Operation Breakthrough - Thanks from MPIKC and Mindi Johnson

MPIKC Members – Helping Build Futures, One Child at Time

As I grew up there were a couple main times of giving that I was aware of. Over Labor Day weekend, Jerry Lewis would be on TV and the local firemen were at the intersections with their boots asking for spare change. At Christmas time the Red Kettles would appear and we would throw our extra shekels into the pot. There were many other charities out there, just not as well known. Today we are solicited everyday by a new charity. Times have changed and more people have needs. As you hand over the $5 to wear jeans in support of the charity, do you really know what you are supporting? I know I am guilty of it. Sure, I want to wear jeans and it has to be a good cause since they are collecting. It’s a win/win...I get something, they get something.

When I was asked to oversee our efforts to support Operation Breakthrough, I agreed and went through the motions of asking for donations. It wasn’t until I delivered that first collection that it hit me. I saw the organization, the people it serves and the many who volunteer to help support its existence. It was an eye-opening and humbling experience. I immediately found myself wanting to do more for them, get more involved. A gesture that seems so small to one person can make such a big impact on another.

During this season of giving (as well as throughout the remainder of the year), I would like to encourage each of you to help support Operation Breakthrough and the families it serves. We are continuing to collect socks and underwear (new please) in sizes 2 – 5T for their clothes closet. If you would like to go a step further, they are also in need of new or gently worn children’s shoes. Other donation items can include household cleaning items, toiletries or non-perishable food items.

 Take time to visit the Operation Breakthrough website (www.operationbreakthrough.org) to learn more about this organization. They welcome new volunteers and would be happy with an hour, a day, one time or on a schedule.

We greatly appreciate all the donations that have been collected over the past two months. It is heartwarming to see the support in way of mounds of underwear, socks and shoes! If you have any questions or would like additional information about Operation Breakthrough, please contact me at mindi.johnson@bayer.com.