Geneva Schools Participating in Adopt-A-Veteran Program

Geneva Schools have partnered with the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans in Wheaton for the Adopt-A-Veteran Project.

Sponsored by the Leo’s Club (student version of the Lion’s Club International) at Geneva Community High School and the Vasilas Family, this project gives students a chance to appreciate the service of local veterans while helping provide supportive services to homeless veterans, according to a news release.

“This project has given educators a good opportunity to have students reflect on the impact that the sacrifices of veterans have had on students’ lives,” said Leo’s Club sponsor Cathy Pool. “It has provided a lot of ‘teachable moments’,” she said.

According to Pool, the overwhelming response from students and staff expanded the Adopt-A-Veteran Project from a simple collection to a huge collaborative effort among the high school and middle schools. Many groups are contributing in their own special ways.

The GHS Math Department is making fleece blankets that correspond to each veteran’s branch of the military. GHS athletic teams are hoping to prepare and serve meals and spend some time socializing with Veterans in the transitional housing in Wheaton.

The Geneva middle schools are collecting items at their annual Veterans Day ceremonies. All GHS students and staff will be encouraged to sign their names to an appreciation banner (created by the GHS Art Club) for Veterans during lunch periods on Thursday, November 10.

On Veterans Day, Friday, November 11 from noon to 6 p.m., Geneva High School will become a community drop-off location for donations for the shelter. Anyone wishing to donate simply needs to pull up to the front of Geneva High School (416 McKinley Avenue, Geneva).

Student athletes and Leo’s Club members will collect donations directly from vehicles. All donations of new clothing, household items, linens, personal products, and cleaning supplies will help homeless veterans in need.

For more information, please contact the Leo’s Club sponsor Cathy Pool at 630-463-3800. To view the shelter’s wish list and learn of additional needs of our Veterans, visit http://bit.ly/VetsNeeds.