By Karla McArthur, Correspondent
The Etowah County Chamber of Commerce team spent a recent school day learning firsthand how nonprofit organizations serve the community, delivering meals, meeting local leaders and visiting agencies that address a wide range of needs.
The experience was part of Nonprofit Day, one of several themed days held throughout the year for a countywide student leadership program. Each month focuses on a different sector, such as health care, public safety, workforce development or government, with students participating in site visits, activities and discussions connected to the theme.
Nonprofit Day stands out from the other monthly sessions because it includes a hands-on service project. This year, as in recent years, students partnered with MANNA — the Metropolitan Area Noon Nutrition Association — Etowah County’s version of Meals on Wheels.
Instead of traveling together on a bus, the 24 students were divided into small groups and driven by members of the program’s Student Leadership committee. Organizers intentionally placed students from different schools in each vehicle to encourage new connections and conversations.
The groups delivered meals to MANNA clients throughout the county, an experience that has become a highlight of the year for many participants.
“When they bring the meals to someone’s front door, the people receiving them are often surprised to see students instead of their usual delivery person,” organizers said. “It brings smiles to everyone’s faces and inspires the students.”
The project is designed to introduce students to volunteering while showing the direct impact nonprofits have on individuals and families. Organizers said the combination of service, social interaction and real-world responsibility consistently earns positive feedback from students.
In addition to the MANNA deliveries, students visited several nonprofit and community organizations throughout the day, including Darden Rehabilitation, the James M. Barrie Center for Children, United Way of Etowah County and the Salvation Army.
The group also stopped at the Etowah County Board of Education, where students met with representatives from Neighborhood Bridges, a nonprofit that works with schools to meet students’ immediate needs. Rainbow City Mayor Joe Taylor, who is involved with Neighborhood Bridges, joined the group and spoke briefly about community involvement and service.
Nonprofit Day is the only session during the year that includes a service project. When the group meets again next month, students will move on to a new topic and set of community experiences.
