Operation Beanie Baby Helping Soldiers and Children Abroad

Chamber member Easter Seals ARC is sponsoring a unique outreach program for soldiers overseas. It started when Sergeant Sheppard, a local soldier and son of Judy Sheppard, the Intergenerational Services Manager at Easter Seals ARC, came and demonstrated the American flag folding technique to a group of children in the Stepping Stones Child Development Center. The children decided to collect 100 Beanie Babies and send them to Iraq to thank Sergeant Sheppard.

The Beanie Babies arrived after 9 days and nearly 7,000 miles of travel. They were quickly snatched up and stuffed into pockets, knee pads, and helmets to provide more cushion for the fast moving men. They also made great connecting points between the soldiers and local children, who often fear the American men with guns.

Easter Seals ARC is asking for your help to support Operation Beanie Baby. Please drop off any unwanted Beanie Babies that are clean and in good condition at Easter Seals ARC, 4919 Coldwater Rd. For more information about Operation Beanie Baby, you can contact Tony Belton, Public Relations Coordinator at 260-469-2777.