It’s a big family at Oak Grove Elementary, and Club Inspire has brought a tradition of kindness and caring passed down through the Brave community.
Originally founded on the school’s playground in 2016 by then-3rd graders Ella Greenberg and Emily Eller, friends and daughters of Oak Grove teachers, Club Inspire is built around “kindness rules” to spread smiles into the community. It is a student-led initiative with yearly kindness projects to put good out in the world.
Kelly Green, a school counselor who has since retired, was also instrumental in turning their dream into a reality.
Ella’s sister Cara continued the tradition last year with her friend Macy Johnson. The club had to adapt due to the challenges of COVID, so they stayed small in membership and met via Zoom. They chose to support
the Piedmont Cancer Institute. Students collected money and created care bags for the staff. The bags included water bottles, candles, comfy socks, essential oils, chapstick, stress balls, gum, and snacks. Each bag also included a hand-painted tile created by club members.
Emily’s sister Abigail joined the team this year, along with new school counselor Nisha Bradley. The club decided to focus on honoring veterans, settling on the Warrior program at Camp Southern Ground. The Camp’s mission is to help veterans and youth find and grow their gifts and strength. It helps veterans in their transition to life after military service, and it helps kids stay active, healthy, and connected.
Along with raising funds, students will also be creating encouraging art for veterans that participate in the Warrior programs.
At the school’s Spring Fest alone, they raised more than $300 for the Warrior program. The virtual campaign continues through May 22, and the club would love your support. To donate, go to https://bit.ly/37zQHUo.
Posted 5/20/2022
