HENRY COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Susan Burton, Communications Director
PARIS, TN – November 20, 2025 – The Henry County High School (HCHS) Beta Club has kicked off a two-month-long Shoe Drive fundraiser, running from November 17, 2025, to January 16, 2026. This initiative aims to raise funds for essential club expenses while simultaneously supporting micro-entrepreneurs in developing nations.
The Beta Club will earn funds based on the total weight of gently worn, used, and new shoes collected. The collected footwear will be acquired by Funds2Orgs, an organization that works with small business owners in countries with limited economic opportunity, helping them create and grow sustainable small businesses.
Money raised by the HCHS Beta Club will be used to cover costs associated with student activities, including induction ceremonies and attendance at state and national conventions.
How to Donate: The community is encouraged to donate their surplus footwear. Drop-off locations include:
• Henry County High School (315 South Wilson St)
• Tidal Wave Auto Spa (1208 Mineral Wells)
• Peppers Automotive (2420 E Wood St)
• Mineral Wells Animal Clinic (116 Volunteer Dr)
• Dyersburg State/E.W. Grove (former) Campus (215 Grove BLVD)
• Lakeway IGA (2601 E Wood St)
“We are excited about our shoe drive,” said Mary Thrash, Beta Shoe Drive Coordinator. “This is a win-win for everyone. By donating shoes, the community helps us raise money for club expenses, and we have the chance to help families in developing nations who need economic opportunities.”
The Beta Club is dedicated to providing students with meaningful opportunities to grow as scholars and leaders through service, character-building, and academic recognition.
For more information, please contact Sponsor Mary Thrash at 731-642-5232 or thrashm@henryk12.net.
Photo: Emmalynn Taylor, Madison Kamperman, and Annie Grace Snow stand beside the "Shoe us the love" collection boxes used by the Beta Club for donations of gently worn, used and new shoes.
Photo 2: Beta Club members Lillian Merrell, Mason Green, and Hannah Hudgins place a "Shoe us the love" collection box in front of the main office at HCHS.
