Naloxone Saves Lives

Protect Solano County from Fentanyl Overdoses

Fentanyl overdoses are a growing crisis in Solano County. This potent synthetic opioid is being found in a wide range of drugs – from pills and cocaine to meth and even marijuana. Many people don’t realize they’re at risk, but just one dose of fentanyl can be fatal.

That’s where naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, comes in. Narcan is a safe, easy-to-use nasal spray that reverses the effects of an overdose within seconds. It’s simple enough for anyone to use and having it on hand could mean the difference between life and death.

Access to Narcan is critical for our community. Tragically, less than 30% of fatal overdoses in Solano County involved someone who had Narcan nearby. We can change that.

The good news? You can get Narcan for free through the Solano Recovery Project. Whether you use drugs or know someone who does, carrying Narcan can save lives and help protect our community.

Visit SolanoRecoveryProject.org today to learn more and get your free Narcan kit. Together, we can fight back against fentanyl and break the stigma surrounding overdose prevention.

Remember: Narcan saves lives – let’s make it accessible to everyone who needs it.

Direct: 707.372.4160
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Community Cleanup, TOMORROW!

When: Saturday December 28th, 2024

Time: 9:00am – 11:00am

Where: Matt Garcia Foundation Office, 717 Texas Street, Fairfield, CA 94533

The Matt Garcia Foundation will provide gloves, garbage pickers and buckets for collecting the trash.

Students can earn community service hours. Lunch provided after the cleanup.

For more information www.FFINEST.org

To receive updated information on volunteering opportunities, sign up for our text alerts. 

Text: 81010 | Enter: @mgfv

Direct: 707.372.4160
Email: info@ffinest.org
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Happy Holidays

As we approach the end of another year, I find myself reflecting with immense gratitude on all we have accomplished together through The Matt Garcia Foundation. I can truly feel Matt’s spirit guiding us, inspiring every step of this journey.

We are blessed with the most incredible board members. Over the past 16-plus years, some board members have moved on, others have returned, and every single one of them has been a gift to our foundation and our community.

To our current and former board members, advisoryboard members, and our long-term volunteers, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your

unwavering dedication has made everything we do possible.

This year marked our 14th Annual Matt Garcia "Drive to Keep the Dream Alive" Golf Tournament, and I’m thrilled to share it was another resounding success! A heartfelt thank you to our sponsors and donors—you are the true heroes of this event. Your contributions empower us to make a difference. Because of your generosity, we were able to award scholarships to 11 high school seniors, helping them pursue their dreams through community college, university,

or trade school. We’re so proud to see these young scholars grow, with many returning to The Matt Garcia Foundation as volunteers or even board members.

The essence of The Matt Garcia Foundation is about giving back to our community in every way possible. Whether through scholarships, sponsoring sports teams, supporting educational field trips, or hosting back-to-school giveaways, every dollar donated is poured back into making a tangible impact.

One of the things that brings me the greatest joy is watching our young people step into leadership roles through our events and programs. Matt always believed in giving young people opportunities, and because of your support, we can continue creating those opportunities—helping today’s youth grow into tomorrow’s leaders.

As we close out 2024, I want each and every one of you to know how deeply appreciated you are. Your support ensures that we can Keep Matt’s Dream Alive while inspiring others to chase their own dreams.

Here’s to another incredible year ahead. Together, we’re building a brighter future for our community, one step at a time.

With gratitude,

Teresa Courtemanche

President, The Matt Garcia Foundation

Direct: 707.372.4160

Email: info@ffinest.org

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Target Heroes and Helpers

It was a very cold and brisk morning; temperature at around 49 degrees! As we approached the front entry of the Target store, there was a line already formed along the side.

Waiting anxiously, but very cold and sleepy, were 20 lucky students from the Matt Garcia College & Career Academy. It was the annual “Target Heroes and Helpers” event. The Matt Garcia Foundation has been so lucky to be a partner with Fairfield’s Target Store for a few years now. 25 lucky students are selected, and each receive a gift card to begin some Christmas shopping.

The “Heroes and Helpers” are staffed by our amazing local Police and Fire departments! They volunteer their time to be paired up with a student and help them shop. We are so lucky to have these amazing local heroes and helpers in our community!

