Teen Actor Teams with Boys and Girls Club, Staples

Written by Beatrice Karnes

Disney Channel fans will recognize Jake T. Austin for his role on the popular TV series Wizards of Waverly Place. The teen has taken on a new role—celebrity spokesman for the 6th annual Staples for Students national school supply drive.

In previous years, the national drive has raised $3 million for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. “I’m so excited to team up with Staples and Boys & Girls Clubs of America for this great cause,” said Austin.  “I can’t imagine starting school without the right supplies, so I’m rallying fellow teens to help make a difference in their communities by making sure students have the essential supplies they need to succeed.” 

Money donated to the campaign at local stores will go to the Boys & Girls Club of Silicon Valley. Staples passes along 100 percent of contributions.

Staples locations:

• 20830 Stevens Creek Blvd
  Cupertino, CA 95014
• 700 El Camino Real (Suite 120)
  Menlo Park, CA 94025
• 1351 Coleman Ave.
  Santa Clara, CA 95050

Staples for Students Facebook is a special page set up with interactive missions for teens who can earn donations for the Boys & Girls Clubs. Participants also earn coupons and may enter a sweepstakes.

The Boys & Girls Club is thrilled with the promotion. “A core focus of our mission is to enable youth to be successful throughout school and follow a career or educational plan post-high school to become productive and responsible citizens,” said Kimberly Boyd, vice president, program training & youth development services for BGCA. “Partnerships and programs like the Staples for Students national school supply drive provide critical support for Clubs and youth so they have the resources needed to do well in school and create a path to a great future."