For over 10 years, MV Rotary has been involved in the “Shop with a Cop” program for low income/at risk children. This year, 415 children were given $50 to shop for Christmas, and also have the opportunity to have a positive experience with a police officer.

The event, which took place at the Covington Wal-Mart, is a partnership between MV Rotary (who raises the money), Greater MV Community Center (who coordinates with the school counselors for referrals), and the police officers (who invite the children and donate their time through the King County Police Activities League).

Patti Jenson, MV Rotarian who coordinates the event, reported that there were 61 police officers, 18 Explorer Scouts, and 9 US Marshalls who were all there to volunteer their time!

MV Rotary would like to thank the following businesses for their donations: Good Chevrolet who is donating $50 for each car sold from 12/1-12/15 (so far they have donated $1,400), the Wal-Mart Foundation ($8000), and the Allstate Foundation ($2000). Thank you to the local Kiwanis Club who also made a donation.

The event could not take place without the many volunteers who are Rotarians, friends and family of Rotarians, Tahoma High School Rotary Interact and Leadership students, and members of the community who simply ask to participate each year.

Thank you also to the community members who helped raise money for this event by attending the Poker Tournament which was held at the Wilderness Lodge.

This event is a testimony to how a community can pull together to make a difference!