BANGOR – The holiday season inspired students, faculty and staff at Beal College to give back to the community. Several recent service projects experienced a record number of participants.

“Our students come from many different backgrounds and experiences,” said Director of Admissions Mike Johnson.

“The desire to give back to those in need, though, is universal,” Johnson added.

In November, front office staff members Kristie Frizzell and Amy Tapley spearheaded the college’s participation in WLBZ2’s Coats for Kids drive. A donation box was set up in the student lounge, but it became quickly evident that more space was needed.

On Dec. 6, a truck loaded with 96 coats, scarves, mittens and hats was delivered to Shaw’s Supermarket on the Hogan Road in Bangor. Many members of the Beal College family had donated individually in the past to Coats for Kids, but it was the first time Beal College was officially involved.

Building on the success of the Coats for Kids project, Beal College served as host for the American Red Cross annual blood drive. Another blood drive at the college is planned for spring.

While many Beal College students and staff are working parents, they understand the realities of the holiday season. With that in mind, the monies received from the school’s “dress down days” were donated to several local charities.

The staff also participated in the Eastern Maine Aids Network holiday gift donation.

Beal College is an accredited two-year career college providing educational opportunities to more than 300 students.

For 113 years, Beal College has been dedicated to offering practical and life skills to traditional and nontraditional students in allied and human services, business studies, computer information technology, criminal justice, hospitality, professional office technology and support and early childhood education.

For information, call Beal College at 947-4591.