Carasmark

Carasmark is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Landenberg, Pennsylvania, dedicated to inspiring hope in the lives of children and their families by meeting their practical needs.

Mission

The mission of Carasmark is to provide support and care to underprivileged children and families, focusing on enhancing their well-being through various projects.

Founding and History

Carasmark was founded in 2008 by Shannon Lynch and her husband, Nathan Palkovitz, in memory of their daughter, Avelin Cara, who was lost to stillbirth in April 2007. The organization's name is derived from Avelin's middle name, "Cara," which means "friend" in Gaelic.

Projects and Initiatives

Some of the key initiatives conducted by Carasmark include:

• Backpack Project: Carasmark distributes backpacks filled with essential school supplies to children in need, particularly in New York City and Wilmington. To date, they have delivered over 2,400 backpacks.

• Dinner Project: The organization coordinates the monthly distribution of full meals to underprivileged families in inner-city Wilmington, often working with Freedom Outreach for this effort.

• Remembrance Project: This initiative provides financial assistance to families who have experienced the loss of a child, helping to cover funeral costs. It is a poignant way for Carasmark to honor the memory of Avelin Cara while supporting those in similar situations.

Events and Fundraising

Carasmark organizes a variety of events to raise funds and awareness for their causes. These events include benefit concerts, runs, and galas. One notable event was a masquerade gala held to celebrate their fifth anniversary, which raised $2,000.

Leadership

The organization is led by Shannon Lynch as President and Nathan Palkovitz as Vice-President. Other members of the Board of Directors include Kristen Hilferty, Jordan Ambra, Chris Fraser, Carrie Bierlein, and Jeff Bierlein.

Recognition and Support

Carasmark has received support from external organizations, such as a $2,500 grant from the Wilmington Flower Market in 2012, which aided in the distribution of backpacks to schools in Wilmington.

Impact and Legacy

Carasmark continues to grow, with a growing community of volunteers and supporters. The organization's efforts not only honor the memory of Avelin Cara but also provide tangible support to those in need, embodying the transformative power of grief into giving.

[1] https://www.chestercounty.com/2015/01/03/56821/from-grief-comes-giving-landenberg-non-profit-helps-schoolchildren-and-families [2] https://www.carasmark.org/about/ [3] https://wilmingtonflowermarket.org/past-beneficiaries [4] https://www.taxexemptworld.com/organization.asp?tn=1726256 [5] https://www.carasmark.org