By Edith Weinstein and Kathy Merton
Every school year, Churchill Junior High School in East Brunswick celebrates students who have made a difference through acts of kindness in the community. Our students have poured their hearts into their projects, from research to execution, showcasing leadership and compassion every step of the way.
Students have purchased items for those in need, made and delivered care packages, visited animal shelters and brought supplies. They also created crafts and bracelets to lift the spirits of those who need a boost. These students made school improvements, including decorating our school inside and out with messages of positivity. They cleaned parks, fields and lakefronts. They visited assisted living facilities to do crafts and activities with residents. Some used grants from various organizations as a means to generate even more funding to causes close to their hearts.
Those who have participated have a new perspective on kindness and how it feeds the mind and soul. The mission of our program is simple yet profound: to learn to live and breathe kindness and to leave a positive legacy. Kindness, as we’ve seen, knows no bounds.
The Butterfly Effect Kindness Initiative began with an impromptu class lesson on Giving Tuesday, sparked by videos such as “Grand Theft Donut” and “Chris Rosati Proves the Butterfly Effect.” Chris Rosati’s legacy reminds us that kindness has a ripple effect, touching lives in ways we may never fully comprehend.
Last year, we expanded the program to two more secondary schools in East Brunswick. It’s exciting to see more students having the opportunity to participate in these life-changing experiences.
For three years, we’ve been fortunate to run the Butterfly Effect Kindness Initiative with the generous donations of many organizations. We want to thank the East Brunswick Education Association Pride Committee for supporting our yearly kindness night by providing funding for the award plaques and refreshments.
Build community involvement with a PEP Grant
Public Education Partnership (PEP) grants share the successes of New Jersey’s public schools while building community support and involvement. PEP grants were formerly known as Pride in Public Education grants.
PEP grant proposals can be completed online. Local Presidents, PEP/PRIDE Chairs and FAST Chairs have access to the online application. As always, all expenses must be approved in advance.
Visit njea.org/pep for more information.