My friend Ed once told me that if every American gave just a couple of hours a week of their time that our country's need for government run social services would drastically diminish. We were discussing a sociology class he was taking at the time and that thought has stuck with me. I don't know how true it is, but its an interesting perspective.
Well, for the last couple of years I have chaired a school supply drive through our builders association. We have helped 150-200 kids each year get the supplies they need to start school. We have focused on the families that didnt qualify for help from the county but needed an extra hand to get ready for school. Due to budgetary issues our school supply drive has been tabled. The sad thing is if we had a few extra hands, this wouldn't have to happen. But because our drive is so staff intensive and the funds aren't there to support the staff assistance, we have no choice but to cancel this year's drive. Between the lack of volunteer help and the need for local coordination to prevent double dipping, its just impossible for us to continue. It just breaks my heart that these kids may not get help this year because we arent able to lend a hand. The really sad thing is that if we had another 2 or 3 people we would each only have to work a couple of hours a week to make the drive happen without support from staff.
Maybe Ed wasn't too far off...
2 comments:
Oh man Melissa, that is just terrible :-( If I lived closer I would so help out! Hang in there, big hugs!
Oh, I'm so sorry. I helped deliver backpacks and school supplies to troubled families in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan so I understand the importance. I agree with Kara - If I were closer, I'd try to help. But hey, I've got tons of new snow from overnight. Want to help shovel?? Just hoping it'd get you to smile!
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