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Who's That Girl???
You’ve laughed with Princess Leia, been to the edge with Laura Croft and might even remember Wonder Woman. Well…get ready, here comes Shirley Shovel. The newest member of the superhero genre is focused on creating a cleaner, greener and kinder Atlanta. OK… we will momentarily admit, Shirley is actually a Rigid shovel with a painted face. However, she is also symbolic of the core ToolBank mission; placing the tools for change in the hands of those seeking transformation. Thus, Shirley Shovel will bravely dig her way through service projects small and large; constructing playgrounds, maintaining parks and even building shelter for the disadvantaged. Catch her latest plot twist in the workbook journal below. Better yet, join the journey and request Shirley for your next volunteer adventure!
Febraury 2010
The team at Community Collaborations International are my kind of folks. The organization is based out of Miami, FL with a focus on providing logistical support for groups interested in volunteer experiences across the globe. They send hundreds of collegiate groups on Alternative Spring Break trips each year. The students volunteer in a myriad of placements, learning more about the communities they serve, and themselves, along the way. One of the 2010 groups rolled into town this February, ready to repair homes damaged in those severe flood conditions we experienced last fall. Thanks to a generous grant from the Freddie Mac Foundation, my Atlanta Community ToolBank was able to provide tools and supplies, at no cost to the group. Teams were sent throughout the Austell area to volunteer at more than six home sites. They also pitched in with my good friends of the East Side Parks Network. Fearless ESPN founder Earl led a group of over 50 students, in less than ideal weather. I bet those Community Collaborations kids were not expecting to brave their own mini-flood. Now, everyone knows I love a good manhandling…but in the pouring down rain? Even a sassy shovel has her limits. However, I must say I was quite proud of the troopers. They slapped on some tres chic UGA ponchos, grabbed my lopper and pruning pals and got to work. This project was Phase I of the Brown Family Cemetery Restoration. It all started when local resident Richard Lavender discovered his great, great, great, great (he must have been a swell guy) grandfather was buried in a family plot off Hutchens Road in East Atlanta. The old cemetery is literally smothered in overgrowth, so much in fact the tombstones are not even visible from the road. Well, Richard contacted the Historic Preservation Society and that’s how he found my most energetic tool user, Earl. Together they hatched a plot to clean up those old lots. Greenspace guru Earl even discovered that Richard has over 12 Brown family ancestors buried in the cemetery. And the biggest surprise of all? The two community improvement aficionado’s discovered they are distantly related by marriage, as some of their 1800’s counterparts apparently dug each other quite well. It’s a big undertaking, but with my Atlanta Community ToolBank powering the volunteer muscle, The East Side Parks Network & Co. will bring it full circle. Keep checking in with me for the latest news as I report on the cemetery progress and of course, keep my steel nose in everyone’s volunteer business. ‘Till then keep dreaming big, diggin’ hard. Tooldles!
February 2010 ~ Check out my special Valentine's promotion!
Men and their tools. I tell ya, attending so many events had me feeling like a real booth babe..until I realized all the dudes visiting my ToolBank outreach table were salivating over the cordless drill in my display. What is it with those power tools? Thought that would be a female thing. Go figure. Anyway, have I got a treat for you ladies! Anyone fretting over what to give your honey this Valentine’s Day? Fear not! ToolBank has the answer. Whether it’s for a hubby, new boyfriend, old flame or even a blind date- the ToolBank HeartBreaker Kit can be all yours for only $15.00, with all proceeds benefiting your Atlanta Community ToolBank. Why is it a heartbreaker? ‘Cause it will make your man cry those croc tears of joy when he sees all the screwdrivers, blades and more! Contact Communications and Outreach Director, Gina at 404.880.0054 x11 or gina@toolbank.org to place you order. In addition to the tool kit, your main squeeze can also receive recognition on the ToolBank Honor Roll and a snazzy certificate. Who needs chocolate- when you can bang something with a hammer?
January 2010
Talk about starting the new decade with a bada bing bang! If you were anywhere in the Atlanta area on January 18th, you may have noticed thousands of residents enjoying the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. As schools and many local businesses closed in honor of the late human rights legend, parks and neighborhoods filled with a sense of camaraderie. Perhaps all those people were enjoying the sudden respite from the recent bitter cold with a nice touch football game in the park or leisurely stroll, coupled with a stop at the local coffee shop? Nope. My blue steel heart is brimming with pride as I report my fellow Atlantans were enjoying a day of service. From toddlers to grandparents, our city put the dream to work, with neighbor helping neighbor through green space clean ups, home and facility repairs, school improvement projects and more! I am sure you can guess who was leading the charge? I do hate to brag, but yes, it was moi.
