Social Outreach
Organizations Supported
Since 1937 when the Service League was founded, volunteer members have supported worthwhile community projects. During the beginning decades, it funded milk for underprivileged children, sent Bundles to Britain during WWII and helped polio patients in the 1944 Miracle of Hickory. Today, members embrace service by helping those in need and by giving to others. The heart of the organization is:
Philanthropy • Service • Education
The Service League is committed to supporting worthwhile Hickory human service endeavors. Over $40,000 raised during the 2010 Kitchens & More Tour was given to the following Catawba County non-profits providing these community services:
Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) - Deb Johnson, Director
Compassionate medical exams will be given to children who are victims of sexual abuse as well as support for their non-offending family members. The child-friendly nature of the CAC provides a more comfortable and safe environment reducing additional trauma.
Exodus Homes’ Young Men of Integrity Program - Chris Johnson, Director
Lunch buddy programs (for male/female students) will be enhanced and expanded in all Catawba County schools through giving mentors additional training and creating student incentives. Statistics show mentors can make a big difference in boosting a child’s self-esteem---subsequently affecting student dropout rates.
Family Care Center - Camille Gruman, Executive Director
• Children will be given a one week summer camp program where they will receive nurturing and positive experiences, expand their horizons and infuse some laughter into their lives. At the same time, parent/s receive a brief break from 24/7 child caring responsibilities.
• Tangible supplies (i.e. mattresses, linens, laundry detergent, pots and pans, diapers, toiletries, etc.) will be purchased for families living in a transitional residential apartment. This gives them an opportunity to save money for rent down payment and utility deposits so can move into permanent housing.
Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina Backpack Program - Steve Renner, Catawba Branch Coordinator
Food will be purchased for qualified school children who receive a backpack filled with nutritional and healthy weekend meals each Friday. Service League members deliver and pickup these backpacks weekly to/from local elementary schools.
