Over 103 pairs of shoes were donated in the first two days of a shoe drive organized by R.K. Smith Jr.’s Beta Club. The club is collecting gently worn or new shoes through Nov. 23 at R.K. Smith Library and the St. Charles Parish Animal Shelter. Donated shoes will benefit the St. Charles Parish Animal Shelter.
Stephanie Mire, the Beta Club sponsor, said she hopes the shoe drive teaches Beta Club students the power of giving back and how small actions, like donating shoes, can have a significant impact.
“Knowing they’ve helped those in need will hopefully give them a sense of pride and accomplishment, showing them that they can make a real difference in their community,” Mire said.
This is the first shoe drive that the Beta Club has organized for the animal shelter, but last year, the club donated food, toys, and blankets for the shelter. Mire said the shelter serves as an important community resource, helping to control stray populations and promoting responsible pet ownership. The shelter is located near the school.
“By fundraising for the shelter, the Beta Club strengthens its connection to the community and contributes to its wellbeing,” she said. “Fundraising for the animal shelter helps provide essential resources, such as food, medical care, and shelter for animals in need.”
The Beta Club is partnering with the shoe drive fundraising company Funds2Orgs, which will distribute the donated shoes to individuals and families in developing countries who operate small businesses. The donated shoes provide people with inventory to sell and make a living wage for themselves and their families, according to Funds2Orgs’ website.
Mire said the partnership is a win-win.
“We know that most people have extra shoes in their closets they would like to donate to us,” Mire said. “By doing so, we raise money for our local animal shelter, and we have the chance to help families in developing nations who need economic opportunities.”
This is the fifth year that Mire has been the Beta Club sponsor. She said the club promotes academic excellence, builds strong character, develops leadership skills and encourages service. Students must maintain high academic standards and conduct themselves in a positive manner to be members, she said.
“Watching students grow in confidence, develop character, and build teamwork skills is one of the most rewarding parts of being a sponsor,” Mire said. “It’s an opportunity for me to mentor students, guiding them through challenges and successes.”
She said she is looking forward to seeing students take the lead in organizing, promoting and executing the drive.
“It’s a great opportunity for them to develop leadership and communication skills in a real-world setting,” Mire said.
She is also eager to see the results of drive – the number of shoes collected, and the impact on the students and community.
