Texoma Gives Kicks Off Sept. 3 for Olney Nonprofits

Olney residents will have plenty of ways to put their charitable dollars to work close to home on Sept. 3, when local nonprofits take part in Texoma Gives, the regionwide day of giving.

This year, Olney’s nonprofits will largely be going it alone, making local participation especially important. Several organizations are planning fundraisers and special events around Texoma Gives, while others will simply be asking supporters to remember them when deciding where to give.

The Olney Community Library and Arts Center will sweeten the deal with an auction of baked goods and other treats on Sept. 3. Library Director Lori Cox said supporters can bid on items through the library’s Facebook page or call the library directly to place a bid.

The fundraiser will help support the library as it continues building on a major renovation completed earlier this year and providing programs, technology and other services to the community.

The Refuge also will turn Texoma Gives into an opportunity to feed Olney while raising money for its programs.

The Refuge will serve breakfast burritos beginning at 6 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 3, followed by pulled pork sandwiches, chips, a drink and dessert from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The meals will be available for a donation of any amount. Lunch delivery also will be available to businesses and schools.

The Refuge called Texoma Gives its “biggest fundraiser of the year,” saying donations help it continue serving families, reaching young people and meeting needs in the community.

The House of Mercy Enterprises will extend the giving spirit into the weekend with a large yard sale on Sept. 4 and 5 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 308 W. Main St.

The sale will feature furniture and other items, including pieces that have been refurbished and given new life by House of Mercy. Proceeds will benefit the organization and its work helping people in recovery rebuild their lives.

Keep Olney Beautiful also is getting into the Texoma Gives spirit with a game-day package raffle on Sept. 4, giving supporters another way to contribute while taking a chance on a prize.

Residents who want to support two other important Olney organizations can donate directly to the Olney Volunteer Fire Department and the Olney Education Foundation, both of which will be accepting contributions as part of the giving campaign.

Texoma Gives is an annual effort to encourage people across the region to support the nonprofit organizations that provide services in their own communities. In Olney, those organizations touch nearly every part of community life — from education and literacy to youth programs, recovery services, beautification and emergency response.

So mark Sept. 3 on the calendar — then eat a burrito, bid on a cake, buy some furniture, take a chance on a raffle or simply make a donation.