Turtles Engage with Regional Community

“Volunteering at Chatham Elementary has been a great opportunity for the students of Chatham Hall to get involved with the community,” said Mia Swanson ‘24. “There are very few experiences that are comparable to seeing a child’s eyes light up when they figure out the answer to a challenging problem, and knowing you helped them feel that joy and accomplishment. I always look forward to volunteering with the energetic and enthusiastic kids at Chatham Elementary, and many Chatham Hall students have really loved the experience.”

On the weekends, students have participated in multiple charity 5K walks and runs, including a Color Run for Hughes Educational Center on Sept. 9 and the Arkema 5K Race & One Mile Fun Run on Sept. 23.

Also this semester, St. Mary’s Choir and the fall dancers spent two afternoons in Danville at Commonwealth Senior Living performing and interacting with residents.

“Getting out into the community and supporting those around us is a great way for our students to give back. Service not only supports the wider community, but also allows students to see their own value and what skills they have which increases self-worth and self-esteem,” Assistant Director of Community Life & Wellbeing Frankie Beyer said. “When choosing activities like these, we look to support our local community and really find projects where our recurring work makes a difference.”

Looking ahead, students will begin working with Habitat for Humanity in their ReStore ahead of Thanksgiving Break. Additionally, they will revisit House of Hope, a faith-based emergency homeless shelter in Danville, in December to make dinner and serve the residents.

Keep up the great work, Turtles!