The Pasco Tribune July 19, 2005
By Megan Hussey

UMBRELLA ORGANIZATION HELPS NEEDY AREA CHILDREN

DADE CITY - At the 4th Congress of The American Dream Practitioners (TAD), a meeting of Pasco community, churches and organization leaders, the director of the Boys and Girls clubs of Tampa Bay discussed the great accomplishments of the children in his organization as well as their need for basic necessities such as food, clothing and school supplies.

The moment that George Jarosik's words were spoken, he was greeted by a chorus of help from fellow TAD practitioners: "What do you need?" "When and where can we donate?" and "How can we help?"

This exchange captured the true spirit of the TAD conference, held last week at the east campus of Pasco-Hernando Community College, and it reflected the overall mission of TAD. The organization was formed in 2002 by a team of community leaders that featured Bob Loring, of East Pasco Toys for Tots; Laura Nickelbein and Sister Jean Abbot, representing Saint Leo University; Susan Hudson and Christel Vinson, representing the Department of Children and Families.

Loring was co-host of the 4th Congress event with PHCC representative Jessica White, and welcomed keynote speakers state Rep. Ken Littlefield, R-Wesley Chapel, and Pasco County Commissioner Pat Mulieri.

Mulieri presented Loring with a resolution from the county commission.

"Where as TAD is student powered, multi-disciplined inclusive approach to empower needy children to discover the American Dream, " It stated. "Pasco's community leaders forged this group in 2002 from observation that there are a growing number Pasco children living in the bitter clutches of abject poverty ... TAD spine tingling national implications."

In her accompanying address, Mulieri also quoted Margaret Mead.

"One person can make a difference, " she said. "A group of dedicated citizens can change the world."

In the eyes of Molieri and Littlefield, TAD practitioners work together to make a difference in the Pasco community.

"One of my favorite things to do is to be in a room of people investing in the lives of others, " Littlefield said. " You have exhibited magnificent compassion. "

"Since the beginning, TAD has maintained the credibility and integrity, and remained focused on its mission, " he added. "TAD is like a guardrail; your saving lives and are part of the cure."

Apart from her hosting duties, White presented what many saw as another example of TAD teamwork. She announced that Pasco-Hernando Community College will offer its gymnasium to East Pasco Toys for Tots for this years toy assembly and distribution events. And Randall Stovall, PHCC East Campus provost, said that in a state in which one of four people volunteer, TAD practitioners are the "models people want to emulate."

The congress also addressed the individual needs, accomplishments and progress of agencies associated with TAD, including Toys for Tots and School Tools that Empower and Promote Success - an extension of Toys for Tots that provides free health related services and school supplies for needy children.

Speaking on behalf of STEPS were Anna Fulk and police Chief Russell Barnes of Zephyrhills;Debbie Nix, HMO Coalition;Jessica White,Dade City;Denny Milhalinec, Trilacoochee; and Madonna Rodriguez, Premiere Community Health.

Other speakers included Jarosik on behalf of Boys and Girls Club; Chuck Fulk and Harry Schultz, Marine Corps League; Robert Kravabloski, Elderly Nutrition Division of Pasco County;and Matt Hillen, East Pasco Habitat for Humanity.

All of the partnerships formed at the TAD congress are, like the organization itself, for the good of the children, Loring said.

"Our delegates network and interact to provide opportunities for needy children who reside in Pasco, "Loring said. "TAD aims to empower children in their quest to find the American Dream.

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