Pay it Forward Stories 2019

I donated my card to the Heritage Museum in Libby, MT to be used to help raise funds for a matching grant from the Montana Office of Tourism and Business Development, for the restoration of the J. Neils Lumber Company logging locomotive #4 that the museum is restoring to operational condition. The 'Four Spot' is a significant piece of history for north-west Montana, hauling logs from the forest to the mill in the Libby area from 1909 to 1946; timber that was milled and used to build and develop the north-west United States during two World Wars. In addition to being a historical and engineering artifact, it is also important for new generations of Montanans to experience the mechanical wonder that is a "Shay" locomotive, and inspire these youth to help volunteer during the restoration and operation of the locomotive, and put them on a path to a career in metal working, welding, or machining.

Jase Leister was born in January 2018 and was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called Apert Syndrome. It occurs once in every 80,000-100,000 births, ten in a million! Apert Syndrome causes a multitude of different issues but the main ones are premature fusion of the skull, fusion of the hands and feet, and underdeveloped midfacial bones (causing breathing and eating difficulties). In Jase it has also caused several heart abnormalities. He faces many, many complicated and risky surgeries in his future and has already had 5 in his short life, including 2 open heart surgeries, two nasal surgeries, and one cranial reconstruction. Despite all his obstacles and hardships Jase is a happy, bright baby boy who enjoys life and strives to overcome anything in his way.

Jase's family travels far and often to major children's hospitals to get him the care he needs as local care doesn't have the capabilities to perform the lifesaving surgeries he requires. The Leisters love for their sweet boy and his sisters (Ellie 4yrs old, Scarlett 2 yrs old) is endless but money unfortunately is not. They appreciate any and all help. Your love, prayers, and support get them through some of their hardest times and they are forever grateful! Follow Jase's journey and all of the ups and downs at ...

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1876049412419081/?ref=bookmarks

Giving it to a 33 year old mother of 2 who is battling with cancer

I donate my card to the Ramsey Keller Memorial. This foundation pays for infant funerals up to a year old.

The foundation that I chose to give my donation to was, Working Dogs for Conservation. This amazing nonprofit organization does so many wonderful things for communities around our country, as well as overseas. They provide second chances to dogs that most people would deem hopeless or out of control. The dogs are then trained as detection dogs, in which they protect endangered species, prevent poaching and preserve at-risk environments. If the dog is unable to perform then W.D.F.C will find them a new loving home, which is how I found my best friend Titan!

It is important what this foundation does on so many levels. Not only does it save the lives of so many dogs, but they help protect the lives of many other creatures as well as preserving our beautiful lands. I am so thankful for the Dennis & Phyllis Washington Foundation for providing me the chance to donate to such an incredible cause.

If anyone is curious about this organization, interested in adopting, or knows of a dog that could help I encourage you to checkout their website.
https://www.rescues2therescue.org/

I have chosen to "pay it forward" to a special young woman. She is a vibrant, talented 28 year old. Like many folks we know, she has 2 jobs. Since neither position is full time, she has limited health care benefits and limited medical leave available to her.

In 2018, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, requiring surgery and extensive treatment. She has continued on with her life and work bravely - her amazing smile makes it seem ok. She has steadfastly told us she's going to be fine and we needn't worry.

Recently she received news that her cancer has recurred and her treatment plan will be complex. Though her life has become more difficult lately, her spirit is unwavering.

I'm grateful to be able to help her a little on her journey. Thank you for the opportunity.