Started the day at Clay Cemetery where the East Side Parks Network removed rubble, leaves and so many branches I think all my rake friends may need a repair shop pit stop. Warehouse Volunteer of the Year Peter is going to be very busy. Over 125 volunteers worked the blue power not only at Clay Cemetery, but also Dekalb Memorial and Walker parks. This impressive ToolBank member is comprised of several community leaders and led by Earl Williamson, who has set a goal of 4000 volunteer hours for 2010. Nurse by trade, world changer by spirit; he is ready to get your hands dirty! With appropriate personal protective equipment in place, of course. If you live in the area, consider pitching in. The group completed over 50 improvement projects last year. ToolBank is committed to helping them double that number this year.
After that exhilarating work out and a few spins with our smallest volunteer Noah, plus his army of plastic power (trust me, a 3 year old armed with Tonka trucks is more dangerous than than you might think), I visited the Decatur Preservation Alliance who were busy providing critical home repairs for over 25 senior homeowners. This annual event began in 2003 and has grown to include over 1200 volunteers! The urgent needs being met became even more salient upon discovering one homeowner received the gift of a new stove. The appliance was installed in her kitchen, bare for the past two years with only a lone hot plate for meal preparation.
Honestly, there were so many inspiring moments it’s difficult to articulate how palpable the spirit and energy of each volunteer truly was. Witnessing the collective effort of simple kindness in action truly demonstrated why we must continue to seek fresh ideas and innovative approaches to meeting the needs of our most vulnerable neighbors. Nonprofit leadership must remaim committed to supporting the resolve of those answering the call to serve. My Atlanta Community ToolBank has committed to progress and I am ready to splinter my handle with excitement, as I anxiously await the opportunity to unveil the full scope of our new strategic plan! I can tell you many developments are coming soon. Phase I, so to speak, has just been announced. Read all about it here!
ToolBank leadership knows every corner counts as we strive to improve our communities, one project at a time. You can be sure even more awesome news is coming very soon as we prepare to lay the groundwork to get more tools in the hands of working volunteers.
It’s a new decade friends! Let’s all give thanks to be in the greatest city on earth. Perhaps the most tangible lessons of 2009 can be found in this MLK Day of service. People still care. Change is possible. Partnerships work! Let’s dream big, dig hard and together we can make 2010 the year ToolBank and you changed the world-even if it's just your corner of the world.
November 2009
I love holiday cheer and nobody gives goodwill better than ToolBank tool users! Collegiate groups have always held a special place in our hearts with their zeal and simple joy for giving. ToolBank has been fortunate enough to form an ongoing partnership with Chattahoochee Technical College. The awesome Department of Service Learning has supported our volunteer program through hands on service, supply drives and much appreciated consultation in areas such as web development.
We were thrilled to support their special campus clean-up this fall when a dedicated group of sociology students decided to transform ideology into action by organizing the first campus beautification project. Over 100 bags of mulch were spread across the Marietta campus, but only after bags of debris were removed. My nifty-nabber litter-grabber friends worked their plastic off! After a hard day of good labor, a reflection activity was held to formulate a call to action for maintaining the newly refreshed grounds. Students discussed a variety of advocacy issues including education on proper discarding of cigarette butts and other waste.
As the college continues to build its student-driven service team, ToolBank looks forward to getting more tools in the hands of these young volunteers- building the next generation of great philanthropists along the way. Psstt....hey kids, we need a new warehouse, so if you happen to make it big....
While were are in the giving spirit, I would also like to shovel up a personal THANKS SO MUCH!! to our wonderful TOOL Rush 2009 volunteers and shoppers. This annual tool sale is a signature fundriaser for my Atlanta Community ToolBank and guess what? We raised the most moolah in the event's seven year history! Well, thanks to the awesome support I am hitting the repair shop for a new dye job. Blue is the new blond. Look out Britney Spears, I can twirl on one steel tip. 'Til next year, tooldles ya'll!
October 2009
Playground builds are a personal favorite of mine and the team at Peyton Forest Elementary really knows how to party. The day started out with an actual parade of stars, current students flashing signs such as “We love You Volunteers!’ and “Kaboom! Rocks.” I had serious competition for mascot of the year as the cutest little tiger you have ever seen strutted his stuff. Kaboom! is a national nonprofit that builds playspaces all over the country and after many months of planning, they brought faculty, parents, students and sponsors together to make play matter in Atlanta! Did you happen to see some of the Kaboom! team last night on NBC? A mock playground build was the central plot on the TV show Parks and Rec. If you did not watch it, try to catch a repeat. It is a hilarious spoof, but the real deal is so much more inspiring. Kaboom! build days foster an energy level unequalled within the charitable sector. For the Peyton Forest build, over 300 volunteers came together to prove we care about kids in our community. Not only do they end up with a new play space, but they take away cherished memories of strangers united in service for the greater good.
