Service, Learning in Action

Service is integral to the culture at Blake School in Wayzata. As far back as 1989, students have come to IOCP—to learn about the need in their community, to understand homelessness and other issues struggling families face, and to drop off food.

“Ten years ago we began a food drive,” said Nan Peterson, director of service learning. “We use this annual event as a springboard for learning. We tie it to nutrition and have the students do a food journal. We talk about who is hungry and why the need exists. We also learn how organizations like IOCP help families, and what it takes. There’s even a presentation at our student assembly.”

This year, 300 students from prekindergarten through 5th grade will participate. They will have barrels at the front door, creating a visible reminder of the drive and the need. “Last year our students collected an amazing 2,522 lbs. of food in March,” added Peterson proudly.

What’s new about this year’s drive is that the different grades will make their own “donation creation,” a food sculpture using the items donated.

“One of the most meaningful aspects of the food drive is when students bring the food to IOCP and see the food shelf,” added Peterson. “They have a lot of questions, and this helps them understand why our annual drive is so important.”