Giving Back this Holiday Season

Like most non-profit organizations, the Bluffton Jasper Volunteers in Medicine (BJVIM) depends on grants and donations to keep their doors open. However, there are other ways to give back that can help.

Pam Toney, executive director of BJVIM, said a great way to raise money and market your own business is to sponsor an event. Earlier this year, Tiger Bass sponsored its 9th Annual 5K/12K Race for runners and walkers of all ages. The event included an after party, food trucks, live music, face painting and more. This is the second year BJVIM has received funds from Tiger Bass. Last year, Tiger Bass raised $14,000.

“We’re happy to report that in 2016, $15,000 was raised to benefit the Bluffton Jasper Volunteers in Medicine,” Toney said, adding, “We are grateful to Tiger Bass for their commitment.”

A unique way to give back is to donate your time or art. Local artist Deane Bowers created mixed media art made out of recycled, reclaimed and salvaged materials to adorn the walls of the Ridgeland clinic. Her artwork also can be seen on the cover of BJVIM’s holiday appeal card.

Another local woman, Jackie Friel, donated photography of the local area for notecards that BJVIM is selling at local farmers markets.

“We are very blessed to have such creative people willing to give back to us,” Toney said. “A big thank you also goes out to 100 Women Who Care Bluffton. They presented us with a generous check of $6,100 this year.”