(Quad Cities, IA) - Pencils and pens and notebooks - oh my!
Jaycees of the Quad Cities volunteers recently assembled back packs filled with school supplies to assist low-income children with starting the school year on the right foot. The volunteers consisted of a dozen members of Jaycees, a young professional service group with a self-proclaimed volunteering problem.
"Our members believe that service to humanity is the best work of life," said Christine Bruce, Vice President of Community Development and the project lead.
With the help of a dozen volunteers, 336 backpacks will be distributed this week and next to children in need at elementary schools in Davenport, Iowa; East Moline, Illinois; and Moline, Illinois.
Jaycees of the Quad Cities invested nearly $5,000 in the project and annually fundraises for this project and others through the upcoming Brew Ha Ha (September 19) and the Bridal Expo (January 30). All projects are completed 100% by volunteer efforts.
This is the 5th year for Back-to-School, a program of the Jaycees of the Quad Cities, which provides free school supplies and back packs to youth in need. Without the Jaycees assistance, many of these kids would go back to school unprepared. Teachers identify students with the most need and deliver their backpacks filled with supplies at unpack your backpack night.
"This is an excellent way to give back to our community," said Jennifer Kincaid, President, Jaycees of the Quad Cities. "There's no reason that a kid should feel like they aren't prepared on day one just because they may not have the financial means to get all they need."
The Jaycees of the Quad Cities supports this and other projects aimed at giving youth a head start on being successful in school and in life. Individuals and groups interested in volunteering with Jaycees of the Quad Cities should contact info@jayceesqc.org or call (563) 484-0041.
About Jaycees of the Quad Cities: Jaycees aim to build personal and professional relationships by work together on projects to strengthen and grow the Quad-Cities community. The Quad Cities Chapter is one of the oldest chapters in the state of Iowa and has grown to include young professionals from both sides of the Mississippi River. They pride themselves on blending social opportunities with service - like planning the annual Bridal Expo and the Brew Ha Ha that raise funds for charitable initiatives.
