By: Claire Cutting

As the future of the historic Sugarcreek Elementary remains uncertain, the Bellbrook-Sugarcreek Community Resource Center has officially relocated from its longtime home within the century-old building. Members of the Bellbrook National Honor Society (NHS) stepped up to help with the move on February 25. There, the volunteers demonstrated the strong spirit of service that defines the Bellbrook community.

The volunteers tackled a variety of tasks, including moving school supplies, organizing food donations, sorting through expired goods, transporting materials to the new location, and recycling excess packaging. Thanks to their teamwork and efficiency, what was originally planned as a two-hour project was completed in nearly half the time.

“It was such a nice day outside,” senior Eva Koesters said. “We were carrying boxes of cereal between buildings, and it was great to enjoy the weather while helping my community.”

For many students, working inside the historic Sugarcreek Elementary building added an extra layer of meaning to the day.

“I really enjoyed carrying school supplies around the school because I got to explore such a cool building,” senior Connor Spriggs said.

“I liked hanging out with friends, seeing a new place, and knowing I was helping someone,” senior Connor Payne said.

The students’ hard work did not go unnoticed, and they were treated to a sweet reward. Crumbl Cookies were provided to volunteers as a small thank-you for their efforts.

“I’m going to be honest, I loved the Crumbl,” senior Molly Janus said with a laugh. “But it’s always the best helping my community.” 

For many NHS members, volunteering is more than just a requirement: it’s an opportunity to make a lasting impact on their community. The resource center move was just one of many projects these students have taken on, and each event deepens their appreciation for service.

“Volunteering always makes me feel good because I get to help others while being around people I enjoy,” Spriggs said. “The work and environment make me feel fulfilled.”

Sophomore Ahmed El Sharif echoed this sentiment. “It makes me feel like I’m making a difference, and it’s the first thing I’ve found that gives me a real sense of purpose,” El Sharif said.

For others, it’s about knowing that their actions, no matter how small, contribute to something bigger.

“Volunteering makes me feel valued and needed because I help accomplish things that would have been harder or taken longer without me,” NHS co-president Oliver Alban said.

Senior Jordan Frantz also reflected on what giving back means to her.

“Volunteering makes me feel amazing,” Frantz said. “ I’m giving back to a community that has done nothing but support me, and it’s so rewarding to return that kindness.”

For the staff of the Bellbrook-Sugarcreek Community Resource Center, the students’ contributions were more than just helpful; they were essential.

“I cannot thank them enough,” said Jennifer Hanks, one of the center’s lead organizers. “I’m blown away. They were a huge help to me—so well-behaved, so impactful. I’m very impressed. They did so many things I couldn’t have accomplished on my own. From the bottom of my heart, I thank them.”

The center later posted a public message on Facebook to recognize the volunteers’ efforts:

“We want to give a huge shoutout to the incredible NHS students who helped us finish our move to our new location! These students were thoughtful, well-mannered, and such a great help—we were truly impressed by their hard work and kindness. It’s heartwarming to see young people so dedicated to giving back to their community. We are beyond grateful for their support—thank you all so much!”