7343. 

Robert Shimp is the Director of the Lakewood Historical Society.

College Club West would like to announce the recipients of our 2024-25 scholarships. The scholarships will be applied toward the tuition of the following students: Hillary Leonard, Stephanie Sugaski, Mary Beth Kiss, Tabitha Stallings and Monica Starks. They will be honored at a brunch on June 8 at 11:30 at the Double Tree Inn in Westlake. The brunch is open to the public and we would especially like to invite past recipients to attend. For more information, go to collegeclubwest@gmail.com. 

Ushering in the summer season with the 14th Annual Front Porch Concert Series, sponsored by Bentley Wealth Management of Raymond James, LakewoodAlive is pleased to officially announce our talented 2024 lineup!

Comprised of 8 gifted and unique musical groups and performers, everyone is sure to find something that speaks to their musical taste. Spanning many genres, each week's concert remains family-friendly while delving into a variety of different sounds. See the schedule below, with shows taking place every Friday evening (7 p.m.) from June June 7 to Juy 12 on the front steps of Lakewood Public Library (15425 Detroit Avenue) followed by concerts at Madision Park Pavilion (13201 Madison Avenue) on July 19 and 26.

Kicking off the series on June 7, is Jacob Johnson, a versatile vocalist who works in a range of genres including R&B, Jazz, Gospel and Opera. Based out of Cleveland, he is a multi-hyphenate musical talent, as well as an accomplished jazz pianist, percussionist, music director/arranger, vocal coach, and minister of music.

Breathing new life into traditional Italian folk music, Alla Boara Quartet captivates audiences with their modern arrangements of their musical roots. On June 14, you can travel through Italy as you listen to the playful, tender, and bewitching repertoire they have in store. Each song sung exclusively in Italian will be an exciting new adventure whether the language is familiar or not.

Liz Bullock, local singer-songwriter, who is a Cleveland native as well as a Board Certified Music Therapist, will grace our front porch stage on June 21. With powerful vocals and thoughtful lyrics she is heavily influenced by folk, blues, and soul. She works both as a solo act and with multiple blues and jazz groups in the Greater Cleveland area.

Beck Center for the Arts’ Creative Arts Therapies program participants and volunteers performed for sold-out audiences the last weekend of April.

Creative Arts Therapies at Beck Center offers music therapy, and art therapy, as well as adapted and inclusive dance, music, theater, and visual art for people with disabilities.

The 22nd annual Razzle Dazzle inclusive theater performance, “Everything Old is New Again – Cover to Cover,” featured original versions of beloved songs, with cuts to updated cover versions.

Thirty-eight cast members produced a show rich with dancing and humor. The crowd-pleasing production included audience participation in a conga line. Other audience members were also pulled from their seats to dance in the aisle during the show.

This year’s show art by Ryan Finley of @ArtbyRyanFinley was a stylized cassette tape. It was printed on every performer’s T-shirt.

Looking for some new plants to brighten up your home or garden? Join GardenWalk Lakewood for a free plant swap on Sunday, May 19, 2024, from 1 to 3pm at Cove Park at 1294 Cove Ave.

Come together with your fellow gardeners to swap divided perennials, seeds, cuttings, plants, pots, tools, and tips, all while learning more about GardenWalk Lakewood and our mission. Nothing to swap? No problem! There will be plenty of items to help you on your gardening journey. The event will be held under the pavilion, rain or shine.

Volunteers are also needed before the plant swap at noon for a spring clean-up event at the Cove Park pollinator garden. Please join us!

And save the date for the third annual GardenWalk: Saturday, July 20, 2024. The list of participating gardens and a map will be posted in early July to the GardenWalk Lakewood website at www.gardenwalklakewood.org. This free event will be held rain or shine.

With warmer weather approaching, people often begin to wash off winter’s dirt and grime and start the spring fresh. LCAC, also known as the “food drive people” switches gears every spring to help provide cleaning supplies and hygiene items for Lakewood families in need, to help with their own “spring cleaning.”

LCAC will be hosting a Spring Cleaning Distribution on Saturday, April 20 at 9 a.m. at the Masonic Temple, located at 15300 Detroit Road in Lakewood. 

Many households need help with spring cleaning as necessary supplies can get expensive and are not covered by WIC. This drive will provide 100 recipients with the supplies they need for cleaning. 

LCAC’s board members and volunteers will sort and deliver cleaning supplies to Lakewood residences during the event. 

Volunteers of all ages are always welcome at LCAC events and there is a job for everyone to do as these much-needed cleaning supplies are sorted and then delivered to Lakewood families. 

For more information or to make a monetary donation, visit www.LCAC.info. Make sure to follow Lakewood Charitable Assistance Corporation on Facebook and/or on Instagram at @lcacfooddrives for any updates on our events.

Join us in celebrating 20 years of LakewoodAlive at all our beloved events!

Exciting News: Get ready for a year of unforgettable fun in Lakewood! LakewoodAlive—which is celebrating its 20th Anniversary this year—reveals their lineup of 2024 community events, featuring five must-attend occasions spanning early summer to the holiday season. Join us and experience the unique vibrancy of Lakewood for yourself!

Family friendly, community building, and diverse, the events include the Front Porch Concert Series, Lakewood Summer Meltdown, Spooky Pooch Parade, Lakewood Chocolate Walk, and Light Up Lakewood. Each event promises something special for everyone, providing the perfect opportunity to connect with neighbors, support local businesses, and immerse yourself in the charm of our city.

