DHHS Scoops Up Sundaes for Two Great Causes
Volunteers man the topping table at DHHS’ “Groovin’ on a Sundae Afternoon” fundraiser.
Though it had to be moved inside due to rain, DHHS’ “Groovin’ on a Sundae Afternoon” fundraiser scooped up more than $750 each for Operation Santa Claus and the NH Food Bank on Wednesday.
Workers from DHHS and Employment Security enjoyed sundaes served up by Commissioner George Copadis and Deputy Commissioner Rich Lavers of Employment Security, Deputy Commissioner Marilee Nihan of DHHS and SEA First Vice President Ken Roos, who was also on the committee that organized the event. SEA member Sara Kelly was also on that committee, and she was there snapping photos of the fun. She said a lot of hands helped make the event happen.
“There were about eight of us that were on the committee, and we met for months prior to make a plan,” she said. “We all had little jobs that we took part in, which led to today.”
She said the bulk of the sales came ahead of time, so they knew they were in for a crowd.
“We had 415 presale tickets, plus whatever we’re doing today, so we’d already raised more than $1,200,” she said.
Elizabeth Maynard, who also helped organize the event, was at the door taking tickets on Wednesday. She said the sundae fundraiser came out of a bake sale and silent auction held over the winter.
“It was very successful because everybody worked well together and everyone in the department was very supportive — the donations were amazing,” she said. “So we thought we’d do something in the summer and came up with the ice cream sundae fundraiser.”
Operation Santa Claus Chair Linda Farrell, who was there helping out on Wednesday, was excited with the turnout.
“This has turned out fabulously,” she said. “I heard there were 415 presale tickets, but more people keep coming in and buying them. That’s a lot of tickets.”
A big thanks to all who helped organize and carry out the event to benefit two great organizations. Also, big thanks to NH Hospital, which donated all of the toppings, and Blake’s Creamery, Arnie’s Place and Jordan’s Ice Cream, which donated the ice cream.