Taking part in volunteer activities

The weather may be inconsistent, but spring has definitely arrived at Hewlett High School. Last week, students enjoyed having a small break from school where they could stop and smell the start of a new season. The smells of college visits, Advanced Placement (AP) review sessions, outdoor sports, and community service permeate through the high school halls.

While this season is critical for many students hoping to begin reviewing for AP, state Regents or other final exams, it is also a popular time for community service. The deadline for fulfilling the community service requirement fast approaching, and students are eager to find volunteer opportunities and earn a Silver Cord at graduation

Many students are members of the Five Towns Community Chest’s Youth Board. On Sunday April 3, the Youth Board will host the 19th annual Community Chest Basketball Tournament, in memory of Adam Barsel, a Hewlett High sophomore who died in a car accident in 2000. Proceeds from the tournament benefit a scholarship in his name.

Each year, basketball players of all ages are encouraged to attend this event, have fun with some friendly competition and raise awareness for a significant cause. The Community Chest has proved to be a meaningful organization for its ability to impact our local community in need.

Hewlett’s Environmental Club is also participating in a local park cleanup this weekend in honor of the upcoming Earth Day, April 22. With the warm weather approaching, the Environmental Club is also working with the Youth Leadership Club to prepare the Community Garden Learning Center for its busiest season.

This special area across from the high school will soon burst with leafy greens and vegetables, healthy foods that are usually donated once fully grown. During the end of the school year and throughout the summer, students volunteer at the garden with other community members for a unique experience. When working in the garden, results can easily be defined by the bounty of vegetables that are harvested.

Seniors in some of Hewlett’s honor societies are especially involved in community service. Hewlett’s chapter of the National Honor Society requires seniors to fulfill 20 hours of tutoring or volunteering, while the Foreign Language Honor Society requires 15 hours. For students with extra time on their hands, tutoring can be a great way to give back to the school community.

Each student has distinguished interests, and Hewlett provides opportunities for community service in a multitude of disciplines. Whether directly helping peers with studying, or watering tomato plants, students are constantly contributing to the community in the spring. Hewlett-Woodmere would not be the same without this special cycle of giving.