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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THE WOMEN'S RESOURCE INSTITUTE OF NSU LENDS A HELPING HAND TO THOSE IN NEED There is a little cottage tucked away on the southwest corner of Nova Southeastern University; known as cottage number four, it is home to the Women's Resource Institute (WRI). With the support of the Farquhar Center for Undergraduate Studies, WRI is a wonderful perk for NSU students and staff members. Founded in March 1995 through the generosity of the Judith Shulimson Memorial Fund and the efforts of Kate Waites, Ph.D., Merrill Grinblat, and Fran Tetunic, J.D., WRI functions as a clearinghouse of information and access to services throughout the community. WRI is also a place to turn to in times of need. Life can change in an instant and when an emergency arises, people may find that they are in need of everything, from food to clothing to shelter. At WRI, there is the free-of-charge "New to You" community shop and pantry. The shop has food, furniture, and housewares in addition to clothing for all sizes--infants through adults. Other forms of assistance include information, referrals, and emergency loans when necessary. In addition to lending a helping hand during times of crisis, WRI dedicates resources to educating, empowering, and enlightening NSU women, the people in their lives, and the extended community. Services include the publication of the Resource Directory, which provides information about the numerous agencies that serve the needs of women and their families. The Judith Shulimson Library offers a quiet place for visitors to study and do research. Mentoring and networking are offered through educational programs, volunteer initiatives, and special events. In addition, WRI sponsors several fund-raisers to raise money for scholarships and the emergency assistance fund that is available to members of the NSU community. Walking through the door of cottage number four, one immediately feels a sense of serenity. Thanks to the efforts of Suellen Fardelmann, the director of WRI, cottage number four is an inviting safe haven. Fardelmann's warmth and genuine concern for others have helped to turn this small house into a peaceful, private refuge where one immediately feels welcomed and at ease. Fardelmann is no stranger to how life can change in a split second. Her first husband, Henry Minard, a Hollywood police officer, was killed in the line of duty. Fardelmann was suddenly a widow with two young daughters to raise. Today, in addition to being the director of WRI and a recent NSU graduate with honors, she has been mayor of Cooper City for the past 16 years. WRI events include a series of lectures on parenting by Bob Barnes, director of Sheridan House. Four sessions were held on consecutive Mondays beginning September 11 through October 2. Cost for this event was $25 for individuals and $50 for couples. On October 5, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, WRI and the Wellness Center will host a luncheon with registered dietician, Catherine Powers. Powers will speak on nutrition and breast cancer prevention. In March, WRI will again sponsor and host several events to honor Women's History Month. This includes the Flight Deck Follies, a fund-raiser that, last year, drew a huge crowd and promises to be even bigger and better this time around. To learn more about these upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, or how to become a member of WRI, call 262-8451. Fardelmann said there is always something to do at the institute. Volunteers are needed to sort donations, catalog books and videos for the library, design computer graphics, or work at one of the numerous WRI events. There is also a WRI wish list, which includes pictures for the walls, a coffee table, and items for the "New to You" community shop and pantry. Space at the cottage is limited, so it is requested that you call first before making your tax-deductible donation, especially if it's a large item like furniture. WRI has proven to be a valuable resource for the NSU community. Over the years numerous students and staff members have been helped. It is comforting to know that, in good times and bad, there will always be a place to turn to, thanks to the members and supporters of WRI. |