Recent benefits in Oklahoma included a John Deere-themed toy and helped a family that recently experienced tragedy.

According to the Pryor Daily Times, three events helped raise more than $40,000 for the Monks. The family now consists of three boys, who lost their mother recently and their father two years ago.

The first auction held for the boys helped compile $8,200. Tena Pritchett helped organize the fundraiser, and noted that a John Deere teeter-totter was one of the popular items people bid on.

"We did really well. I'd like to thank everyone," Pritchett said. "There were so many people who didn't even know the family."

The Monk family is now headed by 19-year-old Leroy, who will use the money to help care for his brothers, Dustin, 13, and Brandon, 9. Some of the funds will help finish an addition on their home and other improvements.

Other benefits have featured John Deere equipment as a way to drum up interest from donors. A woman's shelter in Texas recently featured a John Deere Gator utility vehicle as part of its fundraising program.