CHESHIRE, Mass. — The Leo Club at Hoosac Valley collected donations and ran a penny drive for the Louison House.

 

"A Leo member suggested the Louison House as an option and everyone jumped on board immediately," school counselor and Leo Club adviser Megan Sookey said. "She along with other members have donated to the Louison House in the past and thought that this would be a great way to reach out to our community during these tumultuous times."

 

Sookey said the Leo Club each year makes a monetary donation to a community program. This is the first year in some time that the club donated items.

 

They also raised $100.

 

"This opportunity to give back was fulfilling for our members, the student body as well as our staff who were able to donate," Sookey said.

 

There are about 10 members involved in the program.

 

Leo members collected shampoo, body wash, toothpaste, floss, hair brushes, tissues, and other like items.

 

"It is important because we are all in this together," Sookey said. "Now more than ever people need to feel and see the sense of community that we have in the Berkshires."

 

She said the project fits right in line with the Leo Club motto: Leadership, Experience, Opportunity.

 

"Being a part of the Leo Club immerses our students in community service as a whole," she said. "It helps shape their experience, build their resume, and to feel a sense of purpose. These skills can then be used in the classroom, on the field, and in the future whether it's in the workforce, in college, or the military."