JOHNSTOWN - Throughout the months of November and December 2009, the Johnstown area Taco Bell Restaurants (KVF Associates) sponsored the "Be An Angel" campaign to benefit The Second Mile, a local nonprofit organization that provides help and hope to Pennsylvania's children.
Throughout the fundraiser, participating Taco Bell restaurants raised over $20,000 by selling paper angel icons for $1 or more and collecting change contributed by customers. The angels were displayed in the stores with the donor's name. All the money raised will support the life-changing programs provided by The Second Mile.
KVF Associates would like to thank the community for their support of this program over the past six years. Because of community support, 83 children have had the opportunity to participate in The Second Mile Challenge Program.
The Second Mile Challenge Program begins with a residential week of camp for boys and girls, ages 8-13. The camp experience extends beyond fun and games, as the kids learn how to work within a team to accomplish tasks; they work on a community service project, and realize that by helping others, they can help oneself; and most importantly they learn how to set and achieve smart goals for the year ahead. Adventure-based camps and leadership programs are also offered for adolescents, ages 14-16. When camp ends, Second Mile staff and volunteers continue working with the participants to ensure they achieve their goals through a calendar that features year-round support and follow-up activities.
"The 'Be An Angel' Fundraiser provides us with an opportunity to not only help raise money to support The Second Mile, but also gives the organization the additional awareness it needs," said Fran Villella, president of KVF Associates. "With local community support, we hope to make a difference by helping local children with their challenging circumstances."
Founded in 1982 by former Penn State Defensive Coordinator, Jerry Sandusky, The Second Mile provides its nine prevention, early intervention, and community-based programs and services free of charge to more than 100,000 Pennsylvania children annually. As is true of all its programs, funding for The Second Mile Challenge Program is made possible through the generosity of individuals, businesses and corporations, community organizations, and foundations. For more information on investing in children and youth with time, talents or funds, contact The Second Mile at 814-237-1719 or visit www.thesecondmile.org.
