May 05, 2014

After a string of more than 125 tornadoes cut through Arkansas in April-causing 15 deaths, numerous injuries and destruction in many communities-the Service Access department felt compelled to spin into action.

The department, which already had set up a collection for Matthew 25: Ministries as part of the Community Service Challenge at Bethesda Oak, took up an urgent donation drive and collected $1,200 in four days for Matthew 25: Ministries.

A Blue Ash-based organization, Matthew 25: Ministries offers humanitarian aid and disaster relief across the world, and responded quickly to the damage in Arkansas with truckloads of supplies.

Service Access plans to continue working with Matthew 25: Ministries in the coming months with volunteer hours and donation drives as part of the Community Service Challenge. Many other departments at Bethesda Oak have embraced the challenge, organized by the Bethesda Oak Diversity Advisory Council.

"We are excited about our opportunity to serve a terrific organization with local roots and global reach," said Brenda Kohl of Service Access.

About the Challenge

Departments or service lines at Bethesda Oak were challenged to choose a service project that aligns with TriHealth's mission, vision and values.

Currently, teams are competing to earn the most volunteer hours or donations, which translate into points for prizes. A grand-prize winning team will get a $1,000 donation to their charity, and the top three teams with the most points will receive a prize.

In addition to Matthew 25: Ministries, departments or locations have chosen to benefit:

• Boys & Girls Club
• Cincy Cinco
• Crayons to Computers
• Dress for Success
• Freestore Foodbank
• Peppermint Pig Rescue
• Save the Animal Foundation (STAF)
• Suit Yourself
• The Friars Club
• Warren County Community Services
• Wounded Warrior

For more information, contact Richard Kroeger at Richard_Kroeger@Trihealth.com or call 513 569 6392.