Some say that middle schoolers are similar to adults in nursing homes: they want desperately to be able to contribute to society, they just don’t have the “wheels.” At EMMS, we provide students the “vehicle” to make service possible. We believe that “compassionate service to the world” is important at the middle school level–where students have a strong desire to help. Service is beneficial as an influence that can shape kids’ lives by instilling a sense of gratitude for what they have and helping them understand more about the world around them.
Each Thursday morning, I accompany a group of around 8-10 students in 7th grade to a service project. Going beyond the school walls and using our energy to help others is a highlight of our week. When the weather is cold, we volunteer at Gift and Thrift, whose proceeds benefit Mennonite Central Committee. When there, we often check games to be sure all of the pieces are there, wipe store shelves, and check and price seasonal items.
When the weather is warm, we volunteer at Vine and Fig, a New Community Project, where we’ve volunteered for several years. New Community Project’s mission is to serve those from difficult life circumstances while imagining ways to live more sustainably. Our projects include picking garden vegetables, pulling nails out of wooden pallets, painting, weeding, and turning compost (while we learn about the science behind it all). We work alongside others who are often marginalized, broadening our world and strengthening our ability to empathize. We also meet and work with several adults who have dedicated their lives to serving this population and enriching our world.
