MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY IN VANCOUVER

Outreach Specialist Robin Alley with the Clark County Altrusa International Foundation

Saturday October 22 was Make a Difference Day and the Clark County Altrusa International Foundation chose to support Yellow Brick Road of Washington's mission to “make a difference” in the lives of homeless youth in Vancouver, Washington! Altrusa International is dedicated to improving economic well-being and quality of life through a commitment to community services and literacy. Our local chapter contacted YBR–Washington to get a "wish list" of items needed for the homeless youth we serve throughout the community and at our daytime drop-in center, The Perch. The project was assisted with generous donations from several Vancouver Fred Meyer stores as well as students and instructors at the Vancouver Jazzercise Fitness Center. Last week Altrusa members delivered 30 handmade and individually packed gift bags, each containing Skull Candy earphones, an aluminum water bottle, socks, playing cards, a crossword or sudoku book, a flashlight and a variety of snacks. Staff at The Perch began distributing the bags almost immediately and they have been a big hit among our youth! The supply drive also generated much needed essentials for our drop-in center such as new dishes and cookware. Thank you to Altrusa, Fred Meyer and the Vancouver Jazzercise Fitness Center. You all have truly made a difference in the lives of homeless youth in Vancouver!