On March 12, the 2024 Leadership Lodi Class participated in their annual “Non-Profit Day,” a pivotal event where local non-profit organizations showcase their missions, facilities, and needs. Throughout the day, 12 diverse non-profits presented their work and proposed volunteer projects for the class to consider, concluding in the selection and completion of one project by the class.

 

The day began at the One-Eighty Teen Center, where Co-Director Jake McGregor unveiled the center's extensive impact beyond its skate park. Serving Lodi’s teens for over 22 years, the center prioritizes mental health, spearheaded gang prevention efforts, and fosters community cohesion through programs like "Intentional Neighbors."

 

John Ledbetter of the Lodi Community Foundation emphasized the importance of volunteering for causes one is passionate about, managing funds for numerous local organizations and facilitating donations.

 

Visits to the Lodi Access Center and Hope Harbor highlighted different approaches to addressing homelessness. While the former focuses on relationship-building and support, the latter offers structured pathways to reintegration into society, including a culinary arts program.

 

At the L.O.E.L. Senior Center, the vital role of social interaction in the well-being of seniors became evident during lunch and games. Hospice of San Joaquin underscored the indispensable support they provide to the community.

 

Lodi House stood out for its unique service, offering housing specifically for women with children, sheltering 22 mothers and 61 children in the past year. The Lodi Boys & Girls Club has been a safe haven for teens for over six decades.

 

PALS Haven showcased their new facility, debt-free and equipped to accommodate more animals and provide veterinary services. World of Wonders (WOW) Museum shared its ambitious expansion plans after years of enriching educational experiences for local schools.

 

Shauna Jacob from The Child Abuse Prevention Council shed light on their multifaceted efforts, including the management of the "Head Start" preschool program and support for Child Protective Services.

 

The day concluded at The Village – Adult Development & Community Center, offering a lifeline for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, enabling them to forge friendships and engage in everyday activities.

 

Through these encounters, it became evident that each non-profit organization plays a vital role in shaping the fabric of the Lodi community. Their collective efforts fill essential gaps and enrich the lives of residents, underscoring the indispensable nature of their contributions.