By The Chronicle Staff

Residents across Logan County have several opportunities in the coming weeks to support local students, be a mentor in the schools and participate in community improvement projects through the United Way of Logan County.

Jamie Morley, United Way community engagement director, said three major initiatives will take place throughout late summer, all aimed at strengthening the community and helping local families.

The first initiative is Stuff the Bus, a countywide school supply drive that is wrapping up Monday, Aug. 17. The annual campaign collects school supplies for local students to help ensure they have the tools needed for a successful school year.

The drive serves families throughout Logan County and provides community members, businesses and organizations with an opportunity to support area children as they prepare to return to the classroom.

The 2026 collection sites include: Honda East Liberty Plant, World Class Plastics, Indian Lake Community Church office, Steve Austin's Auto Group, First Lutheran Church, Alan Galvez Insurance, Civista Bank West Liberty, Citizens Federal Savings and Loan, Richwood Bank, Warren & Hall Ltd., Daido Metal USA, Cornerstone Church at Huntsville, Indian Lake Outfitters, AGC Bellefontaine, Belletech, NX Automotive Logistics USA Inc., Community Health & Wellness Partners-Bellefontaine Community Health Center, Mary Rutan Hospital main lobby, Family Chiropractic and Massage, Belle Center Cornerstone Church, Honestly Clean LLC, Logan County Family and Children First Council, Honda East Liberty Credit Union, TMPO Credit Union, Bellefontaine First United Methodist Church, Goodtime Charlie and City Building’s Utility Department Lobby.

In addition to the school supply drive, the United Way is preparing for its annual Community Care Day, scheduled for Aug. 21.

Community Care Day brings together volunteers from across the county to complete projects that benefit local nonprofit organizations, public spaces and community groups.

Finally, the organization is also focusing on expanding its Lunch Buddies mentoring program ahead of the upcoming school year.

Morley reported that the United Way is seeking new volunteers to participate in the program, with a particular need for mentors in the West Liberty-Salem, Riverside and Benjamin Logan school districts. Lunch Buddies connect adult volunteers with students during lunchtime, providing encouragement, friendship and positive role models for young people in local schools.

For more information about Stuff the Bus, Community Care Day or the Lunch Buddies program, visit the United Way of Logan County website, https://uwlogan.org. ■