First up, the Front Porch Concert Series, presented by Johnson Bentley Wealth Partners of Raymond James, kicks off on Friday, June 7. With a total of eight free shows taking place every Friday evening in June and July, the first six will take place on the front steps of the Lakewood Public Library, with the last two shows hosted at Madison Park Pavilion. Bring your family, friends, snacks, blankets, and chairs for a delightful summer evening in the fresh air.

Returning for its 16th year, Lakewood Summer Meltdown, sponsored by Melt Bar & Grilled, promises endless summer fun on Saturday, July 20. From a 5K Race to the 1 Mile Family Fun Run & Walk, a water moose, the Gary Bish Memorial Beer Garden, delicious food, live music, and the opportunity to explore downtown Lakewood, there is truly something for everyone. You won’t want to miss out on the biggest block party of the year.

Las Vegas magic is coming to Lakewood on June 8, when Mark Paskell takes the stage at Lakewood Catholic Academy for the Centering Space Magical Journey Gala fundraiser.

Paskell turned professional at the age of 15, and by age 20, was working in Las Vegas. Later he expanded his repertoire to include entertaining both private and corporate clients, such as Steven Spielberg, John Travolta and many Fortune 500 clients, at a variety of private events.

“Mark is an amazing magician and entertainer,” said Betsy Nero, director at Centering Space. “We are so thrilled that he offered to perform at this benefit for us. He has been an inspiration and has provided a lot of encouragement and support in the planning process.”

The fundraiser, which takes place on June 8 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM, will include heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks, live music, silent and live auctions, a 50/50 raffle and a performance by Paskell on the LCA stage. All the proceeds will go directly to ensuring the continued ministry of Centering Space to the people of Northeast Ohio.

Located on the shores of Lake Erie next to Lakewood Park, Centering Space is a peaceful and inclusive space where people are invited to attend regular prayer hours each week or select from a wide variety of programs throughout the year.

Healthy Lakewood Foundation will accept applications for its Community Grants funding process from April 8 through May 10, 2024. Community Grants support organizational programming, projects and initiatives that seek to address critical needs, build community connections, address disparities, and improve the quality of our public and living spaces, with a priority on:

• Food insecurity and access to affordable high-quality food.
• Social and community support networks as safeguards against stress and discrimination.
• Access to early childhood education programs and services.
• Affordable and safe housing, access to transportation, and safety in and access to public spaces within Lakewood.

Additionally, specific populations in Lakewood are prioritized in this funding, including children and youth, low-income older adults, single-parent heads of households, and immigrants and refugees.

Grant funding ranges between $10,000 - $40,000.

Non-profits and fiscally sponsored organizations are encouraged to review the application process and guidelines on HLF’s website at https://healthylakewoodfoundation.org/community-grants/

The last several years have been full of news about skyrocketing food costs. Even through these inflationary times, West Shore Meals On Wheels managed for the last 12 years to hold meal pricing steady at $8 per day ($4 per cold lunch and $4 per hot dinner).

Beginning January 1, 2024, the Executive Board voted to REDUCE daily meal pricing to $7 per day ($3 for cold lunch and $4 for hot dinner).

This benefit to our recipients would not be possible without the efforts of our Fairview Park and Rocky River Kitchen head cooks, who work tirelessly to control food costs. Our volunteers donate their time and expertise to prepare and deliver delicious meals every day, and our corporate and individual donors continually provide food and funds to help our organization thrive for residents of Fairview Park, Lakewood and Rocky River.

For more information on becoming a West Shore Meals On Wheels recipient, or to inquire about volunteering or donating, please contact the West Shore Meals on Wheels website at www.WestShoreMOW.org or call each individual kitchen. The Rocky River-Lakewood kitchen can be reached at 440-333-6298. The Fairview Park kitchen phone number is 440-331-3842. 

John Becker is retired from a career in fresh food manufacturing. He is now a volunteer for West Shore Meals On Wheels. 

The Lakewood Women’s Club (LWC) Annual Spring Fundraiser -- Women Honoring Women will be held, once again, at Vosh/Georgetown on April 11th at 6pm serving appetizers and drinks with the cost of admission. This event helps fund our scholarship program that each year awards a female Lakewood resident who is pursuing a higher education. This year our scholarship will be in honor of the late Patty Ryan, past President  & CEO of the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce. The evening will be a celebration designed to recognize the wonderful accomplishments of Lakewood women in business, non-profits, policies, schools and all walks of Lakewood life! 

The Thrift Store Fashion Show will showcase models focused on reusing and recycling previously owned clothing. Today thrifting is more than just an affordable practice; it's a form of self-expression. With a wide range of one-of-a-kind items, you are able to find unique pieces that reflect your own style. I speak from personal experience and have been enjoying the hunt for spectacular items for more than 30+ years! 

We look forward to seeing you soon! Please purchase your tickets today and join us!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/women-honoring-women-2024-tickets-809731036327

A heartfelt thank you to these participating stores:

Tia Winfield, Co-Owner - Value World (Lakewood)

"We are honored to contribute to the Lakewood Women's Club annual fundraiser, 'Women Honoring Women,' particularly with this year's theme of a Thrift Store Fashion Show.  It's a joy to unite with fellow Lakewood women business owners and community leaders in celebrating the remarkable achievements of our local women while also supporting the dreams of future generations through scholarships. We are thrilled that this year's runway will showcase an array of thrifted treasures, not only adding a unique flair to the event but also symbolizing a commitment to sustainability and fostering opportunities for women within our local community."  

