Mt. Pleasant Music Boosters’ garbage bags fundraiser begins

MT. PLEASANT — Starting 20 years ago in 2004, Mt. Pleasant Community Schools Music Boosters have raised funds for the district’s vibrant music program through an unconventional fundraiser: garbage bag sales.

According to the boosters, within the next two weeks, a representative of the Charity Services organization will call on behalf of the Music Boosters to explain the garbage bags, including price, sizes, quantity and how to place an order. The garbage bags will be delivered directly to the customers’ homes.

"The focus of the fundraiser is to help sustain a growing music program.” Mt. Pleasant Music Booster President Stan Holtkamp said. “We have a very active music program with lots of student involvement! Our focus for this campaign is toward High School Vocal Music Risers.”

The new risers will help the music program by providing additional safety, improve visibility of each student performer, making transport and set up easier, and provide a professional performance platform.

The sole purpose of the Mt. Pleasant Music Boosters is to support the K-12 instrumental and vocal music programs of the Mt. Pleasant Community School District. All fundraising dollars are used directly for these programs.

The Music Boosters’ efforts enable the music programs to operate at the highest level possible. Currently, the Music Boosters are developing a plan to update the soundboard and lighting system.

Ongoing Music Boosters projects include the Marching Band Invitational, High School Variety Show, InMotion Show Choir Invitational, Dessert Theatre, OPUS (K-12 honor choir), All-State Music Festival, and the Middle School Honor Band Festival.

Membership in the Mt. Pleasant Music Boosters organization is free and is defined as anyone with children participating in music in Mt. Pleasant Community Schools.

“If you have a child participating in any music activity within the schools or if you just love music, we invite everyone to join the fun of being involved in Music Boosters,” said Holtkamp.

The Charity Services, Inc., organization is registered with the Iowa Attorney General’s Office and assists organizations throughout the Midwest with fundraising.