By Bill Thawley

A few weeks ago, my wife and I went to Bridge Valley Elementary School, part of the Central Bucks School District, to accept a donation from third grade students who raised money for the American Red Cross.

When we arrived at the school, we were escorted to a classroom by two students prior to a school-wide assembly.  There I learned that the students selected the Red Cross from a choice of four non-profits to which to donate money they earned during a fundraiser. Their teacher gave them the opportunity to ask me questions, and most of the topics were about blood donation. The students also knew that Clara Barton founded the Red Cross when I asked them.

During the assembly, six students took turns talking about their fundraiser, which raised $836 – an outstanding amount of money for third graders! The students spoke proudly about their accomplishment.

For their class project, the students held a Market Day. They made a variety of items – including balloons tied into shapes, bookmarks and stress balls – to be sold. The goal was to raise about $300, which could be accomplished if each student brought $3 from home to make purchases. However, much to the surprise of their teachers, they far exceeded the goal.

When it was my turn to speak, I thanked them on behalf of the Red Cross, told them about our mission, and shared that their donation will help us deliver humanitarian aid in Southeastern Pennsylvania.

As a volunteer, it was truly a pleasure to accept this donation on behalf of the Red Cross, and it certainly brightened my day. I’d like to offer a well-earned “thank you” to the third-grade students of Bridge Valley Elementary School and to their teachers for their leadership. These students are our future – in leadership, work ethic and as volunteers in society. They will shape the future of our country and world.