At Harper, we believe it is important for students to understand their role in the larger community around us. Our Community Service Committee is dedicated to making community service an aspect of our children’s educational experience. We want to partner with our youth and the community, emphasizing the value of giving back. We do this by providing service opportunities with local organizations.
Below are the drives and events that we have done in the past. We typically hold 3-4 large drives as well as smaller projects and service opportunities throughout the year. We teamed up with the Harper Student Council to run our book drive last year and it was a huge success.
Thanksgiving Food Drive
Each grade brings in a component of a Thanksgiving dinner, which are packaged for newly-housed families through Connections for the Homeless.
Winter Gear Drive
We collect hats, socks, mittens, and scarves benefiting various organizations. This year we are collecting winter coats for Refugee One.
Holiday Toy Drive for the UI Health Craniofacial Center
The UI Health Craniofacial Center is a multidisciplinary clinic for patients ages birth to 18 years old who suffer from craniofacial differences. Each grade brings in a different type of toy for the patients. Typically the clinic hosts a holiday party where the patients receive a gift.
Bernie’s Book Bank
Students bring in new or gently-used books and Bernie’s Book Bank distributes the books to underserved youth across Chicagoland.
Welcome Kit Toiletry Drive
Household-sized toiletries such as shampoo, deodorant, and razors are collected for clients to use during a three-month stay at the men’s shelter.
Children’s Pajamas and New Baby Kits
We have collected new baby and mom essentials kits as well as children’s pajamas for Housing Opportunities for Women. (H.O.W.)
Fill a Heart 4 Kids
Harper families visited Fill a Heart 4 Kids in Lake Forest to fill “WeCare Packages” for foster, homeless, and at-risk local youth.
If you have an idea for a community service opportunity, feel free to reach out to communityservice@harperpto.com. Thank you for your generosity and support!
