My name is Barry Smith; I am a Scouter and also Lt. Governor for Zone 10 of the Pacific Southwest District of Optimist International. Our motto is "Friend of Youth". The Optimist Club of West Hills, one of our clubs, has asked me if I knew of someone who may be able to give them help.
They have been holding a party called "Spirit Rise" every 2nd Friday for twenty years at the Haven Hills Short Term Shelter, a refuge for battered spouses. "Joey Magic", the Rainbow Wizard, entertains the residents with magic tricks and Optimists serve punch and cake. Each child is given a toy. As the families are there for only one month, the children usually receive only one toy. Their toys cost $5 to $10, but they can give away up to 20 or more toys per month. Their club had been relying on corporate generosity for these toys, but these sources have disappeared in this slow economy. They are looking for help in getting new, non-violent toys and games for ages 6 months to 16 years.
This is a good service activity for individuals or units. My Pack did this, and even though the kids could not directly visit the kids, they did understand they were helping children who were unable to stay in their homes.
Those interested in helping can directly contact the West Hills Optimists, Kathy Willets (818) 970-7200 or Ed Young (818) 704-1505
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