Rosewood Miracle Workers Aktion Club wants to brighten the moods of children who require a visit to the hospital. The group is conducting its annual Coloring Book and Crayon Drive from now through Sept. 30. Upon completion of the drive, club members will distribute the donated items to Clara Barton Hospital, Hoisington; Ellinwood District Hospital; and University of Kansas Health System – Great Bend Campus.

“The coloring book and crayon drive is one that we’ve conducted annually each fall for several years, but we have moved it to a summertime drive,” explained Rosewood Aktion Club sponsor Frankie Pelster. “We are excited to be working with each of the Barton County hospitals to make a difference in children’s lives when they may need that extra gesture of support.”  

People can drop off coloring book and crayon donations, along with monetary donations for the purchase of coloring books and crayons, at two locations in downtown Great Bend. Those locations are Rosewood Furniture Gallery, 1607 Main, and Rosewood Bargain Barn, 1215 Main.  

For the second straight year, Rosewood Aktion Club is in a friendly competition with Rosewood Services employees to see which group can raise the most items. Last year, Rosewood Day Services employees edged Aktion Club members to win the inaugural trophy. Like last year, community donated items raised from this year’s drive will go toward the Aktion Club count. 

“We’re very appreciative of Rosewood Services employees for always stepping up in a big way, but our Aktion Club members really want to take home the trophy this year, so they’ll be working extra hard,” said Pelster. “More importantly, our members look forward to coordinating this project that involves our community and helps bring smiles to children’s faces during their difficult time.”  

Rosewood Aktion Club is an affiliate of the national Kiwanis organization that promotes service in action for people with developmental disabilities. The area club allows Rosewood clients to be actively involved in the community and to positively impact the lives of others.