UCB volunteers enrich more than our public flower beds!
They say, “If you want something done, ask a busy person,” and it seems to be true that the more people volunteer and give back to their communities, the more they do.

About three years ago, several of UCB’s active garden volunteers branched out to helping out school children in East St. Louis by taking part in a project begun over twenty years ago by Jeri Devereaux. About a dozen of them now provide school supplies, as well as such basics as underwear, shoes, and uniforms, to children who attend several public schools.

Sr. Julia, who works at community centers close to the public housing where the children live, draws up a list of children and their particular needs. Each UCB volunteer provides what one or two children have requested and the supplies are distributed prior to the beginning school. Volunteer Susan White says, “It's great fun, it lets us see another side of life than we're unaccustomed to, and makes us appreciate what riches we enjoy every day.” If you would like to get involved in this project, contact Susan at spwhite48@aol.com.