On Saturday, June 14, Chicago GSB’ers participated in the 15th annual Chicago Cares Serve-a-Thon. The Serve-a-Thon is the largest day of community service in Chicago and is sponsored by Chicago Cares, a not-for-profit community service organization and clearinghouse for volunteer opportunities.
In total, over 8,000 volunteers from numerous companies and organizations throughout the city added fresh coats of paint to classrooms, organize school libraries, created bright, colorful murals, painted colorful line games on playgrounds, planted flowers and landscaped school grounds. This year, Serve-a-Thon volunteers brightened more than 500 rooms and 150 hallways and stairwells. Afterwards, volunteers were treated to a picnic in Grant Park, complete with food and refreshments donated by some of Chicago’s largest employers.
Feedback from Principals who have benefited from this year’s Serve-a-Thon report what studies have already shown – that physical environment plays a role in student and community success. The newly renovated and freshly painted environments send a positive self-esteem message to students or clients that they are worthy of a clean and beautiful facility. This year, when school opens, over 30,000 Chicago students will enjoy the benefits of this work done on this one day.
Please plan to join us next Spring for the 2009 Chicago Serv-a-Thon.