EIS Students Raise Money to Help Build School in India

When asked to brainstorm ideas to raise money to help build a school in India, students of Edison Intermediate School’s “Free the Children Club” came up with some great ideas, according to teacher and club supervisor, Shannon Stone.

However, one idea stuck out to Stone and that was the idea of 6th grader Katie Hynes. Here idea was to hold a bottle-cap ornament fundraiser, which the club has recently begun conducting.

Hynes said she came up with the idea to create ornaments while brainstorming with her parents.

“When we were brainstorming ideas on how to make them, using bottle caps came to mind,” she said.

Stone said there are multiple benefits of the project they chose. She explained that the project uses recycled materials and makes something beautiful out of waste, which was a benefit to the environment, as well as the idea of kids helping other kids.

Free the Children is a global organization started by a 12-year-old boy who believed that he could make a difference.

“The idea behind the club is that kids DO have the power to bring about change, we just need to give them a voice and support their ideas,” Stone explained.

Hynes was also really pleased that her idea was chosen and able to make a difference.

"I was really happy to see how many people turned out to make the ornaments,” she expressed. “Each person was using their creativity to make the ornaments in their own style."

Stone added that she has enjoyed seeing all of the hard work and efforts that have gone into creating these ornaments.

“As an educator my biggest goal is empowering kids. I want to show them that their ideas matter and show them that helping others can be fun and rewarding,” she said “They are making a difference and I couldn't be more proud.”

Those interested in donating or purchasing an ornament can contact Stone at sstone@westfieldnjk12.org.