Century was one of 14 local businesses and only financial institution to participate in a shoe drive sponsored by Seckman High School's Letterman's Club supporting the Menner family fighting childhood cancer. Both of our branches served as drop-off locations from mid-January through late February.
"We were moved to learn about Jaxon's long battle with leukemia and truly inspired by the generosity and heart behind this initiative," said Ken Moser, vice president of marketing at Century who coordinates the credit union's community involvement efforts. "We jumped at the opportunity to get involved when one of our employees made us aware of this effort."
Nine subdivisions, six elementary schools and three middle schools in the Fox C-6 School District also collaborated with the high school to rally around Jaxon Menner, a freshman diagnosed with cancer at age 2-1/2. Despite years of treatment, including a bone marrow transplant, his cancer persisted.
Overall, the drive resulted in more than 17,000 pairs of shoes collected, filling 791 bags! All were either reused or repurposed for this in need, with each pound earning funds for the Menner family. One of the organizers, Becky Alden, reported on April 9 that the high school exceeded its $10,000 goal!
"The response from our members, employees, and other people in the community was incredible," Moser said. "It's an amazing reminder of what can happen when a community comes together."
On February 6, Jaxon passed away at age 15 after a courageous 12-1/2 year battle with leukemia.
"Jax's strength inspired so many," Moser said. "Through every pair of shoes donated, his story -- and the love surrounding it -- will continue to leave footprints far beyond this moment."
