Spreading comfort and joy: A year of giving back

This year, just as in the past several years, Kathy made it her personal mission to bring comfort and joy to individuals going through treatment at Rogers Behavioral Health during the holidays. Her goal: to offer a sense of warmth and solace to those in need through her donations to the Give for a Better Day Holiday Drive.

Unlike giving drives that begin just before the holiday season, Kathy’s gift drive began the day after Christmas and ran throughout 2024. This December, she drove to Rogers in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin with 12 fleece tie blankets, approximately 15 stuffed toys, an assortment of puzzles and socks, and 24 gift cards to Amazon, Target, and Wal Mart.

As Kathy explained, “Each month, I tried to make one fleece tie blanket specifically using fabric that a man or boy may like because I was told that most blanket donations are geared toward women and girls. I also bought a gift card each time I got paid, and I purchased the stuffed toys little by little all year long. I especially enjoy donating the blankets and stuffed toys because I know they can be a source of comfort during therapy sessions.”

When we asked Kathy why she chose Rogers for her giving, she said,

“Five years ago my daughter received residential care at Rogers for an eating disorder. She was discharged two days before Christmas. I met many of people during her stay who told me that they did not have family close by and wouldn’t be able to go home for the holidays. I know Rogers did what they could to make the holiday season special for them (Christmas tree, Menorah, etc.), but I knew then that I wanted to do my little part to help each patient at Rogers have some kind of gift of their own for the holidays.”

Kathy’s year-long commitment exemplifies the true spirit of giving, reminding us all that small, consistent acts of generosity can bring immense comfort and joy to others, especially when it’s needed most.