The Humane Societies’ Vested Interest Fund received a very special donation; the funds raised in a most unique way. The Morris County School District has been running a program for the past few years called “Coins for a Cause”. From January until the middle of April the students bring in change that is deposited in large bottles. There are seven schools involved in this fundraising. Charitable organizations are then nominated by the students and faculty and invited as a group to make a presentation to the students as to why their charity should be the recipient of the money collected. This year Vested Interest, the Morris Museum and Strong Kids YMCA Camp were the organizations selected.

Newark Shelter Manager, Denton Infield spoke on behalf of Vested Interest bringing along a very welcome guest, Cocoa, a Rottie/Shepherd mix who was adopted by the Infield family. Cocoa was a true star, modeling the bullet-proof vest like a pro and students and teachers alike were drawn to this natural-born ambassador of good-will.

On April 17th, also the date of the School Board elections, students in the Morris County School district cast their votes using real voting equipment. What a terrific way to introduce kids to the power of a vote, teaching them responsibility and the advantages of making an educated decision to make a difference. Vested Interest was the lucky winner in this mini-election and we were thrilled and very grateful to all of the students who participated. Jane Kurek, Vice President of Community Development for the First Morris Bank & Trust was also a part of this program; each year the bank matches up to a $1,000.00 of the money collected.

All of us at the Society think this program one of the best we have ever come across and we loved meeting all of the faculty and students of the Morris County School District. We hope this program continues for a very long time as it benefits everyone involved. A win-win situation!!