On October 16, The Columbus School Foundation launched a Thanksgiving fundraising campaign, “Gratitude is the Best Attitude,” with a renewed focus on fostering appreciation and community spirit.
This initiative brought together National Honor Society (NHS) volunteers and TCS Foundation mothers, who visited classrooms across all grades to introduce the campaign’s mission. By engaging students and faculty alike, the campaign inspired collective action to honor and support those who contribute endlessly to TCS.
“We went to the classrooms, introduced the campaign, and distributed piggy banks, which were made from plastic bottles this year to be more eco-friendly… It was a small but impactful way to encourage gratitude and giving,” Rafael Martinez, NHS member and campaign volunteer, said.
The campaign’s focus on gratitude extended to all corners of the school community. Volunteers also handed out apples with heartfelt messages to teachers, emphasizing the campaign’s broader goal of recognizing and valuing everyone’s contributions to the school.
“This year, we wanted to show our teachers how much we appreciate them while also involving students in the larger mission of giving back… It was a great way to spread the spirit of gratitude,” Martinez said.
The campaign also sought to recognize the often-overlooked efforts of the TCS support staff. Many workers, whose daily contributions are essential to the school’s operations, expressed their appreciation for being acknowledged. Their heartfelt responses highlighted the significance of such initiatives.
“Students often greet me by name in the mornings, which always makes me feel valued… It’s the little things, like being remembered or receiving a small gift, that make a big difference,” Jaqueline Mosquera, Serviexpress worker, said.
In addition to the traditional objectives, this year’s campaign introduced new features to enhance its impact. The gratitude chain, a staple of previous years, was replaced by a focus on collecting donations. Eco-friendly piggy banks were distributed, and the campaign aimed to extend its generosity beyond TCS, potentially supporting a nearby school’s Christmas celebration.
“I hope we can not only meet but surpass our fundraising goals this year… It would be amazing to help both our TCS staff and a neighboring school,” Martinez said.
Beyond the practical aspects, the campaign left a lasting impression on the volunteers who brought it to life. The experience of teaching younger students about gratitude stood out as particularly moving.
“As we explained gratitude to younger students, their responses were heartwarming… It reminded me how much we take for granted and how important it is to acknowledge the good in our lives,” Antonia Vélez, senior volunteer, said.
Through activities, “Gratitude is the Best Attitude” has become a vital initiative that unites students, staff, and volunteers with a shared purpose. Its impact goes beyond the funds raised, fostering deeper connections and an enduring culture of gratitude between students and workers.
“We should never forget to say thank you, not just during the holidays but every day… Small acts of appreciation can make our community stronger and more compassionate,” Martinez said.