Gratitude and giving back are foundational principles that help us grow personally, bring communities closer, and boost our emotional well-being. Research shows that being grateful can make us happier, reduce stress, and improve our relationships—while giving back helps us feel more connected and purposeful.
At Liberty Partnerships Program (LPP), we don't just talk about these values; we actively incorporate them into everything we do. November, a month steeped in reflection and gratitude, provides the perfect opportunity for our students to engage in activities that cultivate thankfulness and service.
Here’s a look at how our programs are making an impact in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving:
Johnson City High School LPP: A Thankful Board
Students at Johnson City High School are finding simple yet meaningful ways to show their gratitude. They've been having fun coloring seasonal cutouts like leaves and pumpkins, jotting down who or what they're thankful for, and then adding them to a cheerful "Thankful" board in the office.
This not only promotes mindfulness but also invites students to pause and think about the people and things they cherish most. Watching the board fill up with heartfelt messages brings a sense of togetherness and appreciation to the school community, right in time for the holidays.
Johnson City Middle School & Binghamton West Middle School: Serving Together
At the YMCA of Johnson City’s annual Thanksgiving Dinner, our Liberty students from Johnson City Middle and Binghamton West Middle Schools truly showed what it means to give from the heart.
These amazing students spent their weekend setting up, decorating, serving meals, and tidying up after the event. Thanks to their hard work, families in need enjoyed a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Their enthusiasm and teamwork highlighted the joys of giving back—even when it means sacrificing personal time! A big thank you to the YMCA of Broome County for teaming up with us to make this special experience happen for the second year in a row!
Susquehanna Valley High School: Monthly Food Bank Volunteering
At Susquehanna Valley High School, our Liberty students have teamed up with the Southern Tier Food Bank for an ongoing partnership. Every month, they happily spend four hours organizing food donations and handing out care packages to local families who are facing food insecurity.
Their generosity supports 150–300 families each time, and gives our students a chance to really understand the challenges their community faces. After each session they come together to chat about their experiences, sharing thoughts and feedback that highlight the importance of their efforts. Many of these students come back month after month, creating a tradition of service that brightens their lives and the community.
Why It Matters
These initiatives do more than just meet immediate needs—they help us grow empathy, leadership, and a lifelong love for helping others. By embracing gratitude and giving back, our students build the social and emotional skills that are key to thriving both personally and academically. Plus, they encourage all of us to think about how we can make a positive impact in our communities.
As we journey through November and get ready for the holiday season, let’s celebrate the power of gratitude and giving. Together, we can create a ripple effect that reaches far beyond our school walls.