Operation School Bell, Common Threads Champions “Right to Achieve”

Prior to the October 11 regular monthly meeting, Assistance League® Diablo Valley President Arlita Smith introduced Jamie Peters, who has been involved with Assisteens Auxiliary, Operation School Bell®, and more recently, with Common Threads since its inception in 2018.

Established in 1977, Assisteens® Auxiliary is a nonprofit, volunteer organization comprised of 60 teenagers in grades 7 through 12 who are interested in learning the value of volunteering while developing leadership and organizational skills. They, too, play a pivotal role.

Common Threads extended Operation School Bell Clothing support to include vulnerable high school students. Like the elementary and middle school students, high school students have now gained the ability to look like their peers. Not surprisingly, their school attendance has improved. Ms. Peters attributes this success to the ongoing support of the Old Navy Store, Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek. A slide show unfolded a lifechanging story.

School personnel in the Mt. Diablo, Martinez, Pittsburg Unified School Districts, and the Oakley Elementary School District identify students who would benefit from the endeavor. A Common Threads information form specifying gender, color and size/fit ensures recipients’ individual needs. The financial allocation, ranging from $100-$120, encourages shopping for interchangeable outfits consisting of darker colors to offset laundry constraints. Assisteens, serving as personal shoppers, provide support and insight regarding current fashion trends and budgeting. Filled bags are then transported to Assistance League chapter offices for distribution.

Common Threads has benefitted from the generosity of grants, one of which is from the Quest Foundation. This success is attributed to the Assistance League Grant Writing Team. In a mere five years, an increase of 1,200 Contra Costa County’s vulnerable youths have attended school because they “look like their peers.” Now, they have “clothes to feel good in.”

Ms. Peters concluded the Common Threads presentation by introducing Rosie Reid, former Teacher of the Year Award recipient and presently Program Specialist for Mt. Diablo Unified School District HOPE (Homeless Outreach Program). Ms. Reid continued the life-changing story that presently benefits 650 students.

To learn more about all 16 “hands-on” programs of Assistance League Diablo Valley, please visit: assistanceleague.org/diablo-valley.