Throughout the town of Big Rapids, “Bulldawgs” have been on display as a community art project dedicated to making a difference.
Leadership Mecosta’s Class of 2008 organized the project to help with funding for three non-profit organizations.
“We were looking for a project that would make a difference in the community. We were looking for something that would help have an impact on the community to benefit the community, we talked with other groups who have done art projects in other communities and have had a positive impact,” said Geri Johnson, Governmental Relations Assistant.
All proceeds will benefit the Mecosta County Youth Attention Center, a program that connects with at risk youth and kids that may be starting to go down the wrong path in life, the Artworks program, a non-profit fine art gallery in downtown Big Rapids and the Leadership Mecosta Program, a program led by Mecosta County Chamber of Commerce a program dedicated to educating and inspiring residents of Mecosta County in the area of community leadership, said Johnson.
“We feel very privileged to be chosen and recognized by the community for a small agency. We are thankful for Leadership Mecosta choosing us and believing in our focus to help runaway and homeless youth in the Mecosta and Osceola Counties,” said Amy Eddinger, Director of the Youth Attention Center.
Eddinger also said they plan on using the funding to provide enrichment activities, hygiene supplies, and anything that youth might need when they are on the run or are homeless.
“The funding will help support our agency and will allow us to provide more services to our area youth,” said Eddinger.
Students felt pleased with the idea. “I think that it’s a great idea for raising money, ceramic bulldogs are a great idea; I think more programs like that should be done,” said Tommy Daniels, Public Relations student.
Pre-Pharmacy student Andrew Haines said he likes the fact that it’s a unique idea to raise money.
“It’s good money,” said Pre-Pharmacy student Cassie Raap.
The program goes on for a month, said Johnson. “Right now, we’re just trying to promote the auction,” she explained. The eBay store is going to open up on Friday, Sept. 25. 24 of the sponsored bulldawgs will go to the highest bidder. The auction will take place from Oct. 5-8.