Community Spotlight: Stories of Connection and Impact
Community Spotlight: Stories of Connection and Impact
Building a Stronger Community Together
The Monadnock region is home to countless organizations that work tirelessly to make a positive impact. Our Community Spotlight series celebrates these efforts by showcasing the stories of local groups that empower individuals, strengthen families, and bring our community closer together.
Each article in this series provides an inside look at the challenges these organizations face, the innovative solutions they create, and the lasting difference they make in our community. From mental health support to educational resources and beyond, these stories highlight the spirit of compassion and collaboration that defines the Monadnock region.
Explore the Series
Discover the inspiring stories of local organizations. Each feature provides insight into their mission, achievements, and how you can join their efforts.
How to Get Involved
Our community thrives when we come together to support one another. Whether through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading the word, there are countless ways to contribute to the incredible work being done in our region.
Be Part of the Change
Together, we can create a brighter future for the Monadnock region. Explore our articles to learn more about these impactful organizations and find your own way to get involved.
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Pictured:
Top - Mini Explorers in Oak Park, Adventure Tabletop Gaming for Middle Schoolers
Left - Mini Explorers with Susie
Bottom - Families Forests and Farms in Troy, Volunteers
Our Community Spotlight series shines a light on the incredible organizations and initiatives shaping the Monadnock region. From addressing mental health to combating hunger, these inspiring stories highlight the power of community connection and the difference we can make together.
The River Center: Strengthening Our Community, One Family at a Time
Being a community hospital means building strong bonds with our community partners. We are happy to recognize the incredible contributions the River Center has made to the place we call home. As we step into the new year, it's a perfect time to reflect on the incredible work being done by The River Center and how it continues to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families across the Eastern Monadnock Region.
Their Mission and Your Needs:
Since its inception in the 1990s, The River Center has evolved to become a designated Family Resource Center of Quality (FRC-Q). The River Center believes everyone deserves to thrive. That's why they provide parent education, family support, and community connections in a welcoming environment. They understand the challenges and changing needs of our community, and their programs and services are designed to address them head-on.
Building Strong Families:
Everyone from Newborns to Grandparents and Households of One
Connection is a major concern for families today and The River Center is addressing that need in many ways. They help individuals grow, learn, and connect.
They offer a wide range of programs to support families at every stage. From family support, early home support, and parent and caregiver assistance, to youth programs, kinship support, financial coaching, tax preparation, and the valuable FACT book – the center is a wellspring of resources tailored to our community's needs. Last year The River Center helped 300 families maximize their tax return.
Success Stories: Making a Difference, One Family at a Time
The impact of The River Center is best highlighted through stories like Melissa French's, who has accessed their resources for over a decade "The River Center has been there for me every step of the way," she says. "They've helped me with everything from fuel assistance to taxes. They truly make a difference in people's lives." From the Baby and Me group to financial coaching, Melissa attests to the profound impact the center has had on her life. Her words resonate: "When someone has a problem, I tell them to call The River Center; they can help."
Upcoming Events:
Here are just a few highlights of programs at The River Center:
Free Tax Assistance
If your household income is approximately $64,000 or less, you may qualify for free tax preparation and e-filing services through the IRS-sponsored Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Certified volunteers are trained to maximize tax credits, including earned income and child tax credits, and ensure that you receive the largest refund possible. The VITA volunteers are certified by the IRS and undergo a quality review process to ensure accuracy. They are also trained as money coaches to help you make sense of your finances. The program runs from the end of January to mid-April each year. Call 603-924-6800 ext. 30 today to check if you qualify or set up an appointment. Don't pay for tax preparation services when you can have it done for free and keep more money in your pocket.
In 2023 20% more tax returns were filed than 2022.
Junior Creatives
A MAXT Maker Space collaboration for curious middle schoolers to express creativity and strengthen social skills. Go online to the calendar and look up the program to register.
Kinship Potluck
Non-parent caregivers meet once a month for support and connection. Call 603-924-6800 to register.
In 2023 the Kinship Navigation program doubled.
Mini Explorers
Introducing young children to the wonders of the outdoors. This very popular program allows families with young children to learn more about places right in the area, introduces the concept of play, and allows parents to let their kids get messy in a safe environment. Go online to the calendar and look up the program to register.
In 2023 75 people registered for one program.
Parenting Book Club
Discuss "Confident Parents, Remarkable Kids" in February. Go online to the calendar and look up the program to register.
Make a Difference Today: Strengthening Our Community Together
Visit their website, donate, volunteer, or simply share this information with your friends. The #1 referral for their programs is word of mouth.
Remember, when you don't know where else to go, call The River Center. They're here for you.
