Members of Chagrin Falls Intermediate School's PAWS (People Always Willing to Serve) program presented their impressive array of community service initiatives to the Board of Education during its regular meeting on Wednesday, January 15. The student-led organization, guided by advisors Amy Acton and Caroline Brosnan, demonstrated how intermediate school students are making a significant impact in both the local community and beyond.
PAWS, which includes students from grades 4-6, has undertaken numerous service projects during the 2024-25 school year. In their presentation, students highlighted several successful initiatives, including their work at St. Pat's Hunger Center, where they served dinner to approximately 90 people during two Tuesday evenings in October and November 2024.
The group's innovative "Got Sneakers!" collection drive proved particularly successful. PAWS members organized a school-wide collection of used sneakers, with all proceeds benefiting the Chagrin Falls Park Community Center. Since fall 2023, their efforts have generated over $200 for the center.
In November, PAWS members collaborated with the High School Interact Club during their lunch periods to create laser artwork on bamboo lids for Humble Designs, an organization that helps furnish homes for individuals emerging from homelessness.
The organization's commitment to helping local families was evident in their December Adopt-a-Family initiative. Working alongside the Student Council for the third consecutive year, PAWS members helped support two families through Geauga Jobs & Family Services. The students coordinated a gift card collection that raised $1,800, organized a Target shopping spree, and held a gift-wrapping party before delivering the presents to grateful families.
Looking ahead, PAWS has planned several upcoming service projects, including:
- Distributing meals, snacks, and personal hygiene items to homeless individuals in downtown Cleveland
- Hosting the third annual Hamlet Village Variety Show in February
- Participating in an Earth Day cleanup with CHGreen
- Supporting Harvest for Hunger and the Bainbridge Food Bank
The presentation by students Rowynn Waddell, Paige Lower, Henry Erdman, Frances Jewell, and Kate Hively highlighted how PAWS members are learning to lead, collaborate, and make time for service while showing their peers that community service can be both important and enjoyable. The dedicated group of 24 students also includes Clara Longnecker, Parker Lower, Cemil Morton, Emerson Morton, Isla deLeon, Ellie Sheridan, Gigi Giordano, Gabby Radomsky, Liam Dixon, Claire McElyea, Harper Kruse, Camille Cirino, Gino Wetzel, Stella Wetzel, Luke Bennett, Elsie Wakefield, Abigail Hellner, Denis Shapiro, and Ryerson Henry.
Board members commended the students for their leadership and dedication to serving others, noting how PAWS exemplifies the district's commitment to developing caring, engaged citizens who positively impact their community.