At times, the most valuable people in a community are those that go unnoticed. That’s why certain student leaders from Severna Park High School SkillsUSA Chapter opted to do things themselves and accomplish something truly surprising—show appreciation.

Initiated by junior Scarlett Wissel, this community service project started with a discussion about how many times these helpers remained unmentioned. Together with Sophia Leschishin and Addie Matthews, this initiative transformed into an interesting idea to make “Blessing Baskets” for those who always provide help to other people.

“As we talked, it made us appreciate how much they do all the time and never ask anything in return,” Wissel explained.

As soon as everything was ready, junior Candace Williams succeeded in organizing members through the process of collecting various types of presents and packing the baskets for people who do not receive credit for their efforts. All necessary materials were collected by the team, packed in the baskets, along with some snacks, beverages, and cards of gratitude.

It should be noted that this project already started changing students’ opinions about many people in the community. Such roles as a school nurse or a school resource officer gained much respect from the participants of this initiative.

During the delivery of the baskets, there were several occasions of bonding that transcended simply saying thank you. This gave the students an opportunity to personally appreciate the significance of the act of serving.  Students also initiated a kindness campaign and gave positive notes to teachers with a SkillsUSA flower bouquet.

This activity was further publicized through the chapter social media account; thus, it was able to reach many who were not directly involved in it. In all, it proved that being a good citizen goes beyond duty—it involves appreciating others.