Freshmen and sophomores in Karen Battle's Skills for Living class prepared breakfast for three families who were staying at Ronald McDonald House.
Nov. 24, 2015 -- Students in Karen Battle’s 9th and 10th grade Skills for Living class prepared breakfast for families at the Ronald McDonald House. “We made pancakes, eggs, sausages, cinnamon rolls, fruit, and hash browns for three families,” said Ms. Battle. And afterwards the students cleaned the kitchen and dining room and had a tour of the facility.
Families from out of town stay at the Ronald McDonald House when their children are receiving treatment at area hospitals for serious medical conditions.
In the weeks before the November 19 service project, the 10 students collected four large boxes of supplies from family and friends. The students delivered the requested supplies that included cleaning products, baking goods, plastic ware, eggs, fruit and canned items.
“The students loved making a meal for the families and being a part of the supportive community,” said Ms. Battle. After the project, students reflected on the experience:
- It was nice to do something for someone else.
- I felt like I was a part of a big family when we were all in the kitchen cooking together.
- This experience changed my life, it taught me to cherish the moments I have with my family and friends, because there are others that have serious struggles.
- Doing something nice for someone else allowed me to step away from the stress I encounter every day.
The Skills for Living course helps students learn the skills to be responsible students and citizens.
“Community service projects help students think of others first and practice appropriate behavior in a professional setting,” said Ms. Battle. The project gave students an opportunity to practice public speaking, showing appreciation and responding to feedback from others.
“I am very proud of the students and the way they worked together,” continued Ms. Battle.
The Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland is located in University Circle. The staff and volunteers provide services with compassion in a home-like setting to diverse families whose children are facing medical challenges.