What: My ABC’s, offers Americans at home the opportunity to support humanitarian missions and the efforts of armed service personnel that are involved in providing aid to and rebuilding schools for children in conflict zones. By sending a My ABC’s care package, civilians contribute to the morale and quality of life for these children. Participants are encouraged, but not required to include a self-addressed envelope if they want a reply. What hopefully results is a mutually beneficial relationship that allows civilians to get to know their soldiers and the community they serve well so that letters and future care packages can be personalized.

Why: My ABC’s program was designed in response to the many letters and emails received from soldiers participating in My Soldier who said the most rewarding part of being deployed was taking part in humanitarian missions that rebuilt schools and created new learning centers. Schools in conflict areas are lacking in supplies that are very difficult for locals to gain access to. Therefore soldiers are asking for specific donations of learning tools and school supplies that are needed to provide proper instruction.

How: Civilians who register (click here) with My ABC’s will receive an Information Packet that contains instructions, guidelines and a wish list of the most requested items. By registering civilians agree to prepare a care package with school supplies. There is no minimum amount required but it is requested that items be new or like new. The information packet also assigns each participant a Point of Contact (military personnel) who is working to rebuild schools or local community centers in Iraq or Afghanistan.

Commenting on the importance of My ABC’s, President of Manhattanville College, Richard Berman said, “Education is the focal point of rebuilding a peaceful sustainable community. It is the key to developing individual freedom and economic stability.”

For more information or to sign up as an individual, or group/classroom please (click here) or call (914) 323-5172.The program is free, however for those who can afford it, a voluntary donation is requested to counter the costs of postage and operating expenses.

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