Articles Tagged "Giving Back"

The Ohio state flower is the carnation, but there are plenty of other beautiful flowers adding their colors to life throughout the state. One of them is the daffodil. Also known as the narcissus, the daffodil has been a symbol of rebirth for thousands of years because it's one of the first flowers seen every spring.

Realtor Jim Camp of Cutler Real Estate wanted to find a way to honor the nearly 800,000 Americans who have perished due to the COVID-19 pandemic. That figure includes nearly 27,000 Ohioans. Virtually everyone has a friend, neighbor, or family member who has suffered.

Jim is well known as a team player. He believes it's important to come together to tackle big challenges. It's just as crucial to remember our past and where we've come from. As the holiday season arrives, so many people will be thinking about those they've lost. Jim wanted to do his part for their memory.

Jim, the son of a broker, was licensed in Philadelphia at age 18. He settled in Ohio soon afterward and first held his Ohio brokerage license in 1978. Since then, he has had the opportunity to touch the lives of thousands of families and had received heartbreaking news from many people throughout 2020-2021.

To recognize the hard work of frontline workers as well as those lost from Northeast Ohio to Columbus to Cincinnati and beyond, Jim proposed the "Daffodils Across Ohio" service project. The goal was simple: Gather enough daffodils so they could be planted and provide new life all throughout Ohio.

The Buckeye State will now bloom with thousands of daffodils thanks to Jim and his colleagues.

Collecting More Than 14,000 Daffodils

Jim's vision was quickly embraced by his team at Cutler Real Estate. But everyone knew they had to go beyond their own office, even their own network, to make the biggest impact possible. Word spread quickly from Cutler Real Estate through Ohio's community of REALTORS.

All in all, Realtors purchased and planted more than 14,000 daffodil bulbs.

In late November, a donation of 500 bulbs was received at Ohio's statehouse in a grand ceremony. Gov. Mike DeWine, Sen. Jay Hottinger, and a variety of other community figures accepted the donation on behalf of state residents. Jim noted that his idea was inspired by Gov. DeWine's 2019 inauguration speech, where he related that his father, then battling cancer, encouraged his children to plant daffodils in the fall so they would remember him in the spring.

In 2020, Jim received the Mary L. Pollock Lifetime Achievement Award for his decades of tireless service to the real estate profession. "Daffodils Across Ohio" is poised to become another important part of his legacy. It also speaks to the dedication, camaraderie, and community spirit of Ohio's REALTORS®.

Ohio REALTORS® President Seth Task noted that the response of the state's real estate professionals to "Daffodils Across Ohio" was "remarkable." He also thanked Jim for his unique contributions, saying, "each spring, hundreds of daffodils will emerge across the grounds of our beautiful Statehouse." This would serve" as a reminder of our loss and tribute to the can-do spirit of the first-responders and health care professionals."

Here at Cutler Real Estate, we believe in making our community better one day at a time. Homeownership is the way to foster greater stability and commitment within the community. It means a better future for children and more opportunities to start a business, get an education, and advance together.

Contact us today to learn more about "Daffodils Across Ohio" or start your own home search.

Could you spare a pint of blood for those in need throughout Columbus?

Believe it or not, you can "bleed" for a good cause without any pain or discomfort. In fact, a few minutes sitting on a comfortable chair is all that's needed to save a number of lives. Donating blood is one of the easiest, yet most selfless acts that you can do. If you've never donated blood before or haven't in a few years, now is the perfect time to perform such a heroic deed.

June 14th, 2020, is World Blood Donor Day. Organized by the World Health Organization, World Blood Donor Day is an annual event designed to raise awareness and spread education about the many benefits of blood donation. This international celebration unites us all in a quest to preserve the wellbeing of our communities with the life-saving gift of blood.

World Blood Donor Day began in 2004 in an attempt to raise awareness of the need for safe, clean blood, as well as to recognize the many selfless donors who voluntarily save the lives of thousands by simply donating their blood a few times each year.

