Assistance League of Downey honored by school board

DOWNEY – The Assistance League of Downey was presented the Shared Values Award in the area of Relationships and Partnerships at the March 14 Downey Unified Board of Education meeting. 

The Downey Assistance League has 150 members who volunteered nearly 18,000 hours last year. Their major fundraising events include the annual Christmas Brunch and the Gypsy Johnson Iridescent Ball.

They also operate the Second Tyme Around Shop, a thrift store on Downey Avenue. 

Fundraising proceeds are used to support several programs that directly support Downey students, including Operation School Bell, a Christmas distribution, free prom and winter formal gowns, various scholarships, and a Story Time Festival. 

This school year, the Assistance League estimates that nearly $60,000 will be provided to Downey students through these programs. 

“We want to take this opportunity to express how much we truly appreciate what you do for our students each and every year,” said Roger Brossmer, assistant superintendent of secondary education for Downey Unified, who presented the award to the Assistance League on behalf of the board of education. 

Approximately 80 percent of all Assisteens, a group of seventh through 12th grade students involved in philanthropic and social events within the community through the Assistance League of Downey, are Downey Unified students. 

This year, 43 out of the 54 Assisteens attend Downey Unified schools.