Here at MICDS, the coronavirus pandemic has taught us that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a significant impact on others’ lives. This year has delivered some hurdles for our students who are committed to community service. We have seen an increased sense of urgency in our communities and the desire for people to find ways to connect with others and help those in need.
Director of Global Learning and Upper School Community Service Erin Hamill shared, “Volunteering this year is challenging, but I’ve been so impressed with the creative and safe ways students have found to help others. Our students have really stepped forward to enthusiastically support those in need.”
CeCe Nourie ‘21 and Courtney Shands ‘21 have made it their mission to continue their service to the BJC Hospice program. In a “normal” year, they would gather their BJC Hospice Club members twice a month to make seasonal crafts such as Valentines or snowflakes to decorate the patients’ rooms and facility.
This year was different. There was no traditional Activities Fair in the fall where the students walk the quad at Founder’s Court and Danforth Square and sign up for the activities that most interest them. Additionally, many clubs and activities were still trying to figure out what they could safely do. CeCe shared, “Obviously, we can’t have a group of students in a room sharing crafts, so we created this process where students can sign out a “craft kit,” do the craft at home and return it to school for collection and delivery to BJC.”
The craft kits contain sticky bead designs such as hot air balloons, hearts, and rainbows. The faculty sponsors for the club Upper School Fine Arts Teacher Brooke Williams and Middle and Upper School World Language Teacher Patricia Dimit then deliver the completed crafts to the BJC Hospice center for the patients and staff. Courtney remarked, “Small gestures like making crafts for those who are terminally ill and in care can really brighten their day and the spaces around them.”
When asked what is most different about this year of service, Courtney said, “I miss the aspect of coming together with our group to make the crafts. I also miss being able to visit the BJC Hospice care center, where you get to see your contributions. That really seals the deal and makes you understand the impact of your effort. We often underestimate how much these small gestures mean to people.”
At times, there are misconceptions about volunteering in a hospice environment. CeCe said, “It’s tough getting people to join because when people hear ‘hospice,’ they think of death and sickness. What we do isn’t about that. It’s about creating a comfortable space for the patients. Courtney adds, “The care center doesn’t look like a traditional hospital; it’s more like a home and is comfortable for the patients.”
CeCe and Courtney are also involved in community service outside of MICDS at AIM High. Courtney said, “Community service brings a sense of gratitude and happiness for what you’re doing. It’s nice to see a smile on the other end that you were able to help someone.”
To support the BJC Hospice Club efforts, contact CeCe or Courtney via email. The craft kit sign-out box is located in the Upper School Library near the circulation desk.