About a decade ago, Mrs. Montell led the Caring Hands Club, a small but heartfelt club with only four members. Their vision was straightforward yet powerful: to create a safe space where every student, regardless of ability, could feel supported, embraced, and cared for. What started as only a few compassionate students wanting to brighten the days of kids with special needs has blossomed into a bustling and honorable club.
The club cycles through officers yearly, and this year is no exception. Leading the way as newly appointed president is sophomore Madeline White. White’s brother is on the spectrum, so she has grown up around neurodiversity. She explains that this is one of the main reasons she joined the Caring Hands Club saying, “He’s one of the happiest things in my life… these kids bring me so much joy, and it makes me so happy to put a smile on their faces.” She claimed she wouldn’t be upset if she didn’t win, but she is thrilled that others saw her as the right fit for such a high position.
As president, White plans to make this club as safe and comfortable as she can for the students and buddies who attend, and she intends to plan enjoyable events down the road. Undoubtedly, White is a compassionate and caring student who is more than qualified to be a wonderful and dedicated president.
Serving as Vice President, Lana Allshouse brings her positive energy and nobility to the leadership team. Similar to White, Allshouse has a sister who was diagnosed with autism a few years back. This diagnosis also inspired her to join the club and get to know more about kids on the spectrum. “I learned how to work with it (autism), and it was the happiest part of my life. She made me feel stronger about it and taught me some things,” Allshouse said.
Addison Knavel is taking on the role of secretary. Knavel has been a part of the Caring Hands Club for about two years and decided it was time to indulge more within the club. She feels quite happy to have won and said, “I plan to try to make it more comfortable for everyone and just make it fun for the kids”. Her dedication to this club will certainly help to create a welcoming atmosphere where all voices will be heard.
As treasurer, Brooke Boller is sure to benefit the club in many uplifting ways. Boller decided to run for treasurer because she is considering special education as her career and wanted to get to know as much as possible about this subject. She is great with financing and numbers and has been trying to put herself “out there” more, which adds to the many reasons why she will be great for this position. Boller is overjoyed to have been elected and says “I know we will be able to make some invaluable experiences for both the kids and ourselves. This is the sort of activity I’ve always wanted to be involved in, so I’m eager to start planning events and create a space where every single person feels welcome.” Her plan this year is to collaborate with her fellow officers and to plan engaging activities and events within the club that have never been done before.
Throughout the year, club members participate in a variety of activities that allow them to bond and enjoy time together. These activities range from holiday parties to more structured events such as field trips, all focused on creating an environment where students with and without disabilities can connect and have fun. One of said events is their Halloween party. Buddies will be able to attend to help with fun Halloween crafts and enjoy their time with the students. These activities highlight the club’s core values of inclusion, friendship, and fun. Through every event, the Caring Hands Club shows that building friendships across abilities is not only possible, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.
The club continues to grow stronger, creating a school culture where everyone is valued and welcomed. With a passionate leadership team and a growing membership, the future looks bright for Caring Hands. The club’s ongoing dedication to breaking down barriers and building lasting friendships not only benefits its members but also helps foster a culture of kindness and acceptance throughout the entire school community. Here’s to another year of fun, friendship, and unforgettable memories with the Caring Hands Club.
