21 Nov 5th grade students donate blankets to Cat House
McPherson County Community Foundation (MCCF) staff teamed up with Canton-Galva Elementary 5th grade students to create cat blankets for the local cat shelter, Cat House, located in McPherson.
The initiative, known as Voices in Philanthropy (or V.I.P.’s for short), is part of the Foundation’s community engagement efforts. MCCF began working with the 5th grade class on Sept. 24, that first meeting Betsy Davis, Director of Community Services and Jessi Boughfman, Program Associate, walked the students through the basics of Philanthropy and provided example of it happening in McPherson County.
The second session focused on involving fifth-grade students in a project that benefits a local organization. The V.I.P.’s team decided on the idea of providing blankets for the local cat shelter. While the Foundation supplied the materials, it was the students who took the lead in assembling the blankets.
The students enjoyed the hands-on experience, learning the value of giving back to their community and supporting a local nonprofit.
“Demystifying philanthropy with young people is so important, it fosters empathy, a sense of community, and empowers kids to create positive change.” Betsy Davis, MCCF Director of Community Services said, “Our program with Canton/Galva fifth grade has allowed the kids to have first hand experience with being philanthropists. Our hope is that the kids now have the knowledge that they too can help their community with their time, talents and treasure.”
The blankets were delivered to the Cat House, where staff will distribute them. The shelter, known for its dedication to cat welfare, welcomed the blankets as a thoughtful and much-needed addition.
The V.I.P.’s program will return to Canton-Galva Elementary School in Feb., bringing with it a nonprofit fair designed to engage young philanthropists. The event will showcase a variety of local nonprofits, giving students the opportunity to learn about and connect with the many organizations operating in McPherson County.
