Union Pacific Foundation visited Enid to present grants to two local organizations. Brandon Morris, director of public affairs for the foundation, presented $20,000 to Railroad Museum of Oklahoma to renovate a second building to house more artifacts. Stephen Case, museum president, said the money will help weatherproof the 70-year-old structure west of the main museum building. “We are running out of space, and we have the second building out back,” he said. “We’ve started painting, and we are getting ready to seal the roof.”
After fixing the leaky roof, they will insulate the ceiling with sprayed foam to better regulate the temperature inside, Case said. “This allows us a lot of space to utilize over a million artifacts,” he said. Morris said he always enjoys coming to Enid. “I’ve gone to a lot of railroad museums and this one is by far one of the most unique,” he said. “I’m familiar with the project and I knew they were going to preserve history, not just railroad history, but the history of Enid as well, and Oklahoma.”
Morris also presented $15,000 to 4RKids, a local organization that provides employment and services to adults and children with special needs. Tricia Mitchell, 4RKids executive director, said the grant will go toward the organization’s regular programs like making dog biscuits and greeting cards. “Union Pacific has always been so good to us,” she said. “In the past, they have always supported Miracle League. This is the first time I’ve asked for funds for the programs.” Miracle League is a national organization that provides opportunities for children and adults with special needs to play baseball and T-ball.
Story by: Enid News & Eagle