Gifts in Action
Celebrating the Impact of Your Generosity
Every gift to Pawnee Mental Health makes a real, measurable difference in the lives of children, adults, and families across our communities. Gifts in Action highlights the inspiring stories made possible by the generosity of donors, partners, and supporters like you.
Your support fuels hope, healing, and access to care for those who need it most.
Donor Features
Celebrating the generosity of those who make Pawnee’s mission possible. From individuals to organizations, each donor helps transform lives, strengthen programs, and create lasting impact in our community.
Wayne and Cindy Sloan: Turning Heartbreak Into Hope
After the heartbreaking loss of their son to suicide, Wayne and Cindy Sloan channeled their grief into action, dedicating themselves to ensuring that others in crisis have access to the support their son was unable to receive. Their involvement with Pawnee Mental Health extends far beyond financial contributions—through leadership, advocacy, and fundraising initiatives, they’ve strengthened Pawnee’s mission and inspired countless others to give and get involved.
Cindy’s dedication to events like Driving the Dream and Wayne’s leadership on the Foundation Board have helped expand Pawnee’s circle of supporters and bring critical programs, like the Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU), to life. Their story is a powerful reminder that true philanthropy combines time, resources, and a steadfast belief in the cause.
“We never want another family to experience that feeling of helplessness. Pawnee’s work is critical in creating a safety net for those moments when it matters most.” – Cindy Sloan
A Decade of Determination: Manhattan Optimist Club Supports S.T.A.R.S. Camp
For more than a decade, Pawnee Mental Health has looked to the Manhattan Optimist Club for support of S.T.A.R.S. Camp, and this year, their continued partnership is helping make camp possible once again.
S.T.A.R.S. Camp, which stands for Strength, Teamwork, Attitude, Relationships, and Self-esteem, provides children and youth with severe emotional disturbances a safe and nurturing environment to grow, build confidence, and develop important coping skills. Many campers describe it as the only place where they feel truly accepted for who they are.
The Manhattan Optimist Club’s commitment to youth well-being and community support ensures that campers can fully engage in therapeutic activities, team-building exercises, and creative programs that help them thrive. Their ongoing support has a lasting impact, allowing Pawnee Mental Health to continue providing meaningful experiences that transform the lives of the children and teens we serve.
“We are incredibly grateful for the Manhattan Optimist Club’s support,” said Andy Cassel, S.T.A.R.S. Camp Coordinator. “Their partnership allows us to provide a safe, supportive space where campers can grow, feel understood, and discover their strengths.”
Event Highlights
See the moments that bring our community together and support Pawnee’s mission. Donors make these events possible—your generosity helps fund programs, services, and experiences that truly change lives.
Inspiring Hope & Help
Inspiring Hope & Help is Pawnee’s signature dinner and live auction, bringing the community together to support mental health and wellness in our region. This year’s event was a remarkable celebration of generosity, with donors, partners, and community members coming together to help strengthen Pawnee’s programs and expand access to essential care. From planning and volunteering to donating and spreading the word, every act of support contributed to a brighter future for the children, adults, and families we serve. Inspiring Hope & Help is more than a fundraiser—it’s a testament to the power of community, showing what’s possible when people unite with purpose, compassion, and a shared belief in Pawnee’s mission.
Pancakes for Pawnee
Pancakes for Pawnee is a beloved annual tradition at Early Edition West, bringing the community together to support mental health in our region. This year’s breakfast-for-dinner event was a tremendous success, with staff and volunteers braving the elements to flip pancakes, serve sausage, manage carry-out orders, and welcome guests with warmth and smiles. Despite challenging weather, the spirit and generosity of our supporters shone through, reminding us all of the impact we can make when we come together. Pancakes for Pawnee is more than a meal—it’s a celebration of compassion, community, and the power of collective giving, proving that even a simple plate of pancakes can help fuel hope and healing for those we serve.
Your Gift Matters
Every donation—large or small—directly supports Pawnee’s mission:
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$100 = 1 therapy session
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$1,000 = Sponsorship of a S.T.A.R.S. camper
Your generosity ensures programs and services continue to grow, helping individuals, children, and families in our community thrive.