By Susan DeRemer
As we head into Thanksgiving it is time to reflect on what we are thankful for. While this year may be more challenging than most, the Santa Monica Lions find cause when we look at the Leo Club we sponsor at Pacific Palisades High School. Made up of 15-20 members, these students meet by Zoom twice a month, providing service to the Westside community. We were fortunate to have three of their energetic members join us for one of our regular meetings to share their visions about tell us what they are doing as Leos to make the Westside stronger, healthier and more inclusive.
The three members that joined us on Zoom were co-presidents, Scarlett Klein and Layla Chammas, and Ava Hurvitz. They outlined three programs their Club was focusing on while balancing Zoom classes and study groups, family responsibilities and outside activities.
The first program was selected because of the family experiences of one of the club members. While transitioning to school via Zoom has been hard for so many families and students, children with special needs have been uniquely affected by the pandemic. The lack of a physical connection and increased sense of isolation not only affects their regular school instruction, but also social development. Understanding the need for action, the Leo Club members began developing a program to assist children with special needs called Friend and Me.
Everyone has affected by COVID-19 in one way or another, including the strain on our mental health. From increased stress and fear, disruption in sleep and eating habits, and decreased social interaction and physical activity, mental health issues have become more apparent. With a “high school experience” lacking in all the educational and social experiences we have come to expect and rely on for teenagers, these creative students created a mental health program using Zoom-friendly mental health resources to help fellow students and other dealing with the stresses and isolation of the pandemic.
And finally, although voting in the 2020 election has passed, the members of the Leo Club understood the importance of getting everyone out to vote for this crucial election. Coordinating their passion and commitment with the efforts of existing organizations, these students worked toward getting people registered to vote. What makes this more impressive it that these Leos are not old enough to vote themselves, but already realize the power of voting to help shape the world they want to live in.
In a time of turmoil and doubt, there is comfort and hope in realizing that future leaders are already coming forward to share their ideas, energies, and commitment for a better, more thoughtful future. Without a doubt, this is something to be thankful for.
If you are interested in learning more about the Pali High Leos, or any of the projects they are working on, please contact Scarlett at scarlettggklein@gmail.com.
If you are interested in learning more about the Santa Monica Lions, please contact Yoriko Fisher at yorikofisher@gmail.com or 443-883-1101.
