Blog Blog

Our Promise | September's Finances

iC Staff — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Last month we promised you 100% transparency regarding the donations we received and where that money is spent. If you never read that promise, you can by clicking here. Otherwise, take a moment, click the link below, and view our financial records for September 9th to October 9th.

Until we raise the $400 needed to purchase QuickBooks Non Profit Premier, our financial reports will look as they do in the pdf. This was time consuming and not the easiest method we are sure. In the future, we also want to show you the receipts for each line item where money is spent. If you have any ideas of how we can do this efficiently, please let us know!

Purchasing our first truck.

Chance Craven — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Many people over the years have stated "Just let me know how I can help..." Well as an organization, we are finally coming to you and saying we need help!

Below are pictures of a 1997 F-350 that we would like to purchase. It will be used as our response truck in all future relief efforts. It's four doors. It's four wheel drive and it's a diesel, allowing us to pull a trailer with the necessary equipment.

We are asking you to help us make this purchase. The truck is selling for $7,200 and we are believing that we can purchase it this week. If you would like to help us, please donate any amount! From one dollar to seven thousand of them, this has to be a group effort!

As always, thank you for your support and know that we couldn't be where we are today, without you!

**All donations are tax deductible and if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to call us. 904.735.0376.

We said go, it's time to go!

iC Staff — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 05:00:00 GMT

20 Days ago | Japan experienced both a Tsunami and Earthquake.

7 Days ago | We challenged YOU to travel to Japan with this blog.

Today | Departure flights for 6:00am on Thursday were purchased.

We shared our heart and said if you felt called to go to Japan; come up with a plan and we would help in whatever way possible to make it happen. Today, a plan exist and two of us are going to Japan! Our founder and Justen Womack will be spending one week in-country and aside from blessing Japan with financial contributions you may send with us, the team has two objectives;

One | Learn how to better prepare and respond to similar disasters should they occur in the United States.

Two | Share with both churches and organizations located in Japan, the systems that we use!

After spending an hour skyping with the local church in Japan today, people need help and people want to help, but the lack of systems are causing frustration! The two people going will share their knowledge of what's worked here, what worked in Haiti, and in every way possible, help Japan!

As mentioned in an earlier blog, needs exist in America and before we respond to needs of another country, we feel obligated to help our neighbors here. Therefore we aren't taking a large relief team or thousands of dollars worth of supplies as we did with Haiti. The purpose of this trip is to Educate ourselves and Educate others. So we are keeping our word, still focusing on America, and preparing a better response team for the future! As always, thank you for your continued support!

*Your donations are tax deductible and if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us!

Updates:

- Meeting with local pastors about training for long term disaster relief.

- Visited coast line and witnessed hundreds of families working together and rebuilding.

- Successful delivery of food, water and toiletries to a baptist church serving as distro point.

- Today we will take part in delivering 2 tons of food and water to Sendai.

- We have landed safely in Japan and met Yoshi. Current en route to Yokohama.

- Follow the team on twitter for personal updates: @JustenWomack @MrCraven

- Have found and skyped with our in-country translator. Yoshi! Be praying for him too.

- We will be traveling as far North as Sendai on occasion to observe and learn.

- We will be staying in Yokohama, a safe distance from radiation/nuclear stuff.

- $250 has been donated to be handed directly to those needing it!

- The airfare for both gentleman going was donated 100%, by one individual!

A chance to travel to Japan...

Chance Craven — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Because so many of you have asked if we are going to Japan and so many feel you are suppose to be there helping, our founder has uploaded a short video on how you can go help. That being said, our founder is passionate about his faith and he may have a different outlook than you. This video wasn't created to discourage or offend anyone, rather motivate you to do whatever it takes to get to Japan and help those affected by the Tsunami and Earthquake.

Why we aren't going to Japan...

Chance Craven — Sat, 12 Mar 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Whether it's a flood, fire, tornado or earthquake... when someone is in need, they deserve to be helped. We don't believe that any one person deserves help more than another. We do however, feel obligated to meet the needs of those closest to us, when a need exist, before we travel to another country to meet theirs.

Each of the above mentioned numbers and brief snippets of news; are things taking place within the last 72 hours, here in our own backyard. At the beginning of 2011, we made a commitment to ourselves and those closest to us that we would focus on meeting the needs of our neighbors in America. So we aren't going to Japan, because we made a promise and we are going to keep our word.

