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Kim Cadugan
This week, staff writer Maggie Westerman talks with Kim Cadugan about the Community Fall Fest, which benefits the Community Intervention Center and Friends of the Poor Scranton.
Residence: Scranton
Professional background: Master’s degree in community counseling from University of Scranton
Title: Executive director of the Community Intervention Center
Q: Where did the idea for Fall Fest come from?
A: The board of directors chose fall (for the event) to coincide with the approaching winter months. Our population tends to have more needs in the colder months, especially those who reside outside or face the high cost of heating bills.
Q: What activities will be available?
A: The event features a raffle of 100 baskets, educational programs presented by the Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den, stories with the Lackawanna County Library System, fall-themed art projects and more.
Q: What is your fundraising goal?
A: Our fundraising goal is $3,000.
Q: Tell us about the organizations that the event will be helping.
A: Friends of the Poor works with utility companies and provides some assistance to those who qualify for payment assistance. The Community Intervention Center is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and provides hot meals, snacks and brewed coffee during our hours of operation. The expense for these items increases in the winter months as more individuals seek inside shelter. Our agency also offers services such as a mailing address, message boards, job search assistance, a computer lab, laundry and shower services, and groups that include cognitive behavioral interventions, meditation and yoga.
Q: What made you choose to raise money for these groups?
A: The Community Intervention Center and Friends of the Poor often work in collaboration with each other and quite often serve the same population in different capacities. We feel that poverty and behavioral health issues effect our entire communities, and it is crucial for all individuals to have a support system in place as they navigate through what is often a daunting journey.
Q: Why is community support important?
A: Community awareness is important because our clients are often marginalized by society, live in poverty, have behavioral health issues or are experiencing homelessness. All of these circumstances can effect anyone from any walk of life. I am confident in saying that everyone knows someone suffering with these issues.
If you go
What: Community Fall Fest
When: Saturday, Oct. 12, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Marketplace at Steamtown, 300 Lackawanna Ave., Scranton
Details: Admission is free. Raffle tickets cost $1 for five or $2 each for items of higher value. Proceeds benefit the Community Intervention Center and Friends of the Poor Scranton.
