St. Joseph School President, Sr. Dorothy Randall was overwhelmed when she entered a party consisting of boys and girls from her school’s fifth-grade classrooms. Invited to share in the celebration held on Sunday, December 5th, she was thrilled to see the joy and generosity of three fifth grade boys as they celebrated their December birthdays surrounded by friends and classmates. She was glad to be a part of this very charitable event as students were coming together not only to celebrate the birthdays, but also to celebrate giving in this Christmas season.
St. Joseph fifth graders, Lucas Elisha, Jack Eschenbach and Tim Flavin decided to combine their birthday celebrations and gather gifts for the good of others.
“It started when my husband and I talked with Lucas about his birthday and also about what charitable things we could do this holiday season,” said Audrey Elisha of Downers Grove. In the past, Lucas has shared his birthday parties with friend and classmate, Tim Flavin. Lucas suggested a shared birthday again this year. Audrey was worried about such a large party, but suggested a party where all his classmates could come and all the presents could go to kids that don't have much.
Lucas’ reaction surprised his mom. “Without hesitation, he told me it was a great idea,” adding with a smile, “I thought I would have to crank his arm!” This year, Lucas realized that friend and classmate, Jack Eschenbach also shares a December birthday so he approached both Tim and Jack with the idea.
Audrey worked closely with moms Judy Flavin and Katie Eschenbach, while hosting the party in her home. All agreed this was a good idea, and while it was a large party, they embraced it.
While saying grace before their meal, Audrey and the other moms explained the Toys for Tots program to the attendees and thanked everyone for being so generous.
Sr. Dorothy was so pleased with the generosity of these boys and their 36 classmates. Over 50 toys were collected and donated to the Marines’ ‘Toys for Tots’ organization. “It is so beautiful to see these students sharing of themselves. As we ask our students to focus on the Fruits of the Holy Spirit; kindness, gentleness, love, joy, etc. in school, it brings me joy to witness our students bringing it into their everyday life! I am glad to be a part of it.”
Audrey Elisha was thrilled with the outcome. “The boys were really proud they were doing it. They didn't think twice. They liked the gifts, but never once asked if they could keep one.” Audrey was also happy that Lucas’ 4-year-old brother, Parker could witness his brother’s generosity. “It’s great for him to see it, too, at such a young age.”
For more information on Toys for Tots, go to http://dupage-il.toysfortots.org. The organization accepts online donations as well as dropped off gifts. Gifts given at this party were dropped off at the 2010 DuPage County Toys for Tots Warehouse location, 2147 – 63rd Street in Downers Grove, which is space donated by Arun Enterprises.
