Fundraising Idea, Now Used Nationwide, Still a Local Success

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Updated: 6:56 PM Nov 1, 2009 Fundraising Idea, Now Used Nationwide, Still a Local Success Grand Island The Arc of Central Nebraska started a fundraiser called "Honey Sunday" in 1963, and today it's still used not only in Grand Island, but across the country. Posted: 6:02 PM Nov 1, 2009 Reporter: Megan Johnson Email Address: Megan.Johnson@1011Now.com

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The Arc of Central Nebraska started a fundraiser called "Honey Sunday" in 1963, and today it's still used not only in Grand Island, but across the country.

The Arc of Central Nebraska is a local chapter of The Arc of Nebraska and The Arc of the United States. The non-profit organization was started in 1954 to advocate for the rights of citizens with developmental disabilities. Each year The Arc of Central Nebraska relies on volunteers to sell the honey door-to-door and to "make Honey Sunday 'sweeter' for the citizens of Grand Island, and Nebraska, with developmental disabilities."

Current President of The Arc of Central Nebraska Mike Follmer said the first Honey Sunday was done to raise money for a special needs teacher. Instead of trying to sell lots of different products, it was suggested they sell a product manufactured in Grand Island - honey. The first Honey Sunday was a success, and the idea caught on across the state. Within a few years it was being used across the nation.

Today it is still the only fundraiser for The Arc of Central Nebraska.

Each year The Arch of Central Nebraska rewards the volunteer group who sold the most honey with a trophy. The winning group gets to display the Traveling Community Service Trophy at their organization.

Sunday's warm and sunny weather was wonderful for the 2009 Honey Sunday sellers, but Follmer said it is hurtful for sales because people are out and about on such a beautiful day. Follmer also said there were fewer volunteers this year. However, people still have a chance at buying some of the honey. This year the Honey Sunday honey will be sold at retail stores around Grand Island.

The Arc of Nebraska estimates that there are 47,000 Nebraska citizens with developmental disabilities.

For more information contact The Arc of Central Nebraska at:
308.384.6876
2210 Gateway Avenue
Grand Island, NE
68803

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