Nearly 200 people gathered at Irmo High School for its annual Goodwill Brunch on December 7. The event was created a few years ago to bridge the generation gap between students and senior citizens by inviting them to see student performances and enjoy a southern breakfast.
“This is our first time hosting this event again after being paused for three years, so it feels like a family reunion,” Irmo High Principal Dr. Kaaren Hampton said. “We have folks we haven’t seen in a long time and we also have new faces joining us, so it is an opportunity for us to offer our senior community a chance to come to our school and have breakfast and see a show. It gives our students the opportunity to showcase their talents to seniors in our community who may not be able to see it all the time.”
Following a meal provided by the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the District Five student nutrition department, guests were treated to performances from the Irmo High school Master Class Orchestra, Theater students, the Irmo High School Dance Ensemble, World Percussion Ensemble and the Irmo High School Symphonic Winds and Symphonic Orchestra.
Irmo High School junior Amelia Hewitt said being able to volunteer at the event and give back to the community brings joy to her heart.
“I love helping people, so any time I can