When the Gridley church received an appeal letter from Biggs Gridley Memorial Hospital for donations, they wanted to contribute. Cheryl Dillard, leader of the Gridley church Adventurers, a group of kids ranging from kindergarten through fourth grades, had a unique idea on how to raise funds for the hospital: an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast.

“When this letter came to the attention of the church board, I thought that this might be a perfect opportunity for us [Adventurers] to get involved,” said Dillard. “I had wanted us to do an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast as a fundraiser for awhile, and the appeal came at the perfect time.”

After approaching the hospital administration with her idea, Dillard was given enthusiastic support from the hospital. Moreover, the event was advertised both by the hospital and The Gridley Herald, the local newspaper.

The breakfast was held on Feb. 20 in the church fellowship hall, and the menu featured pancakes served with fruit topping and syrup, hash browns and juice. The Adventurers served the breakfast, helped carry the plates and helped clean up the area.

“I liked the pancake breakfast; it made people happy,” said Sierra Stone, an Adventurer. “I felt like I was doing a good deed by helping people and the hospital.”

The Adventurers, however, were not alone in their endeavors to help. The Gridley Pathfinders also participated, while some of the members of the hospital board donated their time to the event. Collectively, they earned $350, which was donated fully to the hospital.

Biggs-Gridley Memorial Hospital responded with gratitude. “We are delighted with the hard work of these young people,” said Jim Suver, hospital administrator. “Their donation has helped us purchase additional medical equipment for the ER. In addition to the funds they raised, it was also a fun event that was very enjoyable for the attendees. The Adventurers are to be commended for their selflessness in raising money for the hospital. We applaud them.”

Aside from the fun associated with the various events they participate in, what else motivates the Adventurers to continue with community service oriented events? The Adventurers mission statement, “My God, My Family, My Community, My World” is a big factor. Another is that Dillard wants the kids to see the bigger picture.

“I want the children to see beyond themselves—that life is beyond just our own needs,” said Dillard. “There are other people and organizations out there that are hurting and have big needs. This was just an opportunity to put our mission statement into practice.”