…In a land not so far away, leaders in Allen recognized a need in the community and had the foresight to provide services for neighbors facing crisis situations. Gary Rodenbaugh recalls a group of community-minded individuals gathered around a kitchen table, discussing the lack of resources in their growing community.

These services included essential items such as clothing. From those conversations, Allen Community Outreach (ACO) was born. A nonprofit organization was formed, complete with a Board of Directors. Bob Williams served as ACO’s first President —40 years ago.

As I sit down this morning to write this message, one thing keeps crossing my mind—I’m hungry! I can’t quite remember if I skipped breakfast (a habit I’m trying to break), but I think I grabbed a protein shake on the way out the door. Either way, my hunger makes me start thinking about tonight’s dinner plans too. Should I cook tonight, or are we eating out? Can you relate to wandering thoughts of food like I do?

Answering a call at the front desk from someone facing homelessness and guiding them through the process of applying for assistance.

Assisting an appreciative grandmother as she loads her car with groceries from the ACO Food Pantry.

Sorting donated clothing and household items to ensure the ACO Cares Center is stocked with essentials for families in need.