This activity is funded by a grant directly from the Target store, our local Fairfield store! There is a limited amount on the gift card that each student receives and sometimes the total can go a little over. Some of the overages have been covered by our foundation, but we wanted to share a couple of “shoutouts” to officers, Moran and Sandoval. These officers had generously contributed their own personal money to help pay for their assigned students’ overage. Not only did they take the time to attend the event AND spend the time with their assigned student, but also personally contributed to help pay for the overage. This is what a local hero does at times; they go above and beyond!

A side tidbit to share…

When Officer Moran and his partnered student were checking out, he recognized the Target cashier, Jolette. Officer Moran was a resource staff person onsite at Grange Middle school and Jolette had attended Grange. She remembered him as well and was so happy to see him at the event. Jolette shared, “He’s so nice and I can’t believe he remembered me!”.

We thank the amazing leadership and staff of the Fairfield Target Store! They are amazing and wonderful in the way they prepare the store for this event. Great team and staff this morning!

Thank you to the Fairfield Police and Fairfield Fire departments! You are definitely our local heroes!!

Third Thursday : Fun Thursdays at The Matt Garcia Foundation Office

Members of the Matt Garcia Foundation Board, along with four guests, showed up for the November monthly fun craft project. We had a relaxing and fun time making holiday lanterns. Everybody made their own lantern and took them home to display during the holidays. 

Every month on the Third Thursday, from 3:30-5:30 pm, we invite interested folks to join us for a fun group craft project. On December 19th, we will be making snow globes.

Join Us!

Direct: 707.372.4160

Email: info@ffinest.org

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Holiday Safety Tips

Fire safety: The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) says that half of home heating fires happen in December, January, and February. Candles are a common cause of home fires in December. Use candles safely.

Electrical safety: Electrical safety is important year-round, but it can be especially relevant in the winter when it's wetter. 

Christmas tree safety: Decorations and novelty items can have dangerous parts, so keep them away from children and place them high up. 

Carbon monoxide safety: Carbon monoxide poisoning can be deadly, and it's especially important to be aware of during the winter when people close their windows and turn up the heat. 

Decorating safety: Holiday decorations can cause injuries if proper safety measures aren't taken. 

Emergency prep: It's important to understand how to create an emergency action plan (EAP) in case of an emergency. 

Keep your pets safe: Holiday plants like poinsettias, holly, mistletoe, and real Christmas trees can be toxic to pets.

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1st Downtown Fairfield Art Walk

FAIRFIELD – Spend an evening viewing varying artworks for purchase at many restaurants, businesses and galleries at the 1st Art Walk in Downtown Fairfield.

Fairfield Arts | 710 Jackson St.
Gordon’s Music | 810 Texas St.
Headspace | 809 Texas St.
Cedars Corner Kitchen & Bar | 801 Texas St.
El Caracol Mexican Restaurant | 900 Texas St.
Matt Garcia Foundation | 717 Texas St.
Jane Loveall Studio | 813 Jackson St.

FSVAAA Art Walk
Friday, December 20, 2024
4pm – 7pm
Admission is FREE
Downtown Fairfield
For more information, call (707) 688-8889 or visit FVAA-ARTS.ORG

Direct: 707.372.4160
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2nd Tuesday of Every Month

The Homicide Survivors Support Group offers a compassionate space for those affected by violent loss. Together, we share our grief, support one another, and honor our loved ones. Our mission is to foster healing, resilience, and hope in the face of

unimaginable loss.

717 N Texas Street

Fairfield, CA 94533

6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Second Tuesday of every month

Direct: 707.372.4160
Email: info@ffinest.org
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Conversation With Our Youth

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How stretching actually changes your muscles - Malachy McHugh

Dig into the science of stretching, and find out what it actually does to your muscles and how you can improve your flexibility.

--

An athlete is preparing for a game. They’ve put on their gear and done their warmup, and now it’s time for one more routine — stretching. Typically, athletes stretch before physical activity to avoid injuries like strains and tears. But does stretching actually prevent these issues? And if so, how long do the benefits of stretching last? Malachy McHugh explores the finer points of flexibility.

Lesson by Malachy McHugh, directed by Sofia Pashaei.

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Community Clean Up SEE YOU TODAY!

When: Saturday, November 30, 2024

Time: 9:00am – 11:00am

Where: Matt Garcia Foundation Office, 717 Texas Street, Fairfield, CA 94533

The Matt Garcia Foundation will provide gloves, garbage pickers and buckets for collecting the trash.

Students can earn community service hours. Lunch provided after the cleanup.

