Five-year-old Mitchell Clayton of Dumas, TX, donated some of his playthings to a local museum so it could start a children's center, and now he is saving money to expand the toy selection.

What kind of philanthropic or volunteer work did/do you do?

Mitchell: When I first moved from Houston to Dumas two years ago, I missed my old children's museum, so I donated some of my old toys, books, and puzzles along with some new ones to the Windows on the Plains Museum in town so that they could have a children's center. I am currently saving my money so we can expand the section.

What is the name and location of the organization?

Mitchell: Windows on the Plains Museum, Dumas, TX.

Tell us about the project, especially who benefited from this work.

Mitchell: The children of Dumas and other neighboring towns.

What inspired you to get involved?

Mitchell: I missed the Children's Museum of Houston and would like to see one in Dumas.

How did you first get involved? Give us some details.

Mitchell: My mom and I like going to museums together and like having places to play together, too. My mom and I think there should be a children's museum in every town.

What is/was the best thing about your experience?

Mitchell: Friends tell me how they like to visit the Windows on the Plains Museum and like to play with the toys.

What is/was the hardest part?

Mitchell: Aside from the Museum, no other establishment in town, not even restaurant or car dealerships, have a place for kids to play.

What was the biggest surprise?

Mitchell: That the museum used my items.

What new things have you learned as a result of your experience and how have you changed as a result?

Mitchell: I know it is fun to share and help others, especially those who can not help themselves. There are people who have less then me, and I can help them by sharing some toys.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of getting involved in philanthropy or volunteering?

Mitchell: Anyone can make a difference.

© Foundation Center
All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy