“We are hoping to give someone a smile and let them know they are cared about.”
Those were the words that Heather Martinez used to describe the latest community service project by students at Lynn Camp Schools.
Students have been busy during the past three months mastering the construction of knapsacks from a pattern and mass producing their finished products to donate to the Knox County Womens’ Shelter. The knapsacks and accompanying blankets were made by Jodie Carnes’ fashion and interior design career pathway students. The project was dubbed “Knapsacks and Naps”, but for the students it was more of a creative expression of giving to those in need.
“Students felt like giving back to people who are having a hard time is something they would like to do,” said Martinez, who is the Full-Service Community coordinator for the school.
“Through this project, students were able to show great empathy for those who needed help and understand the importance of giving service.”
Each knapsack contained a baby blanket, children’s Little Golden book as well as personal care products raised from the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) student organization.
On Thursday, January 19, the students delivered their donation to the shelter located at the KCEOC headquarters in Gray, just north of Barbourville on Highway 25 E.
Martinez was quick to point out that this project is not a one time community service effort, but rather only the beginning of greater things. “This project has already sparked several ideas for community service in the school years to come.”
“We would like to thank all of the individuals who donated supplies for this project,” said Martinez.
Photos of the students constructing the knapsacks and blankets are available in the KCPS Photo Gallery.
Full-Service Community Schools provide students in Knox County with comprehensive services and interventions including: tutoring, service learning opportunities, job training and career counseling services. Full-Service Community is a part of Partners for Education through Berea College. Partners for Education at Berea College uses a place based, student focused approach to improve educational outcomes in Appalachian Kentucky.