Albuquerque Public Schools
Volcano Vista Students Lead Holiday Donation Drive to Support Local Families
Student leaders launch Project I.M.P.A.C.T. to help families in need, expanding a successful community initiative to multiple schools and organizations.
When Volcano Vista High School seniors Hailey Peters and Ilynne Gutierrez saw the difference they made for local youth through last year's community service project, they knew they wanted to go even bigger this season.
This year, the student body leaders are launching Project I.M.P.A.C.T., a holiday donation drive supporting PB & J Family Services and Alongside Ministries, two organizations that help families and single mothers experiencing financial hardship. High schools across the metro area are invited to adopt PB & J families and fulfill wish lists that include household items, toys and warm clothing. Volcano Vista feeder schools Tony Hillerman Middle School and Tierra Antigua Elementary will collect winter coats for Alongside Ministries.
"We want to give back to the community that has given us so much and we do not believe that anyone should have to worry about basic necessities such as clothes and hygiene items,” Peters said. “That is why we are implementing Project I.M.P.A.C.T. this fall season to help those in need on a more personal level."
The students have partnered with PB & J Family Services before and previously helped donate more than $40,000 worth of items. They hope to surpass that impact this year. They also expanded their project to welcome participation from additional high schools, middle schools and elementary schools across Albuquerque.
For Peters and Gutierrez, service is not simply about giving items. It is about hope.
"The most heart-warming moment came when we received a 'Thank you Santa' letter from one of the children of the families who received the donations. We want to give to these families again and provide more than just items, but hope this holiday season," she said.
Last year's effort showed these students how powerful community can be when people come together to support one another, and Peters said they hope that participating in this project helps students and community members realize they can make a difference.
"Although the issue of struggling financially may not impact them specifically, it could affect a loved one,” Peters added. “We want to leave more than a mark but a legacy, and we want our students and community to be a part of this initiative."
Donated items must be new and will be picked up on Dec. 10. For more information about how to donate or get involved, please email the project sponsors at haileyp2008@icloud.com, ilynnejgutierrez@gmail.com and activities@aps.edu. (Please send your email to all three addresses.)