As a presenting sponsor The Home Depot, another personal fave, provided most of the volunteers through their own employee base. I fit in well with my custom hard hat, as there was a sea of orange across the initially barren field. That is part of what makes the day so special. Upon arrival, I found over $13,000 worth of my toolbox friends grouped and ready to serve. The best part for me is, thanks to a generous grant from the Atlanta Braves Foundation, my ToolBank was able to waive all handling fees. I dig free tools!
Watching volunteers apply serious blue power to transform that field was pretty incredible. And, they did it all in six hours! Take a guess at the final result? Here we go… the best crew of do-gooders ever installed slides, swings, a climbing wall, lots of cool spinning and jumping attachments, while also creating a nature trail, gazebo, colorful benches and planting 20 trees.
Imagine the dinner conversations that evening, “So how was your day? “ the family or friends asks. “Well, I built an entire playground, created an eco-friendly haven while teaching several hundred kids the value of teamwork, community pride and generosity of spirit…so, what’s new with you? “
After it was all over I leaned against the smooth new benches and watched in amazement as students delivered hand-made cards to each and every volunteer. Remember, there were over 300 of them! I enjoyed catching some of the more macho-man helpers tear up toward the end. Heck, even our normally iron tough Rake-y Ralph seemed to have a sniffle or two. As a play ambassador this experience has really pumped me up to promote our new Braves Grant initiative. Schools across Metro-Atlanta can apply to access free ToolBank membership and tool usage to support a variety of campus improvement projects. So, educators, PTA parents and kids…bring on the ideas! As long as you continue to dream big, dig hard and never say surrender, you will make Atlanta THE place to learn, grow and of course, PLAY! If you have an upcoming volunteer driven school project, contact my girl Gina at 404.880.0054 x11 or gina@toolbank.org.
Tooldles for now and remember…you’re never too old to stop and enjoy the jungle gym every now and then.
September 2009
Corporate Social Responsibility is a big buzzword and my Atlanta Community Tool Bank is the bridge to even bigger impact for many local companies. Since the early 1970’s, more and more corporate entities have continued to formalize outreach efforts to encompass grassroots marketing concepts. These activities often mobilize employees to action. That’s right, when you see a large group of volunteers planting trees and, hmmm….. they all seem to have worn the same shirt... well it’s not a coincidence! More than likely you are witnessing a corporate service project, organized to improve the community while also providing the presenting sponsor with team building and branding opportunities. So, it’s a win for all and most importantly people have fun while helping valuable local charities. This synergistic relationship provides a vital link between the business and charitable sectors. ToolBank is often the backbone of CSR initiatives as companies rely on our Tool Lending Program for the physical equipment needed to build playgrounds, clean parks, repair facilities and much more.
This September was a fun example as Turner Broadcasting hosted the seventh annual Turner Volunteer Day. Yes, there was a t-shirt, along with breakfast and comfy buses to transport more than 1400 volunteers to eight nonprofit sites. I dug into several projects including hauling tons of mulch to improve the play area at the NFL YET Boys and Girls Club and building worm boxes at the Oakhurst Community Garden. Volunteers also painted murals and even built shelving.
It’s fun to help connect these groups so I was excited to attend the Impact Awards later in the month. Hosted by the Corporate Volunteer Council of Atlanta, this annual event recognizes companies engaged in tangible service across the city. The best part was hearing which charities they designated to receive their monetary awards. Check out all the winners here http://www.cvcofatlanta.org. I had a blast hanging out at World of Coke and even met a fellow mascot, the Coke Polar Bear. He was surprisingly friendly, but I played it cool. What good is a mascot without at least a drill bit? On that note, I do need to find my own new power playmate. I heard the new cordless dude likes blondes.... Tooldles!
August 2009
Have your heard the movement to empower safe communities landed right in our own Pittsburgh Community backyard? As the name implies, National Night Out is a global movement designed to strengthen the bond between citizens and local law enforcement, while also heightening awareness regarding issues related to personal safety and crime prevention. in 2008, Over 37 million people participated across 15,000 communities in all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases across the world! The 2009 celebrations marked the 26th anniversary of this amazing endeavor.
Our local National Night Out was a huge success, bringing families together for fun and education as kids received much needed school supplies, one last summer fling on those irresistible inflatable jumpers and awesome information from Atlanta City Police on how to avoid involvement in gangs, drug abuse, bullying and much more! This multi-generational event attracted hundreds of local residents. I was on hand to give out great prizes….and sneak a little cotton candy. Gerry Generator supplied the DJ booth with some serious wattage so the crowd stayed in the party and mixin’ mood all night. The Peoplestown Revitalization Corporation and Pittsburgh Community Improvement Association both work diligently year-round to inspire their historic Atlanta neighborhoods. National Night Out is just one example of volunteers in action as groups form monthly to clean, patrol and just simply say hello to fellow neighbors while addressing any concerns or suggestions. ToolBank is so proud to partner with these forces for good! Click to learn more about National Night Out and how your community can participate in 2010!
