By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Hands of Change youth service project season begins
hands of change
Hands of Change youth service project group gathers weekly with no religious endorsement to assist residents and take on community projects. This photo from last year is Misty Keller helping at the food pantry. For more information, contact Rev. Lance Smith at 608-938-4369.

MONTICELLO — An entire year of after school service projects will begin Monday, Sept. 16. 

Hands of Change is a program for middle and high school students offered every Monday afternoon Monticello schools are in session. Students will be picked up at the school, provided a snack and transported to a service site. 

HOC serves assisted living center residents, playing cards, working on crafts or providing conversation. The group volunteers at local food banks and takes on projects in the community. 

The last Monday of each month HOC helps to prepare and serve the Welcome Table Meal, a free community meal for all Monticello area residents. HOC plans to provide a few times of recreation for youth as well. The group meets each Wednesday after school from 3:15 to 6 p.m. HOC chaperones and volunteers will meet students in sixth grade and above at the front door of the Monticello Middle school and parents should plan to pick up student at 6 p.m. at Zwingli UCC, 416 E Lake Ave. 

This program does not endorse any particular religion or religious organization and is open to everyone.  HOC is all about sharing the joys of helping people. HOC is a free program provided by the members of Zwingli UCC as well as donations from the community. For more information, contact Rev. Lance Smith at 608-938-4369.