The process will be a little different from Iraq do to logistical issues here in Afghanistan. All supplies will be sent to the

Ellsworth High School

323 Hillcrest St.

ATTN: Anne Pechacek & Just Do Something

Ellsworth, WI 54001.

The Just Do Something Club as well as Tanya Brion’s students will sort supplies and package them into gallon ziplock bags, backpacks and totes. Once they are separated and labeled male and female they will be boxed up and shipped to me in country where I will plan with the American and Afghan elements to deliver the supplies to needy schools. Melinda Daus has compiled a list of school items that we will be in need of but not limited to:

Notebooks
Folders
Pencils
Pens
Markers
Color crayons
High lighters
One hole pencil sharpeners
Pink erasers
Rulers
Glue sticks
Scissors (blunt end preferably)
Pencil box
Hardcandy
Small toy for boys
Small toy for girls
Sunglasses
Chap stick
Toothbrushes
Toothpaste
Soccer Balls
Soap

 

ITEMS FOR THE "Just Do Something Club" to get started.
Back packs for boys
Tote bags for girls

Gallon or two gallon ziplock bags

If you would prefer a donation of cash/check, make it out to the “Just Do Something Club” and an account will be established at the high school (same address as above). In the early stages of gathering supplies backpacks and totes will be the most difficult to acquire in large numbers, in addition shipping cost will be an issue. I will try to contact Jansport, but if anyone has other connections or ideas we could use the help. In Iraq we supplied over 500 students, we hope to double that in Afghanistan.

They need is great and although the U.S. economic times are shaky I have every confidence that we can show what a giving community/nation we are. I know that my parents (of the Greatest Generation ilk) send these emails to a couple hundred of their friends, I ask that each of you share this with your friends and families.

One of the most gratifying aspects of my experience in Iraq was when I was told by contributors that we allowed citizens to feel like they were doing something positive and good for the cause. People told me that they didn’t know how to show support and that “Hearts and Minds” allowed them to do that. Whatever your political persuasion or world view, what Anne and company are doing is a true good. Many of these people have next to nothing. If you would prefer to send blankets, clothing, shoes, etc. I will ensure it gets into needy Afghan hands. Basic hygiene items are also welcome.

Together we can make a difference in Afghan citizen’s lives. Many of you are educators and already make a difference in young people’s lives and I can guarantee you that when the pictures are posted and the websites are active, you will have a deeper appreciation of our world.

I’ll get off the soapbox and get down to business. My nephew will be allowing me to blog on the website (which is somewhat foreign to me) and allow postings of thoughts and pictures anyone interested. It may take a month or two to get flowing but eventually it will and it will be exciting.

Spread the word, help the cause and thank you for listening. Let's do this...

CPT Ryan Casper
ARSIC-North
Camp Mike Spann, Afghanistan
Ellsworth High School Social Studies Teacher