July 2009
As neighbors, the Atlanta Braves Foundation and Atlanta Community ToolBank both strive to improve the community at large. So it was pretty powerful when these two combined their strengths to leverage a winning day of service. The Atlanta Braves Foundation is the charitable arm of the Atlanta Braves, which strives to support nonprofit organizations across greater Atlanta. Founded in 1992, the foundation hits their own homeruns with community based fundraising events and support from Braves players, employees, sponsors and fans. More than 3.0 million dollars in grant funding and in-kind donations has been provided to various nonprofit groups.
The Atlanta Braves Foundation maintains a primary focus on initiatives for youth with a special interest in education, health and recreation. The Junior Braves League was established to encourage excellence in all three key areas and a fun curriculum is now being taught at local Boys and Girls Clubs, YMCA of Metro-Atlanta locations and Atlanta Parks and Recreation programs.
In late July, over 80 Junior Braves from the aforementioned partners took it to the streets, volunteering at 4 deserving nonprofits. Of course, my buddies were all out in full force.
Ted the Tiller led the charge over at Emmaus House as the kids worked to clear out the garden and playground areas. Emmaus House serves every age group in Atlanta through support programming for families and children. They also coordinate a renowned prison outreach, neighborhood ministries and a food pantry! Next door, at The Study Hall, Junior Braves also helped with landscaping needs. Children are nurtured and inspired at this unique inner city child care community. Over at the Grant Park Conservancy, a team worked to keep this historic oasis serene and beautiful. With the Summer Shade Festival quickly approaching, I am sure it was greatly appreciated! My very own HouseProud program was in full swing as well. Several of the older Junior Braves helped to complete paint work for one of our previous Atlanta HouseParty recipients.
All the nonprofits told me they can’t wait to do it again next year. Way to hit it outta the park Bravos! Catch ya at a game soon.
July 2009
Miss me? Well, I spent a little time in the repair shop having some blue wood splinters removed. It’s so great to breathe normally again and my Derek the Drill says I have even quit snoring. Opps…let’s keep that slip of the shovel between us. Sledgehammer Shelly still has no idea. Yes, there is still drama at the old tool shed, but positive projects are also all around. In fact, late spring and early summer were both record breakers as the Tool Lending Program received the most tool requests in our 18 year history. Luckily, a great group of volunteers from GA Tech’s Circle K club and the Emory University Emory Gives program came to help nurse many of my worn out friends back to good health. The lopper crew were all sharpened with precision thanks to repair shop volunteer leader Andy. He is one of our great IFMA friends and I am so glad he led the troops to ensure no one ended up on the “too sliced” side of life! The repair shop in our tool warehouse is a popular spot as volunteers can help maintain and repair those of us who may return from action a bit cranky and cracked. As for moi, warming the bench will be my game for a few weeks due to my own major repair work. It’s for the best as I was not exactly at peak performance the past few months. Sure, I've had a few failures lately, but oh how I love a good comeback! However, the rest of my crew are ready to return full force right away, so spread the word if you know a charitable group in need of some tool power. In fact, it’s easier than ever to explain the Tool Lending Program as we now have a great video thanks to our generous and talented videographer, volunteer Steve. Share the link, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aR0bkaOl1c0 with your social network and let’s help more do-gooders dig a difference! ‘Till next time, tooldles!
June 2009
We rocked the neighborhood! The sixth annual Atlanta House Party was held on May 30th and provided FREE home improvement services for seven low income seniors in a single day. Allstate was our big sponsor again this year, thanks to a $25,000 grant that The Allstate Foundation recently awarded to the ToolBank for their HouseProud program. The Allstate Foundation has partnered with the ToolBank for the past six years, and Allstate employees, along with volunteers from other companies like SunTrust, Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta, The Home Depot, Keller Williams, Turner Broadcasting Systems, AutoTrader.com and Sutherland painted homes, installed gutters, repaired decks and cleared debris. Everyone had a ton of fun and my fellow toolheads made me proud as hundreds of roller cages, hammers, hand trowels and more stayed busy all morning. Luckily, the after party featured beer for all!
