Laura Gehrs, Lori von Behren, Brandy Lozosky, Michelle Tjelmeland Springfield Scene Magazine Tenth Anniversary Issue/Nov/Dec 2014 were only able to afford it,” she says. “A kind of how I do everything. I go all typical implant costs around $150,000. out and give it my very best shot.” Even families with good incomes struggle to pay.” Since its inception in 2005, Michelle estimates that the foundation has assisted She said she rolled over in bed one around 800 individuals, with the average morning and said to Joel, “I’m going to gift now exceeding $10,000. Funding start a foundation today.” is acquired in several ways, primarily through highly successful fundraisers “He said, ‘You’re nuts! You don’t just such as the “Stache Dash,” a kid-friendly, start a foundation!’” She laughs. “That’s 5K and 10K race held in September that bills itself as “the hairiest race around.” Another is the aforementioned “Socks for Sounds.” This year’s goal is 1,000 stockings. Two designs are featured each year and are closely guarded secrets until they go on sale in November. Another initiative is their “Trash to Treasure” program which is the only cochlear bank in the country. The program accepts donations of used, good condition implants, largely from those who have either upgraded their implants or families of deceased implant recipients. District 23 Mercantile and Foundry opened in April 2013. “Socks for Sounds” workers are upstairs, with the gift shop downstairs. The store is only open on the first and third Fridays and Saturdays of each month, from 10 am to 3 pm. Most mornings, a line forms before the doors open. “We have a very loyal customer base,” says Michelle. “We try to turn over the store every 4 to 6 weeks. It looks completely different each time it opens.” Rooms fairly pop with colorful fashion accessories and Photo by medel.com 16