WHS fundraisers support Shepherd's Hand

The Whitefish High School boys soccer team and cheerleaders kick off a fundraiser this week that benefits their respective programs, but also supports the Shepherd’s Hand clinic.

Participants in both activities will be taking orders for the green mugs for $20. The mugs have Whitefish Bulldogs written on one side and Shepherd’s Hand clinic on the other. The mugs also come with an activities calendar at a sample pack of the Montana Coffee Traders’ Shepherd’s Hand blend of coffee.

Soccer coach O’Brien Byrd and cheer coach Carling Watkins both agree that the fundraiser is a great partnership for their athletes.

“This is a great cause,” Watkins said. “We like to make sure that we grow our cheerleaders not only as athletes, but as people and this partnership is a great organization to work with to teach those values.”

Proceeds from the sales will be split between the high school programs and Shepherd’s Hand, which provides free medical care to those without health insurance.

Sales of the mugs will continue through Aug. 26.

Byrd points out that it’s nice for his players to help out a local organization. Those purchasing the mugs get something that will last for years, he noted.

“Many of our fundraisers helped out-of-state businesses,” he said. “We’re excited about giving back to the community. The players have the opportunity to make some much-needed funds for the program and also give back to an amazing cause.”

Meg Erickson, executive director of the clinic, said she’s excited to be working with WHS teams on this fundraiser.

“Shepherd’s Hand is always interested in partnering with the community,” she said. “We’re encouraged that a sense of service is being instilled with our kids. We applaud and appreciate that.”