Newsletter Volume 9, Issue 3 July/August 2008

Editorial

by Carl McMillen

Our Second Annual Sock Hop on July 12 succeeded because of those who sacrificed their time, energy and resources to help improve the lives of people with disabilities.

Our committee made up of community volunteers began planning the event in December. Andrea and Warren Boggs, PILC Board Member Susan Stokes, Lisa Morgan, Lawana Pulliam and Lori Berryman were a small but dedicated bunch that met on Wednesday evenings to plan the event. Many hours of preparation resulted in a beautiful event filled with great entertainment, food, and contests that raised spirits and much needed funds for deserving people.

Our staff pitched in to prepare prizes, publicity, decorations and accounting. The day of the event, everyone worked hard to set everything up and then stayed until midnight to clean and pack everything away. During the event, our staff and volunteers teamed up to ensure a happy, exciting evening for guests who shared a memorable benefit.

We sometimes ask ourselves, “Is it all worth the intense effort for eight months?” I can only say the Sock Hop is a labor of love for those who do their best to raise a little money for people who face financial crisis during the year. The funds raised July 12th are used to help people move from nursing homes into the community, provide activities for high school youth, and support a college scholarship project. Some people need assistance with purchasing medical equipment, prescriptions or paying rent and utilities.

Last year, Panhandle Independent Living Center spent nearly $6,000 to assist 37 people with desperate requests. Because of the cost of living situation we all face this year, we anticipate the community’s needs will be even greater. Because of the many businesses that shared whatever they could, the guests who came to support the event, and dedicated volunteers and staff who gave their all, we can still make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities.

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