​Peru river rescue unit has history of service

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

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By Jeff Dankert

Peru Rescue Station, established 62 years ago just after World War II, is in the toy collection business for the first time.
Member Dennis Znaniecki said a few years ago he and others were inspired by a toy drive display in Ottawa’s Christmas parade.

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“We learned (Peru school district) has a toy drive,” Znaniecki said. “We’re just going to augment them.”
The station collected about two dozen toys last Saturday when the city held Pearl Harbor Day and Christmas parades.
On Thursday, squad members delivered the toys to Peru Washington School, a Toys for Tots drop-off site.





VOLUNTEERS AND FUNDING
Charity is part of the rescue station’s mission. It helps organize Illinois River cleanups and youth fishing events, educating hundreds of children on fishing and water safety.
The volunteer group relies on donations and fundraising. It sent letters to local residents last month asking for contributions.