We are not saying that Japan doesn't deserve help. We are not looking down on those deciding to help. Regarding your chances to help Japan... if that is your desire; we encourage that you would research where your time and donations go. Find out how you can make the greatest impact. Rather than donating on impulse and texting to donate just because everyone else is, really help the people of Japan by researching an organization and supporting the one that aligns with your vision of helping. Make smart decisions.

As far as itsChance goes, over the next 21 days we are focusing on what it takes to respond to our neighbors needs and work towards obtaining those things. Then, you will see our response efforts to emergencies like you read about above and you'll have the chance to help!

Thank you all for understanding and your continued support. Together, we can be part of the solution!

Last minute Christmas Shopping Ideas

iC Staff — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 06:00:00 GMT

When we went to Haiti in January, a part of our mission was to visit the El Shaddai Children's Home; helping in whatever way possible, showing the love of Christ and building life long relationships. Almost a year later, Wayne Bell and Edd Cobb continue to devote time and love to the success of El Shaddai.

Recently, Wayne called us and shared news that El Shaddai's generator has finally given out. When we were there, it was on it's last leg and we knew at some point it would have to be replaced. They use the generator for lighting their home and running their well to pull clean water from the ground.

Knowing that as an organization we have decided to focus on America, Wayne contacted us not to pay for the generator and take focus away from our goals in 2011, but to assist him in receiving donations under our 501c3. Because he was such a valuable asset to our team in January, and knowing his heart is in the right place, we agreed.

Between now and the time they reach their goal, we will assist their efforts through excepting donations, spreading the word and vouching for their credibility and servants hearts!

The specifics of the generator, how they will get it there, who's installing it and anything else that you may be curious about can be answered by Wayne Bell. You can contact him via email at Wayne@itsChance.com or you can contact him via telephone at 904.545.7002. They need YOUR help.

Jonathan's become part of the Solution

iC Staff — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 06:00:00 GMT

The first week of December, we told you that we would be making an announcement regarding a man by the name of Jonathan Bundy; this is that announcement!

As we continue to grow as an organization, it's been almost impossible to stay on top of things from day to day without neglecting someone who wanted more information, a tweet or even an email. Meaning we had to reach out for help!

Jonathan had contacted us in September when we deployed to Wilmington, North Carolina in response to potential flash flooding. Because it was during this time, his request to be contacted was neglected and ultimately forgotten. Persistent, Jonathan continued to reach out to us. Via email and social media, his desire to become part of our team could not be ignored.

Fast forward over a few conversations over sushi, a few delegated task to see how he handled things and some laughter here and there... And Jonathan is the first person to have an official position with itsChance. We haven't created a title for him yet, but he's a firefighter and EMT every three days, he's an ordained pastor, an incredible artist, a friend to many and has a servant's heart like no one else we've met. We can say with confidence, he is already helping in some pretty big ways!!

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A few random facts about Jonathan

Childhood ambition | To be a professional skater.
Business philosophy in seven words or less | Do Gods will.
Hardest lesson learned | Be who God made you to be. Never change who you are to fit mankinds mold.
Proudest accomplishment | God speaking through me and allowing me to lead numerous teens to salvation.
First car | 1974 Chevy Nova.
Ultimate life goal | To get to heaven and have my saviour say 'well done my good and faithful servant.
Favorite place to eat | Any legit sushi house.
What you want to be remembered for | My love for people. And my desire to tell people about Jesus. And being pretty much awesome.

New iC Promo Video | Your thoughts?

iC Staff — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 17:17:06 GMT

We want to thank Gabriel Cox for taking the time to put together our new promo video. It seems as we are surrounding ourselves with more and more incredible people, the doors are being opened to more incredible things. So as we continue to work together with people on our staff and volunteers, we are excited about the many chances for individuals, businesses, schools and churches to be part of the solution increasing!

ICFRT to The Rescue | NC Flooding

iC Staff — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 17:43:08 GMT

An itsChance team is departing from Jacksonville, Florida tonight at midnight and heading towards Wilmington, North Carolina. Right now they are 3" shy of an all-time record, 4-day rain event ( 19.06" ), set during Hurricane Floyd. Flash flooding, swift water rescues and home damage is expected to take place.

Over the next 72 hours we will begin posting, tweeting and sharing the different chances for YOU to help!!

MORE UPDATES COMING SOON!!!

We will begin posting needs of the community once we arrive tomorrow. Please stay tuned for ways that YOU can be helping your neighbor.

