Story originally posted on April 16, 2025.
The hum of laughter and conversation filled the room as students and senior citizens shared paintbrushes, stories and springtime cheer. At the Saginaw Senior Center, the Comanche Springs Elementary School Spur Ambassadors lit up the space with their energy, creativity and kind hearts.
As part of their community outreach initiative, the student group visited the center to perform a reader’s theatre skit, followed by snacks and spring-themed crafts with the seniors, including painting and wreath-making.
“We do community outreach so we can be better people,” said Cecilia Lara, a Spur Ambassador. “I love doing outreach because we get to meet a lot of nice people. Also, it’s good for the community and you get to have a good time.”
The Spur Ambassadors not only planned the activities, they made them possible. Through student-led fundraisers, they raised money to purchase all the craft supplies and snacks they brought to the event.
“Today was great,” Ava Lara, a Spur Ambassador, said. I got to talk about sports, movies and the holiday. I really like to do crafts with the seniors.”
For these young leaders, giving back is a way to make meaningful connections and uplift others and their impact doesn't go unnoticed.
Senior citizen Charlyn Bachemin shared, “I really enjoy having the kids here. They are really nice to talk to. I’ve enjoyed our conversations a lot.”
These outreach visits are part of the group's broader mission.
“Being a Spur Ambassador is about helping not only our school but also being a part of our community,” said Amari Davis. “I met someone that wasn’t having a great day, but when I left, they were smiling.”
Senior citizen Mercedes Alanis de Wheeland echoed the sentiment.
“We enjoy it because they are nice kids and they like to spend time with us. Many times, we need company and are so happy and full of life after seeing them,” she said.
For the students, the experience is both fulfilling and eye-opening.
Liliana Sanchez shared, “Being out with the seniors makes me feel good that I’m able to do things for our community. I love that we are able to talk with the seniors and bond with them. We do the outreach to help the community, and community service can also help us get into college.”
Whether they’re passing out paint or sharing stories, these students are creating lasting memories and proving that kindness, and a little creativity, can go a long way.
“I love helping the community and doing service with the seniors,” said student Anushka Basel. “It makes me happy that I can help people.”
We are #EMSproud of the Comanche Springs Elementary School Spur Ambassadors for the positive impact they are having on our community.
