Earlier this summer, families enrolled in Simpson’s Family Housing Program and staff came together at Minnehaha Park to celebrate at a picnic sponsored by the Cargill Cares Council from the Starches and Sweeteners North American division. The Cargill Cares Councils are made up of employee volunteers and retirees and annually contribute over 100,000 volunteer hours to organizations in our community.
Meghan Scheff has worked for Cargill for four and half years and has been a part of Cargill Cares since starting with the company. She enjoys being a part of the decision making process to positively impact the community. “I can’t personally donate thousands of dollars to an organization, but I can help Cargill decide who to give time and volunteer hours to, and that means a lot,” Meghan said.
The picnic was an opportunity for families to connect with the community and for their children to enjoy
games and get to be children. Simpson Program Associate, Julie Wells said, “The picnic allows families to have fun and relax with each other. Moms can let their kids have fun in a safe environment; it’s just a really fun day for everyone. And it couldn’t happen without Cargill.”
Funding was designated in early 2016 and Simpson staff began planning the picnic in conjunction with Cargill in March. Other Cargill employees on the planning committee included Mary Davis, John Elliot and Leigh Fritz and an additional 20 employees came out to volunteer at the event. 62 families attended the picnic and enjoyed a meal, games, face painting, and balloon animals from Silly Miss Tilly.
“The day itself had so much energy,” Meghan said. “So many smiles, so much laughter.”
Thank you to the Cargill Cares Council from the Starches and Sweeteners North American for creating a special day for Simpson’s family participants!
