My husband and I have donated to Ward Home for many years because -- as its name implies -- it serves as a home to children who who have little to no support system. Not only do Ward Home staff members teach young men and women practical living skills, including time and financial management, but also serve as "parents" who help to build and strengthen self esteem and offer encouragement and love.
My name is Richard DiBella. I am an attorney in the City of Pittsburgh and a past board member and chairman of the Ward Board. Too often in life, we forget that there are others struggling to find a way, and their way, because of life circumstances that they did not control. Ward Home is a refuge for youth, helping these young persons to find not only their way, but a way in life, in spite of the hardships and cards they were dealt as children. Ward Home is a very special place, a place with a heart and a home for so many.....
As a new Board member I have found the staff to be skillful,highly committed, and caring. All of their actions and efforts focus on the teens and improving their welfare and outcomes.
The teens themselves are a dynamic group with a tremendous sense of resiliency. In conversations with them, they feel The Ward Home environment allows them to establish their sense of independence and move forward in pursuit of their life goals.
A few years ago, I became aware of the Ward Home and the support they give to foster teens. Within those few years it's wonderful to see Ward Home's programs continue to grow and their commitment to help these teens is undeniable the strongest I have seen. I look forward to reading the growing success stories and seeing more smiles being made on our teens faces.
For a project, I produced a video capturing the essence of Ward Home, Inc. When visiting for the first time, I spoke with both kids and alumni who were apart of this program. After hearing their stories, I could truly tell how each one of their lives’ were positively affected through being a part of this program. Whether they were learning how to cook, budgeting money, or just developing better relationships, the Ward Home truly made and continues to make a difference in these teenagers’ lives.
The Ward Home is an excellent example of a nonprofit that truly benefits the community of Pittsburgh. The nurturing environment that Ward Home creates is best described as a loving home for young adults to grow and achieve their dreams. The staff at Ward Home are people who care and really want the best for these young adults. The Ward Home is truly a gem of Pittsburgh and we are so lucky to have this nonprofit as part of our community.
Ward Home’s mission is to train at risk young adults in practical life skills in safe, nurturing environments in order to live independently as effective, contributing members of their community.
As board member, I have had the oportunity to hear many of the stories of these amazing young adults that have benefited from Ward Home’s program. They overcome many challenges and grow into successful, independent members of their communities. Furthermore, they become adults who give back to their communities.
Ward Home is a wonderful organization that is making a significant positive impact in the lives of our local at-risk foster teens. Through my volunteer work on the "Picture This" event I have enjoyed meeting some of the alumni from this program. It's inspiring to hear about their life successes which they in large part credit to the great staff and programs at Ward Home.
The Ward Home has been providing essential support and services to children of our community for decades. While my association with Ward Home as a board member hasn't been long, I can attest to the passion an dedication of the staff and leadership of the Ward Home. I'm proud to be associated with such a great group of people dedicated to bringing hope, support, and guidance to these children.
Ward Home has a critical mission of helping teens without a stable home life to become successful, happy and productive adults. The staff is top-notch and is passionate about fulfilling their mission. The board is engaged, supportive and provides strong governance and oversight. Donating to Ward Home is an excellent use of your charitable contributions.
I became involved with Ward Home Inc, when I was 15/16. This program changed my life and helped me set the foundation for the woman I am today. The program helped me to gain independent livings skills that I was not able to get from my home environment. Some of those skills included: Cooking classes. resume writing, driving lessons, balancing a checkbook, opening a bank account, educational trips, and even college tours. Even when I had an issue this program was there to help. My first semester of college I wanted to drop out because I did not like the school I was at. My worker went above and beyond to take me to different schools until I found one that was right for me. Today I have my bachelors degree! These things may seem simple but a lot of foster kids do not get these services in there foster homes because they are constantly moving from place to place. This organization had an impact on my life from the services that they provided as well as there phenomenal staff. There staff was always there to help and encourage youth, especially the W.I.S.E program staff.
Life changing experience. Changed my life for the better.
Knowing the road I was heading down, I would have been in jail or dead now. The turn came when I was entered into the home.
Over the past 2 years, I've had the opportunity to support this amazing organization by donating money and attending the "Picture This" event. The Ward House staff and employees are doing a great job providing much need resources to these young adults. I strongly urge you to consider supporting their efforts through volunteering, donating funds, and/ or attending the "Picture This" fundraising event on April 1st. I look forward to working with these young adults as a math tutor in the near future!
This organization positively impacted my life forever. I remain in contact with everyone who worked with me. And their love and passion for the work that they do is just awesome!
The Ward Home came to my attention several years ago through my affiliation with the United Methodist Church and their then board president. He invited me to a fundraiser where I learned more about this non profit and their mission. I've supported charities that help at risk young people as I feel I really can make a difference in their lives and our community. Ward Home serves my local community and really is making a difference in the lives on our young people by providing them with the skills to be productive members of society. The successes are fantastic and by financially supporting their cause, I feel my donation is making a difference.
