15 Years with Blanchard

Every summer, young folks come to EECM in droves. Our proverbial cup runneth over with eager young volunteers that show up with their youth groups for service projects lasting from a few hours to more than a week. Many of these groups have been coming for several years, but there is one that stands above the rest. This summer marks the 15th year that Blanchard Church of Christ has brought their youth to Pittsburgh and East End Cooperative Ministry (they also partner with several other local organizations).

"The Blanchard Group" is an institution here, renowned for their hard work, enthusiasm, and great organizational skills. They show up, unpack, and get down to business. Are we short a driver for Meals on Wheels? No problem. Does one of our clients have some yard work that needs doing? They're on it. Could the dormitory at the Men's Shelter benefit from a good scrubbing? (Yes). Just point them in the right direction and stand back. An army of scrub brushes will leap into action.

This year, there are nearly 60 participants in the service project. Their leader is J.T. He's young, but don't let that fool you for a minute -- he's an old hand at this routine. He's been coming on the trip for more than a decade.

All of the kids are proud of their years of service. I stopped by the Food Pantry to take a few pictures and they eagerly shared their numbers. One was in his sixth year. Another had been coming for four. Only a few seemed to be new-comers.

The Blanchard Group will be here through Friday and then head home. We look forward to seeing them again next year!