In April, Woodward students took part in a program designed to increase empathy for Ukrainian refugees in our region. Using testimonials obtained from the congregation of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Seattle, school counselor Sue Constan and Rotarian Nena Peltin helped the kids make a film dramatizing refugees’ real experiences before leaving their country. Former Rotarian Karla Mather was also instrumental in shaping this program. The administration of Woodward showed the film across the school, and Sue reported that it evoked a strong emotional response from the kids who saw it. Many cried.
As an expression of concern for the refugees’ families, the students then collected a grand total of 1,089 pairs of new socks for the refugees, far more than anyone expected! The Ukrainian Association of WA will distribute the socks at their next support event for Ukrainian refugee families.
We were so happy to collaborate with Woodward School and are so grateful that the administration there works hard to instill empathy and kindness in its students!