Students Take Consumerism and Kindness to Heart

Ridgewood’s George Washington Middle School wrapped up the school year with their annual “Have a Heart” project. For a number of years Broadway House has been the benefactor of this program. The sixth graders work to earn money and use that money to buy necessities for residents of Broadway House. They don’t ask their parents to give them money or solicit businesses for donations. They hold bake sales, do extra chores or watch dogs and use this money to help other people. All money from this project is earned by the students.

The sixth grade team organizes this project to reinforce to the students that “one person can make a difference”. It kicked off with an assembly where Jeanine Reilly, Executive Director of Broadway House addressed the students. She spoke about the hardships of living with his disease and the difficult life circumstances of many of our residents. After the presentation, the students seemed eager to “make a difference”.

On the last day of school Mrs. Reilly returned to find that the project was once again a success. As one of the students said, “by sacrificing a little of your time, you can really change a person’s life”. The dedication of Mike Ryter and the sixth grade team is the driving force behind the success of this project. Our deepest appreciation and admiration go out to the students. Their qualities of generosity and selflessness shined brightly through this project. These youngsters are learning that by lending a hand they can make a difference in our world. Now that’s a lesson plan any teacher can be proud of!

Broadway House For Continuing Care - 298 Broadway Newark, New Jersey 07104 - (973) 268-9797