The St. Patrick’s Day Parade of Lawrence, Kansas

Thank you for coming and welcome to the culmination of The St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee’s 2005 fundraising activities. We are here today to present this year’s proceeds to our chosen charitable organizations, The Shelter, Inc. and the Lawrence Youth Football program.

I would like to take just a moment to tell how our funding effort is somewhat unique. We do not start with a budget from which we provide grant money to charitable causes. Rather, we invite our chosen organizations to join with us, in our committee, to be a part of our program and to share in our activities. Together as a team we reach out into the community. As a result they gain an insight into how our organization operates and we get to know them as well. From that cooperation a pride develops, partnerships and friendships are forge and kindled, and success is achieved.

In addition to the money we raise through the good graces, generosity, and cooperation of our community—without which, none of this would be possible. Many of the organizations we work with continue to receive residual benefits from the awareness raised and the doors opened through our activities. I am sure the citizens of our community will continue to recognize these organizations as worthy of their support.

After a series of enjoyable events, an auction, and a good old-fashioned parade we are here to present gifts, which result, from the support we have received and from the efforts that our volunteers have put forth. With that, I want everyone to know that our city is enriched by these two wonderful organizations that serve and protect the children in our community. This year’s contributions equaling $45,000 brings the total funding by the St. Patrick’s Day Parade of Lawrence, Kansas to more than $335,000.

I now present the checks $27,000 to the Shelter, Inc. and $18,000 to the Lawrence Youth Football program. Thank you both very much for the good work you do in our community and for our children.

I look forward to seeing everyone again next year!

Roger Browning

—Executive Chair

St. Patrick’s Day Parade of Lawrence, Kansas

For information please call 749-6677,

email: info@lawrencestpatricksdayparade.com,