As many students may know, service and support, whether through cleaning up trash or helping those struggling with food insecurity, are integral parts of our school lives. As a result, the Service Board is organizing many projects and events to support those in need, many of which run through November.
The Can Drive, a well-known and long-running event, runs from November 4-25. It involves collecting donations to support people in need. The school supports various competitions, and the proceeds go to charity. This helps those who need food and other provisions during the Thanksgiving season.
This year Can Drive organizers aim to raise more cans than last year’s mere 3,000 to benefit people in the Philadelphia and local communities. While some may only be able to bring a few cans, those donations still count and contribute to this year’s goal of 10,000 cans.
It’s the season of giving, too. Other upcoming service opportunities include the Turkey Drive on November 25th and the Coat Drive from December 2-16, providing food and resources to those in need.
Previously, the Service Board has collaborated with various organizations, such as Food4Philly and ProjectHOME, with various students volunteering to provide others with food and shelter. Still, however, some events and fundraisers are lacking in reaching their goals.
Donations for these drives are key for non-profit organizations. They help Haverford’s community thrive and show that Haverford’s value of humility can be reflected by its students’ simple acts of service.
Such events are not limited to the Service Board but rather to the entire community, and many students should aim to participate in them.
As the 2024-2025 year is coming to a close, students should look out for upcoming service events and lend a hand. This can be through donating cans or simply providing a few dollars for a fundraiser event.
These actions shape the school’s attitude and reputation and should not be undermined, as they show our actions toward others.
These actions shape the school’s attitude and reputation and should not be undermined, as they show our actions toward others. This year’s Can Drive is a key point in our service. Don’t forget: the Can Drive runs until the week after Thanksgiving, and the winning advisory earns a dress-down day and a pizza lunch.
