A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
As we approach the end of the school year, I am filled with gratitude for the many individuals who have helped make this a meaningful season for our students.
From the incredible success of our inaugural Adult Spelling Bee Extravaganza to volunteers serving in schools across the county and supporters helping our graduating seniors prepare for their next chapter, this month’s stories reflect the power of community in action.
Because of your generosity, students are finishing the school year with the encouragement, resources, and opportunities they need to take their next steps with confidence. Thank you for standing alongside our students and helping them build brighter futures.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Ashley Hall
Executive Director
AN UN-BEE-LIEVABLE NIGHT! 🐝
On May 2, supporters from across the community gathered for Communities In Schools of Chesterfield’s inaugural Adult Spelling Bee Extravaganza — a sold-out evening filled with laughter, friendly competition, and a shared commitment to students.
Teams buzzed through challenging words, guests enjoyed lively entertainment and raffle prizes, and the room was filled with incredible energy from start to finish. Most importantly, the event raised nearly $77,000 to help ensure students across Chesterfield County have the support, resources, and relationships they need to thrive.
Every dollar raised helps CIS-C continue providing one-on-one student support, basic needs assistance, mental health resources, and enrichment opportunities in schools throughout the county.
To everyone who sponsored, attended, volunteered, donated, and spelled your hearts out — thank you for making our first-ever Bee such a memorable success. Your support is helping students build brighter futures, one word at a time. 🐝💛
Be sure to check out our photo album to relive some of the sweetest moments from the evening and see the community spirit that made this event so memorable!
THANK YOU, VOLUNTEERS!
During April, we celebrated All Site Volunteer Month by welcoming community members into our 16 CIS-C schools to support students and staff in meaningful ways.
From reading with students and organizing food pantries to assembling teacher appreciation gifts and helping sort supplies, our volunteers made a tangible difference in schools throughout the county. Their time, energy, and compassion helped create supportive learning environments where students can thrive.
To everyone who joined us during All Site Volunteer Month, thank you for showing up for students and demonstrating the power of community in action. Your service helps ensure that young people have the encouragement and resources they need to succeed in school and in life.
Missed All Site Volunteer Month? There are still plenty of ways to get involved. Visit our volunteer page to learn how you can make an impact with CIS-C year-round.
FROM SCRAP TO ART
At Harrowgate Elementary School, students recently demonstrated the power of creativity and compassion through an impactful community partnership.
Using repurposed materials donated by Super Radiator Coils, students handcrafted wind chimes for patients and families served by Hospice of Virginia. Materials originally designed for use in space stations and power plants were transformed into beautiful symbols of comfort and peace.
The project culminated in a special presentation ceremony, where students gifted their wind chimes to Hospice of Virginia and were honored with the Peacemaker Award in recognition of their thoughtfulness and service.
More than an art project, this experience showed students that even something considered “scrap” can become something deeply meaningful when approached with intention, creativity, and heart.
We are grateful to Super Radiator Coils and Hospice of Virginia for partnering with CIS-C to create this memorable learning opportunity and to help our students see the impact they can have on others.
HELP OUR GRADUATES START COLLEGE STRONG
As graduation season unfolds, many students supported by CIS-C are preparing to take an exciting next step: heading to college.
For first-generation and financially vulnerable students, the cost of setting up a dorm room can be a significant hurdle. Everyday essentials like bedding, towels, storage bins, and school supplies can quickly add up.
That’s where you can make a difference.
By purchasing an item from our Amazon Wish List, you can help equip students with the essentials they need to feel prepared, confident, and supported as they begin this new chapter. Your gift sends a powerful message: our community is cheering them on every step of the way.
The photo below features dorm baskets recently presented to graduating seniors at L.C. Bird High School—a tangible reminder that they are not heading to college alone.
Ready to help? Visit our Amazon Wish List and choose an item to support a student’s journey to higher education. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps our graduates start college strong. 🧺🎓💛
BULLDOG GAMES VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT BELLWOOD ELEMENTARY
Bellwood Elementary School is gearing up for its annual Bulldog Games on Friday, May 22, and volunteers are needed to help make the day a success.
Volunteers will assist with activity stations outdoors in “Sport City” on the baseball field from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This fun-filled event gives students an opportunity to celebrate teamwork, physical activity, and school spirit.
High school students who need community service hours are welcome to volunteer, and service hour documentation will be provided.
If you’re interested in lending a hand, please contact Mike Dunn at [email protected] for more information and to complete the required background check process.
CIS-C RESOURCE CORNER
May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health, and support is always available for students and families.
Looking for trusted information and practical tools? The Child Mind Institute offers free resources for parents, caregivers, and educators on topics such as anxiety, stress, mindfulness, and how to talk to children about mental health.
Highlights include:
- Tips for helping children manage anxiety and big emotions
- Guidance on when to seek professional support
- Advice for navigating insurance and finding care
- Short mindfulness videos for teens
- Strategies for supporting children while they wait for treatment
For local support, families in Chesterfield County can contact Chesterfield County Mental Health Support Services or call/text 988 for immediate crisis support.