Eighty-two K‑Kids + 16 Builders Club members + 50 adults (parents and staff) + 2 buses + $3,569 = tangible joy for others. HHES’ Penny War and middle school dance fundraiser came together to make the season brighter for families through the Giving Tree. Watching students shop with staff and parents at Noblesville Walmart reminds us that teamwork and compassion create lasting impact. Four years strong – and still one of the elementary school’s favorite traditions! (Photo provided by Hamilton Heights School Corporation)
Submitted by Hamilton Heights School Corporation
For the fourth consecutive year, Hamilton Heights Elementary K-Kids Club, and for the first time, Hamilton Heights Middle School Builders Club, partnered with staff, parents, and community members to bring holiday cheer to families in need.
This tradition blends student leadership, fundraising creativity, and community service into a special event designed to make Christmas brighter for those who may need a little lift this season.
HHES students (from left) Jamey Bradley, Bryce Allen, Jake Hackett, Charlie Trost, Nolan Becker, and Brooks Young helped raise money and shopped for this year’s Giving Tree program. (Photo provided by Hamilton Heights School Corporation)
Members of the Elementary School’s Kiwanis K-Kids Club hosted its annual Penny War event, proving that small contributions add up to big impact. Members of the Middle School’s Kiwanis Builders Club sponsored a student dance, channeling fun into fundraising. In all, the effort raised $3,569 raised and spent on Giving Tree Tags.
Last week, students and adults climbed aboard two buses and traveled to Noblesville Walmart. Divided into small groups, each team selected gifts from Giving Tree tags, ensuring every purchase was thoughtful and meaningful. With guidance from staff and parents, students experienced firsthand the joy of giving and the power of teamwork.
HHES Principal Julie Griffey is pictured with (from left) Monroe Hermanns, Emma Yagelski, and Raylynn Essig shopping for gifts for the Giving Tree program. (Photo provided by Hamilton Heights School Corporation)
“This initiative not only provided gifts for families in need but also fostered leadership and service among students,” said Tracy Zachary, Special Education Teacher and K-Kids Club Sponsor. “It strengthened school-community partnerships and created lasting memories for participants.”
“This is definitely a highlight of the holiday season for our students and families,” she continued. “It embodies the Kiwanis spirit of service, showing students that a collective effort can transform generosity into tangible joy for others.”
HHES students Evelyn Robison, Cambrie Irwin, Sadie Wooldridge, Brooklyn Hoane, Blakelee Biddle, and Charlotte Adams shop together to select just the right gifts that will help make Christmas brighter for others. (Photo provided by Hamilton Heights School Corporation)
HHES students (from left) Camryn McKenzie, Zayda Ellis, Olivia Kincaid, Katelyn Pitcher, HHES Teacher Lauren Knapp, and daughters Harper and Hadley are pictured shopping for Hamilton Heights Giving Tree program. (Photo provided by Hamilton Heights School Corporation)
