One of our core missions is to inspire children to give back while learning the value of service. Through our After School Program, students take part in monthly service projects, each centered around a meaningful theme that encourages hands-on community involvement.
An introduction to the monthly theme and life skill will be conducted on the first Tuesday of each month, utilizing discussion questions and videos
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Life Skill:
Compassion
This month highlights the importance of raising awareness for pediatric cancer and advocating for vital research and treatment funding. Our focus is to encourage students to offer compassion and support to the brave children and families navigating these difficult journeys.
Penny Wars! Grades K-2 vs. 3-5
Bring in your loose change! All change collected will be donated to the American Childhood Cancer Organization.
Penny War Deadline: Fri, Oct 2 / Pjammin Day
Students will draft and send heartfelt letters to patients at St. Jude’s Hospital.
National Animal Safety Month
Life Skill:
Reliability
This month focuses on educating students about animal protection and the essential duties of responsible pet ownership. We aim to foster a strong sense of welfare for all living creatures.
Dog Toys
Students will construct rope toys for dogs using repurposed t-shirts and cat toys by decorating pingpong balls. Items created will be donated to Loudoun County Animal Services.
Theme: Gratitude
Life Skill:
Thankfulness
Gratitude involves identifying and valuing the positives in our lives. It is more than a simple greeting; it is an enduring attitude that acknowledges the kindness of others and the beauty in the world
Thanksgiving Dinner Bag Donations
All items will be donated to NEST4US.
Deadline: Nov 12
Students will display expressions of thanks on the gym window and create with handmade cards for NEST4US
National Giving Month
Life Skill:
Generosity
This month serves as a dedicated period for community engagement and charitable contributions. We focus on the spirit of the holiday season by helping those in need through active generosity.
Holiday Toy Drive
Donate new, unwrapped toys for ages 6 months to teens
Deadline: by Dec 10
Students will prepare holiday cards, ornaments, and letters for the residents of our local assisted living community to spread seasonal joy.
Theme: SMART Goals
Life Skill:
Goal Setting
The SMART framework (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) provides a roadmap for children to develop focus and clarity in their personal and academic pursuits.
Personal Goals & Action Plan
Students will establish their personal goals and design an action plan to reach them, with their goals showcased on the gym window.
Theme: Love Thy Neighbor
Life Skill:
Spreading Kindness
This month we will aim to encourage students to embrace differences, build understanding, and cultivate a more inclusive and harmonious society.
Kindness Chain & Rocks
Students will construct a collaborative kindness chain to display in the lobby and paint "Kindness Rocks" to line the front walkway.
Stress Awareness Month
Life Skill:
Coping with Stress
This month, our goal is to help students understand stress—how it appears, its physical impact, and how to manage it effectively using different exercises and techniques. While National Stress Awareness Month is typically in April, we've adjusted the timing to ensure students have ample time to learn these essential tools before the upcoming SOLs.
Coping Techniques
Students will learn coping techniques such as meditation, yoga, exercise, and journaling.
Students will create their own DIY stress balls.
Earth Month: Our Planet, Our Power
Life Skill:
Responsibility
Earth Month aims to raise awareness and encourage action for environmental protection, fostering a sense of responsibility for the planet. Earth Day is April 22.
Neighborhood Clean-up
Students will have the opportunity to participate in a neighborhood clean-up. Students will construct a take home bird feeder.
Military Appreciation Month
Life Skill:
Honor
The purpose of this month is to recognize the service and sacrifice of military personnel and their families; promote awareness of the military and the challenges faced by service members and show support and gratitude to those who serve.
Military Letters
Students will compose thank-you letters for military personnel. These letters will be included in care packages distributed by Operation Gratitude.