Christmas 2008
10th year
Join us this year for our 10th Year. Jeff has been busy putting on Benefits, and knocking on doors. People have responded so well that each year the drive has grown to the point that in 2006 it took 2 loads (Thank You Conway/CCX) to gather all that was donated off to Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota home of the Sincangu Lakota.
Here's what Jeff Madewell wrote about the 2008 Drive.
Results from the 10th Annual Christmas Drive for Rosebud
Reservation
December 6, 2008
For the 10th year in a row, we were blown away by the generosity of the people who responded ... and even more so this year since a lot of us have been struggling due to the economy. It was one of the worst days weather-wise we’ve had this season (cold, snow and slippery roads), but it sure didn’t stop anyone!
Recently, Rosebud had a terrible winter storm that left many residents without power and heat for as long as 10 days (20 foot snow drifts were reported in some areas). Some people resorted to burning their extra clothing because they were freezing. We sincerely hope that the generosity of those who gave this year will benefit as many residents on the reservation as possible ... the situation there is desperate.
Today the semi trailer was loaded with toys, clothing, winter coats, shoes, bedding, food and a variety of other useful items. Kelly Transportation donated the truck and part of the fuel expense, Jet Express, Inc. donated the semi trailer, and Pilot donated fuel as well. Paragon Molding, Inc. of West Milton was a key player in the success of the drive again this year by offering the use of their facility and it’s loading dock, their efforts to help the success of the drive, and by helping out tremendously the day of the drop-off. A million thanks to them!
Our small group of volunteers (once again) pulled off unloading the carloads of donations, sorting through them, and then packing it all in record time. Each item was checked before it was categorized, boxed and loaded for shipping. Everyone involved would probably agree that the greatest reward for all of the hard work is the warm feeling you get when you witness people donating their personal belongings, money, and brand new gifts they purchased just for the drive – and you know it’s going to help someone who desperately needs it.
People apologized for being unable to donate more because they’re struggling right now! They gave nonetheless – and that’s the true spirit of giving.
Donations are welcome anytime – not just during the holidays. We will either ship them out upon receipt (if we have the funds to do so), or we’ll save them for the next drive.
Contact us at madewellaudio@madewellaudio.com.
You can organize a drive for a worthwhile cause, even if it’s just for one family or an individual who’s struggling. No one wants to be in the position where they desperately need charity, but those of us who have been there know that sometimes it’s the only way to make it through. Whatever you’re able to give someone is more than they had, and you may never know how much it helps.
Jeff Madewell has created a website for the Rosebud Reservation Clothing, Toy and Food Drive that is currently under construction www.christmasforrosebud.com but is a great place for more information about what this man, his family and community have proven works when one is driven to help others selflessly with the only reward being the smiles on the faces of those needing help.
Please note that ALL Donations , Monetary and otherwise are used 100% for this. No 1 person gains any money or goods for their Volunteer Work. Here is the finest example of helping with No regard of any personal gain.
Surely there are others out there wanting to help those within our country that need genuine help. Is this something you, your community, Church, Business or other group can do? Helping others just for the sake of helping? This is the True Meaning of the Lakota term Okisiapo (helping each other)
You can also make donations through PayPal we will be setting up a link through Essencial Dreams Store.
100% of the money is used for purchasing more Toys, Clothing, Food, Propane etc.
Items can be sent to:
Jeff
Madewell
252 N. Jay St
W. Milton, OH 45383
Phone: 937-698-7797
Email: Project 2008