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Piano practice pays off for shelter
McCook Gazette
McCOOK, Neb. — Local piano students took practice to another level, using it to raise money and supplies for the McCook animal shelter.
McCook piano teacher Shannon Corder said it began in December 2019, when one of her students, 10 year old Jaqi Burns, told Corder at her weekly practice that she was concerned about animals dying in the Australian wildfires. Wanting to do something on behalf of the animals, Jaqi suggested a fundraiser for the McCook Humane Society.
Corder said she would think about it over Christmas break and come up with some ideas.
She conferred with Jaqi’s mom, Angie Karr, about doing a “practice-a-thon.” She figured it would not only encourage students to practice the piano but would also raise money for a good cause. It was decided to raise money for the McCook Humane Society and then, at the spring recital, have boxes set up for those attending to donate as well.
The “practice-a-thon” kicked off Jan. 30, with Corders’ 17 students keeping track of practice time through March. They collected money from “sponsors,” who paid them for the number of minutes practiced. The top three students collecting donations were Irmina Cramer, Jaqi Burns, and Jackie Sattler.
Students must have practiced their piano diligently, as ultimately, $680 was raised in cash.
Unfortunately, the spring recital was postponed due to Covid-19 restrictions, but donations and money were still dropped off at the humane society on May 1, including $200 worth of dog and cat food, cleaning supplies and collars.
Corder was surprised and pleased by the dedication shown by her students. “All my students are so busy with other activities, school, and family time, that it’s amazing to see them taking the time to think of something other than themselves. This is what makes the world a better place.”
The donation is an example of how the community is doing what it can for the shelter, said McCook Humane Society director, Lorie Prestes. People have been dropping off supplies and calling to ask what is needed, she said, with this donation another bright spot.
“It takes a huge team of people to make this shelter run and that includes awesome people like these girls, their parents, and teacher,” Prestes said. “During these strange times, this awesome ray of sunshine drops by and made everything very bright.” The students, and others like them, are truly heroes to the furkids, she said.
Corder, who’s taught piano for 21 years, said it was a great May Day gift to the animal shelter and that “practice-a-thons” might become a new tradition for her piano students.