Newsletters - Alternative Gifts International

Newsletter archives
Read latest e-Newsletter
Sign up to receive AGI news and updates

AGI Newsletter in print
Oct - Dec 2008
Click on the image below to open
a PDF version of the newsletter

AGI Board Names New President:

Lea McCloud – President, AGI

Twenty-eight years after the first Alternative Gift Market was being planned, and 21 years after incorporation as a 501 (c) (3) organization, Harriet C Prichard’s dream is still being carried on. However, Ms. Prichard will be channeling her energies to similar, but new challenges, and the AGI board of directors has named Lea McCloud, the previous AGI Director of Administration, as President.
Before joining AGI in 2006, McCloud served in various non-profit roles, often in faith-based organizations. Her career includes being a chaplain & PR Director in a Skilled Care Facility, Church Musician, Christian Education Director, Executive Director of the Kansas Region of the National Conference for Community & Justice (NCCJ), and Development Director for the Midway Kansas Chapter–American Red Cross.
Lea completed a Masters of Arts in Theology at McCormick Seminary in 2001, and has extensive experience in volunteer-based organizations. Currently she serves on the board (and has been recently cast in several plays) of the Wichita Community Theatre. She has three adult children and three grandchildren.

............................................................................................................................

FILLING HARRIET’S SHOES...
By: Lea McCloud

I tend to do considerable reflective thinking about situations that I don’t understand—or perhaps I think I understand, but wonder if there is a better way to approach them. I’ve been told that my comments often make others think; that is a real compliment for me. I hope you will indulge my tendency to ponder topics, and invite your comments in dialogue.

Now, as we begin this season and new phase of AGI, working to honor the vision of Harriet C. Prichard, we have big shoes to fill. Upon learning of my selection, an executive at one partner agency said, “I’m happy to see that you have a background in theological study and church relations.” It is true, that aspect did provide a bond for Harriet and me. Understanding how Alternative Gift Markets were conceived and continue to grow through partnerships with faith-based and non-profit organizations is integral to understanding how AGI can do what it does. The collaborative efforts of like minds, willing hearts and eager hands create the synergy we need.

Today, my thoughts are about gifts. It seems gifts are usually given by one individual to another—not usually to help solve the problems of the world. The giver normally expects the recipient to be happy and express gratitude for the gift in some way…a simple smile, a hug, or sincere ‘thank you’ is often enough. What if you can’t give the gift personally? You mail it (with a card). You send it through a friend or relative or, by using AGI, you trust that we will deliver the funds to the agencies where they can be transformed into the ‘gifts’ of hope and new life—practical goods and services for the people that need them. Blessings & Peace! —LM.

...........................................................................................................................

What on Earth Are Millennium Goals?

What do the symbols represent? Three of the eight United Nations Millennium Development Goals (UNMDG), which AGI is highlighting in the annual catalog. For more information, see www.un.org/millenniumgoals

October
We ask you to choose one or more projects that support the Education goal: to achieve universal primary education. Specifically, to make it possible for every person to have access to at least a 6th grade education. Consider what might be achieved for the cost of one extra pair of shoes we purchase for a special school dance or play could do if it was instead sent to support Project 14, 19 or 31.

November
As we celebrate the gathering of the harvest, good food & family, we suggest that you choose one or more projects that support the Hunger/Poverty goal: To eradicate extreme poverty and hunger—in the entire world. Think what the cost of one extra bottle of wine or rich dessert for Thanksgiving might accomplish instead if you send it to support Project 6, 11 or 33.

December
Since December 1 is World AIDS day, we suggest that this month of parties with co-workers, friends, family and faith celebrations also includes compassion through your support of the Health goal: to combat HIV/AIDS, Malaria and other diseases. An AIDS diagnosis is no longer a death sentence for children in Asia and Africa because we can provide medication that can save lives. Discuss with your colleagues what donating the cost of one office Christmas party to Project 4, 10 or 18 could do.

........

Click here for more information about AGI's Fall 2008 Newsletter

AGI Archives - Newsletters in printOpen a newsletter by clicking on a title below.
You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open the PDF fileFree download

2006-1 spring - AGI newsletter.pdf
2006-2 Fall AGI Newsletter.pdf
2007-1 Spring - AGI Newsletter.pdf
2007-2 Summer - AGI Newsletter.pdf
2008 - Fall - AGI Newsletter.pdf