As Christmas approaches, some children will find more gifts under their trees thanks to KSAM’s annual Make A Smile Happen (M*A*S*H*) event, which works with local community volunteers (i.e., the LEAP Ambassadors) to collect toys, food, pet supplies, and necessities for families in need.
For the sixth year, LEAP students assisted with the event, covering 21 hours of shifts, participating in “sign and wave…”
…help with unloading vehicles…
…and organizing, sorting, and counting items donated…
…doing some radio interviews…
…while also having fun with social media to help advertise the event.
Over the course of a cold and rainy day, this led to a lot of fun, spurred on by a lot of generosity by sponsors and local residents. Indeed, the community’s generosity kept LEAP students busy and resulted in full tents!
Over the course of the two days KSAM’s event generated 1,628 food items, 1,057 toys (including what was probably a record number of bikes!), 300 pounds of pet food, and $6,149 in cash.
These items were distributed to local non-profits and government agencies, including Santa’s Helpers, Boys & Girls Club of Walker County, CASA of Walker County, HISD, Good Shepherd Mission, Rita B. Huff Animal Adoption Center, and the SAAFE House.
Thanks to KSAM for spearheading this event for the 19th year and for asking the LEAP students to assist with a worthy cause.
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 