by Moira Cullings
moira.cullings@theleaven.org
LAWRENCE — The kindergarten class at St. John Catholic School here proved that no one is too young to give back to their community.
The students participated in Socktober, a service project that yielded 189 pairs of socks and 106 pairs of underwear for children at the Lawrence Community Shelter.
“My kindergartners were surprised to think that kids in our community needed something as simple as socks and underwear,” said Kasey Fewins, kindergarten teacher at St. John.
“They were eager to help in their small way,” she said. “They were proud watching the collection box fill up during the month.”
Fewins wants her students to develop a desire to give back for the long term, so her kindergartners take part in three or four service projects throughout the year.
“Service projects like this,” she said, “help young children develop an awareness of a world beyond their own.
“I hope they can develop empathy for others and the recognition that you are never too little to help others.”
Fewins also hopes the kids realize the impact they can have through even the smallest acts of service.
“It can be overwhelming thinking of all the needs people in our community have,” she said. “Sometimes, it can be hard to figure out where to start.
“But it has to start somewhere. It doesn’t have to be a giant act. It can be a small group doing little things to make a difference — even a group of kindergartners.”
