Spreading cheer and thanks
MCHS STEM interns bring joy to nursing home residents, staff
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LEWISTOWN -- Mifflin County High School STEM interns were given 20% of their class time to work on a project of their choice which would positively impact their local community.
"In industry this type of project is often referred to as Genius Hour, 20% Time or as Passion Projects and the concept has been used by companies such as Google and 3M," said Rebecca J. Conner, technology education teacher, and governor's STEM adviser.
A few weeks ago, the STEM interns were inspired to "Spread Cheer" to local nursing home residents and nurses at William Penn nursing home in Derry Township. STEM interns brainstormed and selected several craft ideas to make for the 200-plus staff and residents for Valentine's Day, which were delivered on Friday.
The gifts and crafts included: 245 decorative laser engraved charms, eight paper flower bouquets, 125 paper hearts stuffed with Hershey's Kisses, 45 Valentine's cards and 117 word search worksheets wrapped in a bow with a Valentine's pencil.
Culinary arts teacher Mandy Gallo and her students also joined in the mission by making and packaging 117 bags of Valentine's day themed cookies for the residents.
Students had positive feelings about the project.
"I am so glad that our class got to participate in an activity that could bring joy to others," said Belky McNeil, intern who helped create the paper flower bouquets. "I participated in making flower bouquets for the residents. I hope the bouquets brighten their day by just seeing them."
Trevor Stout and Landon Forsythe, interns who did the laser engraved charms, were also happy to participate.
"These are difficult times for all of us, especially for those who are in homes and are unable to see their families," Stout said. "Being able to be a part of this and making a difference in someone's life is always a great feeling."
"I know how sad it can be in these places, and the best part for the residents is seeing others and talking and laughing," Forsythe said. "Because of COVID their ability to see people has been cut extremely and I can only imagine how they feel, so this was a way I wanted to help them feel happy."
It seemed like most of the students who were involved with the project were excited to make even a small difference in the lives of others.
"I loved being able to be a part of this project. I hope the residents feel joy when they get these," said Mallory Weston, who worked on the word search gift.
"I really enjoyed being a part of this mission with my classmates," said Jordi Attick, who worked on the paper hearts stuffed with Hershey's Kisses. "I hope someone feels loved and appreciated when they receive these hearts."
"I enjoyed working with my friends on this project and hope it brings joy to those that receive them," added Madi Yoder, who also worked on the paper hearts.
"I just really hope that the least we can do is brighten someone's day with the paper flower bouquets," said Josie Kibe, who worked on the paper flower bouquets.
"I really enjoyed seeing everyone working together on this project to brighten the residents' and staff's days," said Taryn Miller. "I hope they enjoy it and it can bring some joy into their lives."