For more information www.FFINEST.org

To receive updated information on volunteering opportunities, sign up for our text alerts. 

Text: 81010 | Enter: @mgfv

Direct: 707.372.4160
Email: info@ffinest.org
Website

Happy Thanksgiving

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Quote of the Month

“Some people are always grumbling because roses have thorns; I am thankful that thorns have roses.”

-Alphonse Karr

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Every Third Thursday

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November is Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Month

Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is an annual program (held the week before Thanksgiving in November) where people come together across the country to draw attention to the problems of hunger and homelessness. Participating groups spend the week holding a series of educational, service, fundraising, and advocacy events.

How can you help?

The lack of clean, well fitting clothes and shoes causes great hardship beyond exposure to the elements. It hurts self-image and one’s chances to get ahead. People experiencing homelessness must travel light, with few opportunities to safely store or adequately clean what they can’t carry. When poorly dressed, they also have little chance to succeed on job interviews.  One way you can help is by donating any needed supplies to local government approved shelters or other homeless services in your community (contact them first to see what items they are in need of since most agencies have limited storage space).

*This information is provided by the National Coalition on Homelessness.

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Free Expert Tutors

Homework Help

Live one-to-one homework help with free expert tutors! All subjects, all ages. Every day 10am to 10pm.

Get homework help from a live certified tutor

Use study guides, worksheets, and tutorials on common subjects, and various state standardized tests.

For elementary through college age students and adults interested in learning and job search assistance.

Article Source

Direct: 707.372.4160
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2nd Tuesday of Every Month

The Homicide Survivors Support Group offers a compassionate space for those affected by violent loss. Together, we share our grief, support one another, and honor our loved ones. Our mission is to foster healing, resilience, and hope in the face of

unimaginable loss.

717 N Texas Street

Fairfield, CA 94533

6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Second Tuesday of every month

Direct: 707.372.4160
Email: info@ffinest.org
Website

Honoring All Who Served

Happy Veterans Day

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November Safety Tips

Holiday shopping season is fast approaching. Here are some basic safety tips to follow when shopping in stores, or online:

Keeping You and Your Belongings Safe

Be Aware of Your Surroundings.

Shop With A Friend. 

Don't Leave Your Belongings Unguarded. 

Be Cautious When Using ATMs. 

Use a Credit or Debit Card instead of Cash When Possible. 

If You Do Carry Cash, Don't Carry Too Much. 

Keep Your Phone Charged. 

Park in a Well-Lit Area.

Tips for safe online shopping

Stick to trusted retailers. Always make sure to research a website before making a purchase. 

Check site security. 

Protect your personal information. 

Stay protected on public Wi-Fi. 

Create strong passwords. 

Use online payment services. 

Be wary of fraudulent deals. 

Monitor your statements.

Direct: 707.372.4160
Email: info@ffinest.org
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Conversation With Our Youth

Direct: 707.372.4160
Email: info@ffinest.org
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14th Annual Drive To Keep The Dream Alive Charity Golf Tournament

We would like to give a GIANT thank you to EVERYONE who helped to make this year’s golf tournament a tremendous success- the golfers who participated, the golf tournament committee for their months of planning, all of the amazing volunteers who helped us that day, and last, but not least, our GENEROUS sponsors. 

The tournament took place October 14th at the beautiful Rancho Solano, and we couldn’t have asked for a more gorgeous fall day. Everyone involved seemed to have had a great time! The day ended with a dinner banquet, along with both a silent and a live auction. As our president (and Matt’s mom) Teresa said, “Although Matt has been gone from us for over16 years, his spirit could be felt so strongly.” We knew he was with us.

Through everyone's support, we were able to raise the money needed to fund our community events and support all of the worthy causes we assist throughout the year. Thanks again to ALL!

Direct: 707.372.4160
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Downtown Fairfield

Halloween SpookTacular

Thursday, October 31 from 3 – 6pm

Take a stroll through the City of Fairfield’s Downtown for special tricks and treats! Boos and ghouls of all ages are invited to trick-or-treat their way through downtown. Specially marked downtown businesses will be handing out candy, and there will also be a selfie station and kids’ crafts available at 3 Restaurant’s patio. Admission is Free.

Direct: 707.372.4160
Email: info@ffinest.org
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Other October Awareness Events

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer, the most common cancer among American women with about 250,000 new cases diagnosed each year. Breast Cancer Awareness Month acts a reminder to prioritize breast health and support those affected.

