Noelle Rivera ‘16 and Kate Donald ‘16 are the founders of Resource Reach Out (RRO), a non-profit organization that sends school supplies to under-privileged students in Texas.
The pair began this organization the summer after 8th grade, when they had an excess amount of leftover school supplies. Unsure of what to do with all their extra materials, they decided that kids in less fortunate school districts could benefit from them, and so, RRO was formed.
“Our mission is to lift students to their full potential by supplying them the materials they need to succeed,” Rivera said. “By collecting and sending school supplies, we help improve a child’s school experience.”
Before creating this organization, Rivera and Donald felt that their opportunities to participate in meaningful volunteer activities were limited. Through the creation of RRO, they were able to do more for their community and spread awareness by helping these underprivileged students.
In the past, they have worked with Santa Maria ISD, Hays CISD, and are currently working with Del Valle ISD. By evaluating the statistics of each district, they were able to narrow down their focus to these three schooling areas. Majority of the people in these communities are economically disadvantaged or at risk, and their contributions would be most meaningful if they were sent there.
Last year, through various fundraising parties and drives, they were able to raise enough money to buy supplies to make 60 backpacks for students at Del Valle ISD. Other previous projects included fund raising parties, drives, and partnering with Barnes & Noble to spread publicity.
Recently, the two hosted a holiday event on Dec. 13 at Tailhead Park in Canyon Creek.
“We hosted an auction, and from it we raised about $400,” Donald said. “We plan to use that money to buy more supplies and backpacks to send to Del Valle students.”
They have made it a goal to send more backpacks than last year by continuing to promote their organization and raise awareness. RRO accepts donations of school supplies and money in order to help it grow. They hope that through their actions, other students are inspired to follow in their footsteps.
“I want more teenagers to get involved in RRO and find volunteer opportunities and leadership positions within our organization,” Rivera said. “I also want us to expand our reach by helping multiple school districts and offering a free tutoring program to underprivileged students in our community.”
They both agree that continuing this organization in the future is something they would support. Rivera and Donald both can take powerful lessons from their experiences and also teach others from them.
“It is the best feeling in the whole world knowing that I am helping students in need,” Rivera said. “Some of the elementary students sent us thank you letters, and they were the sweetest things I have ever received. It’s moments like those that remind me of how much good we are doing for our community.”
You can visit their website here.
