MANSFIELD — Modern Woodmen of America’s “12 Days of Christmas Raffle” raised $4,000 for local nonprofit, 33 Forever.
The online raffle, which concluded in December, featured 12 prize packages, each worth a minimum of $400. Each entry cost $33 and provided 12 chances to win (one chance every day for 12 days).
Donations were provided by Buckeye Imagination Museum; Hudson and Essex; Kimmy’s Cucina; Nickel & Bean; Renaissance Theatre; Snow Trails; and Studio 19 Salon & Spa. Participating vendors also included Golden Poppy; Kingwood Center Gardens; The Phoenix Brewing Co.; Relax, It’s Just Coffee; and Wayne’s Country Market.
“The idea behind the raffle was amazing and the community was so supportive,” said Donna Heck, president and treasurer of 33 Forever, Inc.
Jon Dech, Modern Woodmen financial representative, echoed Heck’s remarks regarding the community’s support.
“The extraordinary efforts of local businesses and the ready support of community citizens made it a quick success,” he said.
“It’s really a testimony to the community’s entrepreneurial spirit and readiness to link arms in accomplishing meaningful things together.”
Heck said the money that was raised will help fund 33 Forever’s scholarship for four area high school seniors in the amount of $1,333 each.
“Modern Woodmen of America is making such a public statement to support our community by their generosity. We thank them and all of the businesses that participated in the 12 Days of Christmas Raffle,” Heck said.
33 Forever strives to positively impact those affected by depression, anxiety and their related disorders, including suicidal thoughts.
The organization was created to honor the life of Danielle Leedy and her longtime passion to raise awareness, empower and comfort those struggling with depression, anxiety, self-worth issues and suicidal thoughts.
Information regarding the second annual 12 Days of Christmas Raffle will begin to populate the website this summer, and ticket sales will begin sometime in the fall.