Kay Everly (third from left) and a few of her helpers.
Operation Christmas Child -November 21, 2011
Beaming with excitement, Kay Everly and Bobbi Canterbury reported the final count of 1,068 completed shoeboxes for Kovatch Castings’ contribution to Operation Christmas Child. Organizing, buying and running fundraisers was quite a feat for the already-busy gals; but the company culture of giving at Kovatch Castings is just too strong to ignore!
A great way to give back to the world community, Operation Christmas Child, is only one of the worldwide programs conducted by the Samaritan’s Purse. Throughout the year, the Samaritan’s Purse Organization supplies emergency relief , food, clothing, shelter and medical care, as well as construction and education programs to transform families, villages and neighborhoods as well as Children’s programs worldwide. But at Christmastime, something very special happens that touches individuals in a heartfelt way – Operation Christmas Child.
Individuals and organizations are invited to participate by filling shoeboxes with basic need items, such as toothbrushes and toothpaste, garments, soap and washcloths, school supplies, coloring books, crayons and pens and pencils and small toys. But most importantly, a Gospel message is included in the box with an offer of faith that can serve the boy or girl for a lifetime.
Ten years ago, Customer Service Supervisor, Bobbi Canterbury, introduced Kovatch Castings to the program. Around 60 boxes were completed, and the project was well-received by the employees. The Kovatch team-spirit kicked-in and the count has grown steadily each year. Last year, a new record of 500 boxes was set, and President Doug Kovatch issued a challenge to beat it.
With the help of Kovatch employees, local merchants, restaurants, banks and golf courses, many creative in-company fundraisers were held to purchase items to fill the boxes. Noontime and afterhours “packing” sessions completed the 1,068-box project. Kovatch Castings pays the $7 individual box shipping fee to get the gifts to their final destinations. Mission accomplished!
Congratulations to Bobbi and Kay on a well-planned and facilitated event!
