February is a busy month. Of course, you are aware of Valentine's Day and, for football fans, Superbowl Sunday.  But February also carries the title of:  National Black History Month, American Heart Month, Dental Health Month, National Bird Feeding Month, and even Return Shopping Carts to the Supermarket Month! This year, for the first time, February has been named Matching Gift Month by the Matching Gift Advisory Council.  This recognition is for nonprofit organizations such as the Diabetes Association of Greater Cleveland to build awareness in the community about matching gifts benefits, celebrate organizations' achievements, and inspire more companies to establish matching gift programs.

   Each year, due to the generous financial support from donors, DAGC is able to help more than 10,000 of your family members, neighbors, colleagues and friends live better with diabetes.  One hundred percent of the donations to DAGC remains here in Northeast Ohio to support the many programs and services we offer-many of them free-to people in our area needing assistance with diabetes.

   Corporate matching gift programs are one important source of fundraising for nonprofit organizations. These programs are especially helpful for organizations to maintain their levels of service during these difficult economic times.  Check with your company's human resources department to determine if your company has a matching gift program or to pick up the necessary paperwork to make your donation to DAGC.

   Thank you for opening up your heart to the Diabetes Association of Greater Cleveland during this month and throughout the year.  And don't forget to feed the birds and return your shopping cart this month, too!