A Partnership in Healing

by Nathan Heinert on October 26th, 2010

There are many reasons that organizations form a partnership, but when there is a similar mission that partnership has a real chance to flourish. It wasn’t just by chance that the River of Hope Foundation teamed up with the Avera Cancer Institute; it was by design. When you look at the mission of the two and the message that each advocate, Hope is the tie that binds. Although the River of Hope Foundation and the new Avera Cancer Institute were planned in different rooms, with different focus groups, and different administrators, the outcome of that planning is strangely similar. We have both chosen to treat cancer patients as a whole person, realizing that the mind, body, and spirit all come into play when someone is facing a cancer diagnosis.

Just as the River of Hope Foundation puts focus on the quality of life of cancer patients through the promotion and use of integrative therapies; the new Avera Cancer Institute is taking that use to a new level. Whether it’s aroma or massage therapy, art and music therapy, or the use of positive imagery during radiation, they are truly providing that sense of hope, and it doesn’t stop there!

Avera is now trying to get funding from the Livestrong Foundation to provide another new program  CREATIVE CENTER:  The Creative Center’s Artists-in-Residence offers patients the opportunity to learn about and become absorbed in their own creative resources as they meet the challenges of diagnosis, treatment and survivorship. The program will work bedside and in small group settings with men, women and children—in oncology units, bone marrow transplant units, intensive care/respiratory units, hospice and palliative care programs. Here’s how you can help:Through the 29th of October you can simply click on this link: http://vote.livestrong.org/applicants/116-avera-mckennan-hospital-university-health-system/ to cast your vote for the Avera Cancer Institute to receive a grant from the Livestrong Foundation to start this program in Sioux Falls. Coincidentally the voting ends on October 29th,  the same day as Lance Armstrong will be in Sioux Falls help open the new Avera Cancer Institute when he speaks at the Building Hope Grand Opening Gala. Please take a minute to help Avera continue providing a better quality of life for those affected by cancer.

A true partnership requires hard work and trust on both ends. Through partnering with the Avera Cancer Institute, the River of Hope Foundation is committed to enhancing the quality of life for the patients, families, and friends affected by cancer. Just as our partners will continue to treat the mind, body, and spirit; we will continue to spread a positive message of hope and strength and together we will make hope the destination.



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Spreading Our Wings

by Nathan Heinert on October 20th, 2010

Last week we ventured over to Worthington, MN to work on our first project outside of South Dakota. Although this is the first step in reaching out to help as many of those who are affected by cancer as possible, there were many mixed feelings. We knew that the end result would be great, but stepping into an unknown area without the material resources readily available, with two days to complete, and many suspicious eyes the tension was high. I like to think that in South Dakota we are getting our mission out and beginning to have a little name recognition, but in Worthington we were just a crew of cameras and trucks making what appeared to be a great mess in the yard and street of an unsuspecting citizen. By 2:00pm on Thursday the traffic on what was once a quiet neighborhood street seemed to triple. In most cases i would feel this was a good thing, but when a pickup marked with “Community Service Officer” begins taking pictures all logic goes out the window and many racing thoughts kick in.

As time went on and we began to settle in, it was more evident that sheer curiosity was the only motivator. The project proceeded with no major challenges, and we were even able to use the kindness of a local farmer and family friend to add some personal touches. Late in the afternoon it was evident that we did not have enough rock to complete the project. Less than 30 minutes later we were loading up field stone a few miles away that would prove very useful, and give and added meaning to the finished pond. We were back on schedule, and beginning to feel a sense of belonging in this great community.

Janet’s project went off without a hitch, and as we were fine tuning and cleaning up I knew that the right choice was made. While carloads of people pulled up for the reveal, I knew that this 12 year cancer survivor had not made it this far on her own. I was once again reminded of the fact that this foundation has not made it this far on it’s own either. From the outpouring of support of our mission, to the generous donors and partners, we are truly able to put God’s plan in place. Of course each time we venture into a new area there will be some apprehension, but just as we were led to Worthington to share in Janet’s journey, the future path before us will not be paved until the proper base course has been laid.