Why are Blood Donations so Vital?

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Vincenzo D'Anniballe (@vincype) on Jan 11, 2018 at 12:48pm PST

Think about how much any donation can impact a community. A few dollars can feed a person struggling with homelessness, a few donated clothing can help a family, and a few hours of volunteering can benefit countless members of our society. While time, money, and effort can go a long way in helping our fellow neighbors, blood donations can make quite an impact in ways that we may not even realize.

Like other donations, blood donations are used in a variety of ways. In some cases, donated blood is used in planned medical treatments such as blood transfusions. Donated blood is also used to facilitate urgent medical interventions, such as when an individual has lost a significant volume of their own blood due to an accident, injury, or natural disaster.

What many individuals, even some donors, don't know is that blood is also used for healthcare in other, long-term ways. Many blood donations are saved in a blood bank for future use while others are sent overseas to countries that do not have safe or sufficient quantities of blood. Blood plasma donations can also be used for other medical treatments.

Facts About Blood Donations

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Red Cross Central/Southern OH (@buckeyeredcross) on Jun 17, 2019 at 10:05am PDT

When you donate blood, every drop counts. While it may seem odd to think that something every human has is in short supply around the world, the reality is that there are thousands if not millions of men, women, and children across the globe that cannot obtain the clean, safe blood that they desperately need to restore their health. Here are a few vital facts about blood donations that we believe you should know:

• A single blood donation can save as many as three lives.
  
  
• Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs a blood donation.
  
  
• 62 percent of the population is ineligible to donate blood.
  
  
• Type O blood is the most requested blood by hospitals, because Type O negative can be given to all blood types, but only 7 percent of the population in the United States are Type 0 negative.
  
  
• Blood cannot be manufactured artificially; it must be donated from volunteers.
  
  
• Over 117 million blood donations are collected around the world each year.
  
  
• Over 65 countries collect less than 10 donations per 1,000 people.
  
  
• Blood transfusions account for 75 percent of adults over the age of 65 in high-income countries.
  
  
• Nearly 80 countries around the world rely on voluntary unpaid blood donations for 90-100 percent of their blood supply.
  
  
• Blood transfusions account for 52 percent of children under the age of 5 in low-income countries.

Frequently Asked Questions About Blood Donations

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Nimisha Bajaj (@thenimster) on Apr 2, 2020 at 8:50am PDT

Would you like to learn more about donating blood? Here are a few frequently asked questions prospective donors inquire about via the American Red Cross:

• How old do I need to be to give blood?
  Most states require a donor be 17 years of age or older, but some states do allow 16-year-old individuals to donate with parental consent.
  
  
• How often can I donate blood?
  A donor may donate blood at most once every 8 to 16 weeks.
  
  
• Does donating blood hurt?
  When the needle is inserted into your arm, you may feel a quick, small pinch.
  
  
• When will my body regenerate my blood?
  While your red blood cells require around six weeks to regenerate, your plasma will regenerate within one day.
  
  
• How long does a blood donation take?
  On average, the actually donating process takes around 10 minutes. However, the registration process and recovery process will add time to your visit. Budget around one full hour to complete the full process.

June Blood Drives Around Columbus

Saturday, June 13, 2020

• Polaris Fashion Place
  1540 Polaris Parkway, Columbus, OH 43240

Sunday, June 14, 2020

• New Life Church
  3690 N. Stygler Rd., Gahanna, OH 43230

Monday, June 15, 2020

• American Red Cross
  995 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43205

Tuesday, June 16, 2020

• Mount Carmel New Albany Surgical Hospital
  7277 Smiths Mill Rd., New Albany, OH 43054

Friday, June 19, 2020

• Molina Healthcare
  3000 Corporate Exchange Dr., Columbus, OH 43231

Note that many locations may require signup prior to donating, but these blood donation events are far from the only opportunities for donation. Nearly every day of the year, there's a way for you to donate blood around the Columbus area. There are also a number of blood buses that schedule frequent stops at popular locations such as shopping plazas, community centers, and school campuses.

