Fighting Boredom and Fundraising

How are not for profits surviving during this time of quarantine? For Partners for Progress, NFP located in Wauconda, that was the question. Partners for Progress (PFP) is a therapeutic riding stable helping the emotionally, physically, and mentally challenged. It relies on several fundraisers throughout the year to keep their therapy program going. “We have 20 therapy horses that make a difference in many kids and adults lives each day. Each horse needs food, bedding for their stall, veterinary care, and it all costs money. When we can’t have a fundraiser, much less serve our clients, it becomes difficult.” according to Diane Helgeland, PFP Executive Director.

In June, PFP would have held their annual dance bash. Because of Covid 19 the fundraiser is cancelled. “That’s thousand of dollars we rely on to help us make it through the summer, the money is just gone” says Helgeland. “We can’t just sit back and hope for the best, the horses keep eating.”

So, the staff at PFP has become creative. They have a arranged a scavenger hunt. While in your car you drive around the property and find items listed. In addition, PFP has partnered with Whisk Café in Wauconda. They will be making their signature blueberry and chocolate chips muffins and each car will receive a half a dozen muffins upon entry. The stable will have their horses out for all to see and their donkeys. A favorite of many will be seeing the little goats. A raffle is being held offering beef, pork, and chicken packs, all coming from Dorfler’s Meat Market. Tickets for entry and for the meat raffle can be bought online or at the event. “We hope this will give many families and individuals a relief from staying indoors while safely going out and having some fun. We will have banners up congratulating all the 2020 graduates. We hope to have many cars come through May 16 & 17” according to Helgeland. Partners For Progress serves over 200 clients with challenging abilities each week. www.partnerforprogressnfp.org