Allan Hancock College student Johana Diaz-Toscano (center) is one of three members of the college’s SkillsUSA Community Service team who organized a blanket donation drive. Courtesy photo.
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SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College’s SkillsUSA Community Service Team is collecting new and gently used blankets this holiday season to support individuals and families in need across the Central Coast.
Donation bins are available now through Dec.19 in the Mechanics Bank Student Center (bldg. G) at the college’s Santa Maria campus. Community members are encouraged to contribute if they are able.
The blanket drive serves as the team’s official SkillsUSA community service project for the year. Students on the team include Johana Diaz-Toscano, Alexandra Ramirez and Victoria Gama. The three students organized and launched the initiative entirely themselves. Diaz-Toscano said that blankets will be distributed to local shelters, many of which see increased need during the winter months.
“Even a single blanket can give someone comfort and warmth during a hard time,” she said. “It’s a simple reminder that people care.”
SkillsUSA is a national organization that prepares students for careers in technical, skilled and service-oriented fields by fostering leadership, professionalism and hands-on skill development. Students compete in hundreds of events each year, from graphic design and welding to public speaking and community service. In April, Hancock students took home 50 gold, silver and bronze medals at the California statewide SkillsUSA Championships.
SkillsUSA Advisor and Hancock Communications Professor Jenny Schroeder said the project showcases exactly what the national SkillsUSA organization is designed to instill in students.
“SkillsUSA helps students develop both the technical skills needed for their future careers and the soft skills required in any modern workplace,” Schroeder said. “The community service team is strengthening their planning, organizational, teamwork, communication and presentation skills while helping those in need.”
Diaz-Toscano said the group has already received 20 blankets for the drive since it began on Dec. 4.
“The turnout has been incredible,” she said. “It’s great to see students and the community come together for something that truly helps others.”
To learn more about Hancock’s SkillsUSA program, visit https://www.hancockcollege.edu/careers/skillsusa.php.