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by Marlene Gerber –
The second annual “Be Your Best and Do a Good Turn” collaboration between the San Diego ARC and Girl Scouts of San Diego-Imperial Council resulted in the collection of 30 tons of used clothing to benefit the Army’s Adult Rehabilitation Program.
Thousands of Girl Scouts in San Diego and Imperial County, their parents, troop leaders and staff braved the elements and brought in an unprecedented number of special collection bags that had been distributed earlier throughout the community. A generous public heeded the call, and many individuals also made their own delivery of donations to the designated collection sites.
Nearly 1,000 Girl Scouts also toured the San Diego ARC in a series of forums that tied in with their substance abuse education and recycling programs. They saw how donated goods are recycled and readied for thrift store sales which support the recovery program. The girls also learned first hand about the hardships of substance abuse from residents in the program.
The project was kicked off at a pancake breakfast and open house at the Center. A representative from the Mayor’s office offered words of encouragement and congratulations. The event was widely covered by San Diego television stations.
Sponsorship by San Diego Gas and Electric, an Enova Company, made possible an even bigger project this year. Additional support came from the North County Times and Carl’s Jr. “We are grateful to the sponsors and the hard-working Girl Scouts, their staff and leaders for a terrific community service effort,” said Major Joseph Viola (R) ARC administrator.