Each year, Sharon Swanson‘s sophomore English classes take a unique approach to the course research requirement. They research charity organizations of their choice, write essays about the organizations’ mission and impact, and decide as a class which charity is most worthy of their donations, which Swanson then matches.

This year, Swanson’s classes selected a variety of local and national charities. Sophomore Emily Kim raised $200 to donate to the Greater Chicago Food Depository, and Sam Dunker raised $250 for Cure Alzheimers. Adam Rutecki raised the most money: $300 for Homes for Our Troops, an organization that helps post 9-11 veterans rebuild their lives by building and donating custom homes.

Kim chose her charity based on her previous experience with food-packing organizations, such as Feed My Starving Children.

“I’m passionate about ending hunger in our community,” Kim stated. “I thought this charity would be the perfect way to contribute to this cause.”

Sophomore Leighla Sedghi was surprised at how much money the classes managed to donate.

“I thought it was a really creative way to give back to people right around the holidays, and it was interesting to learn about different charities,” Sedghi said.

Swanson believes that this project allows students to realize how lucky they are.

“I think lots of times, kids take things for granted as far as their health and their finances,” Swanson said. “It’s nice to do something for people, especially this time of year.”