When it comes to the challenging world of fundraising, many turn to their friends and family when looking for support for their cause. Plushland’s involvement with the Lane Kemper Softball Tournament, an annual fundraiser for the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund, grew out of a long friendship between Plushland’s co-owner Tony Weber and LAFD Engineer Bill Bringas, softball tournament chair.
For the past six years, Plushland has created a variety of plush animals for the event and has made cash donations. It’s an opportunity for the firefighters to play while earning money for Widows & Orphans, “a wonderful cause to help support an oft overlooked group,” as Tony puts it.
Tony sees firefighters as many members of the public do: “They are humble heroes, and a tight knit community.” This sense of community lies at the very heart of the annual softball tournament, named after founder Lane Kemper. An active supporter of the charity, Lane was known for emphasizing camaraderie when it came to fundraising for Widows & Orphans. “Lane raised countless dollars for the Widows & Orphans Fund over the years, but there was always a catch. There always had to be a little friendly fireman competition and a lot of fun in the fundraising process,” said firefighter Jim Stiglich, who works the event every year.
Camaraderie and community also played a main role in the very founding of the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund. Although it grew out of firefighters’ generosity in helping their own, the charity could not continue to serve firefighter families without the support from the greater community.
As a company, Plushland has a long history of philanthropy. “Plushland is proud to have helped support numerous local and national charities, community support groups, local police, sheriff and firefighters as well as several across the country, and those volunteers who help our communities become a better place,” Tony stated. “From helping to raise money through the sale of our plush toys, to donations of plush to put smiles on the faces of young and old, Plushland is honored and proud to have worked with so many wonderful people for almost two decades.” For more information about their products visit plushland.com.
By Jody Houser