Whether it’s collecting nonperishable food items during the holidays, volunteering time at the local food pantry, or participating in litter cleanups, Springs School students have been there to help.
Recently, the school hosted a sneaker drive to collect sneakers for those in need. This drive benefits others by providing a pair of shoes to people who may not be able to afford them.
This and other charitable events are all thanks to Victoria Firemark and the students in the Diversity Club. Thanks to the generosity of fellow students and staff members, 140 pairs of sneakers were donated.
The sneaker drive started last year, when the club was “researching ways to be of service in honor of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday,” Ms. Firemark said, explaining that the students thought this would be a great way to offer people in the school and the community an opportunity to be of service to others while also helping the environment. The shoes go to the organization Gotsneakers.
Julia Stillman, Saoirse Quinn, and Natalia O’Brien, all members of the Diversity Club, collectively agreed that the sneaker drive was a great opportunity to give to others, saying they felt satisfaction knowing that even old and shabby sneakers would be recycled and put to good use. Additionally, the students said that even though they didn’t know who would receive the sneakers, what mattered most was knowing that they would be appreciated. It’s like a gift exchange: one person gets a pair of shoes while the giver gets more closet space.
By hosting events such as the sneaker drive and bake sales, students at the Springs School get a chance to have fun and learn while also giving to others.
By Samantha Moscoso Farfan, Grade 6