(MOBILE, Ala.) - The homeless and the mentally disabled are two groups in our community that can always use a helping hand. With the help of St. Paul's Episcopal School, the kids from Augusta Evans school are reaching out to make the holidays a little brighter for the folks at 15 Place, a local day shelter for the homeless.
Every Thursday afternoon, the 11th and 12th graders from St. Paul's volunteer their time working with kids who need a little extra attention.
"The students from St. Pauls Episcopal School have, for I believe 14 years now, been the troupe leaders for the special needs boy scout and girl scout troupe here at Augusta Evans school," said Lyn Manz-Walters of 15 Place.
This year the scout leaders are putting a special twist on their annual holiday extravaganza.
"Traditionally, the scouts get goodies, they get presents, they get treats," said Manz-Walters. "This year they thought the concept of giving should be extended to their scout troupe."
Working with scissors, paper, glue and glitter, the scouts handcrafted holiday cheer to send to the folks at 15 Place. They also loaded up thousands of dollars of supplies to help with the shelter's everyday needs.
"I got a generous donation from the Treadwell Foundation," said Leslie Lerner, who oversees the scouting program. "It allowed me to go out and buy $3,000 of personal hygiene items for 15 Place."
The scout leaders learn patience. The scouts, generosity and understanding.
"Being homeless is something I can explain to them, and teach them about," Lerner said. "We all see the homeless out throughout our community, and they need an opportunity to help."
It's a valuable experience for everyone involved.
