Assistance League

AssistanceLeague® Reno-Sparks is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit devoted to helping those in need within our community by serving children, seniors, veterans and victims of abuse. Our all- volunteer organization operates 11 philanthropic programs such as Operation School Bell (providing school clothing for elementary and middle students), Veterans (supporting homeless veterans, as well as those in community settings), and Food Pantry (distributing groceries to low income seniors at the Senior Center, Indian Colony, and to those homebound).  Our thrift shop at 1701 Vassar in Reno is the primary source of income for our programs and we are proud to say what we make here stays here in the Reno-Sparks community.

Lorie Schaefer has lived and worked in Northern Nevada for over forty years. For many years she taught in the Carson City School District. During that time she also contributed to the weekly Fresh Ideas column in Carson City’s Nevada Appeal. Retired now, she lives in Reno with her husband where she spends her time avoiding housework by reading, writing, and watching her granddaughter grow up way too fast. Lorie serves on the Assistance League board and is the Marketing Committee chairperson.

Carolyn Dondero, M. Ed., is a fourth generation Nevadian who retired from 31 years of teaching high school English in Southern California. She also taught 17 years in Nevada. Carolyn is affiliated with Assistance League and P.E.O. Her purpose is to contribute to community and support human rights. She is a reading grandmother with AL.