Like youth-focused groups across the nation, many in Dorchester County, Md. have felt a drop off in donations and volunteers.
On June 16, two local groups took action to send a message of hope to the children they serve and a call for help to parents and other adults.
Patrick “Pac Man” Perez, motivational youth speaker, author and dancer, came to Dorchester County to deliver a message of student success and responsibility using a blend of break dance (b-boying) and music.
The Dorchester Boys & Girls Club and the Dorchester County Health Department, the evening’s sponsors, used the event as a call for help. Representatives from each group asked people to be involved any way they could to help them help young people in Dorchester County.
The groups also asked those in attendance to spread the word of their need.
The Banner’s News Editor Logan B. Anderson was there to cover the event to help with that effort.
On the following week, “Dorchester County’s youth needs you” ran on the front of Banner Friday, June 24.
That morning Mike Geleta, president of the Dorchester Boys & Girls Club, sent The Banner’s editor a message of thanks for the coverage and some news that someone had heeded the call.
“I just got off the phone with Ray Simmons, Esq. He saw the article about the club in today’s paper. He was impressed with our mission,” Mr. Geleta said. “He is the executor of an estate that left money to be distributed to worthy local charities. He will be presenting the club with a check for $5,000.”
“Much thanks for the great job reporting on the event and the needs of the boys & girls club ... You have made a difference,” he added.
On Monday, June 27, the Dorchester County Health Department also thanked The Banner for its coverage of its joint event.
“Thank you for taking the time to come to our Youth Event and putting an article in Friday’s paper!!! We really appreciate your work and support for the Partnership. Again, we cannot thank you enough,” said Angela Mercier, AODA prevention media specialist for the Dorchester County Health Department.
Photos and a short video from the event can be seen on The Banner’s Facebook page and YouTube Channel at, www.facebook.com/TheBannerNews or www.YouTube.com/TheBannerNews
