Jars Of Change: How Spare Coins Helped TCHS Raise Thousands of Dollars
WHAT ONE JAR CAN DO
Every year, I take all of my pennies, dimes, nickles and quarters, any change I find in my laundry, or just lying around the house, and put it in what's called "Bill's Jar" to help support the animals at TCHS.
I'm amazed at what this small action can add up to when we all work together.
The Tri-County Humane Society is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year. Since moving back to Minnesota in 2013, I've been enjoying the company of a specific TCHS Alumni named Mr. Bean.
My cat Mr. Bean was approximately 7 years old when I heard Executive Director Vicki Davis talking about this "Gentlemen's Cat," named Mr. Bean, on my talk show one Friday afternoon, during her regular weekly segment.
WHO IS THIS COOL CAT?
Something about the description of this cat made me want him. I don't know if it was because Mr. Bean came to the shelter after his owner passed away, or if it was just the fact that I wanted to find out what a 'Gentlemen's Cat' was, since I had a house full of young gentlemen, all getting used to their new lives in Minnesota, after living in Kentucky for most of their lives.
Mr. Bean is now 16-17 years old, and knock on wood, he'll be with us for many years to come. We've added a beautiful female cat that I also discovered through a visit to the radio station about years ago. One of my co-workers Laura came around the corner and said, "Kelly, this is your son Drew's cat." Pnuema looked like she might be part Maine Coon, and so, that little kitten is now a big fluffy cat, and She and Mr. Bean rule the house together.
BIG MONEY THROUGH SMALL DONATIONS
This year, because of Bill's Jar, $39,211.04 has been raised through change collected by families all over central Minnesota. Bill presented this to new Executive Director Marit Ortega at the 50th Anniversary Gala last week.
WOULD YOU LIKE A JAR?
If you would like to be part of a bigger journey in helping TCHS with their goal of helping animals in central Minnesota, contact TCHS and I'm sure they will find a way to get you in touch with Bill Nelson so you can start your own fundraising efforts effortlessly.