Compassion Box Project by the You Matter Club
The below project which is described is funded by the Rich Lauf Global Studies Grant through the World Affairs Council. The grant was awarded to five schools to encourage teachers, students and/or student organizations to develop and carry out a project that benefits your school or community related to the UN Global Goals. You can donate to the grant here.
Title: The Compassion Box Project
Project Description:
The You Matter Club at Holmes High School helps students develop compassion for themselves and others to show that we all matter. This club strives to create a better world filled with purpose, empathy, compassion and connection. The You Matter Club members applied for the Lauf Global Studies Grant to provide a compassion box to select teachers located in multiple areas of the school building to support distressed students. Oftentimes, distressed students are being sent out of class to see a counselor or therapist. This could further stigmatize and isolate a student. The student may miss assignments and fall behind in their studies. The box included items such as fidget toys, sensory items, coloring books, and tissues to provide immediate comfort and stress relief to struggling students. A list of tips for dealing with emotions were included for staff and students in the box. The compassion box was a first step in providing additional care and resources for the student body and staff.
Success Stories/Highlights:
Participant Quotes:
“The compassion box helped me stay in class because I was one to walk out (when I got upset).”
“I liked figuring out how to assemble the boxes.”
“I learned lessons after getting results from the compassion box surveys.”
Club Leader – Julie W. Reflection:
“The You Matter Club members led this project from beginning to end. They identified a problem and worked towards creating a solution. The students demonstrated lots of energy throughout the process. I enjoyed watching the club members work together to assemble the compassion boxes. Each one found their niche and completed the work with tremendous enthusiasm. They were a well-oiled machine and all I had to do was stand back and watch. I couldn’t be more proud of the leadership skills displayed by this group. They genuinely want to find ways for all students to feel safe and supported throughout the school day. The hope is that the You Matter Club members will roll out the compassion boxes again next year with a few changes based on the feedback we’ve received from students and staff.”
Survey Results:
- 71% of teachers said the box was helpful
- 71% of teachers want a box next year
- Teachers asked for more fidgets
- 50% of students used the compassion box
- 71% of students said box helped them stay on task
- Students loved the squishy toys
