August 17 was National Nonprofit Day—a day to acknowledge, appreciate and exemplify the impact these organizations have on the community.
In honor of Nonprofit Day, the Branson Globe asked readers to give a shout out to their favorite local nonprofit.
Jodi said she is a supporter of the Branson Humane Society. Said Jodi, "I began volunteering there a few months ago. The dedication of not only the managers but also the employees and volunteers who work there is top notch. I have noticed in my short three hours a week being there the love, the heartache, the concern and the knowledge for the animals, as well as humans I see who come through their doors. Add to that their networking with so many other humane societies, police departments, Mochas and Meows, Cox Hospital, local stores, etc., and you have a well-oiled machine that maybe, at times, operates on a shoestring. They truly make a difference."
Elizabeth gave kudos to Christian Action Ministries. "It is a stable nonprofit in Taney and Stone County," Elizabeth noted. "They have been in Taney County for 40 years. They help so many people and other organizations in our county." Of CAM, Kristen added, "As a single mom who has periodically needed help, CAM has always been reliable and helped me the most."
Said Lisa, "Developmental Connections provides services for adults with developmental disabilities. They have a day service center, retirement department, life skills and residential services."
Tyler shared, "Ipourlife is helping at risk youth and older foster youth learn life skills. Not just inspiring, but giving the youth tools to reach their potential and achieve their goals."
"Gift of Hope is a great nonprofit that isn't as well known, but does a lot for the students of Taney County," said Emily. Melony added, "Gift of Hope is an excellent nonprofit, providing for students and their families. Jennifer is the executive director and cares dearly for the students and their families. Somehow she seems to find the means when other nonprofits are not able."
Mike noted, "Ozarks Serenity Club is a nonprofit that provides a space for any 12-Step groups." Added Aaron, "Ozarks Serenity Club, because they give people who are trying to stay sober a place for fellowship and to share the message."
Said Nicole, "Elevate Branson helps so many of our clients in a myriad of ways." Added Desia, "Elevate Branson gives so much to the community." Carroll shared, "Elevate Branson, hands down. Loving our neighbors."
Susan noted, "Junior Auxiliary of Taney County—we put books in the hands of children who don't have access to them, and help with school supplies and a huge Christmas program."
Sabrina shared, "Stone County Shoe Ministry provides tennis shoes for all students in need in Stone County for the start of school and those in need through the year."
Said Maureen, "Unite Table Rock Lake for school readiness and Christmas assistance for Stone County."
Trisha praised Neighbors Charitable Pharmacy in Branson. "It's the first charitable pharmacy in the state of Missouri and serves those without health insurance by helping them access much needed prescription medications."
"Answers to Prayers in Hollister helps with clothes, hygiene items and food," said Roberta.
Cheryl gave a shout-out. "CASA of SWMO is a great nonprofit organization," said Cheryl. "They advocate for children in foster care."
Zach also spoke of an organization that helps children. Said Zach, "One Less advocates for children, parents and resource providers in Stone and Taney County."
Susan shared, "Branson Hollister Lions Club gives everything back to the community. We recently participated in Night of the Tiger for Hollister Schools, donating water bottles; we support the women's shelter with clothing, food and beds. We recently partnered with Elevate to give free haircuts to the children before school starts. We have a planned trip in September to the Veterans Home to bring gift baskets and lap blankets to those without families, and so much more."
"Sammy's Window - Branson." said Ronda. "They offer support, in so many ways, for foster care parents and children."
Korina gave a shout out to her favorite animal shelter, "Tri-Lakes Humane Society Missouri in Reeds Spring."
Said Jennifer, "Open Hearts Open Hands Thrift Store. They care for the community and everything is 25 cents in their thrift store."
Cheryl noted, "Suitcases for New Beginnings is a great nonprofit. They give duffle bags and diaper bags with a book, toy and personal items in every bag (for those going into foster care)."
Viola shared her thoughts on the Taney County 100 Club, saying, "It is a not-for-profit organization that provides financial support to the surviving spouse and dependent children of police officers, firefighters and EMS professionals killed in the line of duty in Taney County."
"I have to proudly say the Jimmy Jack Foundation for kids," said Eleeya. "We're celebrating our tenth year with helping kids' musical dreams come true. Many supporters like myself live here in Branson. We have expanded worldwide and our headquarters are based in Snyder, Oklahoma. We have scholarships and we collect instruments to give to young people. Last year, we shipped a bunch of instruments to the Ukraine. Ruby Leigh, who got runner up on The Voice, got her start recording and playing guitar with us and performed in 2020 on our fundraiser concert. We have one coming up December 12-15 at Stone Castle Resort. Come support this outstanding cause."
Sara spoke of her favorite nonprofit organization, "Ozark Family YMCA!" said Sara. "We serve our community by offering several different classes for adults and kids. We also go to different events and bring our bounce house for free. We offer Parents Night Out after school and are starting our two-year-old classes at the Pirate Cove at Cedar Ridge Elementary. We are also starting a place where parents can go to OTC while their kids stay in care with us in their facility."
This represents only a few of the many, many valuable nonprofit entities in the Branson area. Nonprofits provide essential services to the members of the communities they serve and are always in need of help, whether in the form of cash donations or volunteers to help with the tasks at hand.
We encourage you to find out more about the nonprofit organizations mentioned here or others in your area, as you offer support, encouragement and help to those who work hard to help others.
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