New Volunteer Project: Student Support Network
By Sandy Angell
Casual conversations among new friends can lead to exciting ideas. Such was the case for Marion Baker, Cindy Sugatt and Sandy Angell—all new to Broadmead within the past year. “What do you enjoy most about living here?” “What do you miss most about your previous life?”
All three concluded that they have found much to occupy and enrich their days on campus—art, music, lectures, and exercise, to name a few. What they missed, though, was volunteering in communities outside Broadmead in areas that matched their previous interests—namely, students and families in need.
They decided to investigate opportunities with the caveat that whatever they did should benefit nearby neighborhoods. Research was done, and other residents joined the conversation. A decision was made to partner with the Student Support Network (SSN), a local non-profit that provides food, basic necessities, and advocacy to support the well-being of Baltimore County Public School students in need. The SSN works in partnership with 20 public schools where over 40% of families fall beneath federal poverty guidelines.
Through the SSN, and in conjunction with volunteers from Sherwood Episcopal Church, Broadmead residents have begun volunteering at Cockeysville Middle School’s Food Pantry. In addition, they recently packed over 500 bags of non-perishable food items at the SSN distribution center in Timonium to support students and their families during spring break, when schools are closed.
Plans are underway for Broadmead residents to collect food and toiletries for the Food Pantry, and to knit hats and scarves in preparation for Fall 2024. Opportunities for residents to participate in classroom activities are being explored with the Retired and Senior Volunteers Program of Baltimore County.
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