January 25, 2023
Teachers from the Chardon Education Association gathered after school on Jan. 20 to recharge and reconnect with each other and support an important Geauga County organization — the Geauga County Veteran Food Pantry.
CEA teachers collected 177 non-perishable food items and 100 dollars in cash and gift cards for the pantry. The event was held at Claridon Woodlands in the Judge Lester Taylor Lodge.
According to CEA member and event organizer, Amy Cohn, “A ‘Party with a Purpose’ is an opportunity for our group to get together and socialize while benefiting a specific non-profit organization. Throughout the years, I have attended parties for cancer awareness, restoration from home fires, and raising funds for new playgrounds. Prior to COVID-19, our district hosted a Party with a Purpose to gather school supplies for WomenSafe, Inc.”
Not only did each teacher who attended the Jan. 20 event donate, some brought donations from those who could not attend.
Ms. Cohn further explained, “When my children were young, we volunteered at our church pantry which was an extension of the Greater Cleveland Food Bank. This opened my eyes to the needs of both children and adults in the Northeast Ohio area. Some populations have specific needs, such as the Veteran Food Pantry. Many veterans in our area have limited resources and transportation along with the need to be with those who understand what they have been through. When the Geauga Veteran Food Pantry opened, several school and community organizations donated, but there will always be an ongoing need. Hopefully, bringing continued awareness through CEA will benefit our veterans for years to come.”
CEA member Lynn Monaco agrees with Cohn about the importance of supporting those in need in Geauga County, but she also expanded on the importance of gathering as a group in such a beautiful setting that is offered to the public through the Geauga Park District.
Mrs. Monaco stated, “It was so enjoyable to see colleagues from my own building that I don't see often, as well as colleagues from other buildings! It felt relaxing to be in the wooded park, just catching up with others, while also knowing our donations would benefit local veterans.”
The Chardon Education Association is currently planning their next get together, which will benefit another non-profit organization here in Geauga County.
Cindy Newman
Public Relations Chairperson
Chardon Education Association
[email protected]
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