The National Volunteer Week theme for 2021, The Value of One, The Power of Many, reflects on the awe-inspiring acts of kindness by millions of individuals AND the magic that happens when we work together towards a common purpose. The theme is a nod to our past, a reflection of our present, and a wink to our future.
Last year presented many challenges, and Rainbows’ volunteers stepped up and continued to support the many children and dedicated staff of Rainbows and their families.
Individuals, corporations, ambassadors, civic and youth groups, and even a dog friend came together to support Rainbows with love and commitment to help Rainbows continue to provide all services to 4,050 children with special needs and their families in Butler, Sedgwick and Sumner counties.
Sedgwick County and Butler County Retired + Seniors Volunteer Programs (RSVP) volunteers sewed pillows, stuffed animals, weighted blankets and cot sheets for our Early Care and Education classrooms at Kids’ Point.
Volunteer Ambassadors represented Rainbows at outdoor events and Fidelity Bank employees created appreciation cards with special messages to thank Rainbows’ staff for their dedication and commitment to continuing to provide all services through the pandemic.
Cox Machine team members filled over 300 individual hand sanitizer bottles to help keep Rainbows’ staff, children and families safe and healthy.
Sunflower Bank and Meritrust Credit Union took volunteer projects to their offices and individuals from all over Wichita donated masks for Rainbows’ staff and children.
LifePoint Church Youth Group socially-distanced in the basement of their church and made foam sidewalk chalk for our pre-school children. The youth masked up and made a special delivery to drop off the art supplies at Kids’ Point.
Volunteers brought joy to Rainbows’ children this year with a visit from new friend Bogey, also known as “Santa dog” during the month of December.
AND HERE WE ARE IN 2021! Thanks to 45 volunteers who braved a thunderstorm, Blarney Breakfast To Go successfully raised over $44,000 to benefit Rainbows’ Targeted Case Management Program.
Thank you all for your willingness to volunteer in a world of uncertainty and give of your time, talents, and treasure.
YOU, Rainbows’ Volunteers, DID IT!
We now look to the future. We will be taking baby steps, but we will be moving forward. We are excited to welcome back volunteers for outside opportunities and eagerly await the time when we can once again invite you into our classrooms. We know you’ll be there. You’re always there for Rainbows.
