The typical teenager will go to a costume party, go door to door, or attend a haunted house during the days leading to Oct. 31. Yet, there is more to Halloween than candy and costumes. Some are using the holiday to stand for a cause and help those in need. These volunteers will not only become a part of their community, but will also have a little fun along the way. With charity events such as “Trick or Treat So Kids Can Eat” and “Trunk or Treat,” the community is giving back to those who may not have the opportunities that students in Blue Valley have today.
“Trick or Treat So Kids Can Eat” is an event that has been a tradition in Kansas theater departments for several years.
“Although it is now a nationally known event, it all started right here in the district, at Blue Valley Northwest,” performing arts teacher Dan Schmidt said.
The kids in each Blue Valley theater department start collecting food through school and by asking others they know for donations. Then, they dress up in a fun costume, come to the school that is hosting the event that year, and have a huge dance party.
“I’ve been involved with Trick or Treat So Kids Can Eat for two years,” junior Colin Bennett said. “It’s one of the most fun things we do all year. The dance party is hilarious, and it helps out a great cause. The costumes are always very original, too.”
Not only is this a fun get-together for the theater students across the district, but it is also very beneficial to Harvesters, where all the collected food is sent.
“We normally collect a gigantic amount of food,” Bennett said. “A lot of times, we get several vans full. It’s such a fun event, and we’re doing this to help people in need.”
The idea of a “Trunk or Treat” may seem familiar to most people. The neighborhood kids go to a local parking lot and the parents open their trunks to hand out treats and candy. Although this is a very beneficial thing, there are also “Trunk or Treats” that serve to help out children who may have never had a Halloween.
“This year, the Rose Brooks center is hosting Trunk or Treat that is run by certified volunteers,” Elisa Valez-Makar, coordinator for Rose Brooks, said. “The volunteers will provide games and basic candy for the children and the kids will go around to each trunk as many times as they want. The volunteers get dressed up in costumes and decorate their car trunks, to make it fun for the kids.”
This event may seem very simple and ordinary, but the impact on the children is unlike anything else.
“By volunteering, you’re really opening yourself up to give to others who have less than you,” Valez-Makar said. “These kids come from less than favorable conditions, and this can be their one moment of joy. Many of them have never been exposed to parties, candy or games.”
Volunteering at this event, although all volunteers must be certified, is a very memorable experience as well.
“Dealing directly with these kids is a sensitive issue, but seeing the joy and their smiles is priceless,” Valez-Makar said. “They have a genuine appreciation for what you’re doing, and it’s something they’ll remember for a long time. It’s also something the volunteers will always remember. Charity lasts forever, and it’s one of the most valuable things you can do with your time.”