Many of Richard and Linda Kimple’s customers have heard the buzz about the upcoming fundraiser for Sunflower Diversified Services and are browsing through the inventory in preparation.

            Kimple Furniture & Gifts, 113 N. Main in Ellinwood, will donate 100 percent of the profits on all sales from 1 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9. Proceeds will go to Sunflower, the non-profit agency that serves infants, toddlers and adults with developmental disabilities and delays.

            “Customers have been stopping in and checking out the inventory,” Richard Kimple said. “They want to wait to make their purchases during this fundraiser if possible.

            “I really think this could turn out to be a nice event,” he added. “We just keep bringing things in and we will have a complete inventory.”

            Richard Kimple noted that his years of service on the Sunflower Foundation Board of Trustees helped him understand the scope of the agency’s reach.

            “I served on the Foundation board and have been a donor for many years,” he said. “I learned to appreciate what Sunflower is about and what they do for people throughout central Kansas. We also know how hard they have been fighting for funding.

            “We personally know children who have benefited from Sunflower’s programs,” he added. “The results of that early intervention have been great. We also support their recycling efforts; the Sunflower truck swings by here every Friday. We have gotten to know the guys and gals on the truck and will miss them.”

            Kimple’s family has been involved in the downtown Ellinwood business since 1942; Richard has been there 41 years.

Late this year, they will retire from the business of selling sofas, chairs, bedding, dining room and bedroom furniture, gifts, accessories and wall décor. Brand names include Charles Schneider, Charles Custom, BarcaLounger, Best Home Furnishings and Simmons Beautyrest.

Connie Oetken, Sunflower director of development, said she and everyone else at the agency appreciate the Kimples’ support.

            “This is an extremely thoughtful gesture by the Kimples,” Oetken said. “We are overwhelmed. Those who participate should be assured that all proceeds will directly support local people who need a helping hand.”

            Light refreshments and a wine and cheese selection will be served during the special event.

            Sunflower’s service area entails Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties.