Seed Pack-It Party

Never say fifth grade boys aren't up to a challenge.

First, AMG broke records with its Seed Pack-It event, packing backpacks full of school supplies to be sent to a desperately poor area in Tijuana, Mexico. Not to be outdone, a group of boys, plus some family members and friends, took on the task of matching the backpacks packed by the boardroom packers.

A group from the 5th grade class at Lincoln Elementary in Winchester, MA had already been spending some of their free time doing a variety of community service projects this year.  They've collected items and baked treats for the homeless, played board games with the elderly and sorted housewares and warm clothing for those in need. Knowing these kids were about to be showered with gifts for the holidays, it seemed an opportune time to give them another hands-on and fun task they could do to help others.

On the last day of school before winter break, Jean Kingston popped some brownies in the oven, heated up some apple cider infused with cinnamon sticks, and welcomed a horde of kids into her house.

After they grabbed snacks, Jean gave a brief presentation on living conditions of kids in Tijuana, Mexico, where the backpacks full of school supplies would be sent. She showed the kids a few pictures of children in Mexico, their school and school yard. Then she asked a simple question: "You've heard the saying 'It's better to give than to receive. What does that mean to you?"

Owen, 10,  answered, "giving is better than receiving, because it's much nicer and it also makes you feel good after you give something to another person.  If you have a lot, you should give back so everyone can have something."

The kids then wrote letters to their Mexican counterparts and soon it was time for packing. In 30 minutes the 120 backpacks were stuffed full and they were off again, this time to play in the snow.

Abigail, 7, was surprised by how fun it was to help others. "I had fun. I packed 3 backpacks with Mimi (her grandmom). It was more fun than I thought it'd be."

Ramsey, age 11, said "It was fun.  And it was quick.  Which was great because then we got to play.  Did you know the kids use the same school stuff we use?  I guess they're just like us."

Helping some other kids and realizing that despite miles, circumstances and economics, "they're just like us"?

That's what it's all about.

Thanks for reading all about our latest SixSeeds adventure. You can have one too!  Please see the video below for more info.