Did you know my HouseProud program also serves ten historic Atlanta neighborhoods year-round with the goal of helping homeowners remain warm, safe and dry in their existing homes? HouseProud Director Lisa and Area Manager Jonathon attend all the community meetings in both NPU T & V and work together with local leadership teams to match skilled volunteers with homes in need of critical repair. This enables seniors to remain in their own home and continue to serve as the eyes and ears of the community. I recently learned that communities who maintain a strong elderly presence do have a lower crime rate, coupled with a higher level of civic involvement. As one of the grateful House Party homeowners said, ‘It’s the American way-people helping people”
As more seniors and other fragile populations continue to shoulder not only their own personal care needs, but also those of adult children and grandchildren, the need for home repair services will only continue to grow. The residents served by HouseProud are homeowners over age 60, disabled or single parents. The average recipient is a widow over age 70 with a monthly income of under $800.00. Most of our homeowners have typically worked and resided their entire lives within the West Atlanta area. Some have been affected by escalating property taxes, illness and the associated medication costs, or just increased standard of living costs. Many are also assisting family members struggling with recent job losses. There simply is not enough money to maintain a safe home environment. This is where HouseProud provides the crucial link to strengthen communities. By providing complimentary wheelchair ramps, door locks, plumbing, electrical services and more, seniors are able to remain in their neighborhoods, in secure homes. Doesn’t everyone deserve that much?
Corporate and community support are the key to this revitalization effort and sponsors, individual donors and skilled volunteers are always in high demand. Click on the HouseProud button on my web homepage and see how you can help! Check out our party pics as well. Well, gotta dig…we have a big warehouse cleanup this afternoon. Tooldles!
May 2009
I love a good comedy and nothing delivers the laughs like Dad’s Garage. Have you checked out their Improv which runs Thursday –Saturday evenings? Since I am still waiting for my reality show deal (hello…who would not find Shovel & The City exciting? ), I am hoping for a chance to hit the great white way myself. Tickling funny bones since 1995 is no easy feat so it was great to see this renowned theatre align with another Atlanta based powerhouse, Turner Broadcasting. You probably know them for keeping your favorite movies or cartoons on the air, but their office of Corporate Responsibility is probably the best-kept secret in town. This department works year round to impact the community through a diverse range of projects. Turner employees love to give back and even host an annual volunteer day, which typically enables thousands of associates to get dirty with landscaping, painting and other improvement projects at several nonprofit agencies. This month 50 fun loving Turner folks visited Dad’s Garage, and thanks to a cadre of ToolBank inventory, were able to revamp the costume and prop rooms! This is a good thing, as space is always needed to accommodate the cool stuff theatre staff finds at our tool warehouse. As a ToolBank member agency, Dad’s Garage can utilize tools and supplies to create some awesome stage scenery. I hope you caught the recent original production of The B-Team by David Holstein. Did you notice the 7 doors on stage? Of course, they came straight from ToolBank’s Rescue & Reuse area! Check out their next production to see if you can find the ToolBank powered props….and maybe you’ll even notice a curvy blonde shovel-like gal somewhere in the mix. Till next time, tooldles!
April 2009
New Year’s Eve is no longer the party holiday. It’s all about Earth Day, friends. What else could you expect from a painted shovel like moi? While the official Earth Day was April 22nd, many groups chose to take action the weekend before and throughout the month. In fact, the service rush really took off back in March as ToolBank shattered the record books, equipping an astounding 244 volunteer projects in that one month! I can’t wait to see the final tally for April. As for this past weekend, Saturday the 18th was a major event across greater Atlanta. My southside heroes really went all out as ToolBank regulars Awesome, Inc. spearheaded a collaborative effort to put over 130 youth and adult volunteers to good work by joining forces with the Clayton County Adolescent Coalition and The City of Riverdale in their first annual MEGA Day of Service. ToolBank inventory was cranking full force; helping volunteers spruce up public greenspace, nursing homes, a children’s shelter and of course cleaning up the grounds of that fabulous Awesome, Inc. playground which Kaboom!, hundreds of volunteers and ToolBank tools helped construct way back in August of 2008. It’s so great to see our Awesome partners grow and prosper. As always, they put kids first and lead by example. The program is still going strong providing academic tutoring, life skills classes and general life enhancement mentoring. The spirit of giving demonstrated by founders Winston and Elaine Connally is evidenced by their willingness to share their new play space with the community at large, which has particularly helped a nearby apartment complex whose younger residents previously had no safe place to play. Way to go team Connally-you know how to use ToolBank power!
Across the pond, well really just I-75/85, Keep Atlanta Beautiful and a plethora of partners such as my own Atlanta Community ToolBank, The Beltline Conservancy and Park Pride were also motivating several hundred volunteers to remove litter and debris from 5 different locations across the proposed Beltline. V-103 was on hand to keep volunteers in step and a fun after party was enjoyed by all at presenting sponsor StudioPlex’s facility. Keep Atlanta Beautiful supports groups year round to strive for a cleaner and greener city. In fact, they are currently sponsoring a graffiti removal program, which provides The Home Depot gift cards to groups interested in wiping gout graffiti in their community. Ask my friend Gina about it by calling 404.880.0054 x11 or drop a line to gina@toolbank.org.