Sign up for Together43!!!

It's important that more and more people sign up for this. Rather than waiting on disasters to happen and asking for large donations.... we want people to do this so we are ALWAYS ready!!!

Part of the Solution | Tim Deegan

iC Staff — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 22:11:15 GMT

On August 30th we reached out to chief meteorologist Tim Deegan via email. We explained who we were, that we would like a few minutes of his time and asked for a response. Twenty-two minutes later, Tim had replied.

Over the course of the next few days’ emails were exchanged, questions were asked, questions were answered, systems were created and what has turned into one of our most beneficial relationships was formed.

Today, Tim Deegan is providing itsChance with a very unique form of Consulting. He sends daily weather reports by 9:00am via email. He helped in establishing a response threshold for our ICFRT. And when threatening weather conditions exist, he helps in determining if our itsChance First Response Team should deploy.

___________________________________________________

An Example\\ Hurricane Earl

The storm posed a threat to the Eastern United States at the beginning of September. Published weather reports stated the storm would come close enough to the Outer Banks that category three damage would occur, normally a situation that would cause our ICFRT to respond.

But, Tim provided us with up to date weather information regarding the storms digression, movement and over all conditions. With our team on stand by, he helped in making the ultimate decision not to deploy. In the hours to follow, his predictions became facts and we wouldn’t have been of use to local authorities or citizens in the Outer Banks area. A series of events that ended up saving our organization roughly $2,000 and countless hours of response time!

___________________________________________________

Needless to say, we are excited to announce his willingness to consult our organization. Tim Deegan has been nothing but professional, courteous and a pleasure to work with to date. He even paid for our founders’ lunch when the two sat down to discuss changing the world… So make that above mentioned total $2,013!

Expect to hear more about our relationship with Tim as he continues to help, what it’ll take to work with him in 2011 and the chances YOU have to make it possible!

A few random TD facts\\

Childhood ambition | Always(as long as I can remember) wanted to be a meteorologist
Business philosophy in seven words or less | Most want to do a good job
Hardest lesson learned | If it doesn’t feel right in ‘the naked now’ its not right
Proudest accomplishment | Helping my children off to a good start
First car | Maroon volare($800)
Ultimate life goal | Make every decision based on love and not fear
Favorite place to eat | Mexican
What you want to be remembered for | I believed in peace, love and understanding.

Together43 | Anything is Possible

iC Staff — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 19:26:31 GMT

You've probably visited our donation page by now, many of you have. Some of you have sent us emails asking how you can help in our Together43 campaign. Some of you have never heard of it and simply stumbled upon this blog. To quickly summarize things:

Together for three dollars a week we are able to respond to emergencies and help our neighbors during their greatest hour of need. Rather than seeking large donations when a disaster occurs, we gather strength in small donations over time. It's a very simple concept. Together we make the decision to sacrifice one cup of coffee, that extra food, or that outfit we were going to purchase and we invest into the future of our neighbors.

Our Promise to You | 100% Transparency

iC Staff — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 05:00:00 GMT

As an organization founded on Christian principles, the book of 1 Timothy tells us that as an overseer, a leader, we must be above reproach. Meaning as an organization, our leadership has to be blameless for things that may cause someone to doubt our credibility or intentions. Whether you are a Christian or not, this principle seems worthy of upholding and we believe there is only one-way for this to happen!

As an organization that accepts financial contributions and gifts in kind from people who trust us, we will be 100% transparent in what we do with those gifts. Our promise to you is that at all times; you will see this transparency! We will provide this information without you having to ask for it.

___________________________________________________

Financial Donations
Each month we are accepting donations with the intent of the contribution going towards helping people during a disaster or training others to do so. This may include our overhead cost, someone’s salary, cost of supplies and tools, fuel, or even food. If we are using your donations for something, we are going to show you exactly where it's going! Meaning each time that we deploy to a disaster, we are going to scan our receipts and physically show you the impact you are having!

Gifts in Kind
On occasion a service or a physical item is donated to our organization. We agree to make every gift in kind donated to itsChance a public record. If we accept something, we will show you how it is being used.

Credentials
Let's be honest, sometimes you don't know who is asking you for money! So in being 100% transparent, we are going to show you not only where your money goes, but who you are giving it too!! As an incorporation within the state of Florida; we are registered as a Domestic Not-For-Profit and our 501c3 status is currently pending with the IRS. Upon receiving our tax exempt letter, we will also scan that document and provide you a visual copy. Until then, you can find proof that we are who we claim to be!