Be a Life Saver

Have you ever donated blood before? Tell us about your experience in the comments below and give other donors the support and advice you think will help make their experience as positive as possible.

With gyms closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many Northeast Ohio residents are struggling to keep fit. From YouTube videos to push-up and squat challenges, those who want to stay in shape have certainly found some creative outlets to do so.

For runners, a virtual 5K race is a fun and exciting way to enjoy the camaraderie of race day while still staying socially distant. How does it work? You simply register ahead of time, then, on the day of the race, run or walk in any place you choose. Your medal will be shipped directly to you! 

Sound like fun? You're in luck! There's certainly no shortage of upcoming virtual races in the local area. For each of these races, you can complete your run (or walk) any time between the start and end dates. Unless otherwise noted, you may also choose between a 1-mile, 5K, 10K, half-marathon, or marathon run. You'll time yourself, and race officials will ask you to send them your time. The prices include your medal, race bib, and shipping.  

Now that you know how everything works, here are a few you may want to check out.

Race Through the Clouds

Sunday, May 10th at 7 pm - Sunday, May 31st at 9 pm

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Children's Cancer Research (@childrenscancer) on Apr 8, 2020 at 8:04am PDT

This very special virtual race is being held in honor of Zach Sobiech, who wrote the song "Clouds" when he was dying of osteosarcoma at only 18 years old. The cloud-themed medal was made to honor his legacy and his "anthem of hope."

This race is held in May, to celebrate Zach's birthday, and 15% of the registration fee will be donated to the Zach Sobiech Osteosarcoma Funds. 

2020 Happy Hug Day

Saturday, May 16th at 7 pm - Sunday, May 31st at 9 pm 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by HUGS Foundation, Inc. (@hugsfoundationinc) on Apr 7, 2020 at 4:14pm PDT

You might not be able to give out real hugs right now, but you can virtually celebrate National Hug Day. For this race, 15% of the fees will go to the HUGS (Help Us Give Smiles) Foundation, Inc., an organization that gives free medical care to children and adolescents who have a cleft palate, cleft lip, microtia, and other facial deformities. 

You can also purchase an official race t-shirt or hoodie if you want to show extra support! 

The Great Toilet Paper Chase

Saturday, June 13th at 7 pm - Saturday, August 29th at 8 pm 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by World Health Organization (@who) on Apr 28, 2020 at 7:19am PDT

Did you know that National Toilet Paper Day is coming up on August 26th? Considering the craziness surrounding this essential product, it's only appropriate that a race is held in honor of it. 

A minimum of 30% of your $22 entry fee will go to the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund through the World Health Organization. This charity helps provide frontline healthcare workers with essential supplies and supports research to speed the discovery of diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines. 

Get Truckin' 5K

Saturday, June 13th at 7 pm - Wednesday, September 30th at 8 pm

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by St Christopher Truckers Fund (@truckerfund) on May 5, 2020 at 8:37am PDT

One of the most essential, and under-recognized workers during the COVID-19 pandemic is the nation's truck drivers. These are the people who ensure that we're able to get food and critical medical supplies to the places that need them. Help support them by registering for the Get Truckin' 5K. 

Thirty percent of each registration goes to the St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund. For a limited time, you can also purchase a limited-edition t-shirt or hoodie.  

2020 Race for the Greatest

Saturday, June 20th at 7 pm - Sunday, August 23rd at 9 pm 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by After-School All-Stars (@afterschoolallstars) on Apr 29, 2020 at 11:06am PDT

On January 26th of this year, the world lost the great Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna. This race is held in his honor. The distances for this race are slightly different. Choose from a 2-mile, 8K (4.97 miles), or 24K (14.91 miles) run or walk. These numbers were chosen for Gianna's jersey numbers (2, 8, and 24). 

