Keep caring

The Sundance Chamber of Commerce has launched a donation drive that will aim to support our local businesses during a time when so many of us remain in lockdown and a state order remains in effect that limits their ability to function.

It’s also an opportunity for the community to support its hard-working essential personnel and support people who are out of work due to COVID-19 related layoffs.

The idea is simple: donations from the community will be used to purchase gift cards from our local businesses. These will then be given to our medical and essential personnel in thanks for their hard work during this time, as well as to individuals who are out of work.

Visit the chamber’s Facebook page and comment on the fundraiser post when you have donated. For every $20 you contribute, you will be put into a drawing for $25 in Sundance Bucks. Two winners will be drawn on April 10.

To donate, visit the PayPal link at http://www.paypal.me/sundancechamber. Alternatively, drop off funds at the Sundance State Bank drive-through, letting them know it is a Chamber Gift Card Donation.

You may also purchase gift cards directly from the businesses and donate them. Please drop them off at the bank to be dispersed.

If you have a suggestion as to where you would like your donation to be used, please add it to the notes.

The idea originated with local resident Alana Greiner, who wanted to bring the community together in a way that would support those who have been impacted most by the outbreak.

Sundance State Bank and the Sundance Chamber of Commerce were instantly enthused by the idea of offering thank you gifts that help our businesses and workers at the same time.

“One of my best friends was having a rough week so I decided to support local. I sent her flowers, something to brighten her day and support the florist,” Greiner says of her inspiration.

“I also bought a gift card for my partner at the coffee shop. It didn’t seem to be enough. I started thinking about all the essential workers that are not on shutdown and how I would like to thank them.”

The days ahead of us may be long, but a little kindness and normality can remind us that life goes on and together we will make it through.