Helping Hands Lend to Community Service Project

Giving back to those in need is a valuable part of the Hamden Hall experience, and students in all grade levels have a long-standing tradition of being involved with local organizations and working with neighboring communities.

 

In the resurgence of the initiative started by former English teacher Bill Hunter, Upper School student volunteers have started back to the Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen. Located in New Haven, student volunteers help prepare dinner for the patrons and organize the pantry shelves. The students are advised by Upper School English teacher Tricia Dowcett who is on hand as another volunteer for the meal-prep effort.

 

“It is so important for the students to not only see what is happening within their own community, but to understand how acts of kindness can make a positive impact,” said Mrs. Dowcett. “As a community, we are at our best when helping those in need no matter the circumstance.”

 

Once a month on Thursday afternoons, a group of four student volunteers and Mrs. Dowcett travel to the soup kitchen to help the organization with tasks including organizing the food pantry, bagging food kits for patrons, preparing and serving dinner, cleanup, and any other duties.

 

“This was super rewarding for all of us involved as everyone felt super grateful and lucky to touch those in need,” said senior Ziv Luo.

 

Other community service initiatives throughout the year at Hamden Hall include, the all school Thanksgiving Stuff-A-Bus program, which is coming up next month, the Middle School Life is Delicious program, the Hugs for Soldiers program, Earth Day projects, and other division-led initiatives including the Lower School’s monthly community service projects. Students have the opportunity to be involved through the Interact Club, Peer Leadership Program, Red Cross Club, and many more. Hamden Hall remains steadfast in creating a culture of global awareness and social responsibility.