The Scottsbluff Dunkin’ presented a $4,000 check yesterday to Neal Blomenkamp of Life Change Connection. The funds came from Dunkin’s grand opening celebration, and Blomenkamp says he’s grateful for the donation to help those living with diabetes.
“”You know, it’s just absolutely amazing. You get these great sizable donations. And because diabetes is kind of a hidden disease, we kind of work behind the scenes as well. A lot of people don’t see where the money goes or say where the money goes, but it’s just so wonderful,” he said. “You don’t know us (as a person with diabetes) how hard it is to be a diabetic. And all the funds that we’re given and given to us by the community and it all stays in the Panhandle.”
Franchise owner Bhavesh Patel says the money is part of the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation.
“Dunkin Joy’s mission is to help the kids, especially with the food and nutrition. but the focus is for advocates,” said Patel.
General Manager Cody Barge says he’s glad that Dunkin’ is part of the community and hopes to continue to be able give back in the months and years ahead.
“Business has been really good. Customers, community has been very patient with us, which we’re very appreciative,’ said Barge.” It’s a learning experience for everybody. So starting from scratch. But everybody’s been amazing. “The employees have come such a long way, we’ve all stepped up and we’re just happy to continue doing that.”
Blomenkamp also wanted to thank the efforts of Cathy McDaniel at the Oregon Trail Community Foundation for keeping local nonprofits like Life Change Connection up and running
“Without the Oregon Trail Community Foundation, we wouldn’t be possible,” said Blomenkamp. “I know they manage a lot of funds for a lot of different organizations in our community to make a lot of things possible with scholarships, different funds. But they are really the driving force that’s out there for Life Change Connection to be possible.”
