No Twinkies?

I recently heard that the American snack cakes “Twinkies” by Hostess Brands are in danger of disappearing off grocery store shelves because of financial difficulties. Granted, I haven’t purchased or eaten a “Twinkie” in countless years. Yet I was saddened by the news that this icon from my youth may no longer be available as a fond reminder of my early years, nor will my grandchildren be able to experience this packaged treat. I don’t believe that I can (or would want to) single-handedly help “Twinkies” stage a comeback, but I plan to purchase a box next time I’m at the store, just to show my support and ensure that my children have an opportunity to create a joint memory with me of Hostess cakes.

Whether or not you care that “Twinkies” may soon be history (or whether or not you even know they ever existed), I have a related question for you today. Can you imagine life (yours or your children’s) without The Gray Center?

We are a very small nonprofit organization, with an annual budget less than $100,000. We respond to needs and provide valuable services around the world with a budget that provides for only 45 staffing hours per week. We receive no government funding. We receive no private grants. We charge minimal prices for our services, knowing that the people who need them often do not have the money to pay for them. In the past, we relied on the sales of books and DVDs to fund our budget so that we can provide our services. With the rise of Amazon and e-readers, that is no longer feasible.

Will you do your part to show support for the work we do, and help to ensure that we can continue to be here for you, your children, and your grandchildren?

While your gift of $25, $100, or even $500 will not meet all of The Gray Center’s needs, your show of support, combined with the gifts of everyone else reading this email, may be exactly what we need to stage a powerful comeback. If you are unable to give at this time, perhaps you can arrange for someone else (a friend, relative, employer, or local business) to give in your place.

What does The Gray Center mean to you? Who have you told? How much have you given? I hope that today will be the day that The Gray Center outpaces Twinkies, for so much more is at stake in the lives of our families, schools, workplaces, and communities. We believe that this Social Incites™ newsletter, Social Stories™, The Social Response Pyramid™, our web site, presentations, groups, classes, library, and bookstore meet a crucial need today, and will far into the future, if only you will help support us.

Will you give a gift today?

Thank you in advance for your support, your help in advertising The Gray Center, your encouragement, and your financial contributions. We literally can’t do it without you!

Statistics show that only one or two of the thousands of people reading this email will respond by giving. If everyone decides to be the ONE that gives, The Gray Center could have the support it needs, not only to survive, but to thrive, with opportunities to increase our services and reach even more people with our information and support.