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Press Release

For Immediate Release

2014/12/10

Heartspring participates in 2nd annual Trees of Hope contest at Kansas Star Casino

WICHITA, Kan. – Heartspring is participating in Kansas Star Casino’s 2nd annual Trees of Hope contest for a chance to win $5,000 for its Financial Assistance Program. The Trees of Hope contest gives ten non-profit organizations an opportunity to decorate 10-foot Christmas trees and receive votes to win funds for the organization’s mission.

“It’s exciting to see the trees as a blank canvas, and then slowly grow into these amazing works of art. The non-profits put so much time and effort into creating pure beauty! I’m inspired each year by the creativeness, time, and effort displayed by all participants,” said Sonya Jackson, Kansas Star Casino Public Relations Manager.

Not only does the contest give non-profits an opportunity to win funds for their organization, but it also provides a new avenue for those involved to spread awareness for their cause.

“It's not often that you can take an abstract opportunity and realize a unique way to express your mission and values of your organization. By giving us the venue, we were able to engage and educate a new audience on the importance of autism awareness,” said Dusty Buell, Heartspring Marketing Director.

Heartspring’s Christmas tree is decorated with sensory objects, facts about autism and puzzle piece snowflakes, representing the national symbol for autism, a puzzle piece. The tree is topped with large letters reading, “1 IN 68,” representing the number of children who are diagnosed with autism in the United States each year.

All Lucky Star Players Club members are eligible to vote for their favorite tree by asking for a ballot at the Players Club. All voters have to be 21 or older and can only vote once. Voting will close on December 17.

Heartspring is a worldwide center for children with special needs. Our residential school, outpatient pediatric services, and the Community of Autism Resources and Education (CARE) Program aim to help children of all ages succeed by gaining the skills necessary for a more independent lifestyle. For more information, please visit www.heartspring.org or contact marketing@heartspring.org.