Make a Difference in Peabody Foundation Holds Annual Fundraiser

Politicians, contributors, and volunteers alike came out to support the (MADIP) at their annual fundraiser Tuesday evening at Toscana's Ristorante and Cafe. 

For nine years, the non-profit group has helped many Peabody area residents in need and the demand for their services is as strong as ever give the dire state of the economy, high gasoline, heating fuel and food prices.

“We’ve been able to grow the company every year, mainly by word of mouth, as we don’t do a lot of advertising,” said Make a Difference in Peabody Foundation board member Mark Vainas. “Its nice to be able to recognize those who have helped us get this far.”

The group was founded in 2002 by Scott Frasca to provide basic emergency needs to those in need in Peabody. Most of the time the aid is in the form of providing oil for heat, food gift cards, or help with electricity bills, relying heavily on volunteers to help coordinate and distribute aid.

“There are over 120 volunteers working with MADIP,” said founder Scott Frasca. “Without volunteers, things just wouldn’t happen so, its important to recognize volunteers, not just with our organization, but with others all across Peabody.”

Since its inception, the non-profit organization has made a point to recognize volunteers in Peabody. People submit nominations to board of directors, which are then voted on, with the top three receiving awards. Elected officials and board members are ineligible for nomination.

This year’s winners were long time volunteer with the Josephine Magesky, activist Donna Craven, and Peter McGinn, who volunteers with Habitat for Humanity and the.

“MADIP does a lot of good in this community,” said McGinn. “I’m humbled to be recognized by them.”

Also recognized at the event were corporate contributors to the organization, without whom the group's relief efforts would not be possible.  

“Its important for us as a local family business to stay supportive of the community,” said Phil Richard of Phil Richard and Associate’s Insurance, one of the sponsors recognized at the fundraiser. “I’m proud to support a company that gives so much back to the community.”

As the economy continues to struggle, demand for the Make a Difference in Peabody Foundation's services continues to increase. With the support they have received thus far, Frasca announced at the fundraiser that the group will increase services over the next two years, including tripling their oil capacity. This strategic plan will be released in the coming weeks on their Web site.

“When federal and state programs can’t support family members and our neighbors in Peabody, MADIP can, and they have,” said . “Its great to see our community come out and support this organization so that they can continue these efforts.”