March 18-22  2024 is Kiwanis International recognition week for Kiwanis Builders. The Kiwanis Club of Lakewood is proud to sponsor a Builders Club at Harding Junior High.

Builder’s is a youth leadership club in the Kiwanis family for middle school. Each Builders club has a school/administrator advisor and Lakewood Kiwanian advisor. The club officers are elected at the beginning of the school year and installed by a Kiwanian officer.

After that is in place, the voting of projects by the kids is done for the year. Our Builder’s projects include food drives, dog blankets for The Alaskan Iditarod Race, and fundraising efforts for world projects, such as UNICEF. The kids learn that they have a voice in the club and need to make the commitment to complete their projects.

Leadership in school and community is supported by both the school faculty advisor and Lakewood Kiwanis.

Lakewood Presbyterian Church Youth Group will be joining with Middleburg Heights Community United Church of Christ for their triennial Mission Trip from June 17th-21st, themed: "Giving Me Life!"

Any 6th through 12th grader is welcome to join us for this unique experience. This is a great opportunity to build up community service hours, learn about your faith, and build friendships.

We will drive to Lotts Creek Community School (LCCS) www.lottscreek.org in Kentucky, where we will serve those in need. The school was founded in 1933 as a residential settlement school. What started as a small cabin, is now a three-story school with girls' and boys' dormitories. It is now home to Cordia School, a food pantry and thrift shop. They help provide scholarships, medical assistance, and home repair after hurricanes and major flooding.

Past projects with youth have included: rehab projects including replacing bathroom flooring in trailers, building a handicap ramp, playground rehabs, and painting. There is no need to be skilled in any of these areas. Training will be provided, and jobs will depend on the number of skilled leaders available.

The Herb Guild Garden Club is offering a $2,000 scholarship to graduating high school seniors, as well as Lorain County Community College and Cuyahoga Community College current freshmen and sophomore students. Applicants must be residents of the State of Ohio and a U.S. citizen (international or foreign exchange students are not eligible). Only students with a proposed academic study in agriculture, agriscience, botany, culinary arts, environmental science, forestry, greenhouse and nursery management, horticulture, landscaping, and natural resource management are eligible for this scholarship.  

The Lakewood Women’s Club Presents - Women Honoring Women 2024;

A FUN Fashion Thrift Show.

The Lakewood Women’s Club is once again hosting its annual Women Honoring Women Celebration (WHW) event to be held at Vosh on April 11th at 6:00 PM where we will be serving appetizers & drinks that are included with the cost of admission. 

The event showcases women who exemplify charitable service and economic enrichment in the Lakewood community and recognizes women for a variety of accomplishments ranging from both career, volunteer and philanthropic endeavors. This annual fundraiser helps fund our scholarship program that is awarded each year to a female Lakewood resident who is pursuing a higher education. 

This years scholarship will be in honor of Patty Ryan, Past President & CEO of the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce who was one of the Community Leaders that helped us review our nominees every year for WHW.  

Our theme this year is a “FUN Fashion Thrift Show“ where we will be featuring & modeling local thrift store fashions currently available in their stores. We will also be featuring donated fashion items from our own LWC members collection available to purchase via silent auction. 

The  Lakewood Chapter of the League of Women Voters is proud to recognize Linda Beebe as our 2024 honoree. The 4th Annual Mary Warren Impact Scholarship will be given in Linda’s name to recognize her 40 years of preserving public education. 

A recognized pillar of the Lakewood Chapter, former English teacher in Ireland, and Substitute teacher in Lakewood, Linda’s service is unmatched in the history of our city and state. Her commitment to protecting education accessibility for our community is unparalleled. 

To honor her value of preservation, Lakewood High School Seniors are invited to apply for the Mary Warren Impact Scholarship Honoring Linda Beebe. Applicants for the scholarship must be continuing their education, demonstrate volunteer service, and write an essay showing their understanding of democracy.  The essay for this year is, “Why is democracy important to preserve?” Applications can be found at: lwvgreatercleveland.org/Chapters/Lakewood/2024 Scholarship Contest.

February 12-16, 2024 is Kiwanis International recognition week for Kiwanis K Kids. Lakewood Kiwanis is proud to sponsor three K Kids Clubs in our community: Horace Mann Elementary School and Horizon Before And After Care at Harrison and Emerson Elementary Schools.

K Kids is the youngest youth leadership club in the Kiwanis family. Every K Kids club has a school/administrator advisor and Lakewood Kiwanian advisor. Each club has their leadership team of K Kids selected through essays submitted or elected at the beginning of school. After that is in place, the voting of projects by the kids is done for the year. Our K Kids projects include food drives, community trash cleanup in the Spring and local initiatives that they have chosen to do. The kids learn that they have a voice in the club and need to make the commitment to complete their projects. As advisors, we try to have different speakers come in to connect the kids to the community service they complete. Win-win for all. Lakewood Kiwanis also sponsors Builders Club at Harding Junior High.

The event will take place at The Lakewood Masonic Temple on Saturday, February 24

LakewoodAlive is excited to announce Julie Warren as the 2024 Founders Award recipient, and fellow community members Sandy & Dave Feicht, Galadriel Olsen, Tony Parker, Chuck & Terri Postel, and Despina Sarantopoulou as the 2024 Community Leader Award honorees to be recognized during Loving Lakewood: Greatest Hits on Saturday, February 24.

