Fundraising is challenging on its own, but this year it has been nearly impossible for many local non-profits because of Covid-19. Large events such as the Great Ogeechee Seafood Festival, The Garden Club’s Pumpkin Patch, book sales, bake sales, and many others were sadly canceled.
More than just an event to participating organizations, these cancellations have left most groups with an extremely tight or non-existent budget to sustain their efforts. Creativity has been exercised and sustainability plans have been put in place, but the truth of the matter is that many groups are barely hanging on, unable to give back as they normally would as they have no funds.
Richmond Hill City Councilman Robbie Ward decided to take action on a campaign promise to donate his city salary for the greater good. Last week, Ward presented checks totaling $4,583.47 to three very deserving local non-profits: The Friends of the Library, The Senior Citizens Center, and VFW Post 7331.
“It was not easy to choose where the money should go, but I think these three organizations offer so much to our community, and their efforts are needed,” said Ward. “I know the money will go to great use by all of them, and will serve their missions better than it will serve me.”
The organizations were most thankful for the very timely gesture.
“It’s just wonderful. We are so touched by this generous donation. Robbie is such a kind person who truly cares about the community. With his help, we can now fulfill the needs of the library,” said Gloria Shearin, Friends of the Library.
" On behalf of the VFW, we appreciate the gift Robbie gave to us," said Steve Asplund, VFW Post 7331. "The first comments from our group were ‘who can we help with this money’. Robbie’s generosity helped us greatly considering every fundraiser we had this year was canceled. We can’t thank him enough"
"All I can say is it has been such a blessing to us because we haven’t been able to do any fundraising," said Tonya Henderson, Richmond Hill Senior Center. "All of the fun stuff we do for our seniors would not be possible without this amazing donation."
