Volunteer Center is kicking off the Darlington Early Access Dash, an exciting new fundraiser in partnership with Darlington Holiday Warehouse to benefit Coats for Kids. Four lucky winners and one guest per winner will get the thrill of shopping at Darlington for 3 hours the day before Darlington opens to the public. Additionally, the grand prize winner will receive $100 to spend at Darlington. Second, third and fourth place winners will each receive $50 to spend at Darlington. A $5 donation will give you 10 changes at winning. To participate, visit the Volunteer Center website at www.volunteerfortwayne.org.

The fundraiser will run September 15 thru September 30, 2020 with a goal of $10,000 to help meet the anticipated increased demand for winter coats due to the economic challenges related to COVID-19. Winners will be announced on Tuesday October 6, 2020. Darlington will open their doors for the season on October 9th. The winners will be there at 10 a.m. on October 8 for their shopping extravaganza.

Coats for Kids provides over 6,000 winter coats a year to children living in poverty in Allen County. In the past 20 years, over 63,000 have been distributed. Executive Director Ani Etter states “Darlington is a beloved local annual holiday tradition in Fort Wayne. In the middle of the pandemic, the Early Access Dash will provide a fun shopping experience to 4 lucky winners and their guests. You can shop ‘til you drop while supporting a great cause and helping children in need right here in our community. It is a win-win for all!

Volunteer Center is a non-profit agency that connects volunteers with local community organizations that are in need of help. Their Signature Programs address critical needs affecting low to moderate income individuals by providing children’s winter coats, tax preparation, legal counseling and benefits enrollment to the most vulnerable in our area.