Each member of this honoree group has made a long-lasting impact on LakewoodAlive and our community. The Founders Award, recognizing one honoree annually, celebrates individuals who exemplify the vision of LakewoodAlive’s founding members to foster and sustain vibrant and welcoming neighborhoods. Community Leader Award recipients represent LakewoodAlive’s most dedicated volunteers and partners who have supported the organization’s work in the community. 

Julie Warren, co-owner of Erie Design, has been supporting Lakewood Alive for more than 15 years. Volunteering with numerous organizations in Lakewood, Julie has set aside a tremendous amount of time and talent to help further elevate LakewoodAlive’s programming in the community. Initially a volunteer, Julie joined LakewoodAlive’s board as a Chamber of Commerce designee in 2015. Since then, she has served as Development Chair and Vice President, and will be assuming the role of Board President in July of 2024. Julie has served as Chairperson of Loving Lakewood from its inception in 2014 when Lakewood Alive celebrated its 10-year anniversary. We are thrilled to recognize her at our 20th anniversary Loving Lakewood this year!

Harrison Elementary School, January 26, 2024

In a heartwarming collaboration, the Local Legend Foundation and GV Arts & Design recently hosted an extraordinary program at Harrison Elementary School. The Legends in Training (L.I.T) program, which took place on January 26, 2024, was a remarkable day of artistic exploration, collaboration, and invaluable life lessons for over 30 enthusiastic 5th graders.

Founded with a mission to inspire the next generation of legends by connecting them with public figures through sports, mentorship programs, and community events. The Local Legend Foundation has been making a positive impact since its inception in 2023. Established by a passionate Lakewood native, the foundation's commitment to fostering creativity and personal development aligns seamlessly with its founder's roots. More information about the foundation's initiatives and projects can be found on their website:www.locallegendfoundation.org.

What made the Legends in Training program at Harrison Elementary School particularly special was the personal connection between the foundation's founder Shaun Crawford and the school. Mr. Crawford’s mother Sabrina Crawford none other than the principal of Harrison Elementary, adding a deeply personal touch to the event. This familial tie underscored the foundation's dedication to making a meaningful impact on the local community, especially in places of personal significance.

Partnering with GV Arts & Design brought the program a wealth of artistic expertise. The artists from GV Arts & Design shared their knowledge of various art forms and imparted valuable life skills. The collaboration aimed to demonstrate that art is a form of self-expression and a medium through which essential life skills such as communication, collaboration, and maintaining a growth mindset can be cultivated.

If you have a few hours to spare each week and if you want to join LCSC in the fight to end hunger in the community, these volunteer opportunities could be a perfect fit for you.

LCSC is the emergency food pantry for Lakewood, Rocky River and Westlake and we could use some dedicated help during the hours of 9:45 a.m. to 12 p.m. We currently provide food assistance to over 2800 individuals each month! We could not do this important work without our volunteers.Pantry volunteers are responsible for making sure that there is a consistent flow of emergency food available to make sure that clients are served quickly and efficiently.

If you are interested in finding out more please contact Colleen Timm at 216-226-6466.

--who live in Lakewood. We have scholarships to award.

The Kiwanis Club of Lakewood is proud to be offering its 2024 scholarship program to graduating high school seniors. The club’s foundation increased the awards to FOURTEEN $10,000 scholarships, $2500 per year for 4 years each. We are approaching 3 million in scholarships awarded since 1956. 

Edward Hadaway, Kiwanis scholarship committee chairman said, “Eligible applicants can be students at any accredited high school but must be a resident of Lakewood and a citizen of the United States. They must demonstrate academic success in high school and must have applied to one or more specific college or university. Winners will be chosen based on need for financial assistance; community involvement and service; with qualities of leadership, honesty, loyalty, diligence and participation in extracurricular activities.”

Applications and contact information is online at https://www.kiwanisfoundation.com/scholarships. Please submit by April 1, 2024. 

A feature documentary about women struggling for their right to become priests in the Episcopal Church wil be screened on Sunday, February 4th. The screening will start at 4 p.m. at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 18001 Detroit Ave., Lakewood.

"The Philadelphia Eleven" tells the compelling story of a group of eleven women who were ordained to the Episcopal priesthood in violation of the constitution and canons of the Church – which at the time stated that only men were eligible for ordination. St. Peter's parishioner Reverand Nancy H. Wittig is one of the eleven and will be featured in a Q&A following the screening. The Reverand Wittig says, “It’s amazing that women are still fighting for rights in the church, and continuing to feel blowback, similar to what we experienced 49 years ago.” She went on to say, “We are proud of the changes we have accomplished through our priesthood and the ordinations in Philadelphia.”

This film tells a story that continues to resonate today as women seeking ordination continue to face resistance, disrespect and exclusion from roles reserved by men for men. The documentary explores the lives of these remarkable women who succeeded in transforming an age-old institution despite threats to their personal safety and the risk of rejection by the church they loved.

These women became and remain an inspiration for generations of women in the ministry, and a clarion call for the entire Christian Church.

Lorna Jordan has lived in Lakewood for 20 years and has been a member of St. Peter's Episcopal church in Lakewood for 18.

Why is Equal Representation important?