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month

Throughout this month, families come together to remember and honor the little ones who left us too soon. It's a time for support, understanding, and healing. 

Free Live Online Homework Help

Solano County Library 

Open 24/7 @ Solano library.com

• For K-12 and adult learners
• Help from expert tutors
• Access Tutor.com (every day 10am – 10pm)
• Brainfuse HelpNow (every day 1pm – 10pm) with a library card

Direct: 707.372.4160
Email: info@ffinest.org
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Community Clean Up

When: Saturday, October 26, 2024

Time: 9:00am – 11:00am

Where: Matt Garcia Foundation Office, 717 Texas Street, Fairfield, CA 94533

The Matt Garcia Foundation will provide gloves, garbage pickers and buckets for collecting the trash.

Students can earn community service hours. Lunch provided after the cleanup.

For more information www.FFINEST.org

To receive updated information on volunteering opportunities, sign up for our text alerts. 

Text: 81010 | Enter: @mgfv

Direct: 707.372.4160
Email: info@ffinest.org
Website

Welcome New Board Member Roxanna

Why I am committed to The Matt Garcia Foundation

“I am Roxanna Torres-Guerrero, kind of a mouthful. An Austin, Texas Native that has been in the bay since 2022. 

Now I don’t see myself living anywhere else. The Matt Garcia Foundation is special to me, because when I was feeling sad and lost after losing my older brother. It gave me bits and pieces of hope and love. I have met so many incredible people through this organization, that I will forever be grateful for. From a tragedy, the need to service my community was born. The MGF was that on its own, well before my own experience. They are intentional about their efforts to focus on the youth to prevent losing our community to violence and unsafety.”

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Brown Girls In Congress Leadership Summit

The “Brown Girls In Congress Leadership Summit” will be held on Saturday, Oct. 19 to help empower young girls by understanding the political system.

Girls ages 8 – 17 are invited to attend the summit from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event will be held at Solano Community College Vallejo Center, 545 Columbus Parkway.

Organizers say the event will aim to empower the next generation of future leaders by “introducing young girls to our political process and show them how our political system is structured.”

“This summit is an incredible opportunity for young girls to see themselves reflected in powerful roles, gain valuable leadership skills, and be inspired to pursue their dreams,” said Loretta Gaddies, CEO/Director of local nonprofit Love the Skin You’re In, Inc.

The organization is comprised of volunteers who seek to empower and encourage adolescents and young adults to realize their personal goals and aspirations. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in engaging activities that will teach them the skills they need to lead with confidence and courage. Invited speakers include Fairfield City Councilmember, K. Patrice Williams.

Registration fee is $45 online at Eventbrite. Search for Brown Girls In Congress Leadership Summit. Lunch will be provided.

For information, go to ltsyiinc.com, Instagram or Facebook at @ltsyiinc or email info@ltsiinc.com.

Direct: 707.372.4160
Email: info@ffinest.org
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Every 3rd Thursday Fun at the Matt Garcia Foundation Office

This month Teresa Courtemanche, President of The Matt Garcia Foundation, led us in a fun painting activity.

We were each able to express our creativity by learning how to paint on canvas. Each month we do a different group project.

Please come out and join us for

our next October activity

10/17 from 3:30pm to 5:30pm

717 Texas Street, Fairfield

We hope you can join us!

Direct: 707.372.4160
Email: info@ffinest.org
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'Drive to Keep the Dream Alive' Annual Charity Golf

TOURNAMENT DETAILS

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Email: info@ffinest.org
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October is National Fire Prevention Month

Enjoy the moments and memories you create with your loved ones with peace of mind knowing you’re protected. The National Fire Protection Association’s 2024 campaign for Fire Prevention month is: “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!” For more fire safety tips, contact your local fire department.

Direct: 707.372.4160
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Survivors Support Group

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Conversation With Our Youth

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Email: info@ffinest.org
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'Drive to Keep the Dream Alive' Annual Charity Golf

TOURNAMENT DETAILS

Direct: 707.372.4160
Email: info@ffinest.org
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Community Clean Up : September 28th, SEE YOU TOMORROW!

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THURSDAYS : Sew Savvy

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Thank You Ryans Cafe!

We would like to give a shout out to Ryans Café for donating pastries to our volunteers during our monthly cleanup in August.

They are located downtown at 740 Texas St, Fairfield. Follow them on Facebook.

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Paint Party, TOMORROW!

