The Grant County Chapter of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans recently donated $1,000 in supplemental funds to Neal Wilkins Early Learning Center as part of a silent auction fundraiser held on March 14.

The funds will be used toward purchasing a new playground for the school.

The fundraiser, organized by school teachers and staff, was held in conjunction with a Family Math and Reading Night. The silent auction featured a wide range of items from themed baskets assembled by classrooms to sporting event tickets and restaurant certificates. Numerous families and community businesses donated items for the fundraiser. Thrivent members assisted at the event along with many other volunteers.

The school raised a total of $4,555 at the silent auction event, and an additional $1,000 was provided by Thrivent Financial. The school plans to install Phase 1 of the playground equipment this summer. More than $22,000 of funds have been raised so far through various fundraising efforts.

“Neal Wilkins is right on track with fundraising for the first phase of this project,” said principal ReNah Reuter. “The support, both monetary and in volunteering, that we have received from parents, staff and community businesses has been amazing! I am proud to be a part of such a giving community.”

Through its chapter programs, Thrivent Financial provides financial support and other resources for its members to come together to help their communities and congregations through fundraisers and service activities.

“All Thrivent Financial members belong to a chapter, which provides a way for them to connect with one another during social or educational events and serve people and organizations here in our local area,” said Thrivent Financial Associate Lori Barry.

In 2012, the Grant County Thrivent Financial chapter gave approximately $8,000 in supplemental funding to local civic groups, charities and individuals in need.