Alana Reeping, a Westminster junior elementary education major from Saxonburg, recently initiated "A Dollar Does It" program for the Walker Neighborhood House in New Castle.

"At first I saw working at the Walker House a tutoring opportunity that would enhance my elementary education major," Reeping said. "I wanted to be prepared for teaching and thought this program would make me better."

The Walker Neighborhood House serves as an after school location for children from grades two through nine.

"When I got there, I felt so sad for the kids that I wanted to take them all home, but since I couldn't do that I found myself sharing all the spare money I had," Reeping said. "I didn't have enough money to do all the things I wanted, so I started asking the people I knew in my classes, my professors, and my family. I never asked for more than a dollar because I knew most people had a spare dollar. That's where the name, A Dollar Does It,' came to mind. I raised about $200 because most gave more than a dollar.

"With the money I raised, plus about $50 of my own, I bought education supplies. I had piles of stuff everywhere, 30 of them. Each kid got a cloth back pack, which was donated, full of supplies. I made them age and gender appropriate. They were so grateful; it was great to see them smiling. But every time I went to the Walker House, there were more children. I hope someone will continue my program.

"I think my help-people attitude comes from my Girl Scout training," Reeping said. "I was a Gold Award Scout [the highest award given to Girl Scouts.] I also have to give credit to my mom, too. She's always there to help me."

Reeping is a daughter of James and Deborah Reeping, Saxonburg, and a graduate of Knoch High School.

Contact Reeping at reepinab@westminster.edu for more information.

Alana Reeping