In order to spread holiday cheer and provide gifts for those who are unable, the Interact Club of Monroe-Woodbury High School organized holiday presents for families after school on December 17. As they worked, Interact members munched on chicken wings and pizza while holiday music floated through the air.
“I feel happy because it feels good giving a young kid a dream,” said Samantha Berrio, a junior and Interact member. “I wish I had this when I was younger.”
Ms. Baird, an adviser for the club, helped organize the event.
“All of that was the work of Mrs. Baird. She’s been instrumental and awesome. She did all the choosing of the families and the shopping, and we’re here putting it together. She’s really here to support what we’re here to do,” said Samantha Koranteng, a senior and Interact member since her freshman year.
The funds for the event were provided by the annual Harlem Wizards basketball game held at Monroe-Woodbury High School.
“My officers told me that they would like to adopt a family for the holidays; a tradition begun by retired moderator, Nancy Flannigan,” said Ms. Baird. “We voted on a budget to spend, and reached out to Rosemary Schwartzberg who runs the Adopt-a-Family event. Based on the information that we gave her, she provided wish lists for two families. We were able to make each family member’s holiday wishes come true.”
The Interact Club provides an easy, unique opportunity for students to give back to their community when they might have been otherwise unable.
“I feel that it’s important because not everyone has the ability to buy gifts for loved ones,” said AJ Leone, a junior and Interact member.
While students organized the gifts, the classroom was awash with a jolly but productive vibe as students chatted and worked.
“It feels satisfactory. I feel good about myself and I feel happy about getting these kids a gift,” said Berrio.
Many students not only enjoy volunteering, but also the time they get to spend alongside their peers working for a cause.
“In the holiday season, we have to spread cheer. And volunteering is always more fun when you do it with other people,” said Koranteng.
