Supporting those who are in need: Commonwealth Financial Services donates $4,000 to North Star Advocacy

Commonwealth Financial Services donates $4,000 to North Star Advocacy

PARKERSBURG -- A contribution of $4,000 was made to the North Star Child Advocacy Center by Commonwealth Financial Services.

A check was presented to the child-advocacy agency following tour of the facilities.

"North Star is a light for thousands of children in possibly the most dark and challenging time of their lives. It's really unfortunate that kids are put in these circumstances, but thank God for organizations like North Star who have a heart filled with love and compassion," Daniel Spurgeon, a financial advisor for Commonwealth Financial Services. "These folks are tirelessly committing their time and effort to healing, counseling, protecting, and supporting the next generation of children in our region and that is something that Commonwealth Financial will always stand behind. We are honored to support this organization."

North Star was appreciative of the contribution.

"On behalf of North Star's entire board of directors, we want to express our deepest thanks to the entire team at Commonwealth Financial Services," Janelle Seevers, president of the North Star Board of Directors, said. "Its generous donation and belief in our mission is something we truly cherish. Not only has Commonwealth been a valuable partner for the center, but for our many affiliates as well- with special thanks going out to Daniel Spurgeon for spearheading this development opportunity. Together, we are creating a lasting impact, and we couldn't be more grateful to have them by our side!"

North Star Executive Director Greg Collins said it is important for organizations such as North Star see the work done for children.

"You can think you know, but you never really understand unless you've been here. People are always changed when leaving the center," Collins said.

Among the most important and extensive efforts has been to educate the public about North Star, he said.

"When there are people that know about North Star in the room when there is talk about who to support or contribute to, because of who we help and what we do, we will be in the conversation. If people don't know about us, we will obviously never be mentioned," Collins said.

North Star serves five counties, the most of any child advocacy center in the state. It has also been the busiest of the 20 other CACs in the state, seeing over 600 children each of the last four years. All referrals come from law enforcement and/or Child Protective Services, they are not a walk-in facility.

The City of Vienna is the only local government to include North Star in its budget. Other than Vienna, operational funds come from federal and state grants, foundations and donations from the public. North Star is solely focused on the child and non-offending family members or guardians and getting them the help and tools they need to heal and be a productive member of our community, for as long as they need it.

For more information, contact North Star at 304-917-4437 or via email nscac@northstarcac.org to learn more about how you can help or to request a tour of the facility.

For information on leaving an endowment or a legacy gift, contact the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation.