A Good Read: Gluten Intolerance Group 2008 Summary

I recently received the following from the Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG) which details what they accomplished in the year 2008 and what they look forward to in the future. Some interesting things in the message.

The GIG is a national support group (how many of these do we ha for those with Celiac Disease, Gluten Intolerance, dermatitis herpetiformis and other Gluten sensitivities.

Read below for the message...

Dear GIG Supporters,

In today's uncertain times, everyone has felt the crunch of rising costs and an unstable economy. Despite the state of the markets, national leaders in nonprofit management encourage donors to open their hearts and give more to serve a wider need. The need continues to grow in the gluten-free community. Over 25 million people are now purchasing gluten-free foods and are also searching for answers for better health. Hundreds of persons with Celiac disease and other forms of gluten intolerance seek help from the GIG office each month, not to mention the consumer emails and calls of those already living the gluten-free lifestyle.

We task ourselves to manage the resources entrusted to us, to use them effectively for the greatest good.

GIG is proud of our 2008 accomplishments:
The major accomplishments in our social programs include:
•100% support of kids requesting scholarships for GIG Kids Camp
•100% support of those requesting scholarships for the Annual Education conference
•All day leadership training event attended by 75% of our Branch leaders
•Working cooperatively with companies to provide education support and resources to consumers
•On-going support through individual consultations to gluten-free consumers, health care professionals and food companies.

The major accomplishments in our industry programs include:
•Increased company participation in the Gluten Free Certification (GFCO) program by 93% during 2008
•Increased restaurant participation in the Gluten Free Restaurant Awareness Program (GFRAP) by 65 new locations
•Launched the market trial of the Gluten Free Food Service Training and Management Accreditation program with food services of various sizes, including a major food service provider in health care, schools and universities. This program provides Best Practices for gluten-free food service production, training and management.

Our pledge for 2009 is to:
1.Enhance consumer support through additional education information and enhanced awareness
2.Meet the growing consumer needs with little or no increase in program costs
3.Support our employees and volunteers in a manner that is reasonable and in keeping with best practices for nonprofits
4.Continue to work closely with more manufacturers to provide resources, information and support to their consumers about products
5.Provide speakers nationally and locally to consumer groups, the public, health care providers and the food industry
6.Increase awareness of gluten sensitivity through direct marketing opportunities with retailers, manufacturers, schools, and in the health industry through increased publications, lectures and exhibits at consumer and professional conferences, such as THRIVE, Digestive Disease Week, Natural Market Expo and the American Dietetic Association Conference
7.Expand GIG Industry Programs nationally and internationally

We can do so much more, with your help, to support all persons with Celiac disease and other forms of gluten intolerances; the health care professionals needing patient handouts; food companies and retailers who want to support persons living a gluten-free diet. Your help through cash contributions, in-kind donations, and the gifts of your time and skills can make it easier for these persons to live daily, a healthy gluten-free life.

Remember the appreciation you have felt when someone is there for you to talk to giving needed guidance. Help GIG to be the helping hands that brings support to a child, teen, adult and the elderly.

Every dollar makes a difference.

You may make donations via our website www.gluten.net
or mail to GIG, 31214 124th Ave SE, Auburn, WA 98092-3667
or fax with Visa or MasterCard credit card number to: 253-833-6675

Thank you for being a GIG supporter.

May you and your family be blessed with love, good health, and happiness during the holidays and the coming year.