In addition to devoting editorial coverage to local charities, as well as an entire channel of Patch to volunteer opportunities, Patch company goals are aligned with local charity goals to help communities. The Patch Give 5 program was developed to encourage Patch employees to be able to give back to their local communities by volunteering at least five working days each year. 

Eureka-Wildwood Patch editor Julie Brown Patton gladly supported the Missouri Emergency Response (MERS) Large Animal Rescue this month by promoting a first-ever Horseback Poker Run fundraising benefit.  She also volunteered her time to photograph attendees of the event with celebrity guest, Thumbelina—the world's smallest horse. Additionally, she donated personal items to the silent auction at the event, which was held Sunday in Greensfelder Park in Wildwood.

Kudos to the Fox Creek Veterinary Hospital staff in Wildwood for organizing this benefit.

And hats off to the MERS volunteer group, who most recently rescued a camel in DeSoto, MO. MERS is a Wildwood-based, nonprofit organization whose volunteers do incredible rescues, but do not charge for their services when they respond to animal emergencies. All proceeds from this benefit went toward their needs for the rescue mobile van, equipment and training.

For all those who personally interacted with and admired Thumbelina on Sunday, please enjoy the following photos with her. For those who could not join her, please have fun with seeing the joy Thumbelina brought to fans of all ages, including attending dogs.