In some cases, PTOs are stepping up in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Just one such story: The PTO in Closter, N.J., helped out families who were without power by throwing a pizza party. Volunteers reached out by email, phone, and word of mouth to alert families, and the town’s mayor gave permission to hold the party in Closter’s Council Chambers.

Other community events in the news include:

• Wiley Elementary in Utica, Mich., hosted its annual coat drive to help families. Keeping it low-key, parent volunteers set out the coats during parent-teacher conferences so parents in need could easily pick up the clothing. There’s no tally in for this year, but last year the group distributed 100 items, including coats and snow pants.


• The PTO at the Dansville (N.Y.) Primary School hosted its annual Fall Festival and added a twist. Kids were asked to make a contribution to the district’s backpack program. This program provides needy families with food by sending it home discreetly in children’s backpacks. The PTO received more than 100 items and reported that a last-minute request for donations for victims of Hurricane Sandy brought in another $44.


• Parent volunteers at the Riverton (Wyo.) Middle School are extending its backpack program to get food to needy families during the holidays. Parents plan to hold a “Food for Break’’ fundraiser this weekend using a loaned school bus, which will be parked at local grocery store so residents can easily drop off food items. The goal is to run this event before every extended break during the school year.