Outdoor privies are reappearing in Iola, except this time they are front and center.
Two colorfully painted toilet stools are being used by The Family Physicians Relay for Life team to raise money for the American Cancer Society.
“We’re working to flush cancer away,” team members said.
In fact, the garish toilets are being used to embarrass homeowners into giving.
After being placed on an Iolan’s lawn, the appliances are removed for a $10 donation to the Relay for Life team. For $15, the donor may designate where the toilet should be taken next. For a $20 gift, donors are insured from having the toilets reappear on their front lawns.
Most opt for the insurance.
Patty Haen, office manager of The Family Physicians, said the team has raised about $700 since July 1. The fundraising effort will continue until the annual Relay for Life event is staged on the courthouse square the night of July 23.
Team members seized on the unusual fundraising strategy after Haen recalled it being done in Garnett several years ago by high school groups to encourage donations to the American Red Cross.
“I was out at my brother-in-law’s — Iola plumbing contractor Paul Sinclair — and noticed several old toilets sitting around,” Haen said, and the fundraiser grew legs.
She and Leah Cummings, who picked up a toilet in south Iola Monday afternoon, noted homeowners had been good-natured in their responses. A few, she added, noticed a toilet being placed and came up with a donation even before the explanatory sign could be attached.
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