Issue link: https://alabamapower.uberflip.com/i/631002
Customer Service Representative Toni Young and other members promoted the "Born to Read" book drive that supplied 330 books for the school's renaissance and accelerated reading programs. Each year before school starts, every APSO chapter helps children get ready by donating pencils, paper, scissors, crayons and supplies through schools and Department of Human Resources offices. Miller and Western APSO members ensure that needy children don't go hungry over school weekends, filling their backpacks with snacks and food before classes end on Friday. Barry Chapter members host monthly birthday parties for youngsters at St. Mary's Home in Mobile. Improving futures across Alabama Like other employees who seek that "something extra and find it through APSO's mix of service and friendship," the organization has been life-changing for Tony Smith. "As I've grown, I've also seen the organization grow," said Smith, Gadsden Office manager. "APSO fits everything I'm about now, and I want to help make it a success." As APSO's 2016 state president- elect, Smith plans to engage APSO members and find out what interests them, as well as seek new ways to broaden the scope of agencies served by APSO. "I would like to see as many new touch points as possible with new organizations we haven't reached before," said Smith, winner of the 2014 Patsy Topazi Award as the top APSO volunteer. "I want to see our volunteer numbers increase." When Smith left Southern Division APSO last year, he noted, the chapter's membership was at its all- time high. "During APSO's 25-year history, our service organization has helped thousands of people across Alabama," said Community Initiatives Manager Hallie Bradley. "When it comes to families and children, APSO touches so many areas and helps improve people's lives. Alabama Power is so fortunate to have APSO and its many members who work so hard to make our communities better and more vibrant. APSO proves that volunteerism is still in fashion." 14 Oak Hill School students enjoyed a story read by Western Division APSO's Shannon Walker.