The holidays have arrived, and in the spirit of the season, Chase Collegiate students are donating their time, efforts and items to worthwhile programs in the region. Maren Burling of Monroe and a sophomore at Chase is one of many students helping children and families in need through a long-standing service project where students collect toys, hats and mittens for the Secret Santa Society of Bristol. “I am so proud of our students because of their willingness to give of themselves and to the importance of giving to those that are in need,” says Maryellen Holden, Spanish Teacher.
There are many other busy elves around campus. The Upper School’s Community Service Outreach Club is putting together bags of toiletries for women at Safe Haven, a center in Waterbury for victims of domestic violence, and is collecting toys for a holiday gift-giving at Staywell Health, a community health center.
For the second year, Mrs. Gusenburg, an English teacher, continues to collect cards to support the children of St. Jude's Ranch. The ninth graders announced a can drive to support local food banks starting next week, and sophomore Wenkai Li is selling bracelets in support of a local family dealing with adolescent cancer.
The Middle School winter clothing and blanket drive helps those who might need assistance in staying warm this winter. The group managed to collect 492 warm items, which will be donated to local shelters. And, finally, the Lower School Community Outreach Club is collecting gifts and books for the Children’s Community School and for children who reside at Rainbow House.
“The tradition of giving at Chase,” says Kampf ’97 “begins with caring teachers. It was a long time ago, but I still remember Mrs. Holden’s ability to instill in us many valuable lessons about responsibility, respect and life.
Chase is having an Open House, January 27th.
