Shennen Bersani's Weblog

I am often asked for donations from schools; but this one from a high school senior really touched my heart. I asked Ms. Campbell if I could post this in hopes that others will also donate to the Gorenflo Elementary. Since this is Ms. Campbell's senior project it seems best that you would also mention her name when donating books to Mr. Hunt.

Dear Ms. Bersani:

My name is Merrie Campbell and I am a senior at Downingtown West High School, located in Downingtown, Pennsylvania. I am working on my Senior Project for Community Service and despite my enthusiasm; I know I can’t take on all the work myself. I need your help.

As you know the Gulfport Mississippi area was one of the areas most affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. I have adopted Gorenflo Elementary School in Biloxi, Mississippi who lost their library books and classrooms to the hurricanes. 96% of the children at Gorenflo live at or below the poverty level. Gorenflo Elementary School in Biloxi, Mississippi received major damage and the students were displaced into trailers and other elementary schools for over 15 months. They just recently moved back to their school.

It is important that we help these children, who lost their homes, their friends, and their families, get back to their schools. Children flourish in a nurturing classroom environment and being able to go to a classroom that is fully functional and a working library will be a big step to opening up the world to these children.

I know that the children of Gorenflo Elementary would enjoy your books and they would be a great addition to their lives.

I am asking you to help out with a tax-deductible donation of books to help this school rebuild their library. The Principal, Librarian and Teachers of Gorenflo Elementary would appreciate any help that you could provide. I hope we can count on you for a generous donation.

I thank you for your time and consideration of this request. I look forward to whatever support you can provide. Please send books to the attention of Mr. Rusty Hunt, Gorenflo Elementary Librarian, 771 Elder Street, Biloxi, MS 39530. The Biloxi School District Federal Tax ID is 64-6008267.

Thank you for your consideration and generosity.

Merrie Campbell
c/o Patricia Bell, Principal
Downingtown West High School
445 Manor Avenue
Downingtown, PA 19335
(610) 269-4400

A visit to the Broadmeadow Elementary School

Today I was delighted to spend the day visiting the Broadmeadow Elementary School in Needham MA. I gave five presentations throughout the school day and enjoyed every minute of it!