Fridays have a somewhat different atmosphere at Kawasaki this fall.
With football season in full swing, Kawasaki employees have been challenged to shed their uniforms and don jerseys and hats in support of their favorite football team.

Since September, employees at Kawasaki have had the opportunity to show pride and root for their favorite football team ––  whether it be NFL, university, high school or bantam league team –– by wearing sports apparel on Fridays during football season.

To Kawasaki employees, this is not just time to show their team spirit or get out of wearing their work uniform, but to raise money for a good cause. Every person who participates by wearing team colors is asked to donate $1 that goes to the Ministry Center Food Pantry.

“Some of the employees are throwing money in the pot even if they don’t wear team colors,” said Katie Godsey, administrator for Human Resources. “I think it’s more about working for a good cause than supporting the teams. It’s also fun to get out of uniform once in a while.”

As of Friday, Sept. 26, Kawasaki has raised $819 toward the cause.

Good sportsmanship prevails at Kawasaki  –– no “booing” the other team (no matter who the employees are rooting for). Flags will be thrown and penalties assessed for unsportsmanlike conduct.

This week a special challenge has been issued. Kawasaki Plant Manager Steve Bratt –– an avid Nebraska fan –– has promised if employees raise $500, he will wear a pink Mizzou shirt.
As Ministry Center treasurer and coordinator for the Food Pantry Rod Shain said they are very appreciative of the contributions from Kawasaki.

“This is great,” Shain said. “We are getting a donation envelope every week from Kawasaki. They just keep coming, so I’ve started keeping a running total. It’s really phenomenal what they’re doing –– especially right now with the county needs increasing every month.”
Shain said the number of families served in Nodaway County by the Food Pantry has gone from 150 to 190 this last month. They have delivered 87,832 pounds of food to families since January.

“Donations like we are receiving from Kawasakii and so many other places is what keeps us going and makes what we do possible,” Shain said.

Shain said the Food Pantry is planning to put together holiday packages to help families with extra needs. He said donations made by Kawasaki are very beneficial  in helping them with this project.