Whew! I am beat, so tooldles for now and thank you ToolBank member agencies and volunteers for making Earth Day 2009 one to remember. Let’s stay focused on having fun and making a difference. The year is still young and there’s lots to be done!
March 2009
My fellow tooltastics and I enjoyed a whirlwind weekend, although I must say I finally got the easy gig! Rockin’ the neighborhood over at Turner Field was a blast thanks to the A Town festival. Did you hear this annual event benefits several local charities focused on promoting healthy lifestyles for all age groups? The brainchild of The B-Aware Foundation, A Town Festival provides an opportunity for community-based vendors, non-profits and performers to unite in a day of celebration. Yours truly was a special guest, representing my Atlanta Community ToolBank. Educating the party hearty crowd on our programs was crazy fun and two new neighborhood groups even joined our Tool Lending Program. Everyone was impressed upon learning that ToolBank generators were actually cranking all day to keep the music jamming. As a ToolBank member agency, The B-Aware Foundation was able to borrow all kinds of supplies including our folding tables and chairs. In fact, we offer loads of cool stuff many might not think of as a “tool". Our new agencies are often surprised to learn that we even have things such as safety vests and hard hats. Which leads me to begrudgingly highlight the efforts of my nemesis, Shelly Sledgehammer. She, along with several hammers and wheelbarrows (not exactly the coolest clique in the shed), were honored to participate in Clark Howard’s Habitat for Humanity build. This was especially exciting as it was the final workday and also served as the dedication day for two completed homes. Fearless ToolBank leader Patty Russart and Board Director Sean Kennedy even stopped by to show some support. Sean was busy fending off autograph hounds due to his recent feature article in the AJC (As tool guru CJ says: What a son of a staple gun! That’s a good thing, by the way.), but Patty was able to chat with Mr. Clark himself. Everyone decided he was worthy of our signature polo shirt, so he is now an official toolhead and we hope to see more of him soon! The project was exciting and actually began back in late February as five homes began construction, with two being sponsored by the Howard family. Clark has a long history with Habitat for Humanity, personally sponsoring builds since 1996 and even dedicates each home to someone who has impacted his own life. The 2009 sites are located near ToolBank, so it’s great to welcome these new families to our neck of the woods. Read more, in Clark's own words! You will learn that he has picked up quite a bit of construction know how over the years. Of course, ToolBank is filled with some handy men and women as well. I am excited to announce we are launching a book lending library I like to call "How To? Can Do!” Our current inventory is small and eclectic (we somehow got books on how to garden in Arizona!?). However, there are some real gems including manuals for various carpentry, painting and even electrical techniques. We even have several of Habitat’s “How to Build a Home” guidebooks. Check it out next time you are at the warehouse.
Tooldles for now and hope to see you picking up some of my pals soon (Stay away from Shelly though-she even managed to sneak a whack at Harry Hammer during the Habitat build of all places! Poor Laura Lopper…what can you say? Once a homewrecker…)
March 2009
What a power surge! I am honored to report that I, Shirley Shovel, have been elected to represent ToolBank as Service Chief for Renew Crew, the newly launched volunteer guild of the Atlanta Community ToolBank. In this role, I will continue to support the great volunteer work of all ToolBank member agencies. Have you heard we number over 200 strong now? But that’s not all. My blue power pride is beaming because Renew Crew will actually benefit my ToolBank directly. That’s right; Renew Crew members will volunteer inside the tool warehouse helping with everything from painting new donations to tinkering in the repair shop. Volunteers can also help member agencies with tool check outs and returns. It is sure to be super rewarding as Renew Crew will actually impact hundreds of charitable causes at once. Volunteers are asked to serve at least 3 hours per month. That’s all it takes; minimal effort with maximum results are guaranteed! 3 hours? No problem! Weekend warrior opportunities are available the 3rd Saturday of each month from 9a-12p or volunteers can serve as Crew Chiefs by selecting a weekly or bi weekly shift weekdays from 9a-12p or 1p-4p. I am also planning some cool special events so stay on the look out. If you need binoculars-call CJ at the warehouse.
Sign up for Renew Crew here and hope to see you soon. Tooldles!
