Build on Tradition: Pioneer Projects Reimagined

Pioneers have built a strong legacy of helping others. But during this one year, some of our cornerstone projects have taken on a new meaning and urgency. Here are a few ideas on how to adapt a few of our most popular philanthropies during the pandemic.

Activity and Craft Kits

During the pandemic, seniors in nursing homes and disabled adults and children in group homes often remain isolated and bored. Instead of, or in addition to, the hygiene kits normally donated, consider providing sensory arts and craft kits, puzzles, coloring books, and even audiobooks to these organizations.

Health and Hygiene Kits

Through the years, Pioneers have donated thousands of hygiene kits to hospitals, nursing homes, homeless shelters and youth facilities. This year, everyone knows what PPE stands for, and how hard it is to for many of these places to find personal protective equipment. Face masks, hand sanitizer, cleaning supplies and other PPE materials can be distributed, along with the standard toiletry kits, to these establishments.

School and Home Supplies

In normal years, many Pioneer chapters donate backpacks filled with school supplies, or even non-perishable food, to underserved children and school districts. Think outside that box this year and consider donating pencil cases or small bags with supplies geared for children to use for online learning at home. Pens, pencils, art tablets, copy paper, crayons and markers could be included. And, for many of these children, their one hot meal a day has vanished. Their families probably still need food and supplies at home, so those donations can continue to be an option as Pioneers work with school districts in their communities.

Stay strong this year Pioneers! Your hard work and dedication during these difficult times makes every single one of you an everyday hero.