At least 34% of the registration cost will be donated to an organization that Bryant was passionate about After School All-Stars. You can also purchase an official t-shirt or hoodie. 

Father's Day 5K

Sunday, June 21st at 7 pm - Tuesday, June 30th at 9 pm

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Team Hoyt Official Page (@teamhoytofficial) on Apr 26, 2017 at 6:38pm PDT

Celebrate the important dads in your life and get a fun superhero medal! Run in honor of Dad, give the medal to him, or purchase an extra one to give as a gift. 

The registration is $22 and15% of the fee to Team Hoyt, which works with disabled and physically challenged young people to help build their self-esteem, character, and confidence. If you'd like, you can also purchase a commemorative t-shirt or hoodie. 

We're All in This Together: Social Distancing 6K

Saturday, June 27th at 7 pm - Monday, August 31st at 9 pm

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Feeding America (@feedingamerica) on May 4, 2020 at 8:59am PDT

In honor of the 6-foot social distancing recommendations, this race features a medal that reads "We're all in this together, but six feet apart." At least 30% of all proceeds from this race's registration will go toward supporting Feeding America, which supports food banks across the country. 

Champions for the Children 5K

Thursday, August 20th at 7 pm - Mon. Nov. 30th at 9 pm

This race is held in celebration of World Children's Day, which occurs on November 20th. Registration for this event is $22 and 25% of this goes to support Feeding America. 

Set Your New PR 

Which of these awesome virtual 5K races are you going to do? 

COVID-19, typically referred to as the coronavirus, has impacted every aspect of our daily lives. Social distancing and quarantine-appropriate behavior have forced many of us to work, study, and spend all of our free time at home. Even with plans to begin re-opening the state in May, the CDC is still encouraging all individuals to wear protective masks when in public. Our healthcare workers, emergency personnel, and other essential workers have an even greater need for personal protective equipment (PPE).

At Cutler Real Estate, we consider the health and wellbeing of our family members, friends, and neighbors throughout the community to be a top priority. In these unprecedented times, we must come together and do our part to reduce the risk of spreading the coronavirus around Columbus. By making, wearing, and donating homemade masks, we can decrease our chances of spreading or contracting this virus.

The Importance of Masks in Fighting COVID-19

The coronavirus is a microscopic virus that is small enough to pass through nearly all facial coverings. However, when someone infected sneezes or coughs, the virus attaches itself to water molecules before leaving the body. Facial coverings made of nearly any fabric can effectively contain these water molecules, essentially providing a significant element of protection that everyone has immediate access to.

The masks that are most effective at preventing the spread of coronavirus are N95 surgical and procedure masks, which are typically used in healthcare settings. Although these forms of PPE are available for the public to purchase, government officials are asking that these masks only be reserved for healthcare workers who are constantly at risk of coming in contact with infected individuals. However, all other non-medical individuals can create homemade face masks to wear or donate to others in need.

How to Make a Homemade Mask Without a Sewing Machine

For a quick and easy no-sew way to make an effective mask using materials in your home, refer to these instructions provided by the Center for Disease Control.

Steps for a Bandana Face Mask

1. Fold a square bandana in half.
   
   
2. Fold the top down to the center and the bottom up to the center.
   
   
3. Feed the folded bandana through two rubber bands or hair ties.
   
   
4. Fold the ends of the bandana to the middle and tuck them into the bands.
   
   
5. Place the mask across your mouth and hook the bands around your ears.

Steps for a T-Shirt Face Mask

1. Cut across the stomach of a t-shirt roughly 7-8 inches from the bottom.
   
   
2. Cut a rectangle out horizontally in the center of the shirt about 6-7 inches in.
   
   
3. Cut the edges of the open side to make tie strings.
   
   
4. Tie one of the tie strings around your neck and the other around the top of your head so that the cloth covers your nose and mouth.

