Operation Leaf Relief finished its successful fundraising campaign in the same yard that it has in past years: 921 Winston Drive.
That's the home of Mary Lou Scott, whose late husband, Peter Wilks Scott, was a veteran of three wars.
"I've always supported the veterans," Mary Lou Scott said.
Each year, she hires the group of high school students volunteering on behalf of Operation Leaf Relief to rake her yard. One year, she sent care packages to 150 area soldiers.
After the students rake her yard, she always gives something to each of them. This year, she handed out small Christmas gift bags that included Santa hats. The youths wore the hats as they raked her yard.
Operation Leaf Relief raised approximately $1,800 this year. The money will go to support Operation Bugle Boy, which holds events to support veterans and active duty soldiers.
Operation Bugle Boy Vice President Don Hentges is a Vietnam War veteran who also helps coordinate Operation Leaf Relief. On Sunday, he joined students from various high schools in and around Jefferson City in raking leaves. He said the youths care enough about those who serve our country to give up a Sunday to rake leaves, and that makes him want to join them.
One of the students was Adam Crawford, who came with his brother Philip. He said his two older brothers have helped with the event, so he and Philip do as well.
"I think it's a great way to help support Operation Bugle Boy," Adam Crawford said. "I've helped at all the veteran nights that I've been able to, and I think the veterans really appreciate what Operation Bugle Boy does."