War is escalating in Gaza. Antisemitism is on the rise. Putin is bombing Ukraine. The violent hatred between the political left and right is intensifying by the second. It’s not a particularly bright outlook. Why then, is there reason to hope?

I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again. I feel hope when I see people doing small things to play their role in the world. Many clubs at Lexington High School engage in community service and over 40 of them are primarily devoted to supporting a particular cause. One such club is the UNICEF club. The UNICEF club fundraises for UNICEF USA, the American branch of the organization. UNICEF provides critical support for children globally, ranging from life-saving medical care to life-changing psychological support and education. 

When I initially joined the UNICEF club during my junior year, it was to stay in contact with a friend. However, upon joining, I immediately loved the club for its devotion to children’s well-being. Being part of a club such as the UNICEF club is my way of finding purpose and giving back to the world. It offers me a way to connect with like-minded people who are interested in protecting children’s rights.

In the past, UNICEF has hosted various fundraisers such as bake sales and game nights, and this year, we will be hosting a virtual 5K from June 16 to July 16 in support of Global Child Protection, to safeguard children from violence. While our primary goal is to raise money, my hope is that this event will raise awareness about children’s issues around the world. 

Since UNICEF’s inception in 1946, the state of the children has improved greatly, but much work remains to be done. During the pandemic, the number of unvaccinated children around the world rose to pre-2010 levels. More countries than ever in the last 30 years are experiencing violence and conflict. As a result of fighting around the world, over 30 million children have been forced to flee from their homes. This 5K will fundraise to support these suffering children and  raise awareness about their plight. 

The UNICEF club is just one organization at LHS taking part in social change. The number of clubs dedicated to improving the world shows just how socially minded our students are. There is a lot going on in the world, but it feels less overwhelming when we play our part to make it better.