One Montgomery Village Sports Association (MVSA) JO Club team took out time from its holiday practices and participated in charity work to help out those in need.  The Blizzard-17s team reached out to “The Children’s House at Johns Hopkins,” a lodging facility in Baltimore where families can stay and support children who are undergoing treatment for life-threatening illnesses.  To ease the families’ acclimation to this cold area and to reduce their medical and living expenses, the squad conducted a winter clothing drive.  The girls sought contributions from the large base of MVSA members by collecting such useful winter garments as coats, hats, gloves, and scarves.  Overall, over a hundred items were delivered to The Children’s House.  All the families, many of whom come from warmer climates worldwide, greatly appreciated the "heart-warming" and "body-warming" apparel!

Proudly looking back on the experience, Coach Butch Livioco believes that, not only did the families benefit tremendously from the Club’s donation, but the assistance to others was a strong team-building endeavor based on the volleyball principles of teamwork and cooperation.  The Blizzard team has become very close-knit through this enriching activity.  The feelings of solidarity and helpfulness quickly spread throughout the ranks of all MVSA families with their contributions, promoting the spirit and goodwill that are trademarks of the club.

For additional details about the Johns Hopkins program, please visit www.childrenshouse.org/Ourhouse.cfm.