When Dillons reached out to United Way of Central Kansas about a volunteer opportunity, UWCK knew exactly what they needed help with. The Literacy Kit program that is in its second year is already being worked on and will be distributed at Kindergarten Round-Ups in the spring at all Ellinwood, Great Bend, Hoisington, Larned and Otis-Bison Elementary schools.
Partnering with OPI in Great Bend, the 400 sets of flashcards were already printed and cut out, but the flashcard holders still needed to be assembled. The team of Dillons’ employees from Great Bend and Larned stepped up to the plate and were able to cut out all 800 flashcard holders (numbers and letters), put them together, and put the flashcards in them in under two hours.
Competition helps and Dillons donated a basket of chocolate to the employee who could get the most assembled. “We are so proud of our Dillons associates and managers for offering a helpful hand to the United Way of Central Kansas to assist with building literacy packets during their recent meeting,” said Sheila Lowrie, Dillons stores spokeswoman. “With one phone call, our friends at the United Way provided a meaningful volunteer opportunity and a chance to giving back to our hometown.”
Dillons is a Pacesetter Company for United Way of Central Kansas and took the Silver Overall Giving Award for the second year in a row for the 2016 Campaign. They also partner with UWCK for their Community Rewards Program, where one signs up their Dillons Card and a donation is made to UWCK for every purchase made with the card, at no cost to the customer.
“The Dillons team is amazing to work with on projects and we could not be more grateful for their help with the Literacy Kits. A small group of people truly can do great things and Dillons proved that this project.” said Julie Bugner-Smith, UWCK executive director.