Eighth Grade Students Provide Treats for PVN Pups and Cards for Residents

On a sweltering July afternoon, St. Thomas Aquinas eighth graders Ryan McGonigle and Kenna Murphy carefully arranged their supplies across the island in McGonigle’s kitchen, with the intent of spreading joy. Fueled by a charcuterie board and the determination to make the recipients of their ‘labor of love’ feel special, the pair set about fulfilling their summer community service commitment. By the end of the afternoon they created 20 unique, handmade cards and 35 doggie bags for Presbyterian Village North (PVN) residents and their furry friends.

The colorful cards contain encouraging messages, will be delivered to assisted living residents as a special surprise this week. The doggie bags, adorned with colorful stickers and a photo of McGonigle and Murphy, are filled with chew sticks and dog biscuits, and will be given to PVN pups at the dog park on Friday, August 26, in celebration of International Dog Day. Watch PVN pooch video.

If you or someone you know is interested in participating in resident-focused community service projects such as this, contact Wendy Van Bemmel, Forefront Living Public Relations and Events Manager, at wvanbemmel@forefrontliving.org.