ALL TOO OFTEN we are quick to see the negative, to despair about the world today, to worry about what the future holds for our young people.
But then along comes something uplifting like a project undertaken by students from Lincoln and Washington elementary schools in Owatonna and my confidence and hopefulness are restored.
While accompanying my husband on a recent stop at St. Clair’s for Men in Owatonna to pick up his suit for our eldest daughter’s wedding, I noticed a basket filled with colorful art.
Of course, I inquired about the handcrafted pins, earrings and magnets and was pointed to a sign explaining the project.
Owatonna students, upon learning about the damage caused by Hurricane Sandy and the lives lost in that fierce storm last fall along the East Coast, decided to help. Thus the “Houses for the Homeless” fundraiser, initiated several months ago.
With mat board, markers and hand-painted papers, the young artists designed mini houses, a visual of the rebuilding process.
Already, I’ve been told (although not confirmed with project organizers), the project has raised $3,000 for Hurricane Sandy relief from those $5 per artwork piece sales.
If you’re feeling cynical today, or tomorrow, or the next day, about young people, then consider this fundraiser and these elementary school kids from Owatonna.
Students today, unlike those of my childhood, are growing up in a much different and bigger world. I don’t recall ever undertaking a single compassionate project during my school days. Activities such as “Houses for the Homeless” teach kids to think beyond themselves and their wants and needs. And that is a very good thing.
FYI: “Houses for the Homeless” pins, earrings and magnets are available for purchase in Owatonna at St. Clair’s for Men, Kristi’s Clothing, Cedar Floral Design Studio and Central Park Coffee Co.
© Copyright 2013 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
Minnesota Prairie Roots 
I love this idea and what a great lesson these children are learning. Compassion and empathy for others is something that they will remember all through their lives and this is the start of something that will carry them through. I love the last red house (of course) with the person in the door. Perfect.
Yes, such lessons taught at a young age certainly have to make an impact.
What a Great Idea – love it – thanks so much for sharing! Have a Great Day:)
Yes, always a great idea when kids can engage in compassion toward those in need.
Red, huh, Beth Ann…..no surprise there!! LOL! That’s so great, though! Huge life lessons being learned by many….those who are creating these items and those who come in contact with them as a potential purchaser. I didn’t grow up in such an outward looking environment that shared in others’/strangers’ lives on any type of intimate/giving level and that is why the quilting community has been such a blessing to me. It is a global group of people who see a need and ‘step up to the plate’ and mobilize resources via local groups, blogs, the ‘net, etc. We all are very aware of how small our world has become and the question put forth in the Bible “Who is my neighbor?” has truly taken on global meaning! Great post…..Thanks, Audrey!!!!!! Hugs…….
Well said, Doreen.
;-b
That is so great. Yes, it is terrific when kids learn compassion for others. The trick, I think, is to have compassion on those you see every day around you…ie, to treat your peers with respect and honor.
I totally agree with you, Gretchen. Hopefully strives are being made toward that with all the awareness about bullying.
Hopefully, yes.
I’ve just been mulling over this question, “Why didn’t we have this compassionate world view when we were kids?” At first it was a bit hurtful to face the truth of the matter, but in thinking more on it, my family was pretty much flat out trying to keep the wolf from our own door. We gave substantially to missions and church but that was all. Beyond that I don’t think my parents were personally aware of a broader need. I applaud these kids and I think their art looks very wearable and interesting. At $5.00 each maybe it is a bit under-priced.
I think you nailed it with that not being personally aware of a broader need. The world was much smaller decades ago and extended families tended to take care of each other more, perhaps. I think there are many reasons why we didn’t undertake such projects.
My family was also generous in giving to the church and missions, as are my husband and I today.
The is hope in our young, we just have to see it, even in these little hand-made tokens that are making a big difference to the less fortunate. Thanks for acknowledging these kids in Owatonna Audrey, they deserve it.
Yes, it is good to recognize the good that kids are doing these days and realize the hope.