Special to The Bugle
While the preferred method of communication for most teens involves texting or messaging via an electronic device, a group of local students has focused efforts on the art of letter writing and donation drives. As part of a volunteer effort, a group of Tallahassee teens discovered that these donations are an effective way to connect with their community, specifically those who are often overlooked.
Florida State University Sophomore, Katie Bennett launched the local 501c3 nonprofit in 2021 with hopes of creating a positive impact on Tallahassee’s generations. With engagement from local schools, sororities, and businesses, Together Tallahassee has written and received more than 4,000 letters and donations.
“Our organization works hard to find new ways to engage with volunteers, and knowing how much work goes into every aspect of our team and seeing everyone come together to accomplish their goals, is really what means the most to me. Our local teachers have also contributed and made such an impact on the growth of our organization,” Bennett said. She particularly wants to bring Together Tallahassee to FSU’s campus, “We hope not only to increase our donation and letter turnout but also to assist in the process of welcoming new students to the Tallahassee area. While many students are in need of service hours, an even larger part of this student body is looking for community.”
Residents living at elder care facilities, including The Villas at Killearn, Azalea Gardens, and Westminster Oaks, enjoy receiving personalized letters during in-person events. Together Tallahassee also participated in the Hang Tough Foundation’s ‘Trunk Or Treat” event and had the honor of sharing their mission, vision, and values with Professor Hellmann’s classes at Tallahassee State College. The team crafted an interactive presentation highlighting the importance of community service and how volunteerism fosters leadership development and personal growth.
Together Tallahassee has generated positive feedback. “We very much appreciate the Together Tallahassee crew for all the support they provide our program,” Sheree Brown with Tallahassee Big Dog Rescue said. “Whether it is through collecting donations of pet supplies, which has a direct positive impact on the physical and mental health of our foster dogs, or by helping us create social media posts that promote adoption, volunteerism, and responsible pet ownership, they are always working to help homeless pets find ‘fur-ever’ homes!”
Title One schools, The Salvation Army, Kearney Center, Ronald McDonald House Charities, and others have also teamed up with Together Tallahassee to bring in countless donations from the community. Bennett encourages Tallahassee residents to give serious consideration to volunteering with Together Tallahassee.
“I enjoy working with my peers to uplift the spirits of those around me,” rising freshman at Florida State University and member, Ashley Faris said. “Hopefully, my community has enjoyed receiving these donations and reading my heartfelt letters. Working with Together Tallahassee has given me a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment in my volunteer efforts.”
To support Together Tallahassee or learn more, follow @togethertallahassee on Instagram and Facebook.
