It takes a community to make a difference in the life of young people. That community effort was on full display April 22 as a team of volunteers from Lippert gathered at the Elkhart County Fairgrounds to package supplies for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County.

They packed 500 boxes with more than 15,000 art and personal hygiene items as part of National Volunteer Week. The boxes included things like construction paper, markers, crayons and chalk – and some fun items, like decks of cards and bubbles. There were also items like toothpaste, body wash and deodorant.

The Clubs have been using the arts and crafts products to create individual member supply boxes. This has helped keep our members safer during the pandemic, while still providing engaging activities with art and self-expression. They’re also used in our STEM programming.

The personal hygiene products are used by our teen programs like the Passport 2 Manhood. Each session talks about a specific topic related to becoming a productive, caring and responsible adult – and one area deals with personal hygiene. These items can be shared with members who might not otherwise be able to afford them, improving self-esteem.

“As a company, we feel it’s important to help our team members find ways to serve in the community. This is a fun way to team build and help the community at the same time,” said Michilah Grimes, Lippert’s director of corporate and community impact.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County extends a big “Thank You” to the volunteers at Lippert. We’re so grateful for your effort!