At the end of your day you head home for dinner, a warm night of sleep, and peace and quiet. IMAGINE ... being one of the 800 women and children who escapes their violent, abusive home annually looking for safety and a future.
When the KCMPI board started discussions on what charitable contributions should be part of our focus this year, it was decided to focus our efforts on one group for more concentrated results. The decision was made to put our time, money and energy into Rose Brooks Center.
Over the course of the functions that we have had so far this year, you have read short descriptions regarding Rose Brooks Center ... how many women and children are affected, what happens to them once they are safely at Rose Brooks Center, and what needs they have that we can help satisfy.
Joan Dougherty, director of volunteers and community support at Rose Brooks Center, kicked off our October Education Program by explaining to the group what Rose Brooks Center is all about. She also shared a very touching story about how Paws Place – a shelter for the pets of the women and children who are at Rose Brooks Center – came to be in 2012.
What has KCMPI done so far? At our October Education Program, we collected toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, and deodorant. When we met again in October for the After 5 AM, our focus was baby formula. November was our Trivia Night and the requested items were pajamas for both moms and children. More than 60 sets of pajamas were collected! At the December Education Program, we brought items for both women and children that would be good Christmas gifts. And for our January’s After 5 event, we requested children’s books (new and gently used). In February, we focused on Paws Place by bringing various pet treats and toys (new and gently used).
As we get rolling into 2014, let’s remember those who have been displaced from their homes due to violence. As KCMPI members, let us take the time to bring items that will help make a difference in the lives of these women and children!
Thank you for everyone's generosity! KCMPI, Rose Brooks Center and Paws Place appreciates your help.
For any questions or to ask how you can help, contact Lynn Gross, CMP (lgross@distinctivemeetingsinc.com) or Sarah Morrissey, CMP (smorrissey@distinctivemeetingsinc.com).
To learn more about Rose Brooks Center, visit www.rosebrooks.org.