Finding Meaning in Helping Hands Day: September 11, 2018

Sep 12, 2018 | All School, Build People Up, Lower School News, Middle School News, Preschool News, Upper School News

As our nation looked back to remember the events of 9/11, Mount Vernon students spent the day honoring those who lost their lives through its annual Helping Hands Day. Taking a cue from the School’s strategic plan —MVx— organizers sought to make this year a more meaningful experience for students.
Seeking to strengthen community partnerships, several non-profit organizations came to campus affording Upper School students an opportunity to explore a variety of service areas. By interacting in a non-profit festival, hearing motivational talks from community leaders, packing 15,000 meals together for Rise Against Hunger, and writing personalized thank you letters to the Sandy Springs firefighters, Upper School students completely reimagined the day.
Action Ministries was a big part of #MVHHD, as our Lower School and sixth grade students packed 450 hygiene kits and 300 snack packs for families in need. Seventh and eighth graders went off campus to serve at 10 different nonprofits, many of which were represented at the Upper School non-profit festival.
Meanwhile, our youngest learners in the Preschool partnered with Los NiΓ±os Primero, an organization that inspires Latino preschoolers to be lifelong learners and exemplary members of the community. Our children packed nearly 50 goodie bags with more to come filled with crafts and school supplies.
Collectively, it was an extraordinary day, with many teachers and staff members sharing their thoughts about the day.
β€œMy group had a great experience and they all enjoyed their time with the residents and activity directors of Campbell-Stone Independent Living. The conversations and interactions were genuine and sincere.” ~Mike Edmonson, MV science teacher
β€œI can’t begin to tell you how pleased we all are with the work done by these students. It was rough, grubby work but they excelled and did so with great spirit.” ~Trisha Thompson, Friends of Lost Corner
β€œThe kids were absolutely wonderful and a huge help! We appreciate you thinking of us for your day of service and look forward to hosting you all again!” ~Amanda Marchese, Meals on Wheels
Overall, Mount Vernon students worked with 14 different organizations. Ensuring the experience wouldn’t be a one-time event, Mount Vernon students, teachers, and families will have numerous opportunities to serve throughout the school year. A Service Project Sign-up genius will be distributed to the entire MV community soon!
Helping Hands Day Organizations
Action Ministries
Agape Youth & Family Center
Books for Africa
Campbell-Stone Independent Living
Center for Civil & Human Rights
Community Assistance Center
Door Atlanta
Friends of Lost Corner Preserve
Gateway Center
Lighthouse Family Retreat
Los NiΓ±os Primero
Love Beyond Walls
Meals on Wheels
Truly Living Well
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