“Never doubt that a small group of
thoughtful, committed individuals can
change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing
that ever has.”
HOWELL- AnnMarieMenhart’s fifthgraders at the Newbury School may never have heard this famous quotation by MargaretMead. They may never have heard of the famed American cultural anthropologist.
But the pupils have certainly learned about, and now truly understand, the message behind her words. And they learned a little bit about business, as well.
The class recently participated in a fundraising activity to support the Monmouth County SPCA’s animal shelter in Eatontown.
“Our class read two biographical sketches fromthe book ‘It’s OurWorld, Too! Stories of Young People Who Are Making a Difference,’ by Phillip Hoose,” Menhart explained. “After reading the selections from our reading anthology text, the students asked if they could do a project.”
Worthy projects suggested by the students included cookingmeals for the homeless, holding a food drive, and collecting blankets for the needy. The students campaigned among themselves and hoped others would rally for their own suggestions. Ultimately, raising money for the local animal shelter won out. The students decided to help animals by raising money and donating it to the shelter.
“These students said they wanted to help animals in need. The class hoped the money raised would buy medicine so the animals would be healthy and could be adopted by people,” Menhart explained.
Once a deserving cause was decided, the next step for these dedicated youngsters was to figure out what to sell and for how much. Students brainstormed about possible items to sell – everything from handmade bracelets to embossed pencils. After considering the cost, the delivery ofmaterials and the ability to market the items, the class members agreed to sell wristbands.
“The students reasoned that the wristbands were fashionable, could display a message, were affordable for students and readily available with a delivery date in time for Valentine’s Day,” Menhart said, noting that the children wrote letters to parents and other children to persuade them to support their project.
Fliers and postersmade by the students announced the message: “Have a heart! Do your part! Support our shelters!” The black silicone wristbands sported a pink nose and pawprints and the message, “S.O.S” (Save Our Shelter.)
To date, more than 450 bracelets have been sold at $2 each; more than $900 was raised for the shelter by this project. There are still some bracelets available for purchase. Anyone interested in buying one, or in making a donation to the Monmouth County SPCA,may call (732) 751-2491, ext. 5001.
“Student and staff interest and support, marketing decisions, advertising and publicity were essential to a successful drive. The students learned they had to persevere in order to sell the hundreds of bracelets that were ordered. I think the students learned firsthand about the business of fundraising for charity,” Menhart said.