Scott Middle School’s sixth-grade students are tackling big issues and inviting the community to learn—and help—during this year’s Make a Difference Fair, happening Thursday, May 1, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. in the school gym.
Now in its 14th year, the project has students choose a social issue they care about, research it, and connect with a local nonprofit working in that space. Their work culminates in a science fair-style event, where they present their findings and accept donations to benefit the causes they’ve chosen.
“This is something that can go beyond the walls of our school,” said Eric Nelson, sixth-grade humanities teacher. “This is an assignment that can really hopefully make a difference in our community and help some people out who maybe have fallen on some hard times.”
Topics range from poverty and domestic violence to animal welfare. Local organizations like the Food Bank of Lincoln and Lincoln Bike Kitchen are among those students are spotlighting.
Nelson said the project often sticks with students beyond the sixth grade. “We’ve heard stories from past students who’ll have a birthday party and, instead of asking for presents, they’ll have their guests make donations to something they chose during the Make a Difference Fair.”
The fair is open to the public, and donations will be collected through Give to Lincoln Day channels with support from the Lincoln Community Foundation.