More than ever, the modern day demands equal representation. When one first hears the phrase “equal representation,” the connotation often refers to political representation. Representation of different races, genders, ages, socioeconomic backgrounds, and life experiences in the people that we’ve elected to lead our communities and country as a whole. This type of equal representation that one typically thinks of is extremely important; as leaders in politics are in charge of making decisions for the greater good of the community, they should absolutely be representative of the myriad of demographics our community exhibits. Still, it’s important to recognize and explore the other ways in which equal representation is equally as important.

Children grow up as mirrors of the people that surround them from a young age. They reflect the behaviors, attitudes, and ideas of those that they see most often. Just one example of this is a young person’s political beliefs; if one grows up in a primarily democratic household, they are likely to identify with the beliefs of the democratic party, and vice versa. Just as we see this reflection of surroundings in politics, children easily reflect other parts of their environments. The turn of the 21st century and the ever increasing capabilities of technology continue to enhance the prominence of media in our lives. While actors, musicians, influencers, and other public figures may only be humans like everyone else, they hold more power than one might think. Equal representation is equally as important in the media as it is in politics. 

If children grow up from a young age, only ever seeing a certain specific demographic on the media, that will create stigmas and contribute to widely believed misconceptions. Only having white, middleclass, heterosexual characters as the prominent characters in most movies is extremely harmful. Anyone who doesn’t fit into that classification might start to believe they aren’t as worthy, and that they don’t reflect the personification of the ideal American. 

The Community West Foundation Board of Directors approved $640,500 in fourth quarter grants to nonprofit agencies that are located in Cleveland, Western Cuyahoga and Lorain Counties. An additional $125,000 was distributed through their Community Impact Fund bringing the grand total to $765,500. The Community Impact Fund was established for donors who want to invest alongside Community West’s mission knowing that contributions would be distributed directly to grantees quarterly.  

For the fourth quarter, Community West Foundation provided grants to community service nonprofits that provide a variety of services and other unique programs.

Organizations receiving grants include: 

Prizes were awarded to ten participants from among all those who completed the Photo Scavenger Hunt successfully!

Pictured are some of our winners: Linda Rocchi & Suzanne Bednarchik, Hannah Kasamias, Deborah Kuhn, Kirk Lintern, Janice Snyder. (Winners not pictured: Linda O'Malley, Virginia Coughlin, Jillian Piteo, Jackie Smith)

Prizes were donated by 43 generous Lakewood businesses, making for some very nice gift packages.

Keep an eye out next fall for another Scavenger Hunt. Proceeds benefit the Division of Aging, but all ages can join the hunt!

Sponsored by the Lakewood Commission on Aging Advisory Council.

With the help of dozens of Lakewood community members, Lakewood Charitable Assistance Corporation was able to deliver non-perishable and perishable bags filled with Thanksgiving fixings to 300 Lakewood residences. 

This was part of LCAC’s Thanksgiving Food Drive, which took place over the weekend before Thanksgiving. 

On Nov. 17, volunteers came in the morning to sort all the non-perishable food within an hour. Later that night, more volunteers came to bag the non-perishable food into 300 bags, taking less than an hour. 

On Nov. 18, volunteers came to bag all of the perishable foods like turkeys and pies and were off to deliver to residences within the hour. 

With the Thanksgiving Food Drive over, LCAC is already back in full swing to prepare for its Christmas Food Drive which will take place at the Lakewood Masonic Temple, at 15300 Detroit Ave., over two days.  

On Dec. 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., non-perishable food donations will be sorted. Later that evening, LCAC members and volunteers will gather from 6-7:30 p.m. to bag non-perishable food. 

On Dec. 16 from 9 a.m. to noon, LCAC members and volunteers will bag perishable food and then hand deliver both non-perishable and perishable bags filled with food fixings to the community. 

The Healthy Lakewood Foundation (HLF) Board of Directors awarded $140,820 in grants at its November Board meeting.

The HLF Board awarded Neighborhood Opportunity Grants for a total of $125,820 in funding to local organizations for community-based projects that support community building through innovation and learning. These projects address social determinants of health – the environmental, social, and economic conditions of our community – through local programs and initiatives.

Awarded Neighborhood Opportunity Grants include:

• $2,000 to Lakewood Historical Society for free historical walking tours with the purpose of educating about Lakewood’s built environment.
• $5,000 to Beck Center for the Arts in support of the Super Saturdays programming.
• $6,895 to the Recreation and Education Department with the Lakewood City School District for adaptive swim lessons for youth with a disability/disabilities.
• $7,000 to Lakewood Public Library for their partnership with Connecting for Kids, to provide library-based programming for families at both the main branch and the Madison branch.
• $7,500 to Haus of Transcendent for support of their pilot program to identify and meet emergency needs of LGBTQ+ community in Lakewood.
• $7,500 to Lakewood Black Caucus for their support of Black Lakewood residents, an allyship program for white residents, and a new Mutual Aid supply program.
• $7,500 to Lakewood Outdoor Basketball Committee (LOBC) for mentorship and safety offered at Lakewood Park and Madison Park outdoor basketball courts, especially impacting BIPOC youth.

The most joyous of Lakewood traditions is returning to Downtown Lakewood for the 17th annual celebration. The spirit of the season will come to life with holiday cheer when Light Up Lakewood 2023 takes place on Saturday, December 2 from 4 to 8 p.m.

Sponsored by First Federal Lakewood and presented by LakewoodAlive, Light Up Lakewood celebrates the season and the richness of our city’s vibrancy. This free, family-friendly event on Detroit Avenue in Downtown Lakewood features a holiday parade, lighting ceremony, winter fireworks, The Roundstone Beer Garden, Holiday Train, live music, ice carvings, hot chocolate, food trucks, children’s games and more.