Together, let's keep The River Center flowing strong, one family, one connection, at a time.
Get Free Tax Help
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[post_content] => Our Community Spotlight series shines a light on the incredible organizations and initiatives shaping the Monadnock region. From addressing mental health to combating hunger, these inspiring stories highlight the power of community connection and the difference we can make together.
In a heartwarming display of community support, local Beautycounter independent consultants collaborated with the community to donate all-natural body products to the Oncology and Infusion Therapy Center at Monadnock Community Hospital. They donated nearly 80 handmade bags, each valued at $40, containing nourishing lip gloss, body butters, soothing teas, and personalized notes of encouragement. These donations aim to provide comfort and relief to cancer patients undergoing treatment. Financial contributions from the community, along with independent Beautycounter consultants Denise Chatel, Ellen Smith, and Ruth Clark, made these donations possible. To learn more about contributing to Monadnock Community Hospital, visit MCHGiving.org.
Pictured from left to right: Denise Chatel, Ellen Smith, and Ruth Clark smile bright as they donate gift bags for Oncology patients
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[post_content] => [caption id="attachment_36931" align="aligncenter" width="780"] CVTC volunteers celebrate winning the Nonprofit of the Year award from the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce in 2021 Photo credit: Steve Lipofsky[/caption]
Our Community Spotlight series shines a light on the incredible organizations and initiatives shaping the Monadnock region. From addressing mental health to combating hunger, these inspiring stories highlight the power of community connection and the difference we can make together.
Since its establishment in 2008, The Community Volunteer Transportation Company (CVTC) has been on a mission to provide rides to non-emergency medical or social service appointments, including the grocery store, bank, post office and pharmacy for those in the community needing assistance with transportation. Their mission to optimize the health, well-being and independence for community members is ongoing and expanding daily. CVTC is excited to strengthen services and is seeking community support in the form of drivers for their organization through the introduction of the CVTC New Driver Challenge.
While CVTC has made remarkable progress, they are facing a challenge. To meet their goals and serve the community even better, they need more volunteer drivers. Their New Driver Challenge aims to recruit ten new drivers by the end of this year. Currently, CVTC has 65 drivers, with an average of 55 actively serving the community each month. In 2023, they have provided an average of 3,600 rides, approximately 11 rides per day.
However, some trips remain unfulfilled due to various reasons, including a lack of available drivers. In 2022, 14% of rides went uncompleted, and the year-end projection for 2023 is approximately 400 rides not completed which equals 11.5%, highlighting the critical need for additional drivers. In 2023, CVTC is projected to drive over 130,000 miles, an impressive feat that showcases the significant impact of their services on the community.
If you're wondering why you should become a CVTC volunteer driver, the answer lies in the benefits and the profound sense of community you'll experience. As a volunteer driver, you'll receive mileage reimbursement, which helps cover your expenses. More importantly, you can select trips that match your availability, allowing you to contribute at your own pace while building connections with members of the community.
CVTC receives annual support from both Monadnock Community Hospital and Cheshire Medical Center, emphasizing the community's collective commitment to this valuable service. CVTC has also been recognized for its outstanding efforts, earning the prestigious Nonprofit of the Year award from the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce in 2021.
Learn more
Learn more at CVTC-NH.org, or get started as a driver today by calling CVTC at (603) 821-0569, and become a driving force of positive change in our community. Let's work together to ensure that everyone in the Monadnock Region has access to the transportation they need for a better and more independent life.
Monadnock Community Hospital is a 25-bed Critical Access Hospital offering Primary Care, Medical and Surgical Care, Obstetrics, Pediatrics, and Behavioral Health services. In addition, a wide variety of outpatient services are available, including an extensive Primary Care Network, Orthopaedics, Cardiology, Cardiac and Physical Rehabilitation Services, 24-hour Emergency Care, Oncology, Occupational Health, a fully equipped laboratory and an extensive Radiology department. MCH is very fortunate to have strong leadership and a dedicated medical community that allows us to meet the ever-changing requirements of today's healthcare environment. As that environment changes, MCH is also committed to changing and providing the communities we serve with appropriate and innovative programs. Visit MonadnockHospital.org for more information.
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Pictured:
Top - Mini Explorers in Oak Park, Adventure Tabletop Gaming for Middle Schoolers
Left - Mini Explorers with Susie
Bottom - Families Forests and Farms in Troy, Volunteers
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Pictured from left to right: Denise Chatel, Ellen Smith, and Ruth Clark smile bright as they donate gift bags for 
CVTC volunteers celebrate winning the Nonprofit of the Year award from the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce in 2021 Photo credit: Steve Lipofsky[/caption]
