BFW Institute of Research & Education

What is the Samaritan Group?  A group of people just like you who share the ideas of helping others.  A lot of people doing a little can make a large impact on others throughout the world.  It is a way for everyone and anyone who wants to make a difference to get involved.  We have all heard the stories, seen desperation and wished we could help...you now have that opportunity by becoming a Samaritan Group member!! 

The Samaritan Group came to life through the BFW Institute of Research & Education, upon seeing the many requests coming in and realizing that one small foundation cannot begin to meet the needs of our world today.  However, there is power in numbers.  If we can have just 5000 people each year donate, whether it be $25.00 or $5,000.00, the numbers have the potential to be astonishing and provide much help to those in need.

How is a project chosen?  The Samaritan Group committee members research and review various projects that are brought to their attention through Samaritan Group supporters to strengthen and help the less fortunate, disadvantaged or crisis-driven of our world today.  A project is researched, prioritized and reviewed prior to becoming a main focus for the group.  Once a project has been identified for our support, all information is shared with the members.  Updates will be shared concerning the main projects, as well as any side projects.  This allows you to know exactly where your monetary donation is going, where your volunteer time may be needed or any other ways you may support the project.  Most overhead is paid by Becker Furniture World and its partners, so you can be assured that 100% of your donation goes to charity.  The Samaritan Group committee will work closely with the chosen projects until it is completed, and then move on to the next project.

Focus projects can fall within the following categories for example:

Children  *  Senior Citizens  *  Families  *  Self-sufficiency

Homelessness  *  Medical  *  Environmental  *  Emergency 

Our guidelines state that support, whether it be in-kind or volunteer, may be provided to non-profit organizations for specific one time projects that will produce on-going benefits.  By pooling our knowledge, resources and donations, we can support many organizations, families and individuals as they strengthen and increase the quality of life around the world. 

Ultimately, the Samaritan Group would like to provide monetary donations, grants and goods to those less fortunate and in need.  Our goal is to have members donate per project and/or on an annual basis.  Remember, a lot of people doing a little can make a difference throughout the world.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ EVERY STARFISH COUNTS ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

As an old man walked down a beach at dawn, he saw a young man running across the sand, bending down to pick up a stranded starfish and throw it into the sea.  The young man repeated this task again and again.

The old man asked him why he was wasting his time.  The young man explained that the stranded starfish would die if left in the morning sun.  "But there must be thousands of miles of beach and millions of starfish.  How can your efforts make any difference?"

The young man looked down at the small starfish in his hand and said, "It makes a difference to this one."