Assistance League had active year

On behalf of the Assistance League of Yuma, I would like to extend a “thank you” to our many community friends and patrons who supported our philanthropic programs throughout the past 12 months.

Because of the wonderful volunteer workers and community supporters, the proceeds from our non-profit Assistance League of Yuma Thrift Shop, in addition to business and private donations, provided funding for our Operation School Bell program.

We are proud to have provided new school clothing, shoes, backpacks, and books for 1,039 children from 44 elementary schools throughout Yuma County. The children also received school supplies and hygiene kits provided by our auxiliary, Las Dedicadas.

In addition to the Operation School Bell and Thrift Shop programs, the Assistance League of Yuma provided 576 ALBY bears to local law enforcement and rescue agencies for their use with trauma victims, primarily children.

This past year, Amberly's Place continued to receive “Assault Survivor Kits” consisting of clothing, hygiene kits, etc. for victims of assault. Water, snacks, games and other items were also provided to Amberly's Place on a regular basis.

Our successful year has given us an opportunity to provide seven students with vocational scholarships to attend Arizona Western College during 2009-2010. Members of Las Dedicadas also provided five summer school scholarships to at-risk high school students.

The Assistance League of Yuma and Las Dedicadas members donate thousands of hours as they carry out the mission of the National Assistance League: “Caring and Commitment in Action.”

From struggling to pick up large donations, washing clothing and cleaning all items, managing and staffing the Thrift Shop and fitting the school children for new clothing, these wonderful women find the time, energy, and genuine commitment to support the philanthropic programs of the Assistance League of Yuma - it is a gift from their hearts to the Yuma community.

Our fall season begins on Tuesday, Sept. 7, when the Assistance League of Yuma Thrift Shop opens for regular hours. Located at 1054 S. Fourth Ave., the hours are Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.. Stop by and visit with us!

BEVERLY STALLMAN

Assistance League