Motorcycle club donates gifts to less fortunate

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

The Youngstown Afro Dogs Motorcycle Club is perhaps the most unlikely group of holiday heroes, but to many in the community, it exudes philanthropy and service.

For about four decades, the club has reached out and extended a helping hand to those less fortunate in Youngstown.

And this year is no different.

The altruistic group, which consists of roughly 80 members, has collected about $2,000 this month and is using that to bring some holiday cheer.

On Tuesday, club members delivered toys, clothes and food to approximately 30 children at the Rescue Mission of The Mahoning Valley on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.

“Giving is what Christmas is all about,” said LaDonna Harris, the group’s business manager. “We love it so much that we do it every year.”

Harris, who has been a member for seven years, said she joined the club because she wanted to find a way to give back. And, so far, she has not been disappointed.

“It’s a really good feeling,” she said. “I’m all about giving.”

David Manigault, who has been a member for six years and is the group’s vice president, said it’s an important part of the club’s mission to help those in need, especially children.

“Anything for the kids,” Manigault said.

The group has also had back-to-school events, raised funds for families who cannot afford to bury their loved ones, and members have even served as escorts during funeral processions.

“It means a lot to me to give back to people who don’t have enough,” Manigault said

“We try to look out for everybody in the community.”