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Pictured (L to R) Eberhard CBOT students Esmeralda, Jay Willie and James made a special trip to the KVO Main Campus to assist. /Photo taken at the KVO Main Campus
Eric, a student from the KVO Saint Mary's classroom enjoys visiting and working with peers he doesn't often see. /Photo taken at the KVO Main Campus
Just a few of the many pieces included in volunteer, junior and participant bags. /Photo taken at the KVO Main Campus
For many years now, KVO/CBOT has been working in collaboration with the 5/3rd Riverbank Run assisting them in assembling the many packets for participants and volunteers. As the popularity of the Riverbank Run grows, so does the order for bags. This year KVO/CBOT students will complete 2,000 Junior Run Participant bags, 2,500 Volunteer bags, and 23,000 Participant bags. With 18 classrooms throughout the greater Grand Rapids area and over 220 students, there are many hands on deck to help complete this project in the 3 weeks to meet the deadline.
All students and classrooms take time out of their busy days to collate up to 31pieces including coupons, pamphlets, product samples and other items per bag. As a vocational training opportunity, students practice skills such as working in large groups, using fine motor skills to accurately compile items, and working in an orderly manner, and even things that many of us take for granted such as working cooperatively with peers and coworkers and learning how to visit with coworkers while remaining productive.
Sue Chapla, a retired KVO/CBOT teacher is one of many former staff that volunteers their time to assist students in this project. “I enjoy reconnecting with staff and students. I believe in this collaborative event and like the way that the Grand Rapids Community comes together with Grand Rapids Public Schools for this respected community event.”
If you are able to attend any of the 5/3rd Riverbank run events, think of the many KVO/CBOT students that contributed to the event.
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