05/28/2026
It’s Throwback Thursday! If you’ve ever wondered whether your 5 cents really matters, let this story inspire you. Ten years ago, in May 2016, the Daughters of Wisdom joined the Bottles for the Brave movement, answering the Adopt-a-Box call from founder Pam Burner. With excitement, a special collection box appeared in the leadership offices in Islip, NY, and Rosalie Mullane of Mission Advancement eagerly became the chief bottle watcher—always on alert to let Pam know when the box was brimming with bottles and ready for pickup.
Over the past decade, Sisters, staff, volunteers, friends, and visitors rallied together, dropping off empty bottles and helping fill the box again and again. Their collective efforts led to an incredible 192 bags—totaling a whopping 38,400 bottles! Even community organizations like RotaCare of Uniondale, where the late Sr. Joan Klemballa, DW, once worked, and the local Knights of Columbus, who have supported many of our endeavors, began saving bottles and adding to the growing mountain of support.
Spearheaded by founder Pam Burner, this grassroots, nonprofit mission kicked off in 2015 with a simple yet powerful idea: collect empty, recyclable bottles and turn them into hope. Each bottle redeemed helped pay for care packages and postage to deployed military personnel, veterans, and their families—and together, we made a real impact on both people’s lives and the environment.
The funds raised go directly to the Long Island Blue Star Moms NY6 Chapter—moms whose loved ones are serving on active duty. With this support, they’re able to send care packages packed with supplies, snacks, and special comforts not easily found overseas. Meanwhile, all bottles are redeemed and recycled through the All Deposit Bottle and Can Redemption Center in Bay Shore, NY—giving old materials a brand-new life.
As we prepare for the upcoming move of the Daughters of Wisdom’s Islip Office, our collection program is on pause—but the spirit lives on! If you’re inspired, consider adopting a box in your own office or community. Want to learn more or get involved? Call 631-394-6267 and keep the momentum going!