Many PTAs are wondering what type of
programs they can participate in this year that will fulfill the 3 to 1
guidelines for the program-to-fundraiser ratio that State PTA suggests.
We have the program for you! This program does not require you to
amend your budget, does not require a lot of time and is a program that
helps many children. This is the Title 1 Project benefiting schools in
our district that are low income schools. This year there are 36
elementary, 8 middle and 2 high schools listed as Title 1 schools. The
steps in doing this project are simple:
- Adopt a school or schools. (You can
choose more than one and spread the community service.)
- Discuss with the adopted school what
their needs are and select dates for the donation drive. You can do
more than one type of drive throughout the year if you choose.
- Send home flyers explaining the
project. Be sure to include the type of items requested, due date, and
any other pertinent information. We can provide you sample letters.
- Have a secure place to store the items
until you arrange for transfer between the schools when the drive is
over.
- The receiving school should have
counselors and/or administrators give out the items instead of parents
handing them out. Some families are embarrassed asking for help if they
know that other parents at the school are aware of their situation.
We are hopeful that this program will build
relationships between schools and will continue from year to year.
Some examples of drives could be backpacks, school supplies, warm clothes,
shoes, socks/gloves. No matter what type of donation drive it is, we
know it will help to create a positive learning environment and help to take
care of the children in our schools. Both the children at the
receiving schools and the giving schools will learn the importance of
community and helping those who may be less fortunate. Helping every
child is part of PTA’s mission. This program enables us to do so.
For additional information or copies of sample letters please contact Donna
Smith, 1st VP, at
drsmith9219@sbcglobal.net
or at 422-0949.
