How To Help

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How You Can Help

The best way to support Friends of Nor-West is by getting involved — at whatever level works for you! Here are some easy ways to take action and make a real impact.

Why should I join Friends of Nor-West?

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Nor-West plays a vital role in the lives of people with developmental disabilities — providing a safe, social space for recreation and connection. Many participants rely on these programs outside of their jobs, schools, or day habilitation programs.

Nor-West's funding comes from a blend of local, state, and federal sources — but it hasn't always been enough. There have been times when public funding didn't fully meet the need. That's why we created Friends of Nor-West: a 501(c)(3) nonprofit solely focused on fundraising to help ensure Nor-West's future.

What are the benefits of FONW membership?

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Becoming a member of Friends of Nor-West (FONW) is a great way to show your support and get more involved. As a member, you'll have voting rights and can even run for a spot on our Board of Directors or serve as an officer — if that's something you're interested in.

Members are also invited to attend our board meetings and planning sessions (usually held in the evenings via Zoom), where you can help shape the future of our work.

How much does it cost to become a FONW member?

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We've kept our membership fee intentionally low—just $10 per year—so that every family or group home can be part of Friends of Nor-West.

You can choose the option that works best for you:
• Annual Membership (One-Time): A single $10 payment gives you membership for one calendar year.
• Annual Membership (Recurring): Starts with a $10 payment today and automatically renews each year until you cancel.
• Lifetime Membership (One-Time): A one-time $75 payment gives you lifetime membership — a lasting way to show your support for Nor-West!

Just click the "Join Now" button below to get started!

Join Now

Nor-West participant and family friend in Nor-West gear at annual bowlathon

Why does Friends of Nor-West (FONW) need volunteers?

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FONW is a small but mighty all-volunteer organization. Right now, a handful of dedicated board members handle the planning, organizing, and running of all our fundraisers and initiatives.

Our community is full of talented, generous people — and we'd love your help! Volunteers are key to keeping things running and helping us grow.

Can you provide examples of tasks for volunteers at FONW events?

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Absolutely! For our Annual Bowl-a-Thon, for example, we often need help gathering sponsorships from local businesses — a huge part of our fundraising success.

On the day of the event, volunteers might assist with setting up the venue, checking-in bowlers, selling raffle tickets, or registering new members to Friends of Nor-West. There's a place for everyone to pitch in!

I'd like to volunteer. How do I get involved?

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Awesome! Just click the "Reach Out" button below. You'll be taken to our Contact form, where you can let us know a little about yourself and how you'd like to get involved.

Reach Out

nor-west participants at st. patricks day party

Where does my donation to Friends of Nor-West go?

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Donations to Friends of Nor-West (FONW) directly support Nor-West's mission — providing inclusive recreational and social programs for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Your contributions help enhance programs, fund special events, and back vital initiatives that make a lasting difference.

What payment methods do you accept for donations?

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We use Givebutter as our fundraising platform, which allows us to securely accept donations in many convenient ways. You can give using credit/debit cards, digital wallets (like Apple Pay or Google Pay), PayPal, Venmo, bank transfers (via ACH), or even by check.

To get started, just click the "Donate Now" button below!

Is my donation tax-deductible? Will I receive a receipt from FONW for my donation?

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Yes! Friends of Nor-West RSS Inc. (FONW) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so all donations are fully tax-deductible.

When you donate through Givebutter, you'll receive an automatic email receipt confirming your gift — perfect for your records or tax filing.

Donate Now

Why are you selling Nor-West and Friends of Nor-West branded apparel?

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We started offering branded apparel as a fun way to build community and show our Nor-West pride. These days, it's common to see participants — and their families and friends — rocking Nor-West and FONW gear at our events, Red Pin Bowling days, and special outings.

Where can I purchase Nor-West and FONW apparel and accessories?

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You can grab Nor-West and FONW apparel (like t-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, and more) through our Amazon store, Friends of Nor-West Gear. Everything is affordably priced and ships quickly. Just click "Go To Store" below to start shopping!

Does Nor-West benefit from the sale of products through this store?

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Yes! The Amazon store is owned by a Friends of Nor-West (FONW) board member who created it to support our mission. While it's not officially operated by FONW, all profits from sales are donated to us — so, every purchase helps!

Go To Store

How You Can Help

🎉 We Did It — Together!

A $25,000 Gift for Nor-West

Upcoming Events

FONW General Membership Meeting — Join the Conversation

Thanksgiving Dessert Sale — Holiday Treats that Give Back!

Charleston Wrap Fundraiser — Deadline Extended to 12/05!

🎁 EXTENDED TO DECEMBER 5!

Main Pages

Useful Links

Contact Info

How To Help

How You Can Help

Why should I join Friends of Nor-West?

What are the benefits of FONW membership?

How much does it cost to become a FONW member?

Why does Friends of Nor-West (FONW) need volunteers?

Can you provide examples of tasks for volunteers at FONW events?

I'd like to volunteer. How do I get involved?

Where does my donation to Friends of Nor-West go?

What payment methods do you accept for donations?

Is my donation tax-deductible? Will I receive a receipt from FONW for my donation?

Why are you selling Nor-West and Friends of Nor-West branded apparel?

Where can I purchase Nor-West and FONW apparel and accessories?

Does Nor-West benefit from the sale of products through this store?

🎉 We Did It — Together!

A $25,000 Gift for Nor-West

Upcoming Events

FONW General Membership Meeting — Join the Conversation

Thanksgiving Dessert Sale — Holiday Treats that Give Back!

Charleston Wrap Fundraiser — Deadline Extended to 12/05!

🎁 EXTENDED TO DECEMBER 5!

We Need Your Help. Please Donate!

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Main Pages

Useful Links

Contact Info