As students begin to embrace fall and the quintessential elements of the season that make it so memorable, many take to heart the spirit of the season by showing generosity to others . While generosity is often emphasized during this time of the year, many students have been showing their generosity to others throughout the year, and now have the chance to reflect and be thankful for the blessings they have that they can share with others.
One organization that exemplifies what it looks like to serve others is the National Honor Society. Not only do members of this organization serve the community and the school on their own time, but there are several events coordinated throughout the year to facilitate group service. Last month, the society collected money from its members to buy gifts for children as a part of the Santa Cops program. This month, students will take time out of their busy schedules to help wrap these gifts and give them to children in need. In addition, NHS has launched a book drive to benefit the underprivileged children of Houston who do not have access to books. Students are encouraged to be generous with their old books and donate them to impact the education of Houston’s youth.
“I am going to donate books to the book drive because I love reading, and I think that other kids deserve to have the opportunity to read like I do,” said junior Peyton Tussing.
NHS facilitates a group oriented type of service, but there are other programs where the generosity of students is highlighted on a more independent basis. FORCE is strictly a service organization that is more independent than NHS. Students involved in FORCE engage in service within the community and support causes that they feel connected to. Many students join this program early on in high school and continue to serve through their senior year. The large amount of students participating in FORCE is a testament to the value that Tompkins places on being generous and using one’s resources to help others.
“I joined FORCE because I recognized that there were many needs within the community, and I have a passion to be involved in mission work,” said senior Katherine Eddins.
Along with the large organizations structured specifically for service, there are many clubs that also place an emphasis on helping the community. The Interact Club recently hosted a Chinese Orchestra Concert on Nov. 5, and used all of the money raised from the tickets to go to the charity, Rotary Books. In addition, the ambassador program was organized for students to be generous with their time and welcome new students to the school. The programs and clubs give students an outlet to to see the tangible impact that their service on others and have brought out the generous spirit of students.
“Serving has taught me that even the smallest act of kindness can make a huge impact in the lives of others. It has allowed me to grow as a person and become more compassionate and giving of my time,” said Eddins.