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Let’s Go To Blogworld

by Nathan Heinert on September 29th, 2010

There are many things that I thought I would accomplish in life, but let’s face it until recently writing blog posts was not on that list. To be honest with you dropping my career to start a nonprofit never made it on the list until it happened either. I think that in many ways there are a lot of things that never make it on our lists until something unforeseen happens in our lives. For many a career change comes along and our priorities change, for others a new baby, and in the past 2 years I have seen many lives changed by a cancer diagnosis. You may be wondering how this all ties in with the Dads Talking contest for a trip to the BlogWorld & New Media Expo with airfare included by Southwest Airlines or, you may be thinking “wow this guy really needs to learn how to blog” so either way let’s figure it out.

As many of you know two years ago I left my job as a facility manager to pursue a life of making the quality of life for those affected by cancer a little better. With no experience in the nonprofit world, and even less in the world of social media I set out to find the best way to communicate my ideas to the world. For someone who has spent his whole life outdoors whether as an owner of a landscape company, a football coach, or a facility manager moving into office life was a bit of a challenge. My first brush with the world of online networking (other than playing Super Mario with my then 4 year old son) was a place called Linkedin. Through finding connections, sharing my thoughts, and updating those around me I began to see how this could change the world I lived in. Soon to follow were Facebook and Twitter what a whirlwind of excitement! Once I began getting the hang of my new found path of informing the world of the countless stories of those affected by cancer and how the River of Hope Foundation was going to make their lives better, I realized a blog was needed. As frightening as the thought of sharing these stories in more than the 140 characters that Jeff Pulver has taught us to use so well, I knew that as Jeffrey Hayzlett would say “We must adapt and change…constantly” and for me that meant a blog was in order.

Now of course through all the tweets, status updates, and blogs, my wife and kids were the ones suffering the most, because let’s face it learning all of this from scratch takes time. Logically the best way to continue getting my message out and still hang out with my family was to include them…right? Why not let them help me in this learning process? With the help of my wife as  grammar and punctuation wiz, and my now six year old son as inspiration the time I used to spend engrossed in thought are now spent being told I’m wrong more than I care to, and teaching the kids the power of social media. The real challenge now is finding ways to get my info out there, meet new people, and share the stories of those affected by cancer in an efficient and effective way.

I am still very new to creating an online presence and the challenge of building a nonprofit foundation from scratch is very rewarding, but does not leave a lot on the table for attending conferences and conventions. I realize the importance that networking with the top people in the blogging and new media industries could have on our small, but growing foundation. The ability to attend  BlogWorld & New Media Expo would provide me with the much needed tools to continue helping make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. My family has committed fully to helping this foundation succeed, and although my wife may not like the thought of me going to Vegas without her I’m sure that if you could send me at no cost I could find a way to make it up to her! Thank you BlogWorld & New Media Expo and Southwest Airlines for providing this great opportunity.



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Help Us Get Noticed!

by Nathan Heinert on September 27th, 2010

Here is your chance to help the River of Hope Foundation get noticed!  You can now nominate (vote) once per day for us to be recognized as a nonprofit to follow. Granted we will be in some pretty amazing company with the likes of CharityWater, Livestrong, Invisible People, and the list goes on and on, but this is a great opportunity to help us get the word out. Please make sure to post on Twitter, Facebook, or wherever you choose to help us gain some much needed recognition!

Thank you!



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Was This September or April?

by Nathan Heinert on September 27th, 2010

For the first time that I can remember I have been left wondering many rain related questions in the month of September. Is this April? Are we in Seattle? Who’s building the ark? You get the picture. With rain every week at some point the biggest and most important question has been are we going to be able to do a project? We managed to get a nice pondless water feature installed for Michelle. Although it had it’s challenges, they were nothing like the challenges that Michelle and her family have faced since she was diagnosed with colon cancer. Even though there were many tears shed at the reveal, I’m told they were tears of joy and it proved to be true since it did not take long before many smiles appeared and laughter spread across the yard.

