Paint the Town Pink organizers have been dropping off donations for several days at The Hormel Institute and donations are encouraged through the end of February, organizers say.

“We are so grateful for the generosity of our community and the hard work of our organizers,” said Kathi Finley, director of Paint the Town Pink. “We want everyone to be part of this so if you haven’t personally participated or donated yet, please drop a check in the mail or drop off a donation at The Hormel Institute.

“Every dollar translates into saving lives and battling cancer. Your gift matters and brings us together as a community.”

Paint the Town Pink’s official two-week campaign ended Feb. 12 but last Sunday, “Pinko Bingo,” organized by Greater Mower County (communities of Adams, Dexter and LeRoy), was a huge success, according to organizers.

The sold-out event was held at the Austin Eagles Club. Debbie Retterath, this year’s PTTP ambassador, was one of the organizers.

“It has been amazing ‘pink’ season and we’ve met so many people whose lives have been touched by cancer.  We appreciate that our community is willing to create and support these fun yet very meaningful events,” said Finley. “The funds are very important to the Institute’s scientists and 100 percent of the donations are used for innovative cancer research — research aimed to improve human health and extend lives.”

Donations will continue to be taken through the end of the month and organizers ask those who have not donated yet to help them reach this year’s $300,000 goal.

Clarks Grove is offering “Cropping for the Cure,” a two-day scrapbooking event, this weekend. It will be held from 4 to 10 p.m. today; and from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday at the Clarks Grove First Baptist Church.

PTTP merchandise and items will be sold at Sterling Main Street through the end of the month with the Astrup Family Foundation making a grant as well as donating all proceeds to PTTP in support of The Hormel Institute’s cancer research.

“When you look around our communities, and how so many businesses and individuals make a contribution in one way or another, it really is very humbling in how we come together for a common cause — to fight cancer,” said Gail Dennison, Director of Development and Public Relations for The Hormel Institute.

“Our scientists and all of us deeply appreciate your support of the world-class cancer research done right here in rural Minnesota.”