A simple piggy bank has turned into a powerful act of generosity for one local student.

Jenny, a student at the Defiance County Board of Developmental Disabilities' Good Samaritan School, recently raised $1,300 through the Defiance Area Foundation's Piggy Bank Philanthropy initiative and donated the funds back to her school.

Jenny chose Good Samaritan School because of the positive impact it has had on her life.

Her donation will help support programs that strengthen relationships and create meaningful experiences for students and families, including parent lunch, grandparent lunch, Leader's Farm and other community-building activities.

Piggy Bank Philanthropy encourages children, families and community members to save their spare change and donate it to causes they care about. Participants then share their giving stories with the Defiance Area Foundation to inspire others throughout the community.

"Jenny's story perfectly captures the purpose of Piggy Bank Philanthropy," said Chelsie Schroeder, marketing director for the Defiance Area Foundation (DAF). "Her generosity demonstrates that anyone, regardless of age, has the ability to make a lasting difference."

Community members interested in participating in Piggy Bank Philanthropy can pick up a complimentary piggy bank at the Defiance Area Foundation office, located at 613 W. Third St. in Defiance, and are encouraged to share their stories with DAF after making their donation.