Young Philanthropic Minds at Work
Writer / Jessica Pflumm
Photographer / Ron Stiemert
As many of us started off our 2016 with our own New Year’s resolutions, several students at Center Grove Montessori (CGM) decided to resolve for others less fortunate than themselves. With a focus on community service and ‘giving back’ as part of their everyday curriculum, these fourth, fifth and sixth graders came up with some great ideas to honor others and put their plans into action.
While doing an assignment on child-aged heroes, two CGM students found an idea and then decided to give it their own twist. Jayden, a fifth grader who enjoys playing video games and helping others, and Kate, a sixth grader who has previously given books to IU Hospital chemo patients, started researching a California-based company that accepts used DVDs and video games. Jayden and Kate thought of local children staying in area hospitals that might benefit from the same idea.
They started a drive to collect gently used DVDs and video games to then take and leave at Riley Children’s Hospital. Upon contacting Riley, the students were told that Riley did accept these types of donations. Jayden and Kate created their own flyer and donation boxes and contacted local businesses to solicit donations. Half-Price Books on U.S. 31 donated a box of DVDs.
Before they knew it, they had a large box of DVDs and books to donate! Their goal is to reach 100 items, and as of February 5, they had collected 95. Jayden and Kate plan to personally deliver the DVDs, books and games to Riley upon reaching their goal. Children and families of all ages will benefit from this by having the entertainment to get them through long hospital stays.
Similarly, other students at Center Grove Montessori have thought of wonderful ideas in giving back to our local community:
Gabby, a fourth grader who has a passion for animals, is working on a pet food drive for a local shelter.
Gillian, a fifth grader with a love for the environment, has created a ‘Trash Team’ to pick up trash along local running trails in April and May.
Sarah, a fifth grader interested in dance, is contacting local nursing homes to set up a time to come and perform for them.
If you have used DVDs, books or video games that are age appropriate, please contact Center Grove Montessori – it is never too late to give to this wonderful cause. Thank you, Center Grove Montessori students, for being an exemplary example for all of us to follow!
For more information on CGM, call 317-883-0335 or go to centergrovemontessori.com.
