Grow Green Giving: Sunflower Children's Collective
The Sunflower Children's Collective, formerly known as Sunflower CASA, is a multifaceted organization dedicated to advocating for children in need within the court system. With three agencies under its umbrella, including Sunflower CASA, Sunflower Bridge CEVC, and Stepping Stones CAC, the collective provides essential support and services to vulnerable children and families in Manhattan, Kansas. Carson Kober, Executive Director, emphasizes the importance of their CASA program, which assigns trained volunteers to be advocates for children navigating the complexities of the court system.
Since 2013, the Sunflower Children's Collective has participated in Grow Green Match Day. Carson Kober highlights the critical role that Grow Green Match Day plays in its annual budget, describing it as the organization's most significant fundraising opportunity. The event's success directly impacts the collective's ability to bridge financial gaps, particularly in covering deficits in salaries and operational expenses not covered by grants. Kober emphasizes the efficiency and impact of Grow Green Match Day, noting its ability to generate substantial funds with minimal effort compared to other fundraisers.
In 2023, funds raised during Grow Green Match Day significantly contributed to covering operational expenses, particularly salaries, ensuring the organization could continue its work.
"In the first year I was here, it [Grow Green Match Day] raised more than our fundraiser by, like, double. It's huge for us. It is a line item on our budget like it is the biggest thing we can do," said Carson Kober.
Looking ahead to 2024, the Sunflower Children's Collective anticipates that funds raised during the event will similarly help sustain their operations and support their initiatives. Carson Kober underscores the importance of the event in addressing financial needs and expresses gratitude for the community's support, emphasizing the collective's commitment to serving the children and families of Manhattan.
Join us in supporting the Sunflower Children's Collective during the 12th Annual Grow Green Match Day on April 22nd. On this day, your donation (between $25 and $1,000) will be matched at 50%. Organizations are eligible to receive up to $7,500 in matching dollars from $15,000 in donations. GMCF thanks Phil Howe and the Howe Family Foundation for its monumental support of this event and dedicates its growing success to their matching efforts. Learn more about Grow Green Match Day at GrowGreenManhattan.com!
