It’s Giving Tuesday: check out local wish list

SHELBY — “When you wish upon a star,” sang Jiminy Cricket in the 1940 Walt Disney film “Pinocchio.” That set the stage for a blue fairy to grant Geppetto’s wish that his wooden marionette be brought to life.  

It’s in that same wish-granting spirit that the Community Foundation for Oceana County (CFOC) has again asked area nonprofits serving Oceana to list near term projects and purchases that can only happen if enough financial support can be raised.    

Eighteen community organizations responded with their “wishes,” and CFOC has now posted them on its website at http://oceana-foundation.org/give/community-needs to help get out the word.  The wishes are divided into three categories — those costing less than $500, $500-$1,500, and $1,500 or more.

“Anyone can help – individuals, couples, families, clubs, and employee groups,” said CFOC Executive Director Tammy Carey. “This is perfect for holiday donors who want their financial gifts to have a positive impact right away.”

This holiday season’s diverse wish list includes funds for mental health; first aid training workbooks; a job shadowing program for Oceana high school juniors; home care for low income Oceana seniors; and a seated elliptical machine at a new community center.  

Several years ago, CFOC began developing the wish lists to share with donors who have established advised funds within the foundation, but more recently decided to share the wish lists more broadly.  

“We urge everyone to check out the wish lists and contact the nonprofit organization directly if they see something they’d like to support,” added Carey. “Just make sure you tell the nonprofit that you saw their wish posted on our website.”  

For more information about granting a wish, or establishing a fund at the Oceana Community Foundation, call the CFOC office at 231-861-8335. And check out either www.oceana-foundation.org or www.facebook.com/oceanafoundation.