My Nonprofit Reviews

The Assistance League of Norman is changing the lives of students through Operation School Bell. Operation School Bell served 1,700 students in Norman Public Schools last year ! As Director of Guidance and Counseling for Norman Public Schools, I have the great privilege to see and hear of the student benefits through participation in this program. Each of the 1,700 students received several new clothing items such a winter coat, jeans, slacks, dresses, sweaters, sweatshirts, t-shirts, underwear, socks, personal hygiene items and a book of their choice. For each age level of students, the clothes are great, new "with-it" styles and appropriate for their ages. As the students would say,
" Super awesome !". In addition to the clothing, students receive a voucher to go to a local shoe store and select a new pair of shoes that fits !

These amazing volunteers provide a personal shopping experience for each student. A volunteer personally shops with each student and lets them select colors and styles that they like. The students try the clothes on to ensure the right fit. Some of our special needs students with physical challenges need modifications to their clothing. Assistance League members always do alterations to ensure each child has the perfect fit. This is the first experience for some students to go to a store-like setting and select brand new clothes. It is not uncommon to see tears of joy from students and sometimes the volunteers. This is a heart-felt mission for the Assistance League.

The Assistance League members lead busy lives yet they find the volunteer time to fund raise, shop, stock and be personal shoppers to students. These purposeful actions sends the message that you are important, we care and we want you to be successful. It is the hope that someday that these students will find it in their heart to volunteer and make their future communities a better place. As adults, we need to model meaningful ways to enrich the lives of others and the Assistance League of Norman is an outstanding example.

Operation School Bell is already in second month of serving students. Hundreds of students have already been to School Bell for the 2013-2014 school year. Once again the goal is 1,700 students being served. From Norman Public Schools, thank you just doesn't convey how much you are appreciated and valued. I have to state again, " Assistance League of Norman is changing the lives of students".

Sharon Heatly
Director of Guidance and Counseling
Norman Public Schools
Norman, Oklahoma

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