Community Council held Community Service Week from Oct. 21 to Oct. 25, giving students an opportunity to engage in and learn about ways that they can benefit communities around them.

The week began with a Community Service Organization Fair, where students were able to make paracord bracelets and toy cats, set up by the Animal Rights Club.

Sophomores aid North Hollywood Interfaith Food Pantry

Sophomores packaged peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and hygiene products in decorated bags to send to North Hollywood Interfaith Food Pantry, an organization that aims to help address the problem of food insecurity.

Sarina Smolev ’22 said that helping package lunches and kits allowed her to realize the importance of helping those in need.

“It was a very fun experience, and it allowed me to help the community and support those who are less fortunate than us by making something as small as a sandwich,” Smolev said.

Juniors prepare food packages for Rise Against Hunger

Juniors worked with Rise Against Hunger to pack over 18,000 packages of rice, soy and vitamins to help combat hunger in communities.

Emery Genga ’21 said that it was a good opportunity to help not only her community, but also be able to reach out internationally to help others.

“It just felt good, especially after seeing the videos beforehand of how much of a difference we’ve made in people’s lives,” Genga said.

Representatives from Homeboy Industries speak to seniors

Two former gang members from Homeboy Industries talked to the senior class about their experiences as part of a gang and how Homeboy Industries helped them with their transition.

Throughout the week, the council held a fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Foundation to support kids with critical illnesses. They also set up a BearBoxes Donation Drive, where students were able to donate by bringing school supplies, toys, and other items to send to orphanages.

Brase Dottin ’20, a member of Community Council, said being part of the council provides him many opportunities and ways to help communities around him.

“Community Council is a way for me to be part of a community in school and out of school, help people and support a lot of great causes in the Los Angeles area,” Dottin said.