Last week we were scheduled to install a project for Peggy with the help of the employees of Northwestern Energy as part of Volunteer Sioux Falls. Weeks of planning we pushed to the side by inches of rain that fell throughout the area. Of course it is easy to sit back and grumble about having to reschedule and still find time to get another project done, but I was quickly reminded of the fact that when Peggy was told she would have to have a lung removed because of her cancer she was unable to reschedule her normal life for another day; she would have to completely adjust what normal was. I also see the pictures of those who have lost much due to flooding and are required to put their lives on hold. Again I realize that in the grand scheme of things having to adjust my schedule a little to allow for mother nature is all part of a greater plan, and yes I realize that I am truly not in control.



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Gearing Up for Our Next Project

by Nathan Heinert on August 24th, 2010

Tomorrow we will begin installation of our next project for the River of Hope. Our latest recipient is Andrea Sprik, a 32 year old mother of 2 in Sioux Falls. Andrea was diagnosed with breast cancer in April and is currently undergoing treatment.

There is always an extreme amount of excitement when we are getting ready for a new project, but it also comes with a mix of emotions. Knowing that by the end of the week we will be able to have a positive affect on not just another family, but on the community as a whole is quite humbling.

Given the circumstances that surround our projects an extreme amount of reflection also takes place. Knowing that yet another family has had their lives changed with a cancer diagnosis causes me to take  a step back and think about all of the things in life we take for granted. Although the River of Hope Foundation is providing, in the end what turns out to be a beautiful setting which certainly enhances the surroundings, it is about so much more.

My pond allows me to sit back and count all of my blessings, to think of all who have been less fortunate, to reflect on the countless stories of those who have gone through tough times. A place to enjoy the wonderful things that life on this earth has to offer is truly a blessing and unless I share those blessings with others I feel I am holding back on the goodness that God has provided. With healing environment that is installed that goodness spreads, and although it seems like such a great gift; it really is so much more. This is therapy, strength, hope, and awareness. Each recipient has their own story to share. With each diagnosis we learn more about our community and the great things going on around it, the willingness to help, to share, and to comfort. We learn that awareness is more than just knowing someone with cancer, we learn the types, the terms, and the treatments, but most of all we learn how to help.

This week will be no different than any other for most. We go to work, school, activities, and social gatherings. We have meetings, meetups, tweetups, and conferences. Just for a minute this week lets think about those who go to chemo, radiation, biopsies, surgery, and follow-ups. Think about the families who wait praying that it really was just “nothing to worry about” and the ones who now worry about what’s next. Offer help and comfort to those who need it, and maybe instead of talking about how much a Doctor makes, talk to them about how much you appreciate the difference that they make.

As for our project that we will begin tomorrow; we are excited, and we want you to be as well. We will be making a difference in the lives of those in the community. You can make a difference as well. Follow along on our Facebook page and share your support, and share your comments here as well.



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Thanks for a Great Weekend!

by Nathan Heinert on July 30th, 2010

The 2010 VIP Tour and Parade of Ponds & Pools was a great success, and we owe a huge thank you to all who participated and sponsored the events! We started the weekend off in style at Combined Pool & Spa with the social hour before splitting up into stretch H1, H2, Escalade, and Navigator limos provided by Stellar Limousine. Each group then set off on the tour starting at a different project installed by the River of Hope Foundation. With live music provided by Jon Hanson, Brian Detmer, and Toby Kane the tour progressed with great food from Chef Dominique, and plenty of drinks served by the owners and staff of Cask & Cork. The evening then finished of with desert from Utopia, and a poolside concert by the Rude Band. Now I know you may be saying, wow that sounds like a lot of fun, and it was, but the best part of the entire evening was the fact that we were able to raise money and awareness for the River of Hope Foundation while doing it!