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Drive to Keep the Dream Alive, October 14th

TOURNAMENT DETAILS

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Thursday Fun at the Matt Garcia Foundation Office

Every third Thursday the Matt Garcia Foundation Office is open as a “safe space” for fun group activities. Members of the Foundation Board lead group activities, such as rock painting, t-shirt tie-dye and other fun group activities. The projects are relaxing and meant to encourage all attendees to be themselves, with no peer pressure. 

On August 15th, Advisory Board Member Teresa led us in making “vision boards” (see photo). We all chose various magazine images, pictures and phrases that help to share our own motivational dreams and desires. Thank you, Teresa, for such a fun time! We look forward to the third Thursday in September. We meet from 3-5 pm at the office, located at 717 Texas Street in Fairfield.  

We hope you can join us!

Direct: 707.372.4160
Email: info@ffinest.org
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Survivors Support Group

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Email: info@ffinest.org
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Conversation With Our Youth

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Happy Labor Day

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The lost art of accomplishment without burnout | Cal Newport for Big Thi...

“How is it possible to do work that you’re proud of and not feel like your job is encroaching on all parts of your life?” Cal Newport, author of ‘Slow Productivity,’ explains. 

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Community Clean Up

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Summer Fest

The first-ever Summer Youth Fest took place on July 13th. This event was put on by the "Dream Team" aka the youth of Fairfield. They took it upon themselves to plan a free event for their community. Collaborating with The Matt Garcia Foundation, we helped organize and produce this amazing summer event. Community members could visit engaging booths, take a tour of the Fairfield Fire Department firetruck, and even make friendship bracelets with the fashion club. Other activities included art booths and faceplanting. Let's not forget the volleyball nets were a hit! Anyone could walk up and play a game, then grab an ice cone because there was a truck nearby. Thank you to the members of the Youth Summer Fest Advisory board for the effort and dedication to our community. Together we "Keep the Dream Alive".

-Roxanna

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The Hidden Cost of Skipping Key Stages of Development

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14th Annual "DRIVE to Keep the Dream Alive"

Message From the President 

The Matt Garcia Foundation is pleased to announce our 14th Annual “DRIVE to Keep the Dream Alive” Charity Golf Tournament on Monday, October 14th, 2024. The tournament will be held at Rancho Solano Golf Course, located at 3250 Rancho Solano Pkwy, Fairfield, CA 94534. Our golf fundraiser ensures the continuation of the important programs and activities we support throughout the year.

My son, our late Fairfield City Councilman Matt Garcia, was a young man with a vision. Matt’s dream was to make a difference in the community. Many of Matt’s hopes have been realized through the programs that we support, including youth sports, empowerment programs, community service days, gun buyback events, scholarship programs, the Matt Garcia Career and College Academy, the PAL Youth Center, and much more. The Matt Garcia Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization run entirely by volunteers, and 100% of your donation goes to fund these programs.

With the help of generous individuals and companies such as yours, our foundation annually raises the essential funds needed to “Keep the Dream Alive.” We anticipate another successful event and hope you will be a part of it. In addition to sponsorship options, many have considered donating gift baskets, sporting event tickets, vacations and spa packages, or other donations to be used for raffle/silent auction items.

We are a local organization with a powerful presence in the community, associated with positive change. We offer multiple tournament sponsorship levels. As a sponsor, your name, business, or establishment will be prominently displayed in all of our event publicity. The event itself is an opportunity to network with many potential customers and clients. Most importantly, your donation will send a powerful message that you are partnering with us to create a safer and more meaningful community. Our mission is to support youth, help stop crime, and strengthen our community. 

Thank you in advance for your support.

Your contribution makes all the difference!

For more information or to donate, please do not hesitate to contact me. You can also email our golf committee directly at mgfgolf@ffinest.org If you would like to sign up or register for the tournament, you can go directly to our tournament site.

Sincerely,

Teresa Courtemanche

Matts Mom, President

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Tomato & Vine Festival

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How to Stop Getting TRIGGERED Forever

The concept of being triggered, though it may at times be overused, sits on top of a hugely important concept in psychological life. One moment we are calm, the next we are catapulted into despair and terror. It may be important to know how to be scared or incensed when situations actually demand it, but it is also deeply counterproductive to be visited by powerful emotions that aren’t warranted by what lies before us and that fail to advance our interests in any way.

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Events, Join Us!

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Survivors Support Group

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