Cameras flashed wildly as a crowd of proud family members and friends “oo-ed” and “ah-ed” during Rosy Mound Elementary School’s 5th grade graduation. The 5th graders who had participated in the school’s service and safety patrol clubs had just been asked to stand, and an overwhelming majority of the class was on their feet.

“If you think service is dead, then you need to come see our elementary school,” Principal Kevin Blanding said with a laugh. The crowd applauded, and the students beamed.

This class was special, and everyone in the room knew it. They achieved high marks in academics, they had great attendance, they were praised by their teachers—but most of all, their heart for service was extraordinary.

So extraordinary, in fact, that the students started their own service project.

This spring, the Rosy Mound Elementary School’s 5th graders started a “Give Back” fundraiser to raise money for those affected by the January earthquake in Haiti. Led by students Sara Bergman and Olivia Salik, the class conducted pop can drives, set up pop can collection stations, and sold popcorn and ice cream. The project involved the entire class, and spanned over the entire spring semester.

Yesterday, we had the privilege of attending the students’ 5th grade graduation. We were able to spend time with some of the 5th graders before the ceremony, and I couldn’t help but thank God for the hearts of children. For these students, helping Haiti was never a question—when they heard about the earthquakes, they responded immediately.

Why?

It’s that simple. They knew people were in need, so they rose to the occasion—and their efforts definitely paid off. With their donation, International Aid can ship over $23,000 worth of aid to Haiti.

When they presented us with the check during their graduation ceremony, Olivia Salik looked at me and smiled.

“We had so much fun doing this,” she said.

And we had so much fun meeting such a great group of students. Thank you, Rosy Mound’s graduation class, for all of your hard work and for partnering with International Aid to provide relief to those suffering in Haiti!