Students at Orcas Christian School recently took part in their annual fall service day, volunteering at several sites across Orcas Island. From helping at the local food bank to cleaning up animal shelters and community spaces, the students and staff spent the day serving others and learning the value of giving back.

Food Bank

By CJ

One group of students partnered with the Orcas Island Food Bank, where they originally planned to press apples and make fresh apple cider — a seasonal treat for everyone to enjoy.

The students arrived with crates of apples and sorting stations ready to go, but the motorized apple press refused to start. Though the mechanical setback derailed the cider-making plans, the group quickly found another way to help when a shipment of food arrived.

The students unloaded and organized two pallets of canned goods, preparing them for distribution to families in need.

“Volunteering at the food bank was really fun, especially because all our work was helping people get food who needed it,” said Ben, an OCS student.

Animal Protection Society

By Lula

Another group of students spent their service day at the Orcas Island Animal Shelter. Working alongside three other volunteers, they trimmed back overgrown blackberry bushes and cleared the field behind the building to make it safer for animals to play outdoors.

After finishing the outdoor cleanup, the students were rewarded with time to visit the animals up for adoption, including several cats and two energetic shepherd puppies.

“The work was difficult, but it was nice to give back to the community and also bond with other students,” said ninth grader Grant T.

Campus Cleanup

By Lilli

Younger students stayed on campus to help clean their own school. Kindergarteners through second graders joined forces to tidy classrooms and hallways — vacuuming, sweeping and wiping tables.

Older students assisted with kitchen tasks, such as washing dishes and cleaning counters.

“It felt really good to help and clean the classrooms,” said first grader Piper. “I think it’s really helpful for the teachers.”

Community Member’s House

By Mrs. Morgan

A group of OCS students also had the chance to help a longtime community member and supporter of the school with outdoor yard work and light housekeeping.

The students raked leaves, picked up pinecones, swept pine needles and helped clean windows, vacuum and dust indoors. A highlight of the day was meeting a neighbor’s new puppy — and seeing the homeowner’s gratitude for their efforts.

“I think we had the best project of the day!” one student said.

April’s Grove

By Mrs. Shelton

On a bright autumn morning, 12 students from grades three through five arrived at April’s Grove ready to work. Equipped with rakes, gloves and a large blue tarp, the group rotated through tasks such as weeding, raking leaves and collecting debris around the grounds.

The students worked in 20-minute shifts, demonstrating teamwork and determination throughout the morning.

“It taught us to work hard and give others a break,” said fifth grader Micah S.