John deBlecourt Believe in West Virginia

November 27, 2007

A name and an idea brings "big-business" economies-of-scale into charitable giving, John deBlecourt told Putnam Rotarians today.

As Executive Director of Believe in West Virginia deBlecourt runs a 5,000 square-foot warehouse out of the old Dondale store in Cross Lanes.

The BiWV "storehouse" is characterized as a "gifts-in-kind" warehouse which supplies surplus goods to non-profit organizations.

The storehouse will accept almost any contributions from door skins to books and food commodities.

What are door skins? They are decorative door panels made of a wood composite. Possible uses include wall decorations, such as wainscoating, wall panels, ceiling decorations, and as an underpinning substitute.

"One side of the storehouse is loaded with windows ready for use in building projects. Another rack is loaded with office supplies and videos. Elsewhere, you’ll find food and personal care items," says deBlecourt.

The difference between BiWV and other agencies is one of scale. The storehouse accepts materials and goods by the truck load, often in quantities beyond the storage capacities of other charitable agencies.

If a manufacturer is caught with surplus window frames of an odd size, it can carry them to the dump -- or donate them to the BiWV storehouse. The windows are available to Habitat and church groups making house repairs. "We help rebuild broken homes," deBlecourt explained.

Checking storehouse inventory

Simply put, he said, "we want to empower local organizations to bring people and resources together to enhance the well-being of families and children.

The BiWV storehouse is open by appointment, usually of Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Other outreach programs operated by BiWV include the "Youth Encouragers Network": "We want to encourage cooperation among church youth programs," he said. "We want to encourage young people to make wise moral choices."

The "Silver Ring Thing" is yet another idea focused on young people. This ministry uses music, lights, video, drama -- the tools of dramatic arts -- to encourage sexual abstinence.

The Appalachian Teen Challenge is a Christian discipleship training residential center for young men with substance-abuse issues. A similar center for young women is currently under development.

Volunteer assistance is welcomed, and there is a place for almost any talent or ability.

John deBlecourt may be reached by e-mail or by phone at 552-7601. In the meantime, "charitable giving in West Virginia is good business," says deBlecourt. "Investment in your neighborhood will benefit you."