Cardinal Bernardin School Helps Two Charities Through Penny Wars

During Catholic Schools Week (January 29- February 5, 2023) students at Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Catholic School (Orland Hills) raised $2,470 for the Crisis Center of South Suburbia and Navarro Farms. The Crisis Center for South Suburbia is a non-profit community organization that provides emergency shelter and other essential services for individuals and families victimized by domestic violence and addresses the societal issues that contribute to domestic violence. Navarro Farms is located in Frankfort and is a non-profit farm and garden for special needs individuals. Navarro farmers teach life and social skills while learning to grow a wide variety of crops.

CJB Student Council is moderated by Ms. Adrian Kurzweil and Miss Kristin Roy. They, along with the Student Council Ambassadors conducted a Penny Wars competition between all of the grades, and students were encouraged to bring in coins. CJB students greatly exceeded their goal of raising $2,000, and because they did, Ms. Bourrell (Principal) accepted a student challenge that the students are really looking forward to seeing her do. Student Council Senior Ambassador, Ellie Guyette, said, “Because I am so involved in my school, it allows me the opportunity to do service for others in my local community. I have learned to work with others and show my leadership abilities in social situations that will help me in high school and throughout my life.”

Kristin Roy, eighth grade teacher and Student Council Moderator, says, “as a CJB community we come together to raise money to support local charities. We strive to make a difference in the lives of others through our donations. Penny wars was a great fundraiser to get every student involved and knowing that it is going to two organizations that do so many amazing things for the local community is even more meaningful.”

Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Catholic School, twice-recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence (2008 and 2018), is now accepting registrations for the 2023-24 school year. CJB is celebrating its 22st year and is committed to providing a top-rated academic experience as well as a safe learning environment centered in faith. CJB is a regional school sponsored by four parishes (St. Elizabeth Ann Seton - Orland Hills, St. Francis of Assisi - Orland Park, St. Stephen Deacon and Martyr - Tinley Park, and St. Julie Billiart - Tinley Park.) CJB welcomes students in 3-year old PreK through 8th grade with a focus on developing each student’s spiritual, intellectual, emotional, creative, physical, and social needs. For more information on CJB, or to sign up for a private tour, contact Cindy Devlin at 708-403-6525 x. 127.