The staff and elders at SunPorch of Dodge City are combining forces to raise funds for a much-needed bus that can accommodate more transportation needs, said Gina Salmans, activity director.
The short- and long-term-care residence recently began collecting aluminum cans for recycling, with proceeds earmarked for the Better Bus Fund.
“Cans are being collected now and we are looking into other recyclables such as cardboard, plastic and glass,” Salmans said. “Yes, we need money for a bus but this project also benefits the environment today and in generations to come.”
While SunPorch representatives are “excited to do our part, we also seek the community’s help,” Salmans commented.
Financial gifts may be donated to the SunPorch of Dodge City Better Bus Fund, 501 W. Beeson, Dodge City, Ks. 67801. Donors may send a check by mail or stop by the office. Since SunPorch is a 501c3 non-profit organization, donations are tax deductible.
The family of Loreen Pruett, who was a long-time SunPorch resident, established a memorial to the Better Bus Fund.
“That memorial fund in Loreen’s honor enabled us to make our first move forward,” said Debbie Allen, marketing and community liaison. “We greatly appreciate her family’s generosity.”
Even though SunPorch hasn’t been able to buy the bus yet, it recently purchased a 2002 Dodge 3500 van with a wheelchair lift at a greatly reduced cost, Allen said, noting minor repairs were made and the van will be painted.
“We are happy to have this van but it has limited use,” Allen said. “It is only for in-town medical appointments and small group outings. But we still desperately need a large bus for longer trips and large group outings. There is a possibility we can buy a city bus that will retire from service soon.”
For more information, contact Allen or SunPorch Administrator Ryan Salinas by calling 620-227-7512.
BIKE RUN
Some proceeds from the Summer Kick-off Bike Run will be dedicated to the SunPorch of Dodge City Better Bus Fund; the remainder will go to Dodge City Special Olympics.
The bike run, set for Saturday, June 22, is hosted by the U & I (Unity & Individuality) Riders of Dodge City. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. at HD’s Sports Bar, 2600 Central; blessing of the bikes is at 8:45 a.m.
Participants will head out at 9:15 a.m. and return to HD’s at 1:30 p.m. Stops on the route are Rustler’s at Kinsley; The Crazy Mule at Greensburg; Old Gas Station at Minneola; Meade City Park at Meade; and The Trading Post at Cimarron.
All types of vehicles are welcome.
Costs are $20 for a driver and $10 for a passenger. Hamburgers and hot dogs are on the menu at HD’s from 1 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. An auction and raffle are on the agenda from 1:30 to 2 p.m. and a photo booth is available all day.
Debbie Allen, SunPorch marketing and community liaison, said she is “extremely grateful to the U & I Riders for helping make this happen. SunPorch strives to be involved in our community so that our elders feel connected to their neighbors and contribute to society.
“The U & I Riders gave us this bike-run opportunity to raise money for our bus. They should be commended for their community spirit.”
Jennifer McCabe, of U & I, noted participation is “really about giving back to the community and having fun while we support one another. It’s all about friendship, fellowship and giving back.”
McCabe noted the bike run includes games that “get the riders involved in a little friendly competition. We have raffles, auctions and our free-will donation lunch. Those who can’t join us for the bike run are invited to the other events.
“We are open to having anyone join us. We unite as a team to do as much as we can for those who could use our help.”
