Summit County Executive Russell M. Pry's Serving Our Soldiers Program Sends More Care Packages to Troops

Summit County Executive Russell M. Pry's internal volunteer Serving Our Soldiers (SOS) program recently forwarded 19 care packages to soldiers serving overseas and on bases throughout the United States. The packages included a mix of recreational games and movies: all donated by Summit County Sheriff Drew Alexander's Office.

The Serving Our Soldiers program provides over 3,800 Summit County government employees with the opportunity to participate in quarterly giving events, join volunteer sub-committees and take part in community activities.

Since the programs inception, in 2008, SOS initiative volunteers have facilitated the mailing of care packages, holiday gift boxes and letters of appreciation to soldiers. The internal volunteer group also plays a significant role in collecting materials for the annual Summit County Stand Down for Homeless Veterans giving event. Proceeds from fundraisers (i.e. flower, jewelry and bake sales) are used to purchase postage and shipping supplies.

On the external level, the Serving Our Soldiers program offers a hotline (1-877-767-6622) to assist local service men and women, and their families, with obtaining information, services and resources. The Summit County Veterans Service Commission (VSC) assists the group in filtering and responding to all requests.

For more information on Summit County Executive Russell M. Pry's Serving Our Soldiers program call 330-643-8626.