Parkdale Club Hopes Volunteerism Leads to School Pride

Students from Parkdale High School's Latino Club spent Friday afternoon posting hand-drawn, laminated flags in the cafeteria in an effort to beautify the school's atmosphere.

The flags, which represent countries around the world, showcase the nationalities of current students and of alumni.

Ralph Sierra, advisor for the Latino Club, said that this is just one of the projects the club wants to do this year to make the school beautiful.

"We'd like to do some landscaping outside, taking out weeds, planting trees and flowers, adding some color to the front of the building," Sierra said.

He hopes it will help build the school's sense of community and make them proud of their school.

The Latino Club, which is a group of more than 80 students, is not solely for Hispanic students. The group is made up of students from various backgrounds and races, but they all have an interest in Latin culture. Sierra said service learning is another important aspect of the group, especially since students are required to volunteer 36 hours before graduation.

Senior Miguelito Perdomo, of Lanham, said it's important to give back to the community because it makes students feel better about themselves.

"I think if the school is beautiful, you feel like you want to be here and learn," Perdomo said. "And it makes you proud of the school."

Being one of the group's student leaders, he hopes to get some yellow flowers donated to plant outside of the school, in honor of the school's colors.

Even Alumni Taofik Williams, 18, has remained involved in the group's effort.

"I like Parkdale and I feel like I have a duty to the school," Williams, of Riverdale, said. "This group has helped expose me to other cultures and languages – I've become multicultural."

He said the students' impact would grow far beyond the school's perimeter.

"It allows them to engage positively within the community, rather than negatively," Williams added.

The group plans on adding to their list of activities this year, including a car wash to raise money.

Sierra said he's looking for help from parent volunteers, donations of trees and flowers or supplies that can help the kids beautify the school.

"Anything the community can donate would be great," Sierra said, "including foods and snacks to give to the kids while they volunteer after-school."

To donate, contact Sierra by calling Parkdale High School at 301 513-5700.