Next change for change collection date
7th annual Amanda family walk and carnival
October 2010 date to be determined or

visit Cal Oaks State Bank to turn in yout change 

Change for Change is a voluntary fundraising program for The Amanda McPherson Foundation. The mission of the foundation is to do good things in Amanda’s name. The Change for Change fundraising program is designed specifically to give children in the community an opportunity to make a difference. Children create and decorate a Change for Change container to be placed in their home. They can also create containers for other families and friends. Family members place their spare change in this container until a specified collection date when the children will be asked to bring in their containers. The funds raised from this program will be used to ensure that schools have appropriate facilities and tools to assist those children with special needs. The foundation believes that it is important for the children to learn that they can make a difference with something as simple as spare change.

Amanda McPherson was a special student in the Simi Valley Unified School District who always tried her best. Amanda was born with Velo-Cardio-Facial Syndrome, a genetic disorder that includes learning disabilities, speech difficulties and gross and fine motor difficulties. Beginning at age 3, Amanda was assisted by the special education services provided by the school district. Her therapists and classroom aides helped Amanda achieve her goals each year. Although Amanda had to work harder to achieve even the simplest goals, she never complained and shared her unconditional love with everyone she came in contact with including her teachers, helpers and friends.

Amanda passed away in December 2003, after contracting a virus that caused her heart to stop. The Amanda McPherson Foundation was started as a memorial to this special little girl who shared her love, hugs and strength with those around her. The Change for Change program is one of several fundraising campaigns held by the foundation.