Giving back

After seeing a family member struggle through a very difficult time financially, Drew White felt he needed to do something to help.

But he didn’t stop with just his family. White decided to help others in need as well.

White, then a Camas High School freshman, hosted a community garage sale to raise money.

Three years later, this idea has turned into a full-fledged non-profit organization.

“I saw the impact my uncle’s troubles had on my family, and it made me want to reach out and help people,” he said.

It is called “Project Give Back,” and works rather simply: People in the community donate used items in good condition, ranging from clothing to books to electronics. White picks them up and transports these to Scout Hall at Crown Park for the annual sale on Saturday, Dec. 11. All proceeds go toward local families. Any unsold items go to the Clark County Women’s and Children’s Shelter, the homeless and teen mothers.

In the past three years, Project Give Back has helped 11 families with utility and phone bills, and provided gift cards for them to use at local grocery stores.

“I have had a lot of help from my friends, and my mom and dad,” White said.

His mom, Tia, helped him get the non-profit up and started by providing an outline of what to do. Now, he is running it by himself and has turned it into a senior project.

When White, an avid soccer player, leaves for the University of Washington next year, he is hoping to continue Project Give Back with the help of his younger brother, Dylan.

“Just knowing that I’m helping a family out is wonderful,” he said. “If I was in that situation, I’d feel so much better if someone reached out to me.”

White will be collecting gently used clothing, electronics and other items through Friday, Dec. 10. Those who want to donate can contact him at 360-904-6242.

The sale will take place from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, at Scout Hall, but may end earlier if the weather is bad or items sell out.

Scout Hall is located at Crown Park, 15th Avenue and Everett Street, in Camas.