Theler Supporters Met "Moyer Match" Challenge

Supporters of Mary E. Theler Community Center met the challenge -- a fund-raising effort that raised more than $10,000 in just a few weeks.

It was called the Moyer Match and got started with a $1,000 check written by dedicated volunteer Bill Moyer of Belfair. He said he’d sign it when nine other checks were contributed.

Moyer was dubbed “King Bill” when he and other donors met June 30 at Theler for a celebratory lunch. He signed his check, and then promptly wrote another one for the same amount to start a second “challenge.’

“I didn’t do it just to help Theler,” Moyer said of his initial plan. “I had an ulterior motive. I wasn’t sure the community would support Theler.” He said financial and managerial crises last year gave him cause for doubt, but the outlook is much brighter now.

“It’s not lonesome at Theler anymore,” Moyer said.

Operations Director Anne Whitman said he’s a “huge asset,” contributing 40 to 50 hours a week in addition to financial support. He regularly mows grass along the trails.

“Bill definitely helped Theler get back on its feet,” Whitman said.

A water line break on the grounds caused havoc last year, and Moyer was instrumental in solving the problem.

“I didn’t have to call Bill,” said Theler board president Randy Neatherlin. “He was already here.”

Potential donors were contacted in May about the Moyer Match. Days before the lunch, contributions put the fund over the mark.

The event was attended by about 25 supporters. Some combined funds with friends and relatives to make a $1,000 “match.” Contributions came from Glenn and Debbie Landram, Bruce and Lorrie Landram, Mary and Lee Swoboda, Ruth Kraft, Walter Turk, Norma Swoboda, Laura Troy Overton Johannes, Don and Paulette Cady, Dr. and Mrs. Arp Masley, North Mason Lions, Tim Sheldon, Blair and Linnie Griffin, Barbara Austin, Bob and Margaret Hager, Jim and Barbara Clark, and Bonnie Knight.

Proceeds from the Sam Theler Trust, currently about $32,000 annually, contribute less than 25 percent of operating costs for the community center and trails system. Volunteer work, donations, facilities rentals and grants make up the rest.

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