2016 Harvest of Talents Summary
Another harvest year came and went. Unity Christian Church in Marion has now hosted 12 Harvest of Talents events. This year was a very successful year once again. For seven straight years, we have been able to raise over $20,000 per year to feed hungry people through International Disaster Emergency Service. This is a true community effort as many donations come from local businesses and crafters. We would like to take this opportunity to thank them and to summarize our year.
The total for this year was $24,501.80. The running total for 12 years is $247,002.68, nearly a quarter of a million dollars!
Prior to the big day with the auction, we had several other successful events, all of which contributed to the total:
- Starbucks donated the coffee
- Menno Schwartz has acted as auctioneer for the last several years
- Horizon Mechanical donated the use of their bounce house
- Meijer donated a $150 gift card
- Subway in Sweetser donated cheese and lettuce for walking tacos
- Mutual Bank helped with advertising
- Star Financial Bank helped with advertising
- Weaver Popcorn donated popcorn
- River’s Edge Family Golf Center donated gift certificates
- Walgreen’s South in Marion donated bottled water
- The King’s Academy held an elementary coin drive
- Fazoli’s in Marion donated large plates
- The Ark Christian Ministries donated the use of their popcorn maker
- Arby’s north in Marion donated ice
- 9th Street Cafe helped with advertising
- Brooks’ Upper Crust helped with advertising
- King Gyro’s in Marion helped with advertising
- Jackie’s Restaurant helped with advertising
- Niko’s Restaurant helped with advertising
- Doc’s Convenience store helped with advertising
- Hong Kong Restaurant helped with advertising
- Casey’s General Store helped with advertising
- Twisted Tangles Salon helped with advertising
- Returning Life donated items for sale
- Mama Pearson’s Soaporium donated items for sale
- Country Cafe and Bakery donated items for sale
- Lowe’s donated a $25 gift card
- Walmart donated a $50 gift card
Countless members of the church and the community came to help set up, run sound, prepare and cook food, donate items, and shop, etc.
Thanks to everyone for another successful year. And, most of all, thanks to God for giving us the strength and keeping the vision going.