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What one organization provides career counseling, job training and placement services for teens and adults with disabilities, individuals who are homeless, veterans and ex-offenders returning to the community?

What one organization also provides free car safety seats for children in low-income families and free medical equipment to anyone in the community?

And what one organization provides day services for seniors and adults who are unable to remain at home without assistance?

The answer is Goodwill Easter Seals Miami Valley (GESMV).

>>> RELATED: Program connects Miami Valley veterans with civilian jobs

In 2016, GESMV provided more than 40 specialized services to more than 17,421 children and adults in 23 west-central Ohio counties. GESMV is the only local agency that serves people with such a broad range of disabilities and disadvantages, across the entire age spectrum.

“We believe all people want to support themselves, do as much for themselves as they possibly can and have choices to make their own decisions,” said Lance Detrick, president and CEO of GESMV. “We believe our role is to provide tools and supports that create opportunities for people to achieve their goals, no matter what their circumstances.”

Circumstances for some can feel bleak and hopeless. That's how Steve Perkins and his wife, Gerri, felt when Steve developed medication-induced Parkinson's and went from his active lifestyle as a bowling champion to being unable to walk. Watch how Steve and Gerri find hope with the help of GESMV.

Like most charitable and nonprofit organizations this time of year, GESMV is reminding the community that this great work cannot continue for local neighbors in the Miami Valley without the generous support of people just like you.

But what makes GESMV different? And when you have so many opportunities to do good in your local community, why should you choose GESMV?

“We serve thousands of people who fall through the vast cracks between government and social service systems,” said Detrick. “They make enough money to survive, and therefore don’t qualify for services. But there’s a big difference between surviving and thriving.”

>>> RELATED: Local high schools Drive to Victory in support of Goodwill

GESMV strives to be the go-to resource to help solve issues in the community while helping every person in need of support to reach their full potential and achieve success -- a success that is different for each individual.

Consider the person with severe vision loss who can no longer read the newspaper. Now, with a special receiver, that person can hear local periodicals read daily by GESMV volunteers and stay connected to his or her community with ease.

GESMV also regularly helps adults with physical limitations or disabilities who have never worked obtain their first paycheck.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2016, the employment rate for persons with disabilities was only 17.9 percent, leaving a big gap to fill.

“Two-thirds of people with disabilities who are of working age want to work, and that’s over 9,300 individuals in our territory who are looking for work,” Detrick said. “With our expertise and commitment to helping people improve their quality of life or attain self-sufficiency, we can be relied upon to help transform lives.”

Transforming the lives of people just like Mikia Black. After a horrible accident and 32 days in a coma, Black faced months of recovery and rehab. When she was ready to work, GESMV was there to help her see beyond her physical challenges and permanent disabilities and find a job that allows her to support herself and her children. Be inspired by Mikia's story.

When you make a charitable contribution to GESMV, nearly 85 percent of your gift has a direct impact on services for people with disabilities and disadvantages who might otherwise fall through the cracks.

According to the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance, charities should spend at least 65 percent of total expenses on charitable programs. GESMV exceeds this standard by almost 20 percentage points.

On Tuesday, Nov. 28, Goodwill Easter Seals Miami Valley invites you to join the global giving movement, Giving Tuesday. Help others with the gift of your time, talents, and treasures. When you give securely onlineshop or donate at any one of the local stores or donation centers, or volunteer your time, Goodwill Easter Seals Miami Valley can serve the underserved.

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