NATCHEZ &8212; Through fundraising efforts Leadership Natchez exceeded expectations and helped to brighten the future of the Sunshine Shelter children.

Leadership Natchez, a group of volunteer community leaders, raised $10,088.49 for the Sunshine Shelter this year through various fundraising events. The money, received by the shelter at this years Leadership Natchez graduation was well received.

&8220;Seven people raising that amount of money is just phenomenal,&8221; Sunshine Shelter Director Matilda Stephens said. &8220;It&8217;s the largest fundraising effort that has gone into the shelter since its existence.&8221;

Each year Leadership Natchez chooses an organization that they feel is most in need and raises money for them, Director of membership for the Natchez Chamber of Commerce, Shannon Gatlin said.

&8220;This year we chose the sunshine shelter, set a goal of $10,000 and reached it,&8221; she said. &8220;Its amazing what a few people can do when they work together. Our leadership Natchez group was a great success.&8221;

The money raised will be used to support services for the children that aren&8217;t normally offered, Stephens said. The children do not receive special need funding, causing needs such as eyeglasses and hearing aids for the children to be a luxury not included in the allotted money.

&8220;We just want to give these children a normal life,&8221; Stephens said. &8220;This is the most special donation I&8217;ve gotten in all my years.&8221;