Dear 81328 Readers:

We would like to talk to you about the Mancos Pay It Forward Fund (PIFF). As we know all too well, life can be full of challenges and sometimes we need the support of our neighbors to weather the storm and get back on our feet. The Pay It Forward Fund offers financial assistance to Mancos Valley residents dealing with unexpected medical emergencies and personal situations. Donations to the fund extend to essential, non-medical expenses.

In our wonderful tight-knit community, situations with our neighbors arise, and we ask ourselves, "What can I do to help?" We offer support, food, and flowers knowing full well they have many more needs we are not aware of. Although PIFF does not help pay medical bills, we do help with other bills that occur on a daily basis. We can help with gas, groceries, rent, utilities, and care giver relief. We try to spend the money locally whenever possible. We do not give cash. We write check directly to the service supplier or purchase food or gas cards.

When you donate to PIFF, you know every cent is going exactly where it is needed. Donations to PIFF are tax deductible under the fiscal umbrella of Mancos Valley Resources. Donations by check should be written to Mancos Valley Resources with PIFF in the memo and sent to P.O. Box 204, Mancos CO, 81328.

On March 7, PIFF will be the beneficiaries of the 32nd Annual Millwood Junction Follies with a Superhero theme. Hopefully the entire community will want to participate, knowing that all the proceeds will stay right here in the Mancos Valley. For, it's the hero in each of you that will take part in donating the silent auction items and it is the hero in each of you that will bid on these items. We feel strongly that this will the best follies ever. Get your Superhero costume ready to wear and we hear that Wonder Woman is auditioning to be the MC.

Lastly, a big thank-you to those who have donated. You have helped many families. To learn more about Mancos Pay It Forward or to make an application for funds, visit our website at www.mancospayitforwardfund.org. All information is confidential and applications will be reviewed by our board. Thank you for your support.

Dana Weaver and Patricia Burk