Since 1995, the St. Vrain Valley Retired School Employees Association has assisted in the distribution of clothing to those in need through the Columbine Elementary School Clothes Closet.

Charles Houston was instrumental in creating the relationship through his search for a project to tie in with "Make a Difference Day."

Three times a year, Houston and his group meet at Columbine to distribute the clothing that has been donated by families and teachers to others in need. Houston then delivers the leftover clothing to the OUR Center.

"It's rewarding to see the immediate satisfaction people feel who are being served by the organization," Houston said.

Houston retired in 1988 after teaching English and journalism for 27 years at Longmont High School. While there, he also supervised production of the school newspaper and yearbook.

In addition to his ongoing work with the Clothes Closet, Houston helped remodel the library at Columbine Elementary and assists with other jobs at the school as needed.
Since 1988, he has also volunteered at the OUR Center where he has chalked up more than 25,000 miles delivering food from local grocery stores to the center.

"Charles has been a steady, reliable volunteer for the Clothes Closet for eight years," said Loretta Dillion, volunteer coordinator at Columbine Elementary. "This recognition of a very fine person is long overdue."

To learn more about volunteering with Columbine Elementary School or other agencies contact the Volunteer Connection East at 303-772-5772.