With the Spring 2020 semester coming to an end, US kids are looking forward to summer vacation. For Parent Teacher Organizations it’s time for elections and planning for the next school year. But, just because school’s out for summer doesn’t mean your parent teacher group can rest on its laurels. Consider what you can give back, especially this year. Coronavirus has radically changed our daily lives. For many people it’s a difficult time and they could use your help.
Your school’s students, their families, and the community as a whole need some extra TLC this summer. And your PTO is just the right for the job. Here are a few ways to keep your PTO active this summer while giving back to the community.
#1 Donate PPE to First Responders and Law Enforcement Organizations
One of the best ways your PTO can give back is by helping protect the essential service workers and public servants on the coronavirus front line. Your group can reach out to local organizations for donation instructions.
Be sure to ask for what type of PPE they need most and if they have preferred vendors.
#2 Give Back with Summertime Supplementary Meals
One of the greatest effects of the coronavirus situation is the surge in unemployment. Putting many at-risk students and households in a position where daily meals are not guaranteed. Your PTO can supplement your school’s free/reduced cost lunch program by offering a similar service once the school semester ends.
Make sure to follow proper food service and social distancing guidelines to keep volunteers and recipients healthy and safe.
#3 Blood Drive
It comes as no surprise that your local blood bank needs donations. Donor blood is especially important during a health crisis. Your local blood donation organization will be well trained on the proper health precautions.
To give back to your community, contact you local blood bank or Red Cross Blood for the specifics on hosting a blood drive.
#4 Cash Donations for At-Risk Homes
Supplementary meals are a great start, but PB&Js won’t pay the rent. Paychecks buy daily life staples beyond food. Your PTO can give back. Your help can make the difference when bills come in and rent’s due.
Consider a program to donate money directly to qualifying, at-risk student households with parents/guardians that have lost employment due to coronavirus.
#5 Give Back with a Food Drive
If you lack the volunteers or facilities to run your own supplementary meal program donating to your local food bank is a great alternative.
Cash donations to your local food bank are best. Food banks partner with food producers to purchase items below retail price. Your money simply goes further. Buying more meals without the chance donations expire on the shelf unused.
#6 Craft Donations
Is your parent teacher group chock full of crafters? Give back by putting your volunteers to task making donations. Coronavirus donations can range from face masks to homemade thank you cards for healthcare workers.
Reach out to your local organizations for the kinds of donations your crafters can contribute.
#7 Give Back with Community Beautification & Upgrades
Looking for a summer community project that allows for appropriate distancing between volunteers while still allowing you to get outside? A beautification project may just fit the bill.
Beautification and upgrade projects can include painting, landscaping, repaving drives, and upgrading playground equipment.
It’s important to give back to your community, no matter the project you choose. Also important is making sure your PTO charity event is insured.
Unsure if your charitable PTO event is covered by general liability insurance? Do you need single event insurance? Learn more about AIM’s coverage options here. Or, contact an AIM representative with your questions.
So, protect your parent teacher group and get out there to give back this summer!
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