Women's Active 20-30 Club seeks donations for children's shopping spree

The Sierra Nevada Women's Active 20-30 Club is seeking donations for its annual children's shopping spree Aug. 18, at the Carson Valley Wal-Mart. The event is sponsored by the women's club with assistance from the men's Carson Valley No. 85 Club.

Stores are already starting fall sales in hopes of getting children into the latest back-to-school gear, but not all can afford to shop. Because of this, the two clubs are joining forces with Wal-Mart and the Family Support Council of Douglas County to sponsor this annual event. The goal is to purchase clothing for 50 local children in grades kindergarten through eighth grade in preparation for back to school.

"It's humbling to see children from our own community of Douglas County filled with such joy because of a simple shopping trip to Wal-Mart," said Jacquie Manoukian, member of the women's club. "We take so much for granted these days and they really bring us back to reality - a reality that shows us we have too many children going without the necessities right here in our home town. Our club is privileged to help bring smiles to their faces."

The Family Support Council of Douglas County will choose approximately 50 children to participate based on income level and family need. Each child will receive $100 to spend on clothing and shoes, no toys.

"This is a wonderful hands-on event that Sierra Nevada No. 730 sponsors each year," said Shannon Johnson, president of the women's club. "It's also a great opportunity for the public to see what we do for children in our community."

Both clubs will have volunteers on hand the morning of Aug. 18 to help the children pick out clothes and shoes for the upcoming year. Volunteers from the community are encouraged to participate. The club's goal is to have one volunteer for each child, Johnson said.

At the end of the shopping spree, participating children will receive a free breakfast at McDonald's. For information about donating to the event, or to volunteer, contact Leslie Batistich at (800) 540-2983, or e-mail, css@sierranv2030.org.

This year's goal is to raise at least $5,000 to take 50 Douglas County children shopping. Donation checks can be mailed to Sierra Nevada Active 20-30, P.O. Box 2231, Minden, NV 89423. The clubs ask that donations be made by Aug. 13.

For information, go to www.sierranv2030.org or contact the Family Support Council at 782-8692.