Ciera Donates to Grassroots Efforts to Assist Homeless
Ciera Conrad is a Marketing Strategist at Vivid Image, and she selected Operation Hope to be the recipient of her $250 donation in March. Operation Hope is a grassroots effort started by Jeff Schmidt of Hutchinson to serve people experiencing homelessness. Ciera is connected to Operation Hope in a couple of ways. Vivid Image, along with American Family Insurance-Bo Young (also located in our building) is a drop off location for donated supplies. Ciera’s church and father-in-law, Dave have been helping Jeff distribute clothing, blankets, food and supplies for years. Ciera says, “I’ve heard so many positive stories about Operation Hope over the years, and the difference their efforts and the donations make in the lives of those experiencing homelessness from Hutchinson to the Twin Cities. I chose Operation Hope because it feels right to support a cause that’s making a tangible impact, and I know my contribution will help someone, maybe even many, in a meaningful way.” Pictured at the right is a blanket made and donated by Megan’s Place donated to Operation Hope being given to someone in need.
Britt Donates to Master Gardeners
Britt Buxcel is a Marketing Strategist at Vivid Image, and she selected the McLeod County Master Gardeners program to be the recipient of her $250 donation in March, as well as an additional $250 for her volunteer hours this past year. The mission of the UMN Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program includes efforts that inspire change and promote healthy people, healthy communities and a healthy planet. “As a former science educator, becoming a Master Gardener has allowed me to stretch those educator muscles while also mixing in my passions of science, gardening, and helping in my community,” Britt explains. “Funding and donations allow us to continue efforts to educate the community, as well as fund horticulture projects in our area.” If you have a gardening question, you can always call the UMN Extension Office at 320-484-4334.
Charitable giving is determined by our staff!
Every month, one or two Vivid Image team members select a non-profit that means a lot to them. $250 is granted to the non-profit of their choice. Then, throughout the year, if staff choose to volunteer at least 25 hours of time, they select another non-profit to receive $250, and the staff member also receives $250 in recognition of their contribution to the community.
By the end of every year, we are able to make a difference in the lives of others by donating at least $5,000, and likely upwards of over $11,000!