Lehigh Valley Marketplace

By Tami L. Hudson

Cookie Dough & Community Service: It’s all in the Mix

In an economy bustling with layoffs, insufficient health-care, and increasing expenses, it is comforting to know that someone cares. Making a difference in the lives of others can sometimes be accomplished through a kind word, a pleasant smile, or even a warm batch of cookies given by a sincere and caring person. Beth Bell, founder and president of the Johnsonville Cookie Club, is that kind of person. And the group of individuals that she pioneers in the Cookie Club share Bell’s passion for others.

What started as a small cookie exchange in December 2004 with a couple of close friends who shared both unfortunate family tragedies and a desire for social interaction, quickly grew to a Sweet Tooth Movement with over 30 members– ranging in age from seven to 78 years– actively changing the lives of others, one dozen cookies at a time. While down-home cooking and an immeasurable amount of love are added to each meal or cookie served, Bell is quick to point out that there are no criteria to join the Cookie Club. “All someone needs is a desire to help others and a willingness to learn,” states Bell with genuine enthusiasm.

I would love to see it expanded across the country. The happiness that you see on someone’s face is so rewarding

The Johnsonville Cookie Club is a non-profit, community-based organization on a mission to serve the community through various fundraising events, cookie exchanges, and care packages to families in need or those facing emotional or financial hardships. Although it is headquartered in the cozy town of Bangor, PA, the influence the cookie club has had on its members and those who receive from the Cookie Club is far-reaching. In the past, the club has collected clothing and necessary items for soldiers in Iraq. Closer to home, the Cookie Club has sponsored two local families throughout the year for meals, clothing, school supplies, and holiday presents.

The Johnsonville Cookie Club sponsors approximately 20 major fundraisers per year which yield around $600 per fundraising event, to either ease financial hardships of families in the community or restock the club’s pantry so there is no delay in helping the next family or individual in need. Unselfish in all aspects, the proceeds from the fundraising events are given to various families, organizations, and schools. “We started our club with a $50 donation and we have been able to give away over $34,000.00 in donations, baked goods, clothing, school supplies, household items, new coats, winter boots and food baskets during the holidays,” adds Bell with delight. Monetary or food donations are happily accepted and there is no limit to the amount of fundraising activities the club will participate in to help someone in need.

“This number varies depending upon circumstances brought to our attention.  If there is a family with a newly diagnosed illness or a family member death and they need our assistance, we’ll definitely try to help,” adds Bell emphatically. And, that desire to help has translated into a significant number of cookies and baked goods over the years. At last count Bell estimates that the club has baked approximately 42,000 cookies and made over 36,000 cookie bars.

That is a lot of cookies for this well-kept secret that is effortlessly leading a “sweet tooth movement” across the Lehigh Valley. Although the club doesn’t invest in expensive marketing tactics, its members and connected networks (schools, churches, and social networks) are the eyes and ears of the community and are able, through word-of-mouth, to learn of the needs of neighborhood families and to share this information with others in the cookie club. “I would love to see it expanded across the country. The happiness that you see on someone’s face is so rewarding. And, many times the people that we help believe in our mission and help others when they can,” states Bell.

The Johnsonville Cookie Club is a remarkable mission of love led by a woman nothing short of remarkable herself. Bell, who is dealing with a disability–and her team of unsung heroes–accept no limits in their quest to help others. Recently, their efforts have reached a young family in the Maryland area who dealt with the tragic loss of a family member and were in need of support. “One hand helps another. If you ever hear of someone who needs help, just let us know and we will come there and help them,” states Bell. And, I truly believe that they will.

For more information or to join the Johnsonville Cookie Club, contact Beth Bell at beth@johnsonvillecookieclub.com or check out www.johnsonsvillecookieclub.com

Tami L. Hudson of Macungie, a self-proclaimed sugar cookie lover, has nearly 10 years’ experience in the nonprofit sector.