Lisa Creager, Kate Houck and Geanie Edgington view the silent auction handbags

Handbags in various styles, sizes and colors helped raise funds for Combined Community Service’s Project Independence and Hand Up programs. “Success Is In The Bag!” Luncheon was the venue for these items to be purchased.

A large display of handbags were available through the silent auction, with five special handbags available through a live auction. Those buyers had an extra incentive, as their names were placed in a drawing for a pair of sterling silver earrings. There were even a few “slightly loved” handbags available at small set prices.

Approximately 50 ladies met at The Old Train Depot, Pierceton, for the event Saturday. Over $1,000 was raised for the two programs. The stories of five participants in Project Independence and Hand Up programs were shared during the modeling of the handbags being auctioned.

All the the items in the silent and live auction were donated by private individuals or area retailers.

Project Independence

Project Independence is a mentoring program which helps low-income families in Kosciusko County achieve economic independence through education.

The long-term goal of the program is to help clients develop the skills necessary to secure productive employment, and eliminate all need for financial assistance from private or governmental resources.

Hand Up

The Hand-Up Program provides guidance to those looking to make significant life changes, such as securing employment or continuing education. The goal of the program is to bring individuals experiencing a crisis to stability.

The Hand-Up Program was created to help give people a hand-up, not just a hand out.

Eligibility:

• Hand-Up participants are individuals over the age of 18.
• Familes must meet income guidelines or a sudden crisis such as losing employment.

To learn more about the programs contact: Call Tammy Smith at (574) 269-6019, ext. 225 or email [email protected] for Project Independence; or contact Kylie Rickert-Snyder at (574) 269-6019, ext. 227 for the Hand Up program.