Attendees are invited to stroll Lakewood's downtown district and visit local shops and restaurants while taking in the sights and sounds of one of Northeast Ohio's largest holiday celebrations. Light Up Lakewood serves as a marquee event for the entire region.

Light Up Lakewood represents a long-held holiday celebration of Lakewood’s sense of community. Guests will be delighted by the festive atmosphere which includes the twinkle of holiday lights, the cheerful sounds of carolers and the warmth of hot beverages.

Highlights include indoor the Holiday Market; The Roundstone Beer Garden sponsored by Roundstone Insurance; the ever-popular Holiday Parade sponsored by Shinn Law Firm, which commences at Belle & Detroit Avenues at 5 p.m. and ends at Arthur Avenue; the Lighting Ceremony at 6:30 p.m. at City Center Park and a can't-miss fireworks show at 7 p.m. over Kauffman Park.

Schedule of Events for Light Up Lakewood 2023:

• 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. – Ongoing performances with a surprise visitor

• 4 p.m. – Festival Kickoff

Three Arches Foundation, a community-focused grant making foundation, announced $2 million in annual funding toward one-year and multi-year grants to twenty-five local nonprofit organizations working to transform people’s health in Lakewood and surrounding communities. Each grant reflects the Foundation’s priority of equitable access to care, specifically the advancement of solutions to remove barriers and improve behavioral and physical health.

This year’s grants will help expand existing programs and services, fund new initiatives, and support general operations. “Nineteen of the nonprofit organizations receiving grants this year are nonprofits the Foundation has supported in the past, and six are new recipients,” shared Kristin Broadbent, president and CEO of the Foundation. “This represents a deliberate strategy to both build long-term relationships and expand our reach with new grant partners who are aligned with our focus ofaddressing equitable access to meet diverse health care needs.”

The Foundation adopted trust-based philanthropy practices in order to deepen relationships and impact with its grant partners. This grantee-centric view fosters continuous learning, balanced power, and transparency that puts nonprofit organizations at the core of the relationship. “Our approach – informed through a racial and health equity lens – helps us learn firsthand where there are barriers to access for under-resourced communities and populations most impacted by health disparities,” comments Mary Anne Crampton, board chair of the Foundation. “It’s not about guessing where funding should be directed, but rather getting grant funding where it’s most needed.”

In 1973, a group of churches got together to create a Meals on Wheels program on the west side. November 20 of that year was the first board meeting, featuring all women -- women with a mission. Originally available to Rocky River, Fairview Park, Bay Village, Westlake and North Olmsted recipients, they modeled the Lakewood Meals on Wheels program, which was already in existence, providing low-cost meals to seniors or those who could not shop or prepare meals for themselves. Some recipients were elderly; others were disabled or recovering from an illness. On Dec. 6, 1973, the organization was officially incorporated as West Shore Meals on Wheels.

Fairview Baptist Church on Lorain Road originally provided space where the meals were prepared. The first meals were delivered on Jan. 7, 1974. There were 24 signed-on recipients as the first drivers pulled out of the church parking lot, delivering Monday through Friday for $11 per week - a little over $2 per meal - with the fresh, homemade meals made by the hands of the kitchen help.

Eventually, Fairview production moved production to City Hall, and the Rocky River Kitchen opened at Good Soil Church on Hilliard. Lakewood Meals on Wheels merged with West Shore Meals on Wheels in 2017, and moved their daily production needs to the Rocky River Kitchen. Meals are made fresh, home cooked every day, and include lunch and dinner offerered 5 days a week.

Today, the two facilities service over 100 recipients, crafting over 700 meals per week with the help of 100+ volunteers. 

Come and purchase your holiday baked goods along with crafts and fresh festive greens at Church of the Ascension on Saturday, December 9th at the Church of the Ascension Cookie Walk. Members of the congregation bake their family’s favorite cookie recipes as well as heirloom recipes that have been passed down through generations. Preparing homemade cookie trays for your holiday parties has never been easier than shopping at the Ascension Cookie Walk.

Homemade jams, jellies, pickles and pies will be available too.  

Amish trail bologna and Swiss cheese from Trail Ohio will be available for purchase. To pre-order your sausage and cheese call Church of the Ascension at 216-973-8077.

This past summer (2022), the Supreme Court overturned the landmark case Roe v. Wade. The Dobbs decision, as it revoked a precedent set almost fifty years prior, stripped away women's bodily autonomy across the country. Despite the fact that a majority of the country did not support the overturning of Roe, the court went ahead with the decision, even after resistance. At the time of the decision, three of the nine justices were women.

Lakewood High School proudly teaches AP African American Studies. That same class has been banned in the state of Florida. Governor DeSantis argues that the class lacks educational value and pushes a political agenda. This continues the erasure of Black history from the public school curriculum. Seventeen percent of Florida's population is Black.

On February 13, a mass shooting occurred at Michigan State University. Three students lost their lives and others were injured. One of the students on campus that day was a survivor of the Sandy Hook Shooting, eleven years prior. In the United States, there are young adults who have lived through multiple mass shootings. Meanwhile, politicians are wearing assault rifle pins on the floor of Congress. 

