Kathryn Lemerich (Katie) came on board as the new Principal of Tewksbury Elementary School this past summer, which had to be difficult given these unprecedented times. But when she called our office a few months ago asking, “What can the children do for Mane Stream?” we quickly suggested our Shoes for Shoes program which raises funds to help pay for our farrier bills. The teachers and children of the 5th Grade realized the shoe drive would be a flexible service learning project no matter how the school days would be run (in school, hybrid or totally virtual).
Several months after the initial call, Mane Stream received a Zoom request from the 5th Grade, Principal Lemerich, School Counselor, Miss Donovan and teachers, Ms. Amato and Ms. Olla. Trish Hegeman, Executive Director and Louisa Bartok, Marketing and Communications Manager, were treated to an extremely well thought out and collaborative presentation by the students who joined the Zoom from various locations including back seats of cars, bedrooms and dining rooms.
It was clear from the start, that the children had worked very hard on this project and we were literally blown away by their presentation. Starting with an overview of what they learned about an amazing place called Mane Stream. “It isn’t just physical therapy but programs for people who need a light shine in their life. A place to help people with special needs and make them happy and joyful.” A great purpose!
Next up was the marketing team, who told about designing, creating, and distributing their posters around the school. Followed by the morning announcement informative slide deck which ran during the month-long Shoe Drive. Several more presenters described their participation including the child who donated the 200th pair of shoes (their original goal). Considering this goal was crushed so early on they decided to double the goal to 400 pairs and achieved it in just 1 month!!
This announcement brought the next team to the podium, “the BIG CHECK team” who described sketching and final creation of the massive check. This check was proudly held up by Enrico wearing a tie and jacket and his brother from their bedroom/classroom.
The pandemic has really limited Mane Stream’s field trip program, cutting off the staff from our usual influx of local community of all ages. We miss everyone dearly and this Zoom Meeting had Trish and Louisa tearing up (with happy tears) just a little the whole time.
Mane Stream would like to congratulate the 5th Grade and the community of Tewksbury on such a successful and collaborative effort! We hope to have them visit the farm before the end of the school year (keep your fingers crossed). And a special thank you to Principal Lemerich for reaching out to us!
Shoes for Shoes Program:
Interested in starting your own Shoe Drive? Or maybe just dropping off a bag after you clean out your closets? Contact us for specifics. info@manestreamnj.org
