A group of P.E. Leaders recently conducted a supply drive as a classroom service project supporting Joanie’s Closet.

Joanie’s Closet is a non-profit charity that benefits students District 95. Five juniors conducted a supply drive to raise school supplies for the organization as a service project for their Junior Leadership class.

“[The charity] benefits the entire school and district,” Maggie Tuckey, one of the five juniors in a group, said. “[Joanie’s Closet] helps the people right around us.”

Since the organization helps underprivileged students, any student or family from the district “can receive assistance with confidentiality” said Jean Malek, director of community relations and District 95 liaison for Joanie’s Project.

The donations collected by Joanie’s Closet through private donations and drives are given to students and families in need. Those students or families can seek help from a school counselor to contact Joanie’s Closet.

“[The project] made me feel fortunate for what I have and not take things for granted,” Tommy Clancy, junior, said.

According to Tuckey and Clancy, besides bringing to people’s attention what happens around them, the project also taught to them the importance of planning before projects.

After planning the drive, started their project by making flyers, sending announcements to the schools, and bringing boxes to the schools for donated supplies.

“Promoting [Joanie’s Closet] through the schools is the best way to spread awareness,” Malek said. “[The] highest level of awareness is from the student body.”

Although the organization has grown each year, this year has had the most student involvement since the start of the organization, some of which have been projects by other members of the P.E. leadership class.

The group also hopes to “[make] sure people are aware of Joanie’s Closet and how it helps our community,” Tuckey said.