At The Storm King School, great things happen when young scholars dedicate themselves to a cause they are passionate about. This year, several members of SKS’ National Honor Society (NHS), led by graduating senior Jasper L. ’24, combined their efforts to raise money for rescue animals in the Hudson Valley’s animal shelters.

The Animal Shelter Drive is a yearly donation drive run by the NHS to benefit the Hudson Valley SPCA (HVSPCA) in New Windsor, New York. “Our NHS Community Service Committee hosts many activities for students to contribute to the community and the people around us,” explained Jasper. “The Animal Shelter Drive is one of our favorites.”

NHS Shelter Drive Committee: Jasper L. ’24, Ari L. ’24, Nyla A. ’25, Andrea L. ’25 (not pictured), Bella S. ’24 (not pictured)

“Our committee meets once every month to talk about our fundraisers. While planning the Shelter Drive, my fellow member, Ari, mentioned that the Newburgh Animal Control Shelter was also seeking pet food donations. So, we decided to change it up this year so students could choose which shelter to donate to. In total, we raised $905.00, which we shared between the HVSPCA and the Newburgh Animal Control.”

Using the money they raised, the students went shopping to purchase much-needed supplies for both shelters. “We began at a large local pet supply store, where we bought as many food items, treats and toys as possible. We also purchased cleaning supplies for each location, including bleach, laundry detergent, paper towels, and more,” explained faculty member Mrs. Lisa Shrem, who accompanied the group on their shopping spree. “We went to Newburgh Animal Control first, then to the HVSPCA and dropped off all the purchases. We also gave them six bags of recyclables which they can exchange and use the money for needed items.”

Jasper, who is one of the School’s most dedicated community service advocates, sees helping others as a way to keep people’s days moving forward and bring them joy. “During my time at Storm King, I have worked more than 320 service hours for Beautiful People, the Newburgh Armory Unity Center, the Newburgh Soup Kitchen, and the HVSPCA.  I hope I can see people smile and pass it forward to other people,” he explained.

“As I graduate from Storm King this year, I want to tell all SKS students that it’s never too late to become involved with community service. We certainly can’t do it every day. What counts is the care we have for each other and the community around us. To those who are interested in serving, I want to say “thank you for making our community a better place and keep doing what you are doing.”