NEWS

05/10

The McPherson County Community Foundation recognized Patsy Magelssen, founder and organizer of Trash to Treasure, as the 2009 “Philanthropist of the Year”. The award was given during the Foundation’s Recognition Luncheon on Wednesday, November 18th at the McPherson Opera House, McPherson. The award acknowledges Patsy for her dedication and service to McPherson and to individuals globally.
Patsy first organized Trash to Treasures in Minnesota 31 years ago and carried on her idea after moving to McPherson. Trash to Treasure is an organization of volunteers who collect “throw-away” items like old rags and worn children’s toys then turns those materials into gifts for people in need. As chairperson, Patsy, herself a volunteer, coordinates approximately 20 volunteers refurbishing old toys all year and preparing over 2000 Christmas boxes annually.
In explaining their Philanthropist of the Year award, Becky Goss, McPherson County Community Foundation Executive Director stated, “As nonprofit agencies strive to promote their missions, dedicated philanthropists promote efforts to ensure the nonprofits' success. The Community Foundation continues to grow because of community residents who understand our mission and are willing to devote the time needed to move it forward. Because of this our board has recognized we are one of many organizations who succeed because of the true philanthropists, and we hope to reward their efforts.” A philanthropist is a person who endeavors to help humankind, as by charitable aid or donations. Directors throughout the county can attest to the time, talents, and treasures volunteers bring to their organizations.
Each year, the Foundation encourages nonprofit organizations to complete a brief application nominating volunteers that have worked with them at any level. Information gathered includes the type of volunteer work an applicant has performed, how long, and what qualities make the person a philanthropist.
As part of the recognition for Patsy’s tireless work, the McPherson County Community Foundation awarded a $300 grant to Trash To Treasure.
The Foundation selected Patsy Magelssen from a number of nominations it received. Some of the comments about Ms. Magelssen’s dedication with Trash To Treasure included the following quotes:
• “Patsy works at home making things that the organization gives nursing homes and many other places. Trash to Treasures packed over 2000 Christmas boxes to send oversees. They also give to the veterans and many other groups.”
• “Pasty is a very optimistic individual that can motivate others to do great things for many people in many different situations and needs. Patsy turns other people’s trash into valuable possessions for those in need.”
• “Patsy is a unique person. One in a Million. She has a giving heart for helping people far and near, which she has done for many, many years.”
• “This year, she will have filled 2036 shoe boxes for Samaritan Purse’s Operation Christmas Child. There is additional cost of $7.00 per box to cover shipping—all to be provided by Patsy. Her philanthropy definitely benefits children around the world in addition to people in this surrounding community.”
• “Her passion is to help humankind.”
• “Patsy makes quilts for children taken out of abusive home situations, neck pillows for veterans, bibs for health centers in several different towns, packed 2038 boxes for children around the world through Samaritan’s Purse, sends clothing, toys, bed materials etc to Mexico’s extremely poor population.”