Registration With the State of Florida | http://bit.ly/iCincorp

Permission to Solicit Funds | http://bit.ly/iCflorida

501c3 Status 27-2868432 | http://bit.ly/iC501c3

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We understand that some may disagree with this concept and others have even stated that certain things need to be kept private, we disagree. We want to be known as an organization that is changing charity! We want to know your thoughts on this concept over all, but if you feel there is a way in which we can improve upon our methods of transparency, we would love to hear from you!

Why We Chose Emergency Response

Chance Craven — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 20:07:33 GMT

Nashville Flood - Driving through the night

iC Staff — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 15:23:45 GMT

We ARE going back: Update May 6.2010

Having built a relationship with several different churches, we now have the ability to host up to 100 volunteers at a time. This includes providing three meals a day while staying in Nashville. Our plans now are:

May 9.2010

-We are departing from Jacksonville with a team of 12 volunteers and driving through the night to Nashville. We will be traveling via a 15 passenger van.

May 10-13.2010

-We will be partnering with I AM ACTIVE, Crosspoint Church and The Peoples Church. All three days we will be compassing neighborhoods, helping with demolition and providing hope through simple acts of love.

-We will reevaluate the systems implemented at Crosspoint Church and provide any further assistance to better help their handling of volunteers.

-We will depart Nashville the evening of May 13.
Budget

The expected budget of this trip is as follows:

Gas - $300.00
Van - $300.00
Tools - $250.00
Misc - $200.00
Total - $950.00

We would also like to raise the funds to compensate for our first trip. Bringing us to a grand total of $1318.24.

How You Can Help:

- Volunteer: Within 12 hours of posting a need for volunteers, we had thirteen volunteers commit to traveling with us! We feel honored and humbled that so many people are willing to help us. If you would like to travel in your own vehicle to Nashville between Sunday night and Thursday, you are more than welcome to come work with us. We can provide your meals in Nashville and a place for you to stay, please contact us via telephone if you are interested in this: 904.395.5533

-Donate: If you are able to help provide financial contributions to support our team of twelve traveling back to Nashville, please click the link above or click here. All donations are tax deductible and if you have any questions please feel free to contact us via email or telephone: info@itsChance.com -or- 904.395.5533.

This trip is made possible because the following partners have agreed to support us and our desire to help in one manner or another.

I AM ACTIVE:

Three staff members from their company traveled with us in our initial trip and provided the systems necessary to help Crosspoint Church.

River City Church:

The home church of I AM ACTIVE. They have agreed to be our channel of fundraising for the Nashville flood. All donations received will be tax deductible through their 501c3.

Nashville Flood: Update May 5.2010

Our team of four has returned to Jacksonville safely after spending three days in Nashville. While we were there, we were able to identify several needs and create a solution. We came back realizing that we still have a lot to learn and are excited about what it is that God is doing. Over all we accomplished the following:

Established a relationship with Crosspoint Church.
Created and implemented a volunteer system for their church.
Shared lessons learned from previous experiences.
Traveled through out Nashville, assessing damage and needs.
Connected with Life Church, GUTS Church and Healing Place Church, all three from across the United States. Empowering them to continue helping when we left.

This trip was different than Atlanta because we were a true first responder. Traveling from Jacksonville through the night and arriving in Nashville before many other organizations arrived. This opened our eyes to the urgency of arriving first and creating systems for future volunteers; allowing them to come and immediately start working if desired.

The cost of this trip were as follows:

Gas..................................$201.74
Food..................................$73.00
Supplies Donated..............$88.53
Parking................................$5.00

Total $368.24

We chose not to take the time to fundraise for this trip because the need was urgent. We are now accepting funds for reimbursement.

Original Statement. May 2.2010

itsChance has assembled a team of four:

Chance Craven | Audra Elliot | Gabriel Cox | Nathan Elliott

We are departing from Jacksonville at 11:44pm EST on May 2.2010 and heading towards Nashville, Tennessee.

We will be teaming up and providing assistance to Pastor Pete Wilson of Cross Point church in their relief efforts of the recent flooding. Due to the need to pack, prepare and get on the road, this is as much information as we can provide at the moment.

Please begin to pray over our travels, that our team work together successfully and most importantly, we can be the hands and feet of Jesus Christ during this time of need. Thank you all.

