Students in Lower Merion High School’s Global Citizenship class recently boarded a bus and traveled to Cradles to Crayons’ Giving Factory in Philadelphia as part of the course’s experiential learning component.

LM's Global Citizenship course uses a student-centered approach to help young people become thoughtful, informed and compassionate “global citizens.” By combining traditional classroom learning with real-world service opportunities, the course encourages students to understand and engage with pressing social justice issues, including racial equity, environmental sustainability, poverty, gender equity, LGBTQ+ rights, income inequality, migration and the global refugee crisis, and gun violence. Through this work, students deepen their intercultural competence, develop empathy, celebrate diversity and learn to advocate for marginalized groups in their communities and beyond.

Cradles to Crayons proved to be a perfect partner for this mission. The nonprofit organization “provides children from birth through age 12 with the essential items they need to thrive—at home, at school and at play.” These essentials include clothing and shoes, school supplies, books, toys, winter coats, hats, gloves, baby gear and more. Items are distributed to children experiencing homelessness, poverty, foster care transitions or emergency situations, offering comfort, dignity and stability during times of need.

During their visit to The Giving Factory, the Aces participated in a lively, hands-on volunteer session. They sorted donations, performed quality checks on clothing and prepared items for distribution—all while gaining a deeper understanding of childhood poverty and the importance of community-based support.

The experience left students with a renewed sense of purpose and a clearer connection to the social justice themes explored in their coursework. By serving their community through Cradles to Crayons, students strengthened not only their understanding of global citizenship, but also their commitment to compassion, service and advocacy.

Learn more about Cradles to Crayons and how you can support their mission here!

To view a slideshow of images from the Global Citizenship class’s visit to The Giving Factory, click below!