The Excelsior Springs Rotary Club is stepping up this spring with two impactful initiatives aimed at supporting children—both near and far. The club is currently collecting donations for the annual Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls® drive and will soon host a brand-new youth event, Running with the Rotary, set for May 9.
Shoes for Orphan Souls® Drive Underway Through April 26
Now through April 26, the public is invited to help change a child’s life by donating to the Shoes for Orphan Souls® drive. Donations can be dropped off at Walmart or the Excelsior Springs Chamber of Commerce.
Requested donations include:
– New, closed-toed shoes in children and youth sizes
– New socks (any size)
– Cash or check donations made payable to Excelsior Springs Rotary or on Venmo at @ESMORotary
This effort is part of a larger campaign through Rotary District 6040 in partnership with Buckner International, a nonprofit that has distributed more than 4.85 million pairs of shoes and socks to vulnerable children around the world. This year’s contributions will be delivered to children in the Dominican Republic and Guatemala.
“These shoes offer more than comfort,” said Excelsior Springs Rotary President Greg Broadbent. “They protect kids from disease, allow them to attend school, and serve as a powerful reminder that someone cares. Even a single pair can make a world of difference.”
For more information on the drive, click here.
Youth Invited to “Running with the Rotary” on May 9
To keep the momentum going, the club is also hosting a fun and fitness-focused event for local youth. Running with the Rotary will be held on Friday, May 9, from 5:00–8:00 p.m. at the Excelsior Springs High School Track and Field. The event is open to all grade-school students in the community.
With a $5 entry fee, each participant can compete in three events of their choice from the following lineup:
– 50-yard dash
– 100-yard dash
– 400-yard dash
– Half-mile run
– One-mile run
– Javelin toss
– Softball throw
– Long jump
The top three finishers in each category will receive ribbons—and, of course, some well-earned bragging rights.
Rotary members see the event as an opportunity to bring families together, encourage youth fitness, and promote the spirit of friendly competition.
“We’re excited to offer something fun and active for local kids,” said CEO of Excelsior Springs Hospital and Rotary Member Kristen DeHart. “This is about building confidence, creating connections, and just having a great time.”
Families and community members are encouraged to attend and cheer on the young athletes. Additional details and updates will be shared on the Excelsior Springs Rotary Club’s Facebook page.
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