Educator’s View: Charity Election Engaged My Students — & Helped Feed 528 People
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Similar to many educators, I chose to enter this profession because I wanted to make a positive impact on the lives of my students and the world as a whole. Although my previous professional experience was in finance, I believed that I would find greater fulfillment by being part of the solutions that society needs. I knew that a significant change was necessary.
Recently, I decided to draw upon my past life and assist my students in organizing a charity election at our school. This initiative was made possible through a grant provided by the nonprofit organization Giving What We Can.
During the election, students had the opportunity to allocate up to $2,000 in grant funds to one of three chosen charities. In many ways, this process resembled an exercise in investment. Students diligently researched each charity, analyzing the evidence surrounding their pros and cons, before ultimately voting on which organization should receive the funds. Student leaders took on crucial roles and responsibilities to ensure the success of the election.
Remarkably, over 80% of the student body participated in the charity election. This high level of engagement can be attributed to a unique component of our school – the Focus Program. At Winston Prep, our students have learning differences, and the Focus Program provides them with daily one-on-one support. This personalized attention empowers students to focus on their specific areas of need.
Through this program, each student engaged in conversations with passionate adults regarding the nominated charities. Subsequently, they cast their votes, with each vote corresponding to a $2 contribution from the grant specifically allocated for the election. In total, the students collected $374 to donate.
Following the vote, we conducted a post-election survey to continue the student engagement. The responses we received were truly inspiring and demonstrated the profound impact of the charity election experience. One student remarked on the importance of donating to organizations that truly make a difference, stating that the election made them realize the significance of effective giving.
Another student expressed how the charity election positively influenced them, prompting them to consider helping others and giving back.
Not only was this charity election a remarkable opportunity for our students, but it also showcased the collective impact our school can make. Though the donated sum was not substantial, the funds awarded to the winning charity, Project Healthy Children, were sufficient to provide food-based micronutrient fortification to 528 individuals for an entire year. The second and third-place organizations, The Humane League and The GiveWell Maximum Impact Fund, respectively, also work to address significant issues through their crucial missions.
This charity election reiterated the immense power we hold as educators and reminded me that our influence is not confined to the classroom. I stumbled upon the charity election grant one morning while enjoying an extra cup of coffee, and this experience has inspired me to actively seek out similar opportunities in the future.
One of my students beautifully articulated the impact of this initiative by stating, "It makes me feel like I’m making a difference and changing the world, even if it’s in a small way." I wholeheartedly share this sentiment.
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