-For up to the minute updates, please follow our team members on Twitter: @itsChance | @NathanElliott

-For recent footage of some of the flooding in nashville, please click the following link from CNN: http://bit.ly/aDuM9G

Our Original Haiti Plan: Accomplished

iC Staff — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 01:23:50 GMT

It's because of so many other people that 12 of us were able to go to Haiti on Jan 21st and make the difference that we did! There is a lot to come from the trip, and we are sorry that we haven't had time to update things yet... but below is our original plans, which we accomplished!

Reuniting the Freycinet family

It's on our list of things to do, but it's not everything. Our team member Leu grew up in Haiti. His 100 year old grandmother was recently rescued by his cousins before his uncles house collapsed. We know that the conditions in Haiti may prevent us from ever making it to Leu's family, but if it all possible, we are going to do it!

Helping the El Shaddai Orphanage

Team member Edd Cobb has worked closely with the El Shaddai orphanage and has been in contact with representatives since the earthquake. We plan to aid in any assistance necessary within the walls of El Shaddai from simply spending time with children to basic medical necessities such as wrapping wounds and washing feet.

Clearing streets and removing debris

If you've seen the news, you know what the streets look like. We are taking the necessary tools such as concrete saws, sledge hammers, picks and shovels to clear as much as possible from the roads surrounding our base camp and anywhere else that we are able to help.

It's true. Over the past 24 hours since we announced that we have an eleven person team going to Haiti... our team has grown tremendously!! There may be eleven of us flying to Haiti, but it's because of so many of you choosing to donate financially, donate your time, and support the eleven of us that we are able to do it! YOU are a part of our team! Below is a growing list of our Operation Freycinet team. They are making it happen!! //There are more members to this team, we haven't had time to update it yet!

Eric S.
Easter T.
Leon D.
Josh M.
Neal S.
Robin J.
Jennifer K.
Mary L.
Elizabeth H.
Kelly A.
Jeffery W.
Kelly P.
Chad W.

Adam D.
William R.
Jose V.
Donna Q.
Cameron T.
Tony N.
Ingrid F.
Paul K.
Samson R.
Morgan B.
Bryan G.
Alaina S.
Beverly K.

Wendy E.
Deb L.
Amanda H.
Nicole C.
Jenny S.
Will S.
Jamie M.
Terrance O.
Tom R.
Micah S.
Lori M.
Mandy J.
Matt R.

Jessica Z.
Judith W.
Esthere J.
Donald R.
Jamin W.
Christy P.
Bill S.
Joseph G.
Jennifer C.
Ellen L.
Dee H.
Keith G.
Thanh N.

Erin Z.
Johnathan S.
Lizzie M.
Melissa W.
Wendy Q.
Vic C.
Derek N.
Anthony W.
Winston S.
Stephanie P.
Latoya S.
Lindsey C.

Meet Our Haiti Team: The 12

iC Staff — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 21:08:53 GMT

SEE WHAT THEY ARE DOING: CLICK HERE

Noah

He's got an eye for photography. He's got a heart for other people. He currently is the bass player for some guy named Matt Redman. We are excited to have him on our team and you can check out some of his photography work here: http://www.noahculver.com

Chance

Rather tall. Goofy. The guy that well... yeah. You probably already know him. But you can read about him as our founder by checking out this blog post about him: Click Here

Blake

We met him in Atlanta. He showed up when we responded to the Atlanta flood in 2009. He proved to be an excellent leader, a phenomenal worker and we can't say enough about him. Doesn't surprise us that he also started http://beremedy.org. If you don't know about it, you need to check it out. Now. Follow him on twitter right..... Here or visit beremedy's website Here

Gail

She's tougher than all the men combined on this trip. She's an incredible mother. She's determined. She has been preparing mentally and physically for this trip for years without even realizing it, until now. She's ready to go. She's going to take care of us. And there's no words to explain how much we love her!

Corey

The youngest guy on the group, but more experienced than most of us older than him when it comes to third world scenarios. He chose to spend last summer in Vietnam helping anyone and everyone he came across with a problem. But it helps that he is Gail's son, and also has an incredible father!! Their entire family are huge supporters!!

Steve

What do we say about Steve. We honestly don't know him that well. He pretty much fell into our laps... which it's then that we discovered he's heavy. He can lift heavy things and his heart is bigger than his appetite. He is beyond anxious to get on the road and has promised to give out more hugs than anyone else on the team!

