About Us
HISTORY OF STATEN ISLAND GIVING CIRCLE
The Staten Island Giving Circle was founded by Evelyn Kormanik in January 2008 with a mission to build a volunteer community outreach organization committed to serving a wide range of populations in our own community in need of monetary or hands-on assistance. These recipients would include the underserved and disadvantaged of all ages; veterans, critically-ill individuals and their families, soup kitchens and food pantries, children in shelters and youngsters needing clothing and school supplies, the homeless, and victims of natural disasters.
In 2014, it was decided that in order to increase the scope of our activities and to provide more money to complement our hands-on actions, we should apply for a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit tax status. We were approved for our 501 in 2015 and are now eligible to apply for grants to augment our donations.
Our organization has gained high praise and a solid reputation in the community; our initiatives are becoming more and more well known. Our tireless efforts during the years surrounding Hurricane Sandy work, were instrumental in the community recognizing our endeavors and abilities in getting things done. We collected $30,000+ in gift cards and approximately a half million dollars’ worth of clothing and supplies which were distributed. We supplied schools affected by the Hurricane and completely stocked a library. The Staten Island Giving Circle bought and installed a bronze plaque at the VFW Post 9587 on Mill Road commemorating the 24 lives lost on Staten Island during Hurricane Sandy.
Our projects and accomplishments are many and diverse. We collect and distribute prom attire, school supplies, backpacks, food, sports equipment, senior citizen supplies, swimwear for underprivileged children, clothing and shoes, hygiene products, homemade lap blankets, and much, much more to the appropriate groups at the appropriate times of need.
Our progress and success have been honored by many corroborating community organizations including Project Hospitality (2010 Distinguished Community Service Award from Project Hospitality), Martin Luther King Award, Staten Island International Soroptimist Organization, Richmond Senior Services, John J. Bruno Award for making a difference in children’s lives, Community Church Award, Jefferson Community College, Upstate New York, Seamen’s Society, Safari Realty (Fran Reali) and as Founder, Evelyn Kormanik was awarded the 2012 Women of Achievement Award from the “Staten Island Advance.”