Assistance League Honored for Work with Lynden Schools

When Lynden students need help finding clothes or health items, the Assistance League of Bellingham continually steps in to offer the missing support, just one reason why the Assistance League of Bellingham was honored with a WASA Community Leadership Award. 

“For many years, the Assistance League of Bellingham has been an extraordinary source of support for children and families throughout Whatcom County,” says David VanderYacht, Lynden Schools superintendent. “Their volunteers have quietly and consistently stepped forward to help meet the real needs of students by providing clothing, hygiene items, wellness support and enrichment programs.”

The WASA Community Leadership Award is given annually by the Washington Association of School Administrators. It recognizes community members or groups and their outstanding contributions toward education. This year Lynden students received nearly 200 vouchers for clothing from the Assistance League of Bellingham while also accepting essential health items. Additionally, the league’s enrichment scholarship program offers merit-based summer scholarships so middle and high school students can attend camps in music, science, art, leadership and more. 

VanderYacht says the schools experience the impact of the group’s generosity at every turn. “After touring their thrift operation earlier this spring, what stands out to me most about this organization is the heart behind the collective work,” he says. “Their members, board and volunteers are deeply committed to children and clearly motivated by a sincere desire to strengthen the community through service.” 

Lynden student Sara Yue says she’s received a scholarship for summer ballet for the past four years, making it possible for her to further her dance training at no additional cost. “I am incredibly grateful to have financial support for this program because it gives me the opportunity to focus on a passion of mine without worrying about any financial burdens,” she says. “As a result, I have been able to flourish in my dancing ability, and the application process has given me the confidence and skills to apply for other sponsorships that will benefit me in high school and beyond.” 

The summer enrichment scholarship has also been meaningful to another Lynden student focused on dance, Brooke Boies. “It has been a financial support and I’m thankful for the yearly advancements to my training and dancing that is able to positively impact me year-round,” she says. 

The Assistance League of Bellingham, which will soon be known as the Action League of Bellingham, clearly demonstrates a love for children across Whatcom County, VanderYacht says. “The support they provide removes barriers for families,” he says, “while reminding students that their community cares about them and believes in their future.”