Lakota East Freshman School Supporting Loss and Grief Through Youth Philanthropy
July 22, 2024 | Written by Branden Waggoner
At Lakota East Freshman School, 250 students came together this year to tackle some important issues through Magnified Giving’s Youth Philanthropy Program as part of their English curriculum. After heartfelt presentations and discussions, these compassionate youth decided to support causes related to loss and grief, inspired by students' own personal experiences.
This project helped connect students to real causes and nonprofits. Students learned how to effectively research a nonprofit, and they developed a formal proposal and presented a persuasive speech on why their chosen nonprofit was most deserving of the Magnified Giving grant. In this way, they achieved academic goals and learned new skills through a memorable and meaningful process! Students cross-educated their peers on their nonprofits and social causes, and each of the 12 classes selected a class winner to make a video to be shared with a panel of judges and determine the top 3 nonprofits. One standout moment was when one student, Elliana Tozzi, bravely shared her story of losing her mother. This opened up a wave of empathy among her peers and highlighted the crucial support provided by Companions on a Journey, a group that visits the school monthly to offer grief support. All 250 students voted on the top 3 nonprofits, and thanks to the student's hard work and compelling presentation, Companions on a Journey received a $1,000 Magnified Giving grant.
Amy Mahaffey, who facilitates the program with fellow English teacher Roxanne Begley, said, "This is by far the most loved project/assignment of the year. Students enjoy the opportunity to feel like they're making a positive difference in our community. They also appreciate learning about all of the wonderful non-profit organizations in our community." The dedication and passion these students showed in supporting causes related to loss and grief have left a lasting impact on Lakota East Freshman School and community.
A screenshot from Lakota East’s virtual Giving Ceremony, where Elliana presented Lakota East’s $1,000 grant to Companions on a Journey. L-R: Elliana Tozzi, student at Lakota East Freshman; Alison Kaufman, vice President of Programs at Magnified Giving, Sheila Munafo-Kanoza, Founder and Executive Director at Companions on a Journey, and Roxanne Begley, educator and facilitator of Magnified Giving at Lakota East.
In addition to presenting to her classmates, Elliana had the courage to share her experience during the virtual giving ceremony hosted by Magnified Giving. She expressed her deep connection to the philanthropy program and her decision to support Companions on a Journey (COJ). “I chose COJ because I attend their support groups regularly and have seen firsthand the positive impact they have,” Elliana shared. “After losing my mom last year, COJ provided me with crucial support. I knew supporting them would make a meaningful difference for others facing similar challenges.”
This story highlights how the empowerment and skills youth gain through this process are invaluable, showing them that even in difficult times, they have the power to bring about positive change. Mrs. Mahaffey also highlighted that opening up about her loss helped connect Elliana with other students who have lost a loved one. She says that Elliana’s presentation was a beautiful invitation to those grieving to also join the COJ support group.
Avery Beismann, Lakota East Freshman student and recipient of the Roger Grein Rising Philanthropist Award.
One participant in this process went above and beyond to apply for Roger Grein Spirit of Philanthropy recognition, and honor award to Magnified Giving participants who grow as philanthropists and can articulate their plan to continue giving and service. We’re incredibly proud of Avery Beismann, a 9th grader at Lakota East who not only earned Roger Grein Spirit of Philanthropy recognition, but earned the top score in the 6th-9th grade category, earning the Roger Grein Rising Philanthropist Award! Avery shared how the Magnified Giving program allowed her to educate her classmates and volunteer with organizations like Pause for Parents, where she has established a long-term volunteering relationship.
The efforts of Lakota East Freshman School's students show just how powerful young people can be when they put their hearts into making a difference. We're so proud of all they've achieved and can't wait to see what they do next.