Creating hope through partnerships

Club Hope at Rowan Elementary School

Rowan Elementary School is excited to announce a special initiative where students have joined together to create “Pink Out” friendship bracelets for cancer warriors.

The idea was recently spearheaded by first-grade teacher Hannah Hamilton, who was part of the original Club Hope at Ellwood City Area School District during high school. After reconnecting with the organization last year, she introduced Club Hope to Rowan, engaging students in projects like making holiday crafts for “Hope Boxes” sent to cancer patients.

“I was determined to grow our participation this year,” Ms. Hamilton shared, and she succeeded. Rowan now has 34 new Club Hope members, including teachers, specialists and interventionists. Among them is Rowan fourth-grade teacher Jaden Miller, Ms. Hamilton’s cousin and a fellow Club Hope alum from their high school days.

“I have been part of Club Hope since sixth grade, and it has shaped who I am today,” said Ms. Miller. “Losing (my best friend) to cancer during our senior year was devastating, but it inspires me to continue spreading hope.”

The “Pink Out” bracelets were distributed at a Freedom Area High School event, showing Rowan Elementary’s support for those battling cancer.

“It’s been rewarding to see our students and staff come together for such a meaningful cause,” Ms. Hamilton added. “We’re excited to continue making a difference through Club Hope.”