The Honors Program at Stockton University is a great way to help students get involved. Through service initiatives, students are offered the opportunity to contribute to community efforts and work to make any difference possible. As freshman entering the program, it is the perfect way to become a part of the school and meet new people. The program has not only inspired me to join clubs but also encouraged me to be as active as I can in the community around me and step out of my comfort zone to try new things.

Stockton provides many extracurricular opportunities for students through a wide array of clubs. This variety of clubs ensures there is something that can attract each individual’s interest. One of those is a renowned international service organization, Circle K. Circle K works to encourage college students to become active members in their community and build qualities of leadership through service. One of the many ways to participate is through Project Linus, a weekly service event in which students make teddy bears and pillows for children in hospitals.

Named perfectly after the blanket-carrying and compassionate character from Charlie Brown, Project Linus is an organization that aims to provide blankets to children who are ill or in need. From Stockton University, students are able to expand on these children’s gifts and make their own stuffed animals and pillows to provide for them. Through the program, college students can actively work to lessen the burden of the harsh reality some children face daily in this world.

Being in the presence of other students who were filled with happiness while creating something special for another person felt simply rewarding. The thought alone of helping to form a smile on the face of a young person who has been through so much inspired me instantly. Though the room was small, the happiness and compassion that filled it simply could not be ignored Through music and chatter, our small yet determined group cut, stitched and stuffed teddy bears and pillows in a variety of patterns and colors. Next week, the project will continue offering more children a token of comfort in their lives.

Project Linus offers students the opportunity to have a small yet direct impact on those around them while contributing a little bit of happiness and light into the lives of those is difficult circumstances. This event puts into perspective how life is never easy, even for innocent children. However, there is always something you can do, no matter the size of the gesture, to provide some comfort or safety for those in need.