There’s something amazing about watching students’ eyes light up as they look around Convoy of Hope’s 300,000 square feet warehouse or when they ask a question that makes us think. Kids have a unique way of looking at things from a different perspective.
Recently, the Academy of Exploration in Springfield, Mo. brought fifth-graders on a compassion field trip to our distribution center.
“At the Academy of Exploration, community service is one of our three pillars,” says Natalie Schifsky, a fifth-grade teacher. “So we try to volunteer or help the community in some way during each unit of study.”
The group was hoping to volunteer during their visit, but most of the students didn’t meet the age requirements. When students were notified they wouldn’t be able to serve, they came up with the idea to raise money for Convoy of Hope instead.
Through the Penny War Challenge, all homeroom classes competed for one week and the school set a goal of $200.
After the tour, students surprised us with the money they had raised which totaled $417 — more than double their original goal.
“We are so fortunate to have everything we have” says Sophie Dawson, fifth-grader at the Academy of Exploration. “We decided to do the Penny Wars to give back to people who have nothing.”
Because of the kindness of these amazing students and all of Convoy’s supporters, help and hope are being delivered to those who need it most.
