Compassion for those less fortunate has motivated three fifth-grade students to organize their own service learning projects. Upon learning that several communities in Kenya have no soccer equipment for their youth, Regan kicked off (pun intended) a soccer equipment drive, successfully collecting loads of equipment from the Tilden community. Last week she learned that the donations had arrived in Kenya and the kids there are thrilled! Similarly, Ella witnessed homeless families freezing on the streets of Seattle, prompting her to ask what can I do to help? Her answer: a warm clothing and blanket drive. Again the Tilden community stepped up, donating plenty of coats, gloves, hats, blankets, and more. Recently Ella and her parents passed out the donations to some of Seattle’s homeless population, and Ella reported that folks were deeply appreciative. Finally, Siobhan is preparing for a book drive she is organizing for students at Bailey Gatzert Elementary, a Seattle school with the highest homeless student population. Her goal is to collect 300 books for grades K-6, so each student at Bailey Gatzert can take a book home. No doubt Tilden’s families and faculty will meet or exceed the challenge. Siobhan plans to deliver the donations to Bailey Gatzert a week prior to spring break. Thank you, Regan, Ella, and Siobhan, for easing the struggles of others.
