Wednesday was National Philanthropy Day, and the United Way of Central Kansas took it very casually.  The UWCK sponsored a Dress Down the Town benefit for raise funds for the 2015 campaign.
All businesses in Barton and Pawnee counties were encouraged to dress down. With a $1 donation to United Way, all employees could wear jeans to work.
 “It’s a fun way to engage your employees with an extra perk as well,” said Julie Bugner Smith, UWCK executive director. The concept was to show just how big of a difference even small contributions can make.
 The Buckle in Great Bend donated a free pair of jeans to one winner who participated in this event. Every dollar one donated got them another chance to win. One finalist was drawn from each business.
Stickers were also provided to employees who took part.
One of the businesses involved was the Great Bend Tribune and 16 employees took part. Circulation Director Shonita Swank being chosen for the final drawing.
“It was a chance to have fun, be relaxed and raise money for a very good cause,” Tribune Publisher Mary Hoisington said. “I was impressed with how many of our staff members wanted to get involved.”
Smith said 45 businesses and 1,800 people took part. The final drawing for jeans will be Wednesday Dec. 3 at the Buckle and the total raised will be announced then.
“Some businesses are doing a whole jean week,” Smith said. “It has been awesome.”