Community Outreach plans activities to help students learn about and serve those less fortunate in our community, our country, and the world. Through service learning projects and programs, students learn that they can make a difference, around the corner and around the world. Each year, the PTO co-chairs work with staff and community leaders to organize activities such as:
Food Drive
The Food Drive collects food for the New Trier Township Food Pantry as part of Make-A-Difference Day. Crow Island has become a major contributor to the Food Pantry and our donations helps feed community families in need.
Candy Drive
Immediately after Halloween, students have the opportunity to donate Halloween candy to raise money for Lurie Children’s Hospital to secure the Hospital’s wish list items.
Showers of Gratitude
In the days before Thanksgiving, students are invited to decorate a paper feather with their thoughts on what they are most thankful for. Together, the feathers create a giant, colorful Thanksgiving turkey to be displayed at Crow Island. Families are also invited to donate laundry detergent, cleaning supplies, shampoo and/or body wash for the New Trier Township Food Pantry.
Bernie’s Book Bank
In conjunction with the Crow Island Book Fair in November, families have the opportunity to donate gently-used and new books to Bernie’s Book Bank. Bernie’s Book Bank is one of Chicago’s largest literacy programs and distributes books to children throughout Chicagoland.
Sack Suppers
In December, students have an opportunity to be hands-on in helping people in need by assembling meals to feed the homeless. Families are asked to donate food supplies, and students will prepare sandwiches and assemble brown bag dinners during their classroom holiday parties. This long-standing Crow Island tradition is a wonderful way for children to experience the spirit of giving around the holidays.
2023/2024 Chairs: Katie Laabs, Chrissy Pelleriti, Kristin Ziebarth, and Cara Brooks
For any questions, please contact crowislandprograms@gmail.com.