Preparations are underway for the Assistance League National Conference in September, a much-anticipated event that unites members from across the country in San Francisco for four days of networking, education and sharing information. Appropriately themed Building bridges to a brighter tomorrow…one program at a time, this year’s conference takes place near the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, a symbolic image for the work accomplished by Assistance League chapters on a daily basis.
Improving the quality of life for children and adults for over 80 years, Assistance League has a respected reputation as a bridge builder—an organization that seeks and promotes relationships with individuals, businesses and public and private organizations that share a common interest in helping others.
Nowhere is this more evident than with Assistance League’s signature program, Operation School Bell®. Our member volunteers have been helping children succeed in school for twenty years by providing new school clothing; health assistance; supplemental meals; literacy; and, cultural and higher educational enrichment.
To accomplish these goals, many chapters work with retail giants like Target, Kohl’s, Fred Meyers and others, to maximize their spending dollars. Some chapters hold in-store events that allow students to shop for clothing without feeling the stigma of being in need. Also, dental and other professionals offer their time and expertise at reduced or no cost to help children.
While most collaborations happen behind the scenes, there are high profile cases that elevate Assistance League to an enviable stature within local communities. In Phoenix, AZ, an Operation School Bell Delivering Dreams Bus was funded by and co-branded with the Arizona Diamondbacks baseball team, thrilling children who step aboard to try on new clothing and shoes.
In Albuquerque, NM, the local CBS TV station KRQE, impressed by Assistance League’s work locally, sought out a partnership with the chapter and Payless Shoe Source to provide new shoes to every student in selected Title I Elementary Schools. The Shoe Drive has benefited countless children and garnered outstanding media attention.
In Huntington Beach, CA, the chapter’s committed membership in the local Chambers of Commerce has opened doors to valuable sponsorships and advisory council members, increased chapter visibility and public awareness, and has provided other benefits that come from being a member of the greater community.
Other chapters have built bridges to literacy by partnering with Barnes and Noble for in-store book drives and/or through corporate donations. Chapters also connect with local school districts and social service agencies to facilitate Assistance League programs that benefit students and families.
Every chapter works under the Assistance League umbrella to bridge the great divide that exists between people in need and members who are positioned to help. Building Bridges to a Better Tomorrow…One Program at a Time, is a promise and a reality.
