The holiday season is a time for joy, community, and giving back. In December, the Excel Academies in Philadelphia, took part in Operation Snowball, a city-wide initiative, led by the Philadelphia Eagles in collaboration with the School District of Philadelphia, that aims to spread holiday cheer by providing every student in the district with a thoughtful holiday gift.
Gifts That Warmed Hearts
Operation Snowball visited all Excel Academy campuses to deliver gifts and celebrate the festive time of year with both students and staff. Gifts from the district included Wawa gift cards, hats, and hot chocolate coupons. Adding to the celebration, Excel Academies supplemented these gifts with additional items such as gloves, toys, games, and toiletries. The result was a heartwarming display of generosity and community spirit that left a lasting impression on everyone involved.
Fostering Community and Belonging
“Participating in district-wide initiatives like Operation Snowball holds special significance for the Excel community”, said Jennifer Green, M. Ed., regional director. “These events foster a sense of belonging and recognition for our students. They help bridge the gap and ensure that all students feel valued and celebrated within the broader school district community.”
The Impact of Small Acts of Kindness
Operation Snowball is particularly meaningful since not all students receive gifts during the holiday season. A small token of kindness can brighten a student’s spirit, leaving a positive impact that extends well beyond the holiday season.
“The students were deeply appreciative of the thoughtful gifts they received. The smiles, gratitude, and excitement shared across campuses were a testament to the program’s success,” said Green. “A simple act of kindness can truly make a difference.”
