Most would agree that $70,000 is a lot of money, and when that money is raised by one organization and funneled into its local economy, it’s sure to benefit the people in that local community.
And that’s exactly what employees at Michael Carter Group did — they raised funds in excess of $70,000 in support of special needs organizations, including Easter Seals of Northern Ohio, March of Dimes, The Up Side of Downs, New Avenues to Independence and Autism Speaks.
But the organization, which provides financial planning services for families who have children with special needs, has donated more than just funds over the years. It also has given by providing picnics for families with special needs, scholarships, internship opportunities, computers and adaptive toy devices for pediatric rehabilitation facilities.
In addition to these efforts, the group also hosts an annual collaboration event, The Michael Carter Forum, which brings together executives, practitioners, therapists, specialists and professionals who provide services to the special needs community. The event aims to encourage collaboration and better serve families and those with special needs.
Under the leadership of Bernard T. Garrah, Brian M. Marino, Ken Vinikoff and Steve Thompson, the Michael Carter Group also works with EP Media/Magazine and Mass Mutual to support and sponsor “Disability Awareness Nights.” The goal of this event is to expand awareness of the 54.6 million Americans living with disabilities by highlighting their achievements and perseverance as well as the dedication by families, physicians, nurses, therapists, educators and caregivers. This annual event is held at a major or minor league baseball stadium and doesn’t just honor those who serve the community, but it also provides an opportunity for a choir composed of those with special needs to sing the national anthem and “Take me out to the ballgame” and for some of the children to throw out the first pitch.
In addition to the organization’s dedication to serving those with special needs, members of the firm have served on the boards or on committees with several organizations, including Art Therapy Studio, Autism Society of Greater Cleveland, Care for Others, Dancing Wheels, Fieldstone Farms, and the Chagrin Falls School District Exceptional Student program, among others.
How to reach: Michael Carter Group, (216) 592-7340 or www.michaelcartergroup.com