2009 Finalists
In 2009, nearly 100 terrific stories were entered in the Gatherings with Purpose Giveaway. The Modern Woodmen Gatherings team selected five finalists, whose stories were up for the grand prize – $2,500 for the person who submitted the story and a $2,500 donation for his or her cause.
After thousands of votes were cast, Sarah Herr and the Spartan Sparkles of Bettendorf, Iowa, were crowned the winners.
The 2009 finalists’ stories are listed below:
Grand-prize winner:
Bringing sparkle into the lives of children with special needs
Sarah Herr of Bettendorf, Iowa, shared the story of what she calls a wonderful, but perhaps unlikely partnership between a high school cheerleading squad and Hand-in-Hand, a nonprofit organization providing services for families with special needs.
Read the rest of Sarah's story.
More than tackles and touchdowns
Jodie Johnson of Bethlehem, Pa., and Northeast Bethlehem Raiders youth football families gathered a community to help one of their own. Read the rest of Jodie's story.
Carnival helps fight cancer
Rebecca Slattman of Defiance, Ohio, shared the story of a community carnival to benefit Tiana Bishop, a 9-year-old battling rhabdomyosarcoma, a form of cancer. Read the rest of Rebecca's story.
Making a splash in the community
Judith Alton of Hartland, Maine, and the Hartland Community Swimming Pool Committee gathered to resurrect children’s dreams. Read the rest of Judith's story.
Sending joy to America’s heroes
Cheri Archibald of Oakley, Idaho, and a group of family and friends gathered on Veteran's Day to serve those who serve us and our country. Read the rest of Cheri's story.