Tag: Rita B Huff

by Olivia Discon

One of LEAP’s most rewarding acts of volunteerism is the annual donation drive hosted by Huntsville’s local radio station, KSAM. Named after the iconic 1980’s television show, M*A*S*H* allows the Huntsville community to Make A Smile Happen!

For this holiday drive, community members are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items, pet food, children’s toys and games, and monetary gifts.

In turn, KSAM distributes these items to key local non-profits and community organizations, including Boys and Girls Club of Walker County, SAAFE House, CASA of Walker County, Huntsville Independent School District, Good Shepard Mission, Santa’s Helpers, and Rita B. Huff Humane Society of Walker County.

This drive occurs on December 4 and December 5 (and if you’re reading this December 5, 2024–yes, you can donate today!) KSAM gathers the donations amidst a live radio broadcast in the HEB parking lot (look for the military–M*A*S*H*-themed–tents).

LEAP students always enjoy participating in this event, and this year was no exception! Despite the cold weather and rainfall, the students were invigorated with the spirit of giving this year, with many of us soliciting donations by holding out signs for the passersby–despite the less-than-ideal weather.

And although it took some of us longer to get into the spirit…

…I was warmed (metaphorically) by this particular group’s enthusiasm. From Niya and Timi’s inventive cheers, Cinthia’s sign spinning skills, Michelle serving as LEAP’s cheerleader, to the sheer number of honks Victoria and Yajaira were able to elicit from passing truckers, the vivacity of the students on a gloomy day was inspiring and encouraging.

We also assisted the generous people who made donations throughout the day by collecting items from their cars…

…and sorting them into designated piles.

We were happy to see some friendly and familiar faces such as Dr. Bill Hyman…

…Shannon Hollis, Eric Fugate, and Mac and Leanne Woodward.

Their generosity goes without saying, but each of their continued contributions to M*A*S*H* extend to their investment to support the Huntsville community.

Cinthia, who has been ever-improving in her radio-communication skills, took a go at a live interview with KSAM’s Glenn Edwards. She did a tell-all discussion on her studies, volunteerism, and Christmas.

While we can’t yet speak to the final contributions, we ended day one having collected 599 toys, 230 food items, and more than 100 pounds of pet food.

We are optimistic that the Huntsville community will come through with even more contributions on the second day of the event.

In all, making smiles happen for a day was an especially rewarding experience. We greatly appreciate all of the volunteers who came out and to KSAM for organizing an all-encompassing and thoroughly enjoyable community event.