Nick

Three tours to Iraq, Two to Baghdad, and one to Mosul while serving in the US Army for six years... Nick is a huge asset to our team. Add in the fact that he has dreams bigger than most people ever even think about, and that he is actually achieving them, and you realize why we are taking him! Read more about what he's doing here:

True Friends

Leu

You already know a little about him. A little more = He is more thankful for this trip and I think anyone we will meet. He is excited to possibly see his family, but beyond blown away by the response of young adults stepping up. He has expressed over and over his gratitude for the possibility of going!!

Justin

He wanted us to keep it really simple. He loves people. Haha! Follow him on twitter and keep up to date with his anticipation! Tweet Tweet Twittery Tweet!

Martha

The most caring woman we may have ever talked to. She lived in Haiti for more than five years as a missionary. She speaks fluent French/Creole. She is ready to go change the world with us and has agreed to tag team us, with Gail as her partner, if any of us get out of line!!

Edd

Edd is the man. Having traveled from the Dominican Republic to Haiti before, he is familiar with the roads and terrain. He is our contact with El Shaddai and is anxious to get into Haiti and help with the orphanage in any way possible!!

24 Degrees. 3 People. 1 Idea.

iC Staff — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 21:09:23 GMT

The Issue//

We received an email today from a single mother of a four and six year old boy, asking for assistance fixing a water pipe that busted during the freeze last night. We immediately told her that we could help, only to discover she needs help with other things too but was too scared to ask!
She hasn't been able to keep up with her bills lately and for that reason her and her children are sleeping in the mobile home, with no power. They have been heating water for bathing over their kerosene heater. They are keeping food fresh in a styrofoam cooler. They all three sleep together on a full size bed to stay warm at night.
She is in the situation for whatever reason, some may say it's her fault and some may choose not to help. But we feel led to lend this family a hand up, not just a hand out, and we are hoping you will help!
Our Response//updated
With the help of so many people, we raised $609.12 in roughly three hours. The donations came in as low as $3.13 and we didn't have one larger than $100. All together we had 26 donations! That allowed us to pay the $313.78 due to turn her power back on, purchase groceries, bedding, and warm pajamas for children and also provide a new kerosene heater! The four year old was excited, but the six year old couldn't quit running around jumping on things excited!! He began to sing a song I believe he created... "I can see inside and it's dark outside... whoo-i whoo-i! I can see inside and it's dark outside... whoo-i whoo-i"
It was an experience that we can't explain, but it's because of you that young adults are able to keep helping others!! It changes not only the families and people we help, but it also changes the lives of those choosing to help! Thank you all for everything that you do!!
We don't need one person to donate all of the money. We need one person to tell another. And together donate five dollars. Ten. Twenty here and there. And then we can go help this family tonight! Temperatures are expected to drop below freezing tonight, to the mid 20's. Regardless of how this family got to where they are now, let's choose not to judge. Let's choose to love!

If You Choose to Partner with iC

iC Staff — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 13:40:46 GMT

1) We are going to speak of, represent, and love the vision of your organization, group, ministry or business as if it were our own. We do not believe in speaking negative!

2) If you are a young adult it will be our goal to either provide you with an outreach opportunity that will change your life or guide you to creating that experience! If you are an organization, it will be our goal to provide the volunteers and man/woman power to accomplish the vision your organization has.

3) Young Adults: If we do not currently offer the opportunity that you are seeking, we will lead you towards an organization that is currently doing that. The organizations that we ultimately partner with will have nothing less than top notch volunteer experiences that empower young adults!

4) Businesses/Corporations: You've come to us because you want your company making an impact in their local community. We will create the relationships that are needed to continuously do this, building long lasting impact. We promise that we will not, nor have not sent anyone to volunteer regarding something we ourselves wouldn't do!

5) Non Profits: We aren't going to provide you with volunteers that aren't passionate about your specific cause. We believe to empower a young adult you have to give them the choice of what they want to do. Therefor creating a database of volunteers to choose from, that have previously chosen to support your cause!!

1) Honesty: Just tell us how it is. We are all adults.

2) Respect: Don't treat us less than you expect to be treated.

3) Communication: Be open. Share your thoughts.

4) Accountability: If we are messing up, tell us!

5) Liability: If you mess up, admit it.

If you would like to partner with itsChance and have us lead you to making an impact in your community, let us know! If you are an organization that want's help pursuing your visions and goals, speak up and we will get the people to help! If you are a company or organization that wants your employees doing more than just working, give us the chance to empower them to make a difference!!

