Seven match day organizations, and the work they do were the focus of Monday’s Talk of Emporia.
Along with the organization spokespersons were representatives of the Emporia Community Foundation. ECF Program Driector Loni Heinen says a major benefit of Match Day is that it helps enhance recognition of non-government funded organizations.
Lyon County Crime Stoppers spokesperson Evora Wheeler agrees with this, saying Match Day along with modern technology, has had an impact on community assistance with solving local crime.
New to Match Day this year is the Madison-based organization Main Street Mommas. Group representative Kristan Dean explains their main mission.
One group who is neither new to Match Day or the Emporia area is Habitat for Humanity. The organization has been a part of Emporia for nearly 30 years.
Group spokesperson Eric Kirby explains funds from this year’s Match Day will benefit a special project.
Another familiar face to the annual event is Team Schnak who will be using funds to send local children to Camp Discovery in Junction City. Kent Schnakenberg explains further.
Rhonda Gordon with Keep it a Safe Summer was also in studio and explained the donations help KISS provide anything which is not donated by the community.
Deb Ghere of Friends of the Emporia Animal Shelter explains their donations will help provide animals with medical services.
Donations will also benefit the Friends of the Emporia Public Library as the Library is preparing to undergo renovations. Representative Dee Schwinn says this project will not be quick and will take equal amounts of time, energy and money.
Match Day is scheduled Nov. 12 at Flinthills Mall. The 10-hour event gives groups and organizations involved a chance to gather in one spot, explain their overall goals and objectives and make pleas for their specific upcoming projects. Last year’s event brought in more than $210,000 in distributions.
Emporia Community Foundation Executive Director Becky Jeppesen explains a major reason for this success is the support of local sponsors.
For a full list of this year’s beneficiaries click here.
