On Friday, the Youngstown State University chapter of the American Medical Student Association hosted its first clothing drive. Afterward, more than 30 full-sized trash bags filled with lightly worn clothing were donated to the Rescue Mission of Mahoning Valley.
Peter Stamos, YSU-AMSA president, collaborated with the Rescue Mission to make it happen.
“I think we exceeded expectations because they only gave us two barrels to fill, and, as you can see, we’ve gotten more than that,” Stamos said.
He said the outcome was much better than even he anticipated.
“I would like to make this an annual thing. It worked out, and we’re able to donate a lot of clothes,” Stamos said.
He said group members have volunteered with the Rescue Mission in the past, and they plan to continue.
“As pre-med students, we share a common goal of being the future physicians of the community,” Stamos said. “I think it’s important for us to get our name out in the community.”
Taylor Kress, vice president of YSU-AMSA, worked with Stamos for the drive.
“We didn’t expect so many people to donate. It was sort of short notice. We only sent out one email,” Kress said.
Kress has been a member of the group since it started a year and a half ago. She said she’s proud of the progress the group has made this year.
“We’re going to try to volunteer at the Rescue Mission at least once a semester,” Kress said. “As a pre-med student, this is big for us. When applying for med school, you have to have volunteer hours on your application.”
Stamos said the YSU-AMSA is planning more events to get the group’s name out around campus.
Group members are planning a 5-kilometer run for April 20; all proceeds will go to Akron Children’s Hospital. Registration is $15 for students and $20 for the public.
Kress said the 5k run is another first for the YSU-AMSA.
“This is really big for our group, and so far, planning has been hectic, but it’s coming together,” Kress said.