For more information on partnering with us, please contact us today!

Stop The Nakedness// Support it

iC Staff — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 03:16:32 GMT

THEY ARE CLOTHING THE WORLD. LITERALLY.

STOP THE NAKEDNESS is a non-profit organization using clothing as a way to show the world LOVE. It was birthed out of a merchandizing company called Fig Tree Clothing (now Fig Tree Collective). As Fig Tree grew, we decided it was time to start using our success to cloth the world in LOVE... It was time to start giving it away.

If you have a moment, watch the video below, get a better idea of what they do, but none the less, support them!! Check Our Their Website >>

Not I, not Its(space) Let's Get it Right.

Chance Craven — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 07:15:00 GMT

So we know that not everyone is going to talk about itsChance. We know that. But for those that will, we thought we would take just a moment to address something that we are picky about!

If you ask any major company, brand identity is a very important subject. You want to create something that when people see it, they know it's you. You want something that when people type it into google, it comes up first. So we thought a little iC education wouldn't hurt anyone and if anything, make all of you better ambassadors of our vision!! So here it is...

Thank you for taking the time to read this. We realize it seems like a minor detail, but it's important to us! We look forward to continuing to change the world with all of your help, and now you have the resources to go out and tell the world about iC and itsChance!

A Christmas Purchase with a Purpose?

iC Staff — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 04:34:06 GMT

What do your purchase with your money? Does what you purchase have any significance or purpose? We buy things everyday, but what if instead of buying just anything, you bought something it had a significant purpose?

We all earn money with the mindset that we are either spending it right away, or saving it up to eventually purchase something later on. Especially with all of the purchasing that takes place this time of year, we wanted to educate everyone on how you can actually purchase purpose!!

Below are a few ideas of things you can purchase this holiday season that have purpose. Things that if purchased, make a difference. We ask that you take a moment to check out each one and if you see something worth sharing, purchase it, buy into the purpose, and share it!! Thank you!!

**If you know of any other causes, where purchasing something goes towards an awesome purpose, share it with us. Leave a comment and the link!! Thank you

Getting to Know Our Founder

iC Staff — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 01:55:15 GMT

//Your names Chance? Did you name the organization after yourself?

No sir, my mom just gave me a sweet name!

//So why itsChance?

Chance is defined as something unkown, causing events that can not be forseen or controlled; a favorable set of circumstances, an opportunity: a chance to escape.

Thats why. So many people leave things up to this thing called chance. You ask them when would they pursue their dreams, when they would do "something" and normally the reply can be broken down into "when the chance falls into my lap."

We want to be that chance. We want to eliminate excuses to not pursue your dreams. Then providing the "chance" for young adults to pursue their passions, it's our hope that they can say "iC" the difference my life can make.

//So anyone can change the world?

Of course! And that’s where television, music and so much more... has messed up. They have given the world, the impression if you aren’t the richest, aren’t a certain skin color, or don’t look a certain way... you aren’t going to amount to anything!!

One Life CAN change every life!! It’s the truth. It just takes someone taking a chance and encouraging someone else, to birth a desire and passion inside of someone to go out and change the world!

We want future presidents, doctors, missionaries, leaders, teachers, athletes, etc etc to have achieved their dreams, because it was someone elses dream to help them!! We want people to see their potential in life!!

//So who does itsChance actually help?

I would like to say everyone! But let’s not get cocky here. Our main focus... is to educate young adults on how they can make a difference. Offering chances to feed the homeless, tutor children, help clean up neighborhoods, collect school supplies, and just make a difference.

We’ve learned first hand that by having opportunities for these young people to go out and help... it’s helping them more than anything because they are getting involved with making a difference in the world!! Then they become passionate about something more than drugs, sex, parties and things that are just trouble. Yes they are helping others... but it’s helping their future, and we are helping create true world changers! I think that answers your question?

//Yes, that answers it for sure! So how do you plan on educating these young people?

Well the easiest way is social media! I know... I know... social media is such a bad thing and there are so many bad people on it! I hear that on the news all the time.

But if you want something to change... you have to be the change. So we are encouraging the positive use of myspace, facebook, twitter and social media in general! That way we are getting the word out to young adults outside of Jacksonville too!! It’s the easiest way to reach thousands of people!