Saturday morning we were right back at it with the Parade of Ponds & Pools. Thanks to Rock Garden Nursery and Combined Pool & Spa we were able to spend the weekend promoting the benefits of water features and nature for those affected by cancer. The weather was perfect and the steady stream of people traveling around Sioux Falls enjoying the beautiful ponds and pools was inspiring. Not only were we able to show the projects installed by the River of Hope Foundation, but with 25 total ponds & pools on display there was truly a unique combination of nature and artistry for all to enjoy.

This great weekend would not be possible without the help of all of our sponsors and homeowners, and we truly thank you all for supporting the mission of the River of Hope Foundation! Thank you to Rock Garden Nursery, Combined Pool & Spa, Easy Pro Pond Supply, Poet, Stellar Limousine, Cask & Cork, Rainbow Play Systems, Thurman, Comes, Foley, LLP, Dakota Financial, Serendipitous Events By Jessica, Customeyez Designs, James Dugan, 44 Interactive, Heritage Funeral Home, Backyard Broadcasting, Walmart, Monarch Sales, Sisson Printing, and Midwest Landscape Supply! Please be sure to mark your calendars for the last weekend in July as we continue to grow and spread our mission.



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Limited Space Available for Parade of Ponds VIP Event

by Nathan Heinert on July 12th, 2010

A limited number of seats for the River of Hope Foundation’s VIP Parade of Ponds Event July 23rd 5:30pm-10pm still remain. This exclusive evening of awareness and entertainment will be a unique event like no other. We will gather at Combined Pool & Spa (Western Avenue) for drinks ( by Cask & Cork) and socializing as we prepare for a limo guided tour (provided by Stellar Limousine) of four newly installed River of Hope ponds. While on the tour you will be treated to food, drinks, and live music as you see firsthand the work of the River of Hope Foundation. Upon conclusion of the tour you will be taken to the home of Tom and Rachael Junck for deserts, drinks and a concert performed by The Rude Band. There will also be a brief presentation from the River of Hope Foundation recognizing those who have helped make the foundation a reality. There is a suggested minimum donation of $100, and tickets to this exclusive event are limited. Please contact Nathan at the River of Hope Foundation 605-759-5764 to reserve your place today!



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2010 Parade of Ponds and Pools

by Nathan Heinert on July 2nd, 2010

This year the River of Hope Foundation has teamed up with Rock Garden Nursery  and Combined Pool and Spa to present the Parade of Ponds and Pools. All proceeds from the parade will go to the River of Hope to allow us to continue providing healing environments to those affected by cancer. The parade is a self guided tour of over 20 beautiful ponds and pools in the Sioux Falls area. Tickets are $5 each and can be purchased at Rock Garden Nursery 2000 North Drive, Sioux Falls http://www.rockgardennursery.com , Combined Pool and Spa 3520 South Western Avenue, Sioux Falls http://www.combinedpoolandspa.com , or online at http://paradeofponds-efbevent.eventbrite.com/ We will have a list of the ponds and pools available on the website next week. For more information contact the River of Hope Foundation.



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ROH Needs Your Vote For $250,000 Grant

by Nathan Heinert on June 17th, 2010

Yesterday the River of Hope Foundation entered into a contest for a $250,000 dollar grant! The best thing about this grant is YOU! That’s right you have the power to give us $250,000. The organization with the most votes on July 13th gets the grant. Please cast your vote and share with your friends, co-workers, family, and even strangers by clicking support us below.

This short video explains why we think that you should give the foundation $250,000.

Vote ROH from River of Hope Foundation on Vimeo.

You can only vote once, but for every person that votes once and gets a friend to vote as well we are that much closer to the prize! Please don’t be bashful in asking for votes if you believe in our cause.



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