As the year begins to wind down and students anticipate their long awaited holiday break, Hempfield Area High School prepares for its annual Spartan Holiday Extravaganza. Each year the Extravaganza excites students, allowing them a day of fun before heading home to celebrate their own traditions with their families. With games and music building the holiday cheer, this tradition has become a highlight of the holiday season.
Alongside the games, music, and many festivities, this year’s Extravaganza carries a deeper meaning, one that emphasizes the spirit of giving.
Mrs. Natalie Fetterman has worked tirelessly to set up a variety of community service events throughout the building, allowing students to experience what it means to make meaningful contributions to the local community. Teaming up with Mrs. Fetterman, faculty members Mrs. Karen Sternick, Mrs. Darci Markovic, and Mrs. Katie Kertoy volunteered their time to make this event a possibility. Each understands the importance of giving back to those less fortunate, and how these small acts of kindness can make a huge difference in the lives of many others.
The day’s activity is divided into stations where specific tasks will be completed for donations to local organizations. One of the organizations that benefits from this collective effort is the non-profit Feeding the Spirit. With their emphasis on assisting individuals in the community in need of support, this organization is a critical component in this year’s Holiday Extravaganza. Their station will task students with assembling toiletry bags, which will be distributed at a weekly Thursday Night Meals at Otterbein Church in Greensburg.
Other stations will involve the making of fleece blankets, which will be taken to local animal shelters, ensuring that not only people, but animals receive warmth and love over the holidays. Another volunteer post will involve the gathering and assembly of flower arrangements for local maternity wards.
It is through team work and selflessness that we find ourselves in the heart of this holiday season. By taking part in this event, students are able to move forward with motivation and empathy to continue to offer their time and care to those that may need a little help. We can find the meaning of the holiday season through the spirit of giving.
