Mr. Cohen’s freshman Earth Science classes created a concept map book for the children of the Touching Tiny Lives foundation. Touching Tiny lives is a community of volunteers in Mokhotlong, Lesotho, dedicated to combating the spread of AIDS and building relationships with the global north.

The Kids Helping Kids project grew out of an assignment that was initially intended for schoolwork. At the time, the classes were studying topics such as our minuscule place in this world, and how people can effect changes on a global scale. After watching a presentation that informed the students about the lives of the children in Mokhotlong, Lesotho, one of Mr.Cohen’s classes brainstormed about how they could reach out and touch a small part of the world they might not have otherwise even known existed. They came up with the idea of creating a study guide by making concept maps on certain topics that have been covered in class.

Some of the students volunteered by decorating the book with their original and powerful artwork, short story, or poetry. The art and poetry are dedicated to the Touching Tiny Lives children, and all children of the world who suffer. The projects were graded on creativity and effort. Each class had a staff of artists and writers who serve as the “editors” of the class section they were assigned. Each student was asked to bring in $4.00 for the foundation, which is the equivalent of the cost of one dose of medicine for the children with AIDS. The five Earth Science classes hoped to raise $800. Campus Ministry is helping them direct the donations to the proper place.

The deep involvement of the students trying to help the kids of Mokhotlong, Lesotho, can be seen in their dedication to making it successful. Melissa Lin ‘09, an art editor, explains that “ the concept map book will be for Touching Tiny Lives because in our concept map book there will be poems for the children and drawings for
the children.”

The students got involved for different reasons. Aleeya Hussain ‘09, an editor of the project, said she got involved because “ it seems like a great opportunity to help those less fortunate and in need. The stories help brighten up the kids' days, put a smile on their faces, and show them that we care and are thinking about them.”

Those not participating in Mr.Cohen’s Earth Science class may help by sending their donation directly to the Touching Tiny Lives Foundation:

http://www.touchingtinylives.org/
Touching Tiny Lives Foundation
11415 Manor
Leawood, Kansas 66211
U.S.A.
(913) 530-3698 phone

The Earth is making such cry for help that even the tiniest bit of effort can make a difference. Human beings are powerless against the earth’s natural disasters, but that is no reason give up and say the Earth will take care of itself. By informing yourself of the horrid situations affecting people across the seas and perhaps donating whatever you can, no matter how little, could make a difference and actually impact someone’s life.

Faith to Believe

Laying by the ocean,

it's a joyous place to be.

As here my lonely spirit,

is always set free.