Christmas came early for five Hartley non-profit organizations.

The Hartley Community Foundation (HCF) raised a total of $34,535 during its Oct. 1 fundraiser. Attendees could give general donations to be allocated evenly, or specifically designate funds to the Hartley Community Center, Cemetery Chapel Committee, Hartley Community Daycare Center, Hartley Recreation Trail Committee or Friends of the Library.

The event also served as a celebration of service for longtime HCF board members and community contributors Howard Borchard, Duane Kolpin and Connie Olhausen. The trio has played a role in a variety of historical preservation projects and other local causes throughout the years.

Olhausen was pleased with turnout at the fundraiser.

NICK PEDLEY/SENTINEL-NEWS

Friends of the Library members Judy Peters and Sandra Mohni receive a check from HCF board members Connie Olhausen and Duane Kolpin. The group landed $4,791.22 during a recent HCF fundraiser.

"We were real happy, and we just want to thank the community for its support," she said. "Donating tax-deductible contributions are a great way to let your money work in your community while you're living and even beyond."

Kolpin hoped momentum from the fundraiser would carry on into the future and serve as a reminder of what the foundation can do for Hartley.

"These organizations are critical to a community like Hartley," he said. "That's what the foundation is here for – to contribute and provide for the community to make it a better place to live."

After expenses from the fundraiser were paid, checks were cut in the following amounts: Cemetery Chapel Committee – $4,742.22; Hartley Recreation Trail Committee – $5,060.72; Friends of the Library – $4,791.22; Hartley Community Center – $5,844.72; Hartley Community Daycare Center – $12,332.32.