The CAN DO Student Action Committee, in collaboration with the Freeland American Legion Post 473, has officially launched the 22nd Annual Operation: CAN DO drive.
Taking place throughout October, the campaign brings together local schools, businesses, and community members to assemble holiday care packages for military service members from the Greater Hazleton Area who are serving away from home this holiday season.
The initiative gives the community an opportunity to show its appreciation and support for local service members, reminding them that they are thought of during the holiday season. Donations of goods and monetary contributions will be accepted through October 31st, with local schools and businesses playing an important role in collecting items for the care packages.
“Our community has shown time and again what can happen when people come together to support one another,” said Pat Ward, CAN DO’s Community Relations Committee Chair and Student Action Committee Co-Advisor. “This initiative gives our students a chance to make a difference while showing their appreciation for the men and women who have dedicated themselves to serving our country.”
Student Action Committee Co-Chairs Amanda Stoffa, a senior from MMI Preparatory, and Alvin Miller, a junior from Hazleton Area Academy of Sciences, are leading this year’s campaign. Together, they are working closely with local schools, industries, and organizations together to encourage community involvement and support local service members through this year’s drive.
“I have always found the purpose of Operation: CAN DO inspiring. The fact that I, alongside so many others, can give back to my community in a purposeful way as a student is a truly irreplaceable reward.” said Stoffa.
Miller added, “It is a privilege to be chosen as the Co-Chair of this chapter of Operation: CAN DO and to give back to the community that has done so much for us. I am honored to use my talents as a way to give back.”
Community members are encouraged to support the drive by donating nonperishable snacks, toiletries, games, and other personal items placed in collection boxes located throughout the community. Monetary donations are also welcome to help cover postage and shipping costs; checks can be made payable to CAN DO, Inc. c/o Operation: CAN DO and mailed to 1 South Church Street, Suite 200, Hazleton, PA 18201.
CAN DO is also seeking names and contact information of active-duty service members from the Greater Hazleton Area to include in this year’s mailing. Community members who have a loved one currently serving, or who would like to contribute to the drive, are encouraged to contact Ana Perez at aperez@hazletoncando.com or 570-599-2674.
About CAN DO
CAN DO, Inc. is Greater Hazleton’s certified economic development organization, working to improve the quality of life in the Greater Hazleton Area through the creation and retention of employment opportunities. Since 1956, CAN DO has advanced economic growth through real estate development and the management of four business and industrial parks while providing business financing, entrepreneurial support, workforce development initiatives, and other resources that promote economic activity throughout the region.
For more information, visit hazletoncando.com.
