Sixth-grade students from Evergreen Community Charter School in North Carolina raised funds to send solar lanterns to children in Zambia, proving that even young people can make a significant difference. Inspired by the solar lighting company Solight, they were motivated to help bring sustainable light to those without electricity.
Solar Lantern Project: Making a Difference
A group of sixth-grade students from Evergreen Community Charter School in North Carolina has proven that age is no barrier to making a difference. These young entrepreneurs embarked on a project that would bring light to children living without electricity in Zambia. Their innovative and compassionate initiative has not only illuminated homes but also hearts, setting an example of how small actions can lead to significant changes.
The students were inspired by Solight, a company that specializes in creating portable solar lanterns for people who lack access to electricity. Solight was founded by Alice Min Soo Chun who started the company with a mission to bring sustainable light to underserved communities worldwide.
The idea to contribute to this mission was sparked during a lesson led by their teacher, who introduced the students to Solight and its goals. Understanding the importance of light in regions where darkness can mean the difference between safety and danger, the students felt compelled to act. They decided to create their own version of solar lanterns to raise funds for Solight's cause.
Using decorated mason jars and solar lights, the sixth graders crafted homemade lanterns. The simplicity of the design did not undermine its effectiveness. These lanterns were not just beautiful but also functional, embodying the students' dedication to the cause. They then organized a sale within their school and in their local community to raise money.
Community Support Pushes Initiative
The response from the community was overwhelmingly positive. The students managed to raise hundreds of dollars through their sales. Every dollar earned brought them closer to their goal of helping children in Zambia. The money was used to purchase collapsible solar puffs, which will soon be sent to Zambia.
The students were not just proud of the money they raised but also the impact they knew it would have. "It's nice to be able to help, even in some small way," one of the students said, reflecting on the experience. Another student shared a similar sentiment, "I'm really grateful that I have the opportunity to do this project, and it makes me feel really touched that I can do something and it will affect something so positively in the future."
Their project is more than just a charity effort; it is a learning experience that has taught them the power of community and the impact of giving. By engaging in this project, these young students have learned that they are capable of influencing change, even from thousands of miles away. They have also gained insight into the struggles of children their age living in different parts of the world, and how something as simple as light can make a profound difference.
Inspiring the Younger Generation
Alice Min Soo Chun, the creator and inventor of the solar lanterns has a history of donating thousands of lanterns to those in need. Last year, she traveled to Ukraine where she donated solar lanterns to children affected by the ongoing conflict. Her work continues to inspire many, and meeting the sixth-grade students was no exception.
When she met the students, Chun offered them words of encouragement that will likely stay with them for a long time. "I hope you realize how powerful you are. Just like 6th graders, how amazing and powerful you really are. That you can change the world. You already are," Chun told the students.
Students from Evergreen Community Charter School have demonstrated the power of small actions to create significant change. By sending solar puffs to children in Zambia, they are not only providing light but also hope and opportunities. This project has revealed their potential as changemakers; proving that kindness, creativity, and determination can transform lives.