This weekend I was able to give back to my old middle school and helped my brother’s academic extracurricular activity group raise enough money to be able to go to an upcoming competition, as well as purchases much needed supplies. This weekend I put my talents to work with this event by baking homemade cookies and selling them with a smile. I was of course happy to help out my brother, but it was an amazing feeling to help other young minds to pursue their academic hobbies; lack of funds shouldn’t limit a child’s growth or dreams. Now the Bellefonte Area Middle School TSA group can go to their competitions to show off their skills and have the money to buy the supplies they needed.

This event was considered civic engagement for me because I was able to positively help members of the community that I grew up in. I know this wasn’t a huge event or anything that was completely life- changing, but who knows maybe now that the team can go to the competitions, a student could find their true calling and a possible interest for their later education. It’s my goal in life to make an impact on a person or many people’s lives in a positive way, and who knows maybe all it takes is putting my baking skills to use.