Templeton Middle School (TMS) eighth graders recently volunteered their time to serve meals at St. Ben’s Community Meal site. The students are TMS Peer Helpers, a group of student leaders that focus on supporting fellow students to build feelings of connection and confidence at school.
“My time at St. Bens was very humbling, seeing how much I have and how fortunate I am,” explains Templeton Middle School student Maddie Steighner. “St. Bens made me realize we should be so grateful for the roof over our heads, clean clothes every morning, no limit on how long our showers are and how many smiles we get in a day,” she adds.
Student volunteers were accompanied by TMS staff and parents who also volunteered their time to travel to St. Ben’s Community Meal site on State Street in Milwaukee. These visits took place after the normal school day on April 30, May 7, 12 and 28.
This made me see just how fortunate I am and the strength in community that we have,” shares Templeton Middle School student Callie Lau. “Peer Helpers is all about supporting the community and by helping these evenings we did exactly that.”
”Volunteering at St. Ben’s matched what Peer Helpers stand for because it was all about helping and supporting others,” said Templeton Middle School student Audrey Rush. “It taught me how much people appreciate kindness, respect and being there for others in need.”
Templeton Middle School student Blake Matter says he will remember the conversation he had with the people he served. “They had so many questions about what I do in my free time and what sports I play. They would also tell me about their childhood,” Matter shares. “This was cool because it was similar to mine and they all played sports.”
Templeton Middle School student Izzy Sturino calls her experience at St. Ben’s a full circle moment and an appropriate way to end her time as a Peer Helper at TMS. “The people we served were looking for helpers and I’m very happy we could be the helpers for those people. Peer Helpers has taught me to always be a helper.”
Students agree that volunteering at St. Ben’s is a memorable experience that they will carry with them for years to come.
“When I begin high school in fall, I’m going to make sure I stay grateful for every moment, be kind to everyone and keep smiling as a way to carry on the passion from our time at St Ben’s,” shares Templeton Middle School student Emma Kutter.
“I will try to carry along the attitude of the guests I met at St. Ben’s,” says Templeton Middle School student Bridget Konkol. “When I go to high school, and beyond, I will do everything I can to make the world a better place.”
St. Ben’s Community Meal site serves a hot, home-made dinner six nights a week. More than 90,000 meals are served there each year.