February 2009
Things are actually beginning to thaw out - No, I am not referring to my stalled reality show career, although I have more on that later. I mean that chilly freeze sweeping Atlanta has finally given way to some glorious pre-Spring sun. Luckily for me, my weekend assignment was au naturale. I was somewhat nervous to discover I was being shipped of to Grady High School, as I have never been very cerebral. Having a steel tip for a brain is not conducive to quantum physics. However, my scholastic worries were soon put aside when I discovered Grady is no mere school building. In fact, it is one of the preeminent centers of specialized learning in Atlanta. The faculty is committed to helping each student develop their own personal passion and potential. I had no idea they even have academies focused on Health Sciences, Hospitality and Fine Arts. The student body is also renowned for years of excellence in the area of fashion design. Clutch the Georgia clay! Did someone say fashion??? Have I mentioned my former modeling forays? I hate to brag-so Miss May of Construction Cuties 2000 is all I will say. Back to Grady. I was honored when the PTSA selected me to spearhead ToolBank participation in their Saturday service day. Students, faculty and parents all came together to improve landscaping in preparation for the upcoming Spring season. It was so refreshing to learn how the PTSA serves as true advocates for our youth, ensuring that top-notch education is a priority. Some of you may not realize that the Atlanta Community ToolBank provided support to over 40 school based volunteer groups in 2008. In fact my fellow blue crew helped construct playgrounds, revitalize green space and improve the exterior and interior of several elementary and middle schools. We are also currently participating in a long-term mural painting project in Clayton County. In fact, I am hoping to capture many of these awesome projects on film as part of my new reality style documentary; Dig The Journey. We have it all- a great star, superb supporting cast-but as with most works of creative genius-we are sadly lacking in the funds department. However, I am no snob, I can go low budget. All I need is one heck of a director with a camera and we are ready to roll! So give me a call all you creative thinkers out there! To end my rant, Yes, it was a heartwarming day at Grady and I know everyone deserves a special Valentine in recognition of their efforts. Speaking of special treats, I am working on my own little concoction to be delivered straight to Shelly Sledgehammer's door. She thinks Derek has quite a surprise in store for her.... and she just might be right. Too bad he has no idea. Just call me cupid.... with an arrow that never forgets! Till next time, tool-dles!
January 2009
Let me begin by explaining not all rumors are true and police reports are not always factual….
With that being said, let’s start by dishing some positively purposeful news! My friends at Allstate Insurance really blew me away on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Beyond February is their new outreach initiative, designed to foster civic engagement and community improvement across the United States.
Check out http://beyondfebruary.volunteermatch.org to learn more about what’s happening throughout the year. January 19, 2009 was the official kick-off, with our own Atlanta serving as Grand Marshall. Allstate coordinated hands on volunteerism at nine different non-profit agencies. Naturally, my Atlanta Community ToolBank provided all the tools needed to keep volunteers super busy. I had a great time watching all my fellow toolheads load into trucks, ready for service. But once I realized there was no room for me, my lil’ blue woodchip heart started to splinter. Luckily, ToolBank Board President Jessica showed up in the nick of time. She desperately needed me to help at the Friends of Washington Park volunteer site. I primped and preened, ready to be on my best behavior since I was with the Prez. No need to worry, as what a sauce pot she turned out to be! More on that later. Getting back to service, I was amazed when I arrived at the Park and saw all those bold blue friends of mine glistening as they worked. Volunteers were whizzing by , hauling mulch and much more! I even witnessed some gentlemen, who must be in the NFL or something, pull tree trunks straight out of the ground. Now, that’s a hunk of volunteer I’d like to meet! By the end of the afternoon, the park looked wonderful. I heard all the sites were so grateful for the assistance. So, I was greeting some fans-you know posing for pics and shoveling some autographs-when Ms. Prez decided to call over cutie cop. I admit, I had noticed his badge, as metal is my fashion of choice. I was not anticipating a run in with the law, but she insisted on introducing us. Well, I don’t know why he thought I was in the mood for manhandling….but a painted lady like me has to fight back every now and then. He claims it was all a misunderstanding, that I asked him to pose with me….but it was really Board Prezzy who acted as mastermind, snapping photos just to incite more Derek the Drill drama. Clearly, I am over faux aluminum dudes so I will pass on both. In fact, anything metallic in nature is a NO! Of course, I do love blue though....Well, I am preparing for a personal appearance at the Non-profit Resource Fair at the Hurt Building on Monday….so gotta dash for now. Drop me a line sometime at shirleyshovel@toolbank.org. Don’t fret, if talking to a painted shovel freaks you out, my publicist Gina handles all my correspondence! Tool-dles ya’ll.
P.S. Pics are forthcoming, just waiting on the Police Department to release them. What the heck is anecdotal evidence anyway????
