Student Leadership Sparks Generosity

The Christmas Fund Drive at Eastern Mennonite School (EMS) is a cherished student led tradition which brings together community and generosity. This year, the official launch took place during a Chapel service on Monday, where student leaders took the stage to entertain and inspire! The goal for this year’s drive is to raise $150,000 for the Flames Fund.

This year’s theme is, “Wait, Watch, Wonder,” the students posed the leading question, “What inspires you?”  Two students shared a verse from Isaiah 11:1, emphasizing the hope that comes with the advent season:

“Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and he shall reign as king and deal wisely, and shall execute justice and righteousness in the land…”

The Christmas Fund Drive serves multiple purposes within the EMS community.

• It helps sustain a strong learning environment where students feel a sense of belonging, can thrive academically, and participate in God’s work in the world.
• It provides donors with the opportunity to support student scholarships, aid, faculty, campus improvements, and the core values of our school through the Flames Fund.
• The drive also fosters personal growth among students, helping them develop vital communication skills, build confidence, and experience the joy of generosity through their leadership. Part of the reason why our students write to our current and potential donors is because their voices and experiences matter. They learn through their efforts of postcard writing that it fills people with hope to hear from students about their lives and what inspires them.

To make the kickoff engaging and memorable, students presented a skit and organized a fun jeopardy themed game. In addition to the chapel kick-off. EMS also participated in Giving Tuesday for the first time. Thank you to the 38 supporters contributing a generous total of $16,491.50 toward the Flames Fund. Alumni donors further enhanced this momentum by offering a $10,000 match, encouraging students as they prepare to reach out to friends and family for support through postcard writing sessions all week.

The Christmas Fund Drive not only highlights the importance of financial support for Eastern Mennonite School but also reinforces the values of community, generosity, and inspiration that are at the heart of the EMS experience. As we wait, watch, and wonder at what will happen this advent season, we are so grateful for your support!

To learn more, go to our Christmas Fund Drive page.