Other than that, We are trying to set up speaking opportunities too. From high schools and college campuses to places of employment, sports teams and anyone else that wants to hear how they can use their life to make a difference! We want to plan events for people who want to make a difference! So if you know of anyone that wants us to share our message and vision... send them our way! Teachers, Principals, Bosses, Coaches.... contact us!

//So my final question… why are you doing this? Where did your inspiration come from? What made you, take a chance?

Well first of all, my parents and family! My mom has always told me since I was little... “Do unto others as you would have them do to you.” She has always taught me to be different, and strive to do right even if others are doing wrong. My entire family has always encouraged me to follow my dreams! My grandmother has always told me to just trust God and step out of the boat. To have faith and dream big! Which let me tell you, I’m a dreamer, I’ve had a lot of crazy ideas... but they are always there supporting me!!

It started with graduating high school early, working for a locally owned business, then starting my own concrete company. From there I put together a business plan seeking $120,000 in capital and 8 months later a few NFL football players gave me the capital to start the company. Following that I was given an incredible opportunity to travel to Newport Beach, California and work with a new non profit that Scottie Somers had started. That was the moment my eyes were really opened to helping others.

Scottie has been diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis, yet chooses to Live The Dream everyday. Partnering with Hurley, he started a grassroots movement that spreads the desire to wake up and live the dream. He's made it his mission to make dreams reality for those that have been diagnosed with a terminal disease... that's just flippin incredible and beyond motivating to anyone.

So between my family, the friends that God has placed in my life and the stories of people using their life for the greater good ,I was inspired to do what we're talking about today.

//Any Final Thoughts?

Find something in your life to love, then spread that love through living your life!

Read more about Chance, what he thinks, where he goes and why

he does it on the blog he writes: wheresChance.com

//Random Facts

Full Name: Joshua Chancellor Craven

Birthday: May 31st, 1985

Occupation Title: Chief Inspiration Officer

Childhood Ambition: Become a pilot

Hardest Lesson Learned: Creating shortcuts ultimately creates muck ups. Do it right!

First Job: Pouring Concrete

First Car: 98 Pontiac Sunflower

Wealth, Fame, Love, or Respect: All of the above please!

Proudest Moment: Wow, Don't know. Life's been good so far.

Scariest Momemt: Car Accident. Both of them! Almost died twice.

Ultimate Life Goal: Become an awesome husband and father. Take care of my family. Encourage others and in the end, hear " Good job my good and faithful servant."

Atlanta Flood 09'

iC Staff — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 03:47:50 GMT

The Issue//

In September of 2009, areas of Atlanta Georgia experienced rain like they had never seen before, or atleast in recorded history! Hundreds of homes were flooded within a matter of hours and thousands of people were suddenly without a place to sleep that night. The media covered it briefly, but unless you or a family member were effected by the tragedy it was quickly forgotten about.

Our Response//
An Atlanta based disaster relief organization, created by a Shaun King, contacted us to see if we were able to provide assistance, we of course agreed! Educating young adults about the situation and using social media to raise support, within 72 hours there were 27 of us going to aid in the clean up efforts. We spent just over four weeks in what would be considered ground zero, helping families clean their homes, search through their belongings that could be saved and making some of the best friends we have today! We had literally thousands of volunteers travel from 13 different states to help make a difference. Through Shaun empowering iC and the support of all of you, it changed the way we look at disaster relief!!

All about the new itsChance.com

Chance Craven — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 05:53:04 GMT

On December 18th, 2009 itsChance will be two years old. Over the past 24 months we have learned a lot of things whether it be lessons learned from success or failure. One of our biggest lessons, has been the importance of branding.

For 24 months we have constantly been changing our presence on the web trying to find something satisfying not only to our taste, but the desire and needs of the young adults we aim to empower. Up until this point, we have had several "faces" in the .com world without being able to find something that we felt confident in.

As the summer was coming to a close and we were getting ready to plan for our fall and winter events, the president and founder of Bultman Media contacted us. They had seen our website at the present time and were very interested in providing their services to help us with our main goal of empowering young adults.

To date, we don't have anything but positive feedback regarding the team at Bultman Media. They have bent over backwards to make sure we are getting a website that works for us. Teaching us the importance of Search Engine Optimization, Blogging and Social Media techniques, they have truly given us the tools to go out into the world and obtain young adults interest.

We would like to especially thank Chris Bultman, their founder and president, for taking the time to contact us and for providing a team of professionals!!

So as an early birthday present to not only ourselves, but all of you that continue to believe and support in the vision.... Enjoy the official launch of itsChance.com!