A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell, where his influence stops.”
-Henry Brooks Adams – American Writer
John David Williams, 8th grade Language Arts Teacher at Brea Junior High School inspires his students to look beyond themselves and beyond their immediate classroom. He challenges them to look at the greater issues in the world and to think about the needs of others. For nearly ten years, John has shared with his students the issues of homelessness and the work HomeAid Orange County does to provide housing for homeless families and individuals.
Their call to action is to raise funds in support of HomeAid Orange County. Each year they create a silent auction fundraising event. These incredibly bright and resourceful kids use their business letter writing assignment to solicit donations. Their enthusiasm and dedication has been contagious and now two other teachers (Catherine Bott and Denise Palczewski) and their classes have joined the cause.
Many of the communities’ local businesses are facing a challenging economy and although willing a lot of companies were unable to contribute. The students didn’t give up and were rewarded for their perseverance. A $500 donation from Wal-Mart Brea, a parent donating a cherished autographed Joe Montana jersey, donations from Embassy Suites, a luxury suite (for 20 people) at a Clipper game in addition to many more items and cash donations helped these spectacular kids break their own fundraising record. They raised more than $3,600!!
When the students were asked why they were so determined to make this event successful Josh (an 8th grad student) shared, “Some kids have other things to worry about other than homework and school. They’re worried about if they’re going to have food to eat and where they are going to sleep at night. I realized how fortunate we are.”
John has planted the seed of philanthropy in the lives of these students. This has already proven to be an enduring legacy. One of his former students shared with him that she is now leading fundraising efforts at high school in support of community needs.
“I really want my students to realize that the tools they use in the classroom can make a tangible difference in someone’s life, and what a great feeling it is to help others…who in turn can return the favor to someone else. “ John David Williams
