Journey For Good: A Volunteer Movement Inspires Dwyer Middle School Students

At the start of this school year, Dwyer Middle School launched Journey For Good, a program designed to spark a passion for volunteerism among its students. Spearheaded by the Dwyer Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA), this initiative empowers students to dedicate their time and talents to their school and local community, fostering a culture of compassion and service.

Students have collectively logged nearly 900 hours of volunteer work—a testament to their commitment to creating meaningful change. This impressive milestone reflects the students’ dedication and the program’s ability to inspire action and cultivate a lasting impact.

"Through Journey For Good, we’re not just teaching students to volunteer; we’re empowering them to become leaders who understand the value of service. No matter how small, every act of kindness creates a ripple effect that strengthens our community and shapes the future," said Dwyer PTSA President Ms. Starla Edwards.

The program began during Advisory periods, where students were introduced to the importance of volunteerism and its potential to change lives. To kick things off, the Dwyer PTSA organized various on-campus volunteer events, creating an accessible starting point for students eager to get involved. These early efforts laid the groundwork for a broader mission: encouraging students to extend their service beyond the school grounds and into the wider community.

A Growing Movement

The success of Journey For Good lies in its inclusivity and reach. Students have embraced diverse activities, including organizing school events, volunteering at food banks, contributing to cultural festivals, and more. Most recently, students and their families came together for a Beach Cleanup Serving Our Community in Honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This inspiring event demonstrated the program’s mission in action as participants worked side by side to beautify the coastline while honoring Dr. King’s legacy of service and unity.

Other creative projects have included crafting thank-you cards for veterans, ornament-making for senior citizens, assisting at local libraries, and engaging with specialized programs like Autism Aces and AYSO Buddies.

Families have joined the movement, volunteering alongside their children or supporting their efforts through transportation and event coordination. This collective participation has created a powerful unity that extends beyond the classroom, connecting families, the school, and the community in a shared purpose.

Recognition for Service

In addition to fostering a spirit of giving, the program celebrates the achievements of its participants. Students who complete 25 hours of volunteer service at Dwyer or within their community receive the following:

• A Silver Cord, worn proudly at Promotion by 8th graders, symbolizes their commitment to community engagement.

• A Certificate of Service honoring their dedication and contributions.

• A Medal recognizing their exceptional efforts and encouraging continued involvement.

These recognitions are tangible reminders of the rewards of giving back and the leadership qualities developed through service.

As Journey For Good grows, it has become a cornerstone of the Dwyer community. Teachers, administrators, and staff actively support the program by encouraging students to log their hours and celebrate their accomplishments. Beyond the numbers, the program teaches students invaluable life lessons: empathy, teamwork, and the satisfaction of making a difference.

Service is no longer just a requirement for these students—it’s a source of purpose and connection, revealing the transformative power of giving back.

Join the Journey

With its remarkable success, the Journey For Good program invites the entire HBCSD community to participate. Whether you’re volunteering at school events, supporting local causes, or simply encouraging others to get involved, every act of kindness makes an impact.

Together, we can continue to create meaningful change—one small act at a time. Let’s keep this journey alive and inspire a legacy of service for generations to come.