The Open Hearts, Open Purses women’s giving circle awarded a $10,000 grant to Turn Away No Longer, a faith-based organization that works to improve the lives of children in foster care. 

Although many people try to find other methods of exercise, running is one of the best ways to stay healthy, both physically and mentally. Staff of Pendleton Elementary could teach students the health facts about the benefits of running, but through the creation of the Sole Sisters running club, the students found the joy and benefits of running first hand.

It is fair to say that most of us have used an ambulance or fire service at some point in our lives, or that we know someone else who has. For Assistant Fire Chief Darren Isaacs, the shortage of paramedics among increasing ambulance and fire service calls is too unbalanced.

Young children enjoy – and need – time outdoors. Playing with friends, expressing creativity and imagination, and soaking up the fresh air and sunshine allow fun and healthy habits to grow. In elementary schools, children receive a block of time to go outside and enjoy these things. However, some students are not able to participate equally on the school playground because of physical and intellectual differences.

A common sentiment of newcomers and long-time patrons alike is that once you walk into the Pendleton Community Public Library, you feel right at home. But did you know that the library also has a reputation for operating programs outside its walls?

In 2013, the South Madison Community Foundation awarded $10,000 to the Lapel Stony Creek Township Fire Territory (LSCFT) after members of Open Hearts, Open Purses voted to purchase a new thermal imaging camera for the department. The camera is used to detect temperature or heat and display it as an image or color map. This helps firefighters see people that need rescued despite smoke or darkness and also helps identify hot spots within structure fires.

Art is inspiring in all forms, to all people. It sparks ideas, creativity, and thoughtfulness. The Pendleton Artists Society at Gallery 119 fully embodies the impact of art and its resounding influence on younger generations.