March 20, 2006 — A special "thank you" reception was held for all Community Foundation of the V.I. Angels on Saturday at the newly built home of Josefina and Ricardo Charaf. More than 200 donors and guests enjoyed the breathtaking views of Magens Bay, while members of CFVI's board of directors expressed their gratitude to all donors and reported on the foundation's progress.
Angels are those essential people in the life of CFVI who make an annual gift of $500 or more.
"Last year, with the support of its invaluable Angels, CFVI provided more than $1.25 million in grants and scholarships to organizations and individuals." Ricardo Charaf was quoted as saying in a release issued Monday. "This year, generous Angel contributions will allow CFVI to offer uninterrupted support for its established funds [over 80] and programs, expand its services and launch new initiatives," Charaf, chairman of the board, said.
Angel gifts are transformed into opportunities for children, youth and families in many ways. To cite just a few examples, CFVI supports:
— Grants to grass-roots groups that give hands-on help to children and families
— Scholarships to V.I. students pursuing higher education
— One-time grants to children and families whose emergency needs are not covered by existing government or charitable programs
— An ongoing initiative to promote responsible fatherhood
— An emerging initiative to improve children's earliest experiences by offering professional support, training and supplies to existing child-care centers, and to advocate for children's needs
— Grants to innovative teachers and counselors for programs to enhance our students' classroom experience
"With the generous help of Angels, children, youth and families can realize their fullest potential and help make the Virgin Islands a better home for all of us," Charaf said.
Donations are accepted year round; if you would like additional information on becoming an Angel, a Corporate Angel or a Family Angel, please call CFVI at 774-6031.