As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of generosity becomes brighter than ever, reminding us that even the smallest act of kindness can spark meaningful change. While there are countless ways to give back, some opportunities feel especially close to home, like Andy’s Attic, an organization led by students right within our school community. Andy’s Attic collects donated clothing and essential items, then sorts, packs, and ships them to individuals and families who need them most. This season, as many look for ways to make a real impact, Andy’s Attic offers a powerful reminder that compassion doesn’t have to travel far to reach those who need it. In this article, we’ll explore thoughtful ways to spread generosity during the holidays, beginning with the transformative work happening through Andy’s Attic.
To begin with, an amazing organization we have here at South High Community School is Andy’s Attic. A little background on this organization: it started when a young 16 year old boy, Andrew Reese, very unfortunately passed away in December 2010. His parents, Lisa and Darrel Reese, started a clothing pantry from their home to help local teens in the area. Andrew was nicknamed Andy, which is where the name “Andy’s Attic” originated, and it was shortly after adopted and brought to South High by a wonderful woman named Christine Foley.
This organization grew tremendously and began serving not just local teens, but also elders, foster children, babies, elementary students, the homeless, and many others in need. As a result, more help was required, which is where students of South High stepped in to help run the organization. It was later taken over by Daniel Boyle. Andy’s Attic, a community service many students are required to participate in and many volunteer for became something truly special. It is a way to give back to those in need with nothing but a “thank you” and a smile we may never see. However, simply knowing they are smiling when they receive their orders is heartwarming and makes all the stress and hard work worth it.
One of my closest friends Makayla Jones and I have made many orders together. We try to match each order’s description and requests as best as we can and make each one extra special with a positive note. Sometimes, just a few words on a Post it note can be the reason someone keeps fighting and trying. One way you can help is by donating clothes you no longer wear or need. All donations are greatly appreciated. These donations, along with grants and checks, are the reason we are able to help those who need a little extra support.
In addition, another great organization associated with South High Community School is the National Honor Society (NHS), run by students with high GPAs who are members of NHS, along with Lisa Apau. This organization involves students discussing and organizing who will run the snack cart during each of the four lunches. The snack cart is filled with snacks that are all one dollar, while some items, such as soda, may cost two dollars. The customers are students here at South High, and all profits go toward giving back to the community. Sometimes the money is used to purchase items to donate, while other times it is directly given back to the community, aside from restocking the snack cart to keep the organization running.
South High has many organizations dedicated to helping the community, many of which are student-led. These organizations teach valuable skills such as time management, organization, money management, and selflessness. They are great ways to help those in need, earn volunteer hours, and do things you enjoy all while getting younger generations involved in making a difference.
