Human Services Programs of Carroll County, Inc. has a successful history of partnering with other organizations and agencies in the community to achieve its mission. It [partnership] is a critical piece as many of our programs are based on collaborative efforts between multiple entities that bring key services to some 9,000 clients.

Over the last few months, there has been recognition of others who have something to bring to the party. Much to our delight it has been the student population -- high school and college students. Not to infer that students haven't been engaged with our agency in the past, just to say that in recent times they have raised the bar.

Since last August, the inspired efforts of these young adults has been noteworthy. Their range of activities runs the gamut; from collecting personal items, coats, blankets, and toys to interning and volunteering time in our shelters and for our Neighbors in Need program. There have been entire school collections whereby each grade has participated (Winters Mill High School personal item drive). Just last week South Carroll High School students brought coats and blankets to HSP.

This winter, Carroll Community College students will spearhead a coffee, creamer, sugar collection for our Cold Weather Shelter. Both Carroll Community and McDaniel College have students volunteering and interning regularly throughout our many programs.

Striking these partnerships has been rewarding for our agency and the students who are stepping up to help us help our at risk and low income population. On several occasions, I have had the pleasure to meet many of these students and talk with them about their desire to donate their time to our programs. These conversations have been enlightening as all are committed and understand the importance of giving back to their community. It is a diverse group with all degrees of interest. There are the individuals who spearhead projects on their own, and there are those who take on projects as part of a group (e.g the student government organizations).  

Be it individual or group effort, we at HSP are thankful for all of our partners. We are especially thankful for the abundance of young adults that are generously supporting our agency with their time and talents.