Polished Girlz serves children with disabilities

Organization offers a friendly visit and handwashing tips.

If you think one person can’t make a difference or that you have to be an adult to accomplish meaningful volunteer service, meet Alanna Wall.

Early this year, the 10-year-old Dayton girl started her own non-profit organization — Polished Girlz.

“Initially it was just she and I polishing nails and teaching children with special needs about the importance of hand washing,” explains Alanna’s mom, Valarie Ragland, a nurse who serves as executive director of the organization.

The group has grown to 75 youth volunteers in two states and has served more than 220 children and adults since it began in February. The focus is on children and adults with disabilities and critically ill children in extended stay at hospital facilities.

The nail sessions, which include a friendly visit and hand washing education, can range from plain painted nails to fancy designs.

“They are a wonderful group of girls and train other groups of girls to go out and spread joy to adults and children in other states and countries,” said Diane Osman, development support specialist at United Rehabilitation Services.

Alanna and her organization have been named United Way Volunteers of the Month receiving a proclamation from the mayor of the city of Dayton for the work they do.

“I enjoy what I am doing because I get to make girls smile and feel special,” said Alanna who attends Richard Allen Elementary School in Dayton. “I also love that I get to teach them about how important hand washing is and that it can keep them from being sick as often.”

Polished Girlz is in need of the following items: colored and clear nail polishes, nail polish remover, nail art stickers, hand sanitizer, nail supply carry Caboodles, cotton balls, nail art brushes, glitter, aprons, uniform T-shirts, pink tablecloths, paper towels and rubbing alcohol.

Items can be dropped off at United Rehabilitation Services, 4710 Troy Pike, Dayton from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and at Smoothie King, 2321 Miamisburg-Centerville Road, Miami Twp., from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For more information, visit www.polishedgirlz.org or call (937) 559-9605.

If your non-profit organization would like to publish its wish list, contact Meredith Moss: MMoss@coxohio.com Please leave a daytime phone number.

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