The Society of St. Vincent de Paul of San Mateo County (SVdP) was visited last week by Joanne Ferretti, Director of Religious Education at St. Bartholomew’s Parish in San Mateo. She stopped by to share a story of second graders there who were happy and proud to be able to help their neighbors in need. They raised $180 all on their own for SVdP's mission and programs. Thank you St. Bart’s 2nd graders for illustrating the maxim, “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” (Arthur Ashe)
Jake Janosky’s dad, Rob, is from Boston and his relatives live near where the Boston Marathon bombing took place. What could he do? How could he help? Jake, a 3rd grader at St. Catherine of Siena School in Burlingame, decided with the help of his mom, Lisa, to plan a bake sale to raise funds for the victims of the bombing. Last Sunday, Mollie Stones graciously hosted the bake sale, where Jake raised over $500 for The One Fund, supporting families who were injured in the bombing. It’s like Dr. Seuss said, “Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple.” Jake’s answer was simple – do something to help.
We are blessed by the actions of these and other local children who show compassion in action. It is not only that we, as adults, model positive behavior, but that we learn from our children as well – let’s all think of others and give of ourselves, because giving changes lives and offers hope to those who have none. Cheers to kids and compassion!
