In the past, the North Reading Middle School has set up a spring Talent Show for students to display their talents and celebrate themselves & the arts. After many years, the Talent Show—arranged by Ms. O’Brien—has finally come back to the middle school, this time supporting a cause that positively impacts many.
Ethan Joseph—8th grader & Project 351 representative—has organized an opportunity for students to display their talent while also raising money for the Cradles to Crayons clothing drive. Cradles to Crayons is a non-profit organization that “ends clothing insecurity” by providing essentials for children whose families may struggle to purchase new clothing for them. The organization works with donors to set up fundraisers and gives back to those in need.
This year, Ethan has reached out & encouraged high school participation as well. Students can do just about anything in the show—singing, dancing, playing an instrument, telling jokes, you name it! It is a perfect way for students with the passion to perform to come together as a community and raise money for a good and influential cause.
What made you want to do a middle school talent show?
Ethan found that a talent show as a perfect opportunity for his fellow students in North Reading. “I know many different people with unique and inspiring talents, and I believe they deserve the opportunity to share these amazing talents with others,” he explains. Both the middle and high school are rich in students with all kinds of skills and passions. He goes on to say, “I always viewed a talent show as a powerful way to help give students a chance to express themselves, build confidence, and bring the school community together”. North Reading is known for having exciting events like these, whether they are for a cause or just for fun.
How is fundraising for Cradles To Crayons impactful to you and your community?
North Reading’s student body is goal-oriented, with the constant mission of helping others. “The fundraising for Cradles to Crayons is simply a byproduct of a kind and motivated student body who are driven to help others”. He goes on to say, “I had not fully realized this motivation until we began this clothing drive…our students are impacting a community in need of help”. Additionally, “they have impacted my life by showing me that North Reading is truly willing to help these people who are deserving of our help”. Volunteering to do good for the community and those in need is truly rewarding, so we encourage you to do the same!
If we can’t come, how else can we donate to Cradles To Crayons & help the community in general?
Even if you cannot attend, there are still ways to help the community. For Cradles to Crayons specifically, Student Council has set up a donation box at the entrance of the middle school hallways, so make sure to stop by & donate some clothing! “These donations are all going directly to Cradles to Crayons and we ask for clothes that are new or have been gently used, meaning only slight amounts of wear and tear before donation”. If you are looking for positive ways to impact the community and don’t know where to start, an organization like this is a perfect opportunity!
Is this something you’ll consider doing in the future?
Ethan exclaims that he would love to continue this drive & talent show as a yearly occurrence. “I believe them to both be worthy causes helping our community to grow stronger and better equipped with the tools necessary to help others in the future”.
This year’s talent show will take place on April 13th at 3:15 in the Performing Arts Center (PAC). This will feature both middle & high school students, so be sure to come and support while also supporting Cradles To Crayons. We hope to see you there!
For more information on how to donate to Cradles To Crayons, visit www.cradlestocrayons.org and help out today!
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