Jim Dixson, the owner of Friendly Computers in Spokane, has been a supporter of Children’s Home Society of Washington for almost a decade—ever since meeting former CHSW Director of Development Bob Hutchinson through a networking group.
“Many of us had heard of CHSW, but Bob really gave us a solid understanding of what the organization does and how it benefits us all,” Dixson said.
As an Air Force veteran whose wife, Delphine, teaches life and job skills to special-education students, Dixson has seen first-hand how supporting children can build a stronger community—so the mission of CHSW really resonated with him.
“I served for 30 years, and I saw a lot of places where kids and families are suffering,” he said. “I’ve also seen how my wife’s students, with the right resources and encouragement, get excited about education and their future. Those experiences have moved me to do whatever I can to help.”
Today, Dixson is a monthly donor to Children’s Home Society of Washington, and he helps spread the word about the organization around Spokane. Friendly Computers has two locations in the area, and often customers who visit will see posters and other CHSW materials displayed.
“When people come in, I love to talk about CHSW,” he said. “Some of them have lived in Washington all their lives, but they don’t know about the organization and the impact it has in Spokane and across the state.”
It’s fitting that Dixson’s business plays a part in his support, because his description of the approach behind Friendly Computers could just as easily describe the ideals of CHSW: “We might not be small towns anymore, but we can still be small communities. We can build relationships and care about each other. That’s what we all should be doing.”
And while he downplays his own role, donors like Dixson are the foundation of CHSW’s work—in addition to providing vital resources, they help to create a wider base of supporters in the community. Ultimately, that means more children and families benefit.
“There are so many worthy nonprofits competing for resources these days. What I really appreciate about CHSW is that they don’t duplicate efforts; instead, they look for opportunities to partner with other organizations to get the most bang for their buck,” Dixson said.
“Not only do I see the amazing results CHSW achieves, I know my donations will be used in the most efficient, effective way to help the most children. That’s why I’ve been giving to them for so long, and it’s why I’ll keep giving.”
