Talk about feeling like a million bucks.
An energetic 12-year-old boy, who was to re-enter foster care, recently stopped by Ambassadors for Children and its Kid’s Closet. Turned out, he had never worn new clothes before. That was, until he walked out of the dressing room at Ambassadors for Children – and, as a result, soon found inspiration in the arts.
“In the caseworker’s words, ‘He was 10 feet tall and bullet proof!’” said Denee Fay, Executive Director of Ambassadors for Children. “She snapped a picture of him on her phone, and he immediately asked, ‘Can I wear these home?’”
Such feel-good stories are all over the Price Cutter Charity Championship presented by Dr Pepper, the annual PGA Web.com Tour stop in Springfield. The tournament has gifted almost $13 million to children’s charities in the past 26 years, and the PCCC is proud to have Ambassadors for Children on board again.
After all, you never know many lives you could truly touch. Ambassadors for Children supports kids affected by neglect and abuse by offering free clothes, hygiene and much more.
“Child abuse and neglect leaves a lasting impact on a child’s perspective of themselves,” Fay said. “We often see older siblings taking on the role of a parent to younger siblings. Ambassadors for Children is available to meet critical needs and provide opportunities for them to be kids again. A visit to the Kids’ Closet to receive clothing is only the first step to restore self-esteem.”
Fay went on.
“Our foster kiddos soon find out there is a world of possibility available to them beyond basic clothing and hygiene needs,” Fay added.
Such was the case of the 12-year-old boy. Ambassadors for Children not only provided new clothes but also a duffle Pack-A-Bag stuffed with hygiene items, a blanket and some art supplies.
Who knew the art supplies would have such an impact? He quickly started drawing detailed designs on the drawing pad and, his caseworker realizing his interest, enrolled the boy in art therapy. Soon, he was “finding his voice” through the arts.
“I would have never known he had an interest in art if that drawing pad had not been in his bag. There is no other way to say it. It was a God moment,” the caseworker wrote to Ambassadors for Children, which shared the story recently. “He was so struck by these new clothes and the difference in how he looked. We came back to the residential facility, and he was showing everyone his new clothes and camouflage bag. It made a huge impact on our staff who could see such a change in his confidence.”
Here’s how you can help:
SUPPORTING THE PCCC = SUPPORTING CHARITIES
- BUSINESS SPONSORSHIPS: Businesses also can support the PCCC through various sponsorships, such as the daily newsletter, website or through several events such as a dozen Pro-Ams. Businesses also can donate a gift card with at least a $25 value in the name of your charity of choice to benefit them in the Golf Ball & Charity Auction presented by Copy Products, Inc. and University Plaza .
- WIN A NEW TRUCK: The purchase of a $25 TLC Properties Charity Sweepstakes ticket can win one of 500 daily gift cards as well as grand prizes of $10,000 and a 2016 Ford F-150 XLT. It’s also good for a four-day tournament pass.
- SEE THE FUTURE OF THE PGA TOUR: The PCCC is from Aug. 5-15, with the pros beginning play on Aug. 11 at Highland Springs Country Club. For tickets or other ways to assist, call the Price Cutter Charity Championship staff at 417-887-3400.
Dawie vander Walt won the 2016 PCCC (Photo courtesy of StidzMedia) - AMBASSADORS FOR CHILDREN: The organization provides quality services and support to foster families in Greene, Christian and Taney counties. Call their office at 417-708-0565.
