While some high school students start clubs with the intention of beefing up their college applications, others take a more meaningful approach in hopes of making a difference in their community. Junior Samiksha Chopra has committed her time to helping foster kids in the San Fernando Valley area, assuring these children that they are loved and appreciated. Chopra started the club H.O.P.E., Helping Other People Everyday, in Sept. 2013, in order to spread awareness about the importance of helping all community members.
“We hope to show [the kids] that there are people out there who care about them and that we are available anytime they need us,” said Chopra. “For many people these years can be confusing and stressful, so we want to be there for them anyway we can.”
With fundraisers like a friendship bracelet drive, Chopra hopes to raise enough money to help as many foster kids as possible. Some members of H.O.P.E. offer tutoring services and donate the proceeds back to the club, contributing to the hundreds of dollars already raised.
“Being chosen for the Kevin Cordasco Good Deed of the Month means a lot to all of us,” said Chopra. “We hope that being given such an honor will inspire more students at CHS to join and make a difference.”
H.O.P.E. is working toward making a difference in the community, paving the way for other clubs to do the same. Helping others can start with a small act of kindness; so no matter the size of the good deed, it deserves to be recognized.
