For more information on USO of Georgia, visit www.usogeorgia.org
Many kids worked hard going door-to-door collecting treats this Halloween, and some gave up their collected loot to cushion their piggy bank and help a good cause.
On Nov. 4, children came to Children’s Dental Zone in Alpharetta to participate in the Halloween Candy Buy Back event. The children received a dollar for every pound of candy brought in, and the candy would then benefit those serving in the military.
In its fifth year, the event came through inspiration to turn a candy-filled holiday and give back to a good cause, all while promoting good dental hygiene. “I first heard of an event like this through Operation Gratitude about five years ago, and thought it was such a great opportunity to give back,” said Dr. Danny King. “For kids, it’s a small sacrifice to take their candy and give to those who are making such a great sacrifice for our country.”
The dentist’s office has donated the candy to Operation Gratitude and this year, they extended the same giving to the Georgia chapter of the United Service Organizations. The USO is a nonprofit organization that supports local and overseas troops. Volunteers host “welcome home” events, send care packages, collect essential items and more for those who serve.
The pediatric dental office collected 800 pounds of candy, “which will be used at events that we host for the troops and their families and in our care packages,” said Mary Lou Austin, president and CEO of USO of Georgia. “It is wonderful to see the community groups and businesses supporting the troops through USO.”
The kids also signed Thank You cards which will be placed in the care packages going to deployed troops.
As a mom of three, Sue Vang appreciated the event as it helps towards not only reducing candy intake at Halloween, but allowing her kids to participate in an appreciative gesture to give back.
“It’s a small way to make a difference for someone, and it goes a long way,” Vang said. Her kids brought the most candy for the buy back, coming in at 11 pounds.
Since Children’s Dental Zone started the Halloween Candy Buy Back event, it has collected and donated over 4,000 pounds of candy to organizations benefitting the military.
In other news: The Metro Atlanta Automobile Dealers Association presented a check for $85,536 to The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Atlanta. The money was raised at the 2013 MAADA Annual Charity Golf Tournament held on Sept. 25 at TPC Sugarloaf. The money will benefit TSA B&G Clubs of Metro Atlanta's programs dedicated to promoting the health, physical, social, educational, vocational, spiritual and character development of at-risk/low-income youth.
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