How to Sew a Homemade Mask

If you're interested in sewing your own mask, the CDC also offers guidelines. For this task, you'll need a sewing machine, scissors, a needle and thread, two pieces of elastic-like rubber bands or hair ties, and two pieces of cotton fabric measuring 10"x6".

1. Cut the 10"x6" fabric pieces out of a large cloth such as bed sheets or blankets.
   
   
2. Place them together and fold over the long sides ¼" then hem. Fold the fabric over ½" over the shorter sides and stitch them down.
   
   
3. Thread the elastic through the openings on the wide side and tie each side in a knot to create ear holes.
   
   
4. Place the mask over your nose and mouth, adjusting as needed.

Keep these tips in mind when using homemade cloth masks:

• The mask should fit snuggly without restricting your breathing.
• They should be made of multiple layers of fabric.
• They can be washed and dried in the washing machine and dryer without incurring damage.

Columbus Donation Locations

If you have the time and materials, please consider making extra homemade masks to donate to those in need. Here are a few organizations around Columbus that are accepting donations of PPE.

• The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
  410 W. 10th Ave., Columbus, OH 43210
  
  

   

   

   

   

   

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  A post shared by OhioStateIMRes (@ohiostateimres) on Apr 18, 2020 at 1:40pm PDT

  
  The OSU Wexner Medical Center is accepting donations of unopened medical items such as hand sanitizer, gloves, gowns, shoe covers, and N95 masks at their donation center.
  
  
• Mount Carmel Health Corporate Service Center
  6150 East Broad St., Columbus, OH 43213
  
  

   

   

   

   

   

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  A post shared by Mount Carmel Health System (@mountcarmelhealth) on Apr 7, 2020 at 3:30pm PDT

  
  Mount Carmel is currently accepting unopened medical supplies, including N95 masks, gowns, gloves, hand sanitizer, and sanitizer wipes.
  
  
• OhioHealth Columbus Donation Center
  830 Kinnear Rd., Columbus, OH 43212
  
  

   

   

   

   

   

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  A post shared by OhioHealth (@ohiohealth) on Apr 10, 2020 at 7:37pm PDT

  
  OhioHealth is currently accepting donations medical equipment, including medical coveralls, face shields, disposable lab coats, catheters, HEPA filters, and exam gloves, as well as hand-sewn masks and headbands.
  
  
• Franklin County Emergency Management and Homeland Security
  5300 Strawberry Farms Blvd., Columbus, OH 43230
  
  

   

   

   

   

   

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  A post shared by Leah (@adeleah.studio) on Apr 13, 2020 at 2:41pm PDT

  
  FCEM&HS is accepting medical PPE like surgical masks, viral swabs, gowns, and gloves, as well as handmade masks donations.  
  
  
• YWCA of Columbus Ohio
  65 South Fourth St., Columbus, OH 43215
  
  

   

   

   

   

   

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  A post shared by YWCA Columbus (@ywcacbus) on Apr 7, 2020 at 8:58am PDT

  
  The YWCA of Columbus is seeking donations of medical disposable face masks, disposable gloves, and hand sanitizer in addition to their traditionally requested needs.
  
  
• Ohio Department of Health
  246 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
  
  

   

   

   

   

   

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  A post shared by Ohio Department of Health (@ohiodepartmentofhealth) on Mar 21, 2020 at 8:33am PDT

  
  The Ohio DOH is accepting donations of vital medical equipment as well as any other services or resources that can be offered to assist the state and benefit all Ohioans.

Helping Frontline Workers

If you know of any other healthcare or frontline facilities accepting donations of homemade masks or other critical PPE, please let us know in the comments below.

What is a Karma Keg?

2019 Karma Keg Schedule

Canton Brewing Company

Photo courtesy of Canton Brewing Company

Seventh Son Brewing

Akronym Brewing

Land-Grant Brewing Company

Photo courtesy of Land-Grant Brewing Company

Shale Brewing Company

High Banks Distillery

The Brew Kettle

Will we see you there?