Each year, employees from Lutheran Social Services adopt families of the Joint Neighborhood Project by making a donation to help purchase gifts.
This year, students from the GA Learning Center held a unique fundraiser, called Pennies for Points, which raised money for the children of JNP to buy presents for their parents. Together they presented Patty Perlee, JNP executive director, with the proceeds from the two fundraisers.
"We wanted to be part of the LSS initiative and get the youth involved," said Molly Williams, GA Learning Center school psychologist. "Over a five day period the students earned points for positive behavior. Staff members donated a penny for each point earned, which came to over 34,092 points and a donation of $340.92."
In appreciation of their hard work, Tara Swan, GALC school counselor, and staff members treated the youth to a movie and lunch.
"Part of our program is to help our youth realize how important it is to give back to the community," Ms Williams said. "These are some of the most valuable lessons they learn while at GA."
The Gustavus Adolphus Learning Center serves more than 90 youth in Chautauqua County. They are enrolled as day students who travel from area schools or live on campus in residential housing. The Lutheran Home and Rehabilitation Center offers skilled nursing, short term rehabilitation, assisted living, an adult day healthcare program and both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation. For more information, contact Lutheran Social Services' public relations department at 720-9122.
