When a new school year starts and leaves start falling off the trees, Missouri Girls Town officials begin planning their annual open house event.
On Oct. 6, more than 140 individuals came to the Scallorns Recreation Center gym. They were greeted by tables already filled with friends and family. Usually, there are worries about not filling up each table, but as staff members began making room and setting up more tables and chairs to accommodate all of the guests, it was quickly recognized that attendance was exceeding expectations.
Executive Director Jenny Preiss made it known that while this event is held to support Missouri Girls Town, the true meaning behind the event is to show love and support to the clients the organization serves.
The program for the day consisted of various scenes from "The Wizard of Oz" performed by the clients of Missouri Girls Town. Each performance brought out a different reaction in the audience - from a whimsical, comedic, "If I Only had a Brain" scene, to a heart-felt act of the clients holding broken hearts with the negative feelings they felt when they first came to MGT.
The day was filled with emotions and generosity. With the help of Board Member Joe Scallorns acting as auctioneer, MGT raised $8,500 from the silent and live auction items donated by local companies and individuals.
To learn more, visit missourigirlstown.org to read about the organization and giving opportunities, or contact the director of development at [email protected].