Getting to work closely with the next generation on heartfelt faith-based projects is an experience of inspiration and hope for our future. Through these projects, children learn firsthand the impact they can make by investing in their communities.
The 70 students in St. John XXIII Catholic School’s 6th grade class, along with their families, neighbors and parish, raised over $10,000 for Catholic Charities through Miracle Projects. They also invested countless volunteer hours to make this project a momentous success.
What are Miracle Projects?
Miracle Projects allow students to raise funds and awareness for a cause they care about and put their faith into action. This class created handmade crafts and set up an event to sell them. Students were excited to support one another and learn about marginalized individuals within their community.
Over 86,000 lives have been touched through Miracle Projects. Dulce Valdez, Catholic Charities Parish and Diocesan Engagement Manager, enjoys asking the students why they choose to support each cause.
“Their answers are moving. Some have a deep connection from their own past experiences and some show deep empathy for others, even though they never experienced such crisis in their lives,” said Dulce.
Raising Children Who Change the World
Miracle Projects encourage schools to partner with a local business or family to provide start-up funds for the students’ projects. London sought her family’s support with her project to help kids in foster care. “I will remember all of the time I spent with my family while doing this project and that it was all for a great cause.”
Past projects have included bake sales, rummage sales, dinners, craft fairs, fun runs or virtual GoFundMe campaigns. The array of opportunities available teach business planning, accounting, writing, and marketing skills, among other things.
Allowing children to follow the lead of the gospel while learning entrepreneurial skills can bring about positive change in the church, in business and within their homes and communities. Logan, who chose to support our Joining Hearts program, said, “I will remember the feeling of knowing that I made $121 for women and children in need.”
