By: Cole Miller
cmiller@klkntv.com
It's a record! Nebraska state workers donated more to charity this year than ever before. The Charitable Giving Campaign helps support hundreds of charities all across Nebraska, providing invaluable gifts to local families.
One example is 13–year–old Justice Bennett. From the time she was born, she's practically grown up in the hospital.
"And since then, she's had about 42 surgeries, including brain, spinal cord, spinal fusion," Justice's mother Christy Bennett said.
Bennett said it has been tough, but thanks to people like her husband, a state employee, a difference is being made. On Tuesday, Governor Dave Heineman recognized them and their contributions to this year's charitable giving campaign. A portion of their paycheck can be donated to local charities. It was Justice's dream to go to Hawaii; the Make-A-Wish Foundation made that happen.
"It's been a pretty long haul and as someone who's given to the fund, you just never think you're going to be the one that uses it. But, it's just such an honor to know that it does come back to the people who are giving," Bennett said.
Heineman says state employees raised more than $500,000 this year. Since the campaign began in 2003, they've raised nearly $3.5 million. The contributions also help agencies assist families during times of disaster, provide education and help kids, like Justice, live a better life.
"This is certainly a classic example of how state employees are committed to a variety of events and opportunities within their community," campaign organizer Bev Neth said.
This year's campaign ran from August 6 to August 31st. It's the first time the state has raised more than $500,000.
