DOTHAN, Ala. – Some local teens are stepping up in a big way to give to those in need this holiday season.
Normally the 334 Prevention Project Youth Council would be educating their peers on the dangers of smoking and drugs. For December, they’re going above and beyond.
“As part of the youth council, we are part of the Chic Fil A Leadership Academy,” Council President Cat Howell said. “And through that we are doing a service called “Do Good December.”
“Do Good December” is a service project that divides the council up into three groups: a “Do” group; a “Drive” group; and a “Deliver” group.
Some will be spending time with children who may not have anyone else during the holidays..
“Part of our members are going to be going to the Wiregrass Children’s Home and baking Christmas cookies, taking hot chocolate, and just kind of loving on those children,” Howell said.
That’s not all they’re doing.
“We are also going to be caroling,” council member Anthony Martin said. “I’m going to play for the kids and just have a good time with them and sing with them.”
The “Drive” group is hosting a hygiene drive for the Chrysalis Home for Girls. The home is a non-profit group home for girls who need protection from mis-treatment or abuse.
“We will be collecting towels, feminine products, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes,” Council Vice President Ashley Morsey said.
The final group, or Deliver, is providing or replacing games at the Wiregrass Children’s Home.
“Along with that, me and my team are going to donate games and have a game night with the kids and just be there for them,” member Aiyana Martin said.
While the council is learning leadership skills, they’re also learning service.
Howell says this time of year anything to help those children in need goes a long way.
“Most of these kids that we’re going to be giving them to aren’t going to get that many things for Christmas, so even if it is just hygiene products, and not necessarily toys, or something that they can play with, I think it will benefit them in the long run that they got something and they’re not just going home empty-handed,” Howell said.
The council is in need of the following items for their drive: toothbrushes, toothpaste, socks, towels, washclothes, nail polish, lip gloss, women’s pajamas and slippers.
You can drop these items off at 334 Prevention Project located at 3245 Montgomery Highway Suite 8 or the Chic Fil A located on Ross Clark Circle. The deadline to drop off those items will be December 10th and 11th.
