These are the moments we dream about. When a community partner steps forward and includes The Pongo Fund in their generosity. As Next Adventure did recently, when they welcomed The Pongo Fund as the beneficiary of their Gear Up Your Pup event.
A few days ago Devin from Next Adventure came to The Pongo Fund to tell us how things went. She came bearing many gifts, including tasty Pongo cupcakes and a lot of gear including socks, headlamps and more. Really nice gear for us to share with those less fortunate.
She also brought a check for $1,000.
For those of you who follow the world of small non-profits, a $1,000 donation is huge. Then she stayed and volunteered for the entire shift, being face-to-face with those we help. She asked questions. She listened to answers. She was fully present the entire time.
At the end of the day we asked her how she felt about dedicating her Sunday to being a helper. She smiled the kind of smile that told two stories, both the joy and the pain. Because she was there for both. Seeing firsthand what their Next Adventure donation will mean, and then seeing those who will benefit.
It was a conflict of emotions, as being a helper often is. But in that conflict of emotions there are also many gifts. Love being the most important. We felt it from Devin. We hope she felt it too.
Thank you Next Adventure, Phido Photography and Ruffwear, for sharing your love with The Pongo Fund and the tens of thousands we help. Your kindness means more than words can ever say.
“A kind gesture can reach a wound that only compassion can heal.” ― Steve Maraboli.
Being a helper.
And this is why we Pongo.
Sit. Stay. Eat. Live. thepongofund.org
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