The Inmate Service Organization (I.S.O.) held their annual PA Prison Runathon Banquet on Nov. 18. This banquet is held each year to acknowledge all of the inmates who participated in the Runathon on Sept. 16. Throughout the year, the charity committee of the I.S.O conducts a number of fundraising events to raise money to benefit local non-profit at-risk youth organizations as an alternative to incarceration. Some of the activities from which the funds were raised by inmates at SCI Camp Hill are the Runathon, Photo Project, Fantasy NASCAR & FOOTBALL and snack sales.
This year, the inmates donated a total amount of $10,000.80 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation and $10,500.00 to the Boys and Girls Club of Harrisburg. A representative from each of these charitable organizations were available at the banquet to receive their checks totaling over $20,500.00.
Ann Waltman of the Make-A-Wish Foundation stated this money will be dedicated to granting wishes of three courageous children with life-threating medical conditions who need some extra magic in their lives.
Mark Hawthorne of the Boys and Girls Club of Harrisburg stated these must-needed funds will go a long way changing the beliefs, behavior and attitudes of youth ages 6 -18 years of age that positively impact their future. The donation will make a difference by impacting after-school programs such as Power Hour, Smart Girls, Passport to Manhood, Triple Play and Club Tech.
The general population inmates are to be commended for giving to the local community and making a difference in the lives of young people. This is a great contribution and a job well done.