When it comes to finding ways to provide niceness for those in need, we’re always looking for new and creative ways. This year, unable to host our annual fundraiser due to COVID, we were looking for a way to raise funds for our core projects and determined to still help those in need however we could. The idea needed to be something anyone could do, from anywhere, safely – and it had to be fun!
Introducing our 1st Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest!
The Project
This event, led by our newest board member Tanis Liomin, was designed to have fun and help someone – and it did just that. We were not sure what the response would be, but it was awesome! In addition to a number of creative pumpkin entries, with your amazing support, we generated over 25 donations from literally around the world totaling over $3,000 to support all three upcoming projects:
- Halloween Helpers – costumes for children in homeless shelters
- Help the Homeless – clothing/supplies for local homeless shelters
- Tower Toy Drive – supporting local children’s hospitals and homeless shelters
This was a HUGE boost for our team that was frankly unsure how we were going to pull off all of these projects in the face of COVID. Your support has enabled us to allocate enough funds for each of these projects that will help hundreds of people. This year, more than ever, that means so much.
Putting Your Generosity to Work
We’ve already completed the Halloween Helpers project, doubling what we did last year. For our Help the Homeless project we are making adjustments to deliver to local shelters in lieu of a public outreach on Thanksgiving Day to make sure everyone is safe but still supported. And our Toy Drive will be adjusted to ensure we comply with any needs of the hospitals and local shelters.
Special Donors that Stepped Up!
Grateful for all of our supporters that made this happen, but we would like to recognize several special donors that went above and beyond to help us hit our goal:
- The Trainer Family
- The Melton Family
- The Kaiser Family
- Maria Pietsch
- Sondra Nunez
- The Liomin Family
- And our newest sponsor – Sullivan Auto Group
The Winners
Yeah, we know you want to know who won! In addition to all the kids you helped who were the real winners, here are the pumpkin carving pros that took away the prizes.
Adults: Brian Liomin – Pumpkin #8 Kids: Michelle Thorton – Pumpkin #13Door Price: Tanis Liomin – Pumpkin #6Fan Favorite: Lisa Airola – Pumpkin #12
Thank You!!!
There are a lot of places that need help this year, and we’re grateful that you have supported us as you always do. Rest assured that EVERY DOLLAR donated is being put to good use, and you can watch our blog and social media pages for regular updates on each of the projects this holiday season.
You all are amazing. Thank you for your niceness and helping make a real difference this year!