The students in the Cosmetology program at Eastland Career Center have been quite busy over the past few weeks. In addition to their academic studies and learning techniques that will propel their careers, students have spent what is left of their time collecting toys and books to benefit local children during the holidays.

Ms. Aries Owens’ cosmetology students spent the weeks leading up to Winter Break collecting items as a class so that they may present the gifts to the ACE program. Owens and her junior and senior students donated or collected more than 200 items that will be gifted to local children through the ACE program. Items include books, board games, football, action figures, dolls, Play Doh ®, and much more!

The toy drive will impact students at multiple local elementary schools, including Dunloe and Asbury elementary schools in Groveport, and Taylor and Rosehill elementary schools in Reynoldsburg.

The ACE program, which stands for Afterschool Child Enrichment, was founded by former Ohio State Buckeye basketball player and Columbus native George Reese to help support Central Ohio youth. On Friday, December 9, Mr. Reese visited Eastland Career Center to pick up the students’ donations and talk to the students about the impact that they are making on their community.

Thank you to our students, staff, and all of those that donated to help others have a happier holiday season.

w this short video of our students’ experience.