Students from Levy Lakeside who participate in yearlong service projects through the school’s service learning program were recently invited to share their experiences at the Nassau County “Glow of Hope” reception, a special kickoff to Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Lakeside students spoke about past and future efforts. Several of their service projects focused on the 1in 9 Hewlett House while others helped children with terminal illnesses. One grade level worked to ensure that Lakeside’s own incoming Kindergarteners were welcomed with open arms! The audience included Nassau County Executive Laura Curran, Hewlett House Director Geri Barish and Lakeside’s Principal and Assistant Principal, Libby Trencheny and Justin Gabrus. Hundreds of family members and friends were there to support the Lakeside Lions. Also in attendance were many of the Lakeside teachers including, student council adviser, Soo Becchina. These teachers provided the support students needed in order to carry out their creative service projects. https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=7587

Hewlett House is a community learning resource center for cancer patients and their families that has served tens of thousands of cancer patients and their families. Last year, Lakeside Students created inspirational tissue boxes for the patients of the Hewlett House, and student council members also beautified the grounds and nurtured the vegetable garden there, an annual tradition.

Barish attended Lakeside’s Service Assembly at the end of the school year and presented Becchina and students with a Pockets of Hope denim quilt, created by the patients of Hewlett House, as a gift showing their gratitude to the school.