January 2009
Whew! Being a working gal ain’t easy, those volunteers aren’t afraid to super grip a sweet helper like me. Confused? Oh, I better start from the beginning; My name is Shirley Shovel, although I prefer the nom de francais, Shovelle (pronounced like shove & elle). Some people refer to me as just a Rigid shovel with a painted face, but let me tell you, I see and hear it all people. As the service diva of Team ToolBank, I have been preparing for action since December. Unfortunately, a few weird dudes kept me in a Santa suit until after the holidays. Who would show up to a volunteer gig in that get up? I would hate for folks to think I am an odd-ball. Well, this month I was finally liberated and ready to improve my community; with the help of a few new friends. My first assignment began with a formal introduction to Kevin, the guru of Historic Oakland Cemetery. As a 20 year veteran of this cultural landmark, he knows how to get things done. Unfortunately, he did forget to bring flowers but I decided to let that faux pas slide in the interest of outreach efforts. Kevin selected me to participate in 2nd Saturday, the monthly volunteer event at the cemetery. Who knew a fun loving group gathers each time to provide general landscaping support. Upon arrival I was awestruck by the elegant entrance, reminiscent of the arched gateways often associated with the antebellum south. Did you know Historic Oakland was founded in 1850 and serves as the final resting place for such notables as Bobby Jones, Margaret Mitchell and Maynard Jackson? The curving drive provides a sweeping view of tombstones, diverse in both size and structural elements. Our service group met at the cemetery office, quite literally a white castle in appearance. No you silly northerners, not a hamburger joint! I am referring to a truly medieval looking castle. Closer inspection revealed the building previously served as a caretakers apartment. Now the renovated space is home to an eclectic gift shop and adorable meeting room, complete with a view of the city skyline. Truly a gem amongst our skyscraper crazed metropolis. Digging among the dead proved to be a much more tranquil experience than I anticipated. Our hard working crew loving tended the grounds, ensuring this haven can continue to delight and inspire visitors from all over the globe. Luckily, a whole truck load of my fellow toolheads were on hand to make it happen! Kevin said our Tool Lending Library saves him thousands of dollars annually. Money, that can then be directed back into supporting cemetery care! Hearing how the Atlanta Community ToolBank keeps volunteers happy and busy really makes my steel tip bling. I felt like a real VIP and can’t wait to help again. Hopefully my ex, Derek Drillbit, won’t show up again though. I really don’t need him trying to rev the power around me anymore-all you gals get my drift. And please, you don’t even want to get me started on that Shelly Sledgehammer; what a home wrecker! Ok, I digress. Enough about my personal issues. Learn more about the mission of Historic Oakland Cemetery here and make sure to check-in next month! Until then, tool-dles ya'll...
February 2010
The team at Community Collaborations International are my kind of folks. The organization is based out of Miami, FL with a focus on providing logistical support for groups interested in volunteer experiences across the globe. They send hundreds of collegiate groups on Alternative Spring Break trips each year. The students volunteer in a myriad of placements, learning more about the communities they serve, and themselves, along the way. One of the 2010 groups rolled into town this February, ready to repair homes damaged in those severe flood conditions we experienced last fall. Thanks to a generous grant from the Freddie Mac Foundation, my Atlanta Community ToolBank was able to provide tools and supplies, at no cost to the group. Teams were sent throughout the Austell area to volunteer at more than six home sites. They also pitched in with my good friends of the East Side Parks Network. Fearless ESPN founder Earl led a group of over 50 students, in less than ideal weather. I bet those Community Collaborations kids were not expecting to brave their own mini-flood. Now, everyone knows I love a good manhandling…but in the pouring rain? Even a sassy shovel has her limits. I must admit, I was proud of the collegiate troopers. They slapped on some tres chic UGA ponchos, grabbed my lopper and pruning pals and got to work. This project was Phase I of the Brown Family Cemetery Restoration. It all started when local resident Richard Lavender discovered his great, great, great, great (he must have been a swell guy) grandfather was buried in a family plot off Hutchens Road in East Atlanta. The old cemetery is literally smothered in overgrowth, so much in fact the tombstones are not even visible from the road. Well, Richard contacted the Historic Preservation Society and that’s how he found my most energetic tool user, Earl. Together they hatched a plot to clean up those old lots. Greenspace guru Earl even discovered that Richard has over 12 Brown family ancestors buried in the cemetery. And the biggest surprise of all? The two community improvement aficionado’s discovered they are distantly related by marriage, as some of their 1800’s counterparts apparently dug each other quite well. It’s a big undertaking, but with my Atlanta Community ToolBank powering the volunteer muscle, The East Side Parks Network & Co. will bring it full circle. Keep checking in with me for the latest news as I report on the cemetery progress and of course, keep my steel nose in everyone’s volunteer business. ‘Till then keep dreamin' big, diggin’ hard. Tooldles!