The Harvard-Westlake Parents’ Association will host four outreach days this year divided into specific grade levels to create a more intimate experience between students, families and faculty. In previous years, two service events were held, open to the entire community.

“These service days are important to build our community and renew people’s perspective on life,” HWPA Community Service Co-chair Margi Graham said. “It will give everyone a chance to get to know other communities.”

While the entire school community is welcome to attend any of the events, eighth graders will have their own designated service day at New Directions for Youth, an organization that provides services to at-risk kids and their families. Seventh and ninth graders will share an event at the San Pedro Science Center. Seniors and sophomores will share their service day at Bethune Middle School.

The first event, for juniors, will be at Homeboy Industries, an organization that provides social services and other assistance to high-risk adults on Nov. 8. Participants will be helping the group prepare for their annual holiday carnival. 

Graham said that the split from one all-school date to multiple is intended to encourage bonding between families with students who are close in age in a more personal setting.

“These community service days are important to build our community and renew people’s perspective on life,” said Graham“It will give everyone a chance to get to know other communities.”