Pillows for Kids says thanks

To the editor:

We wish to publicly send a thank you to the grantors who have assisted the Pillows for Kids Foundation in our mission to provide opportunities for local children to participate in brain and body training activities.

Through the grants provided by the Matanuska Electric Association Charitable Foundation’s Operation Round Up and the grant program from Bishop’s Attic II, we have granted 37 mini-scholarships in figure skating, gymnastics, horsemanship, snowboarding, skiing, and math and science field studies, the activities selected by the recipients. Because of the multiple lessons, the mentors have noted significant growth in physical, mental and spiritual habits as well as skills in the chosen activities.

The recipients are minors, and we learn about them only through their mentors who confirm the significance of the scholarship for each recipient. Some recipients have elected to phone us to express their gratitude, and some parents have gratefully vowed to “pay it forward” when they are able.

We express our gratitude to our grantors and our very dedicated mentors who are helping us to make a difference. We are encouraged that some young people who may not have had the opportunities otherwise are able to connect with their peers and community through the choice of good activities and good mentors.

Valerie P. Koivunen and Marilyn E. Parker, officers

Pillows for Kids Foundation