Assistance League of Southern Utah

There are over 5000 school age children living under the poverty level in Washington County, Utah. These children tend to have poor attendance and do not participate when in school. When these students receive new clothes and shoes, they fit in with their peers and feel more confident and prepared to learn. They are more likely to stay in school and break the cycle of poverty in their own families. Many teachers and school administrators tell us that when the students feel better about themselves their attendance improves as well as their grades. Our goal is to help these children and their families break the cycle of poverty in their families.

Community partnerships and involvement

Establish working relationship with Washington County School District and other support organizations. Children are referred to the program by school counselors, clergy or other support groups.

Create partnerships with local retailers. The program requires effective, long-term partnerships with local retailers to purchase merchandise and expand the ability to offer a full selection of sizes and styles to every student.

Increase membership participation.

Define meaningful opportunities to serve. The program is led by the VP Philanthropic Programs and Operation School Bell Coordinators. Our volunteer members have an opportunity to serve at various levels.

Effective fundraising activities to support programs of the organization through grants, contributions, and individual and corporate donors.

Donation of books and art materials to underserved children in our area.

In March 2008, Assistance League of Southern Utah was established to meet the growing needs of financially disadvantaged children in Washington County. We obtained our 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization status in 2015. Our all-volunteer membership totals about 100 with over 10,500 volunteer hours reported annually. Our members are dedicated to enhancing the well-being of children in need, giving back and sharing their talents and skills.

The organization has developed strong relationships with the Washington County School District, local charter schools and Walmart Stores. We have a strong relationship with Allstate Foundation and the Dixie Foundation. Eccles Foundation provides a grant to us each year. Many Utah foundations and businesses support us also. We are members of the Utah Nonprofit Association and St. George Chamber of Commerce increasing our sphere of influence as we strive to accomplish our goals.

We have continued success with effective programs, fundraising efforts and membership involvement. The organization continues to grow and reach financial goals. Since 2008, Operation School Bell has provided new clothes and shoes to more than 9,000 children. In addition we promote academic achievement and personal growth for students by focusing on literacy. Volunteers read to over 1,000 students in 2019.

Fundraising activities were supported not only monetarily, but by in-kind donations by community organizations and businesses, saving thousands of dollars that were in turn used to help the kids. Matching funds by generous donors at fundraisers indicate support of the programs and organization.

Financially, the organization has met all the goals and requirements for a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and consistently returns more than 85% to the community. Our largest operating expenses are CPA review and IRS filings and insurance.