
February 2025 Newsletter
As we welcome February 2025, a time to reflect on all the love and compassion in our lives, I am immensely grateful for your continued support, which continues to transform lives.
This month, our newsletter features the inspiring story of Tim and Antoinette, a blind couple who found a loving home through A New Leaf’s assistance. Their journey from uncertainty to stability is a powerful testament to the impact of your support.
In 2024, your contributions reached over 22,321 individuals, offering more than 7,500 people like Tim and Antoinette the financial or housing support needed to rebuild their lives. Thanks to your kindness, 3,457 individuals found relief from homelessness, and 5,872 escaped abusive situations, finding safety and new beginnings.
This newsletter is filled with heartfelt stories and guidance on how you can continue to make a difference in 2025. Thank you for being an essential part of our mission. With your ongoing commitment, we are excited to extend even more critical services to those in crisis this year. Your involvement is crucial, especially for individuals like Tim and Antoinette, and countless others facing challenges.
Thank you for your unwavering kindness.
Sincerely,


Joe Dulin
Chief Philanthropy Officer
A New Leaf
Click Below to See Exciting News!

TIM AND ANTOINETTE FIND A HOME

VOLUNTEER UPDATES AND OPPORTUNITIES

DONATION CENTER UPDATES AND URGENT NEEDS

ESTATE PLANNING AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

COMMUNITY PARTNER HIGHLIGHT

EVENT NEWS: CAMARADERIE GALA TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE
February 2025 Impact News: Tim and Antoinette Have a Place to Call Home Thanks to You!



Contributed by:

Tanner Swanson
Communications Manager
A New Leaf
February 2025 Volunteer Update: Thank You to 8123 Music Fest and The Maine!


Raven Jordan Yosick
Volunteer Program Supervisor
A New Leaf
February 2025 Donation Center Updates: Items Needed for the New Year

A New Leaf invites you to make a direct impact in your local community by making a donation of new, unused items. Your gifts will help those facing homelessness, domestic violence, and other crisis situations.
Located at A New Leaf’s La Mesita campus, our Donation Center plays a crucial role in supporting the individuals and families we serve. Generous donations of new, unused items from community members like you are essential in meeting the everyday needs of those who rely on our services.
- Men’s Shoes/Slippers
- Towels
- Paper Towels
- Baby Formula
- Swiffer Mops/Dusters
Contributed by:

Alyssa Turley
Philanthropy Coordinator
A New Leaf
February 2025 Major Gifts Update: A Guide to Emergency Preparedness and Estate Planning

For Emergencies
Proof of Identity and Ownership: Driver’s licenses, passports, social security cards, deeds, titles, and insurance policies are vital for verifying identity, accessing assistance, and proving ownership of assets.
Access to Essential Services: Medical records (including history, medications, and allergies), insurance policies (health, home, auto), and emergency contact information are essential for receiving proper care and accessing necessary support.
Streamlining Recovery: Organized documents simplify filing insurance claims, applying for government aid, rebuilding after a disaster, and protecting your assets.
Death of a Loved One (Estate Planning)
Beyond immediate emergencies, organized documents become even more critical in the event of a loved one’s death, especially if it is unexpected. This is where estate planning comes into play:
Wills and Trusts: These legal documents outline how your assets should be distributed, who will care for your minor children (guardianship), and who will manage your estate (executor/trustee). Without a will, the distribution of your assets will be determined by state law, which may not align with your wishes.
Financial Records: Bank statements, investment records, retirement accounts, and tax returns are essential for settling the estate, paying debts and taxes, and distributing assets to beneficiaries.
Life Insurance Policies: These provide financial security for your loved ones after your passing. Keeping policies organized and beneficiaries updated is crucial.
Funeral Arrangements: Pre-planned funeral arrangements and related documents can ease the burden on grieving family members.
Digital Assets: A list of online accounts, passwords, and instructions for managing digital assets (social media, email, online banking) can prevent complications and ensure your digital legacy is handled according to your wishes.
Why Organization Matters in Both Scenarios
Reduces Stress and Confusion: During times of crisis or grief, searching for scattered documents adds unnecessary stress. Organization provides clarity and peace of mind.
Saves Time and Money: Organized records expedite processes like filing claims, settling estates, and accessing benefits, potentially saving time and money.
Ensures Your Wishes Are Respected: Clear documentation ensures your medical wishes are followed in an emergency and your estate is distributed according to your intentions after your passing.
Protects Your Loved Ones: By preparing in advance, you alleviate the burden on your family members during difficult times and provide them with the necessary tools to manage affairs efficiently.
Tips for Organizing Your Documents
Physical Storage: Use a fireproof and waterproof safe or container for original documents.
Digital Copies: Scan important documents and store them securely online (cloud storage) or on encrypted USB drives.
Grab-and-Go Binder/Emergency Kit: Include copies of essential documents in a portable binder or emergency kit for quick evacuation.
Estate Planning Binder/Folder: Create a separate binder or folder for estate planning documents, including wills, trusts, and financial records.
Communicate with Loved Ones: Inform trusted family members or close friends about the location of your important documents.
Regular Review and Updates: Ensure your documents are current and reflect your present circumstances.
Being prepared for both emergencies and the possibility of an untimely death is a responsible and loving act. By taking the time to organize your documents, you protect yourself, your family, and your legacy.
Contributed by:

Suzanne Percy
Charitable Giving Advisor
A New Leaf
February 2025 Community Partner Highlight: Westgate Foundation


We are incredibly grateful for the Westgate Foundation’s ongoing support and dedication. Their role as a catalyst for positive change has not only enhanced our ability to serve our community but also inspired others to join in these efforts.
Contributed by:

Laura Bode
Director of Community Engagement
A New Leaf
February 2025 Event News: Camaraderie Gala Tickets Now Available!

Contributed by:

McCall Schnepf
Events Manager
A New Leaf