Issues like these are why equal representation matters. Politics in America has become increasingly divided in recent years, and this has come at the expense of the people. The wants of the people are not being represented in government. We can see evidence of this when we look at our current legislature and court. Despite this being the most diverse Congress in history, it is still not an accurate picture of the nation. Women only make up 28% of Congress, and racial minorities only make up about a quarter. Our government does not mirror the makeup of the population. And because of this, we are seeing legislation (and lack there of) that does not reflect the beliefs of the people. This has become glaringly apparent with the election of Donald Trump and what followed. Young people have demonstrated their desire for change. Our government has to look different than it has for our entire history.

The board of your Lakewood Family YMCA is hosting the First Annual Bowl-A-Thon to raise funds for our Annual Campaign. The donations raised here, stay here in Lakewood, to help seniors, children, and others attend camps and activities regardless of their ability to pay.  

The event will take place at Mahall’s on Friday, November 17 from 6-8pm. Ten teams will compete in 3 competitions: bowling, fundraising and fashion. If you enjoy competition, value connection, and like to laugh, we are looking for a few more teams. Please contact Leighann at the Lakewood YMCA 216-521-8400 for direction. 

Not a bowler? No fashion sense? You are welcome to attend! Buy a ticket to watch the bowling, have a snack and drink, and participate in the gift baskets drawings.  https://secure.qgiv.com/event/lakewoodbowl2023/

Can’t attend? Consider helping a bowling team with a generous donation. Darcy’s Pure Strength Strikers is a strength training class for women to stay strong and stay connected. You can see the teams and make a donation of support to the YMCA by visiting https://secure.qgiv.com/event/lakewoodbowl2023/

For over 30 years, Lakewood Charitable Assistance Corp. has provided holiday food baskets for hundreds of Lakewood families and senior citizens. As the weather changes and the holiday season approaches, LCAC is getting ready for its Thanksgiving Food Drive to serve Lakewood residents in need. This neighborhood tradition is only possible with the support of the entire community. 

The LCAC Thanksgiving Food Drive will take place at the Lakewood Masonic Temple, at 15300 Detroit Ave., over two days.

On Nov. 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., non-perishable food donations will be sorted. Later that evening, LCAC members and volunteers will gather from 6-7:30 p.m. to bag non-perishable food. 

On Nov. 18 from 9 a.m. to noon, LCAC members and volunteers will bag perishable food and then hand-deliver both non-perishable and perishable bags filled with Thanksgiving fixings to the community. 

The event will be held regardless of the weather, so dress accordingly to stay warm and dry.

Volunteers are welcome to join as little or as much as they’d like… better yet, bring friends, family and neighbors!

In addition, make sure to mark the calendar for Dec. 15 and Dec. 16, when LCAC does it all over again at its Christmas Food Drive. 

For more information or to make a monetary donation, visit www.LCAC.info. Make sure to follow Lakewood Charitable Assistance Corporation on Facebook and on Instagram at @lcacfooddrives for updates on the Thanksgiving Food Drive and to keep up-to-date with the organization.

Think you know Lakewood? Try the Lakewood Photo Scavenger Hunt and see! Contest runs Oct. 25 to Nov. 1. Sign up NOW. On Oct. 25 you'll receive an email with instructions and photos of features around Lakewood to identify! Answer correctly to be in a drawing for Amazing Prizes! Entry fee is $10, payable as a donation on the Lakewood Foundation website (www.thelakewoodfoundation.org). Please select "Commission on Aging" when submitting your payment. Or pay with cash at Cove Community Center, 12525 Lake Ave - photos available on paper or email on Oct. 25. All proceeds go to the Lakewood Division of Aging! Contact lakewoodphotocontest@gmail.com with questions.

Laura Hazen lives and works in Lakewood and she loves it. She works for both Hanson Services and Sweet Designs. She volunteers for a couple community groups, in particular, the Division on Aging.

Why is equal representaion important?

Equal representation has many definitions, you could interpret it as the methods by which people are represented, or by the way that representatives are assigned to voting groups, with equal representation meaning that all groups are fairly represented. Equal Representation is crucial to have rights for everyone and to be understood by certain groups of people who are just like you. Equal representation is how women have rights to privacy or how women have the right to vote. Equal representation is how people of color have the right to be citizens and also have the right to vote. Equal representation is how LGBTQ+ rights have slowly begun to improve. 

Equal representation is not needed in just government. It is needed in schools, sports, the workplace, and everywhere else. In sports we look at the first trans woman to win a gold medal in swimming in the Olympics, this provides young people who identify as a different gender hope that they can do whatever inspires them. In schools and public places we allow everyone to be equal, boys and girls aren’t compared as much. Same with the workplace, now women are bosses. Women are business owners and hold more power because of equal representation. Because of equal representation women of all kinds come together to get the rights they deserve.

Registration is required for these programs. Register online: www.connectingforkids.org/register,

via email: info@connectingforkids.org or Call/Text: 440-570-5908.

 Inclusive Drop-In

Join Connecting for Kids and Lakewood Family Room for our inclusive playgroup! This program is open to families and their children ages 0-6, with or without concerns about development. Caregivers will have a chance to get hands-on support, meet other families and connect to community resources. Led by an experienced Early Intervention Support Coordinator and CFK staff, children and caregivers will have the opportunity to learn strategies for dealing with behavior challenges, communication concerns and sensory issues. Registration is welcome but not required. This program is in partnership with Lakewood Family Room and is funded by the Healthy Lakewood Foundation. 

Thursday, Oct. 12, 9:30 a.m.

Lakewood Family Room at Cove Community Center, 12525 Lake Ave.

 Workshop: Navigating IEPs, 504s & ETRs

What is the difference between an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and 504 plan? How do you request an evaluation if you suspect your child could use some additional support? What is an Evaluation Team Report (ETR)? Navigating the world of special education may seem overwhelming at first. Join Connecting for Kids staff as they help you understand the process so that you can more effectively work with the school to help your child. Families will have the chance to engage in breakout sessions to talk about specific IEP or 504 concerns.

On Sept 5th in the parking lot of St Clement’s church, Lakewood Kiwanis, the Near West Theatre, Ms Young, the Policard family, Christine and Ian Brown (Cleveland Elite VB) and Lakewood residents donated new pillows, new sheets, new blankets and comforters to SHP (#Sleep in Heavenly Peace). This organization's motto is “No child sleeps on the floor in our town.” The linens collected Sept. 5th will be donated to the nationwide Bunks Across America Bed Build on September 9th. SHP is hoping to build 90-100 beds in the Lowe’s parking lot in Rocky River. Kiwanis collection will supply bedding for over 25 of the beds being built.

Lakewood Kiwanis’ tag is #KidsNeedKiwanis and this collection was just another opportunity for the Lakewood organization to partner with kids. 

Thank you to our community. Please join us for our next service project. 

www.LakewoodKiwanis

#KidsNeedKiwanis 

Barton Communities, a leading provider of affordable housing and resident engagement services for older adults, announces a significant milestone in its commitment to the Lakewood community and beyond. After careful consideration and strategic planning, the organizations have embarked on a comprehensive rename and rebranding effort that will revolutionize its approach to fulfilling its mission.

The new name, "Barton Communities," marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for the organization, symbolizing its unwavering dedication to innovation, inclusivity, and the delivery of exceptional services. This rebranding initiative goes beyond a mere cosmetic change; it epitomizes Barton Communities' continued focus on meeting the diverse needs of older adults and fostering a thriving, empowered community.

"This effort is a strategic move that aligns with our commitment to growth and adaptation,” said Donnald Heckelmoser, Jr., President and CEO of Barton Communities. “We will be better positioned to tackle the emerging challenges and opportunities in our field, enabling us to provide even higher levels of service to the older adults in our community."

Over the past sixty years, Barton Communities has been at the forefront of creating safe, secure, and affordable housing options for older adults, alongside a comprehensive range of services, activities, and programs designed to promote resident independence and enhance their quality of life. However, in anticipation of future needs, the organization recognizes the imperative for growth and adaptation to continue meeting its mission effectively.

Why is equal representation important?

America is a country that was originally built under the principle of freedom for all. When the founders came together with a vision for this nation, they wanted it to be fair. To be equal. We were meant to be a place welcome to all. No tyranny. No unfair government regulations and rules. No federal injustice. We were meant to be the most free country in the world. A melting pot of different languages, races, viewpoints, cultures, backgrounds, etc. We were meant to be a place where anyone could feel welcome. Could feel a sense of belonging.

And for our entire existence, we have not been.

America has not been equal. We have not been fair. For most of our history, if you weren't a white European, you were not welcome by a larger portion of our population. You were seen as inferior. Treated as less than human. Yes, over time this has gotten better. And it will continue to get better. But it will never be perfect. It can't be-- it's not possible. At the end of the day, we are all still people. There are good people. And there are bad people. Although the majority of the country wants to strive for equality and strive for equal representation, there are many that do not. They don't want to see people who don't look like them succeed. They want more of the same. More of themselves. It's why striving for equal representation is so important. Because in a country long dictated by one culture in every way, everyone wants to see themselves represented. 

As a country, we’ve all most always been led to believe that everyone living in the United States is equal. However with the current political climate and the increase in movements for equality, one can’t help but constantly wonder, “Are we truly equal?” As a young, queer woman, I am constantly questioning whether all of my rights as a human being will be repealed in a blink of an eye, especially considering the overturning of the landmark Supreme Court case, Roe v. Wade. I can’t help but have some fear that one day, I could be treated solely as an object and a vessel to grow and carry a fetus for 9 months, and giving birth is my only purpose in life. I’m scared that as a country and society we will continue to take multiple steps backwards after so many people have fought so valiantly for equal rights. 

While I fear that my rights may be stripped away from me one day, I also fear for the rights of others in more oppressed minorities. I can only imagine the kind of fear that may go through the heads of so many black, trans women, and what other thoughts may be rumbling around in their heads. This kind of fear shouldn’t even exist. Women, queer and trans people, Black, Asian, Hispanic, and Native American citizens shouldn’t have to fear for their lives and their rights.

So why is equal representation important anyways? Without equal representation, the United States would regress to where inequality was sky high, essentially destroying all the hard work and effort so many people put into civil rights movements. As the U.S. continues to get older, more immigrants are coming into the country as all of the different cultures and religions continue to mix and mingle with each other. With the increase in diversity, this only continues to justify the need for equal representation. Equal representation would not only act as a way to get every American citizen to be an equal, but it would act as a way to show minorities that the government and all other citizens care about them and their well being. 

The Healthy Lakewood Foundation (HLF) invites the Lakewood community to an in-person public meeting on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at 7:00 PM. The meeting will be held at the Cove Community Center at 12525 Lake Avenue in Lakewood. 

The Healthy Lakewood Foundation (HLF) Board of Directors awarded $180,000 in funding for its Community Grants program at its July Board meeting. Seven area organizations were granted funds to advance programs that address social determinants of health and address critical needs in the community.