Each year the National Organization requests each Girl State program across the country include a community or service project. Keystone Girls State is no exception. Over the past several years, service projects have been incorporated into KGS. Project(s) are determined if they are feasible and fit into the schedule. This provides optimal benefits not only to the participants but also the receiver of the mission.

This past year at KGS, two service projects were implemented. These included OMK Hero backpacks and a non-perishable food drive for the homeless. Service projects will be a part of all future sessions of Keystone Girls State.

Operation Military Kids (OMK)

This organization provides many opportunities and benefits to the children of military service members. Hero backpacks were assembled with donated merchandise. Several ALA Units donated items or money to purchase items. These items could include: a Thank You Bear, balls, frisbees, crayons, markers, pens, pencils, notebooks and other items.

      

Non-perishable item drive for The American Legion Housing for Homeless Veterans

The young women upon receiving their Girls State informational packet, were asked if they so chose they were more than welcome to bring a non-perishable item. The items collected would be presented to the speaker from the American Legion Housing for Homeless Veterans Corp.

Before speaking, director, Richard An. Coccimiglio received the collection of items. These were then donated and given to a military family in the Johnstown area who have fallen on hard times in this economy. He has been separated from the service for over a year and half. The items were very much appreciated. This is just a small way for the American Legion Auxiliary and the citizens of Keystone Girls State to say thank you for your service, protecting our freedoms, our country and the world.