Reaching Out

Begin by discussing community service and the various ways people help others in the community.

Explain the project goal: to create a class book that features stories of local heroes who make a difference. You may consider sharing some Chicken Soup for the Soul stories to provide examples of feel-good stories about helping others.

As a class, work with your students to develop interview guidelines and a set of questions to help them conduct their interviews. Questions might include:

• What inspires you to help others?
• Can you describe a memorable moment from volunteer work?
• How can others get involved and help the community?

Be sure to discuss the importance of taking clear notes during the interview.

Assign students to interview a person who works for a cause in the community. This could be a volunteer, a community worker, or someone who regularly helps others.

Encourage students to take detailed notes and, if possible, take photographs or even record video.

Video Interview Template

Have students use their notes to write an article about the person they interviewed. The article should include:

• An introduction to the interviewee and their role in the community.
• How the person helps others.
• Memorable stories or experiences.
• How others can get involved in similar activities.

News Article Template

Instruct students to add images to their pages. They can use photos they took during the interview, draw pictures, or create illustrations of the person in action helping others.

Once all articles are complete, use the Project Wizard to compile each student's page into a digital class book. Share the digital book on your class website or another platform.

Provide time for students to present their articles to the class. Each student should share highlights from their interview and what they learned about helping others.