Sailors from the Naval Station Pearl Harbor (NAVSTA PH) First Class Petty Officer's Association (FCPOA) volunteered their time to participate in a community service fund-raising project, July 25, in Pearl City for the River of Life Mission's 3rd annual "Christmas in July" program.

Donning Santa hats and festive clothing, the FCPOA Sailors took to the busy roadways and intersections of the Pearl City area spreading Christmas cheer to motorists and raising money for community members in need.

"It gives us a chance to give back to the community that we're guests of and shows them that the Navy is willing to support good causes," said Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jinine Green, vice president, NAVSTA PH FCPOA and kennel master assigned to the NAVSTA PH Security K-9 Unit.

Participation in community projects illustrates the Navy's commitment to local communities.

"It's also an opportunity for the community to give back [to the less fortunate] in a manner that they know their money is going straight to the cause of helping somebody. I think that [donating money] this way, people are more willing to give because they know that it's going to provide the basic necessities and not be misused," said Green.

The River of Life Mission and volunteer fund-raising programs such as "Christmas in July," help to provide food, clothing, shelter and basic necessities to homeless and indigent members of the Hawaiian community by utilizing the generosity and compassion of individuals, churches, schools, the military, businesses, private foundations and other human service providers.

"This is the second time [NAVSTA PH FCPOA] has participated in this program. Last year, we went out and did the money collection and doing it again this year is just something really good for us to continue," said Green.

In 2006, the more than 300 volunteers including the FCPOA Sailors participated in the River of Life Mission's "Christmas in July" program, raising more than $29,000. The money directly contributed to providing meals, clothing, showers, shaves, haircuts, shelter and social services to less fortunate members of the Hawaiian community.

"It's definitely good to be involved in these projects because the FCPOA represents the Navy and it's a good way to give back and increase our awareness within the community," said Personnel Specialist 1st Class Robert Whittle, member of the NAVSTA PH FCPOA and administration officer assigned to the NAVSTA PH Brig.

According to Whittle, being involved with these types of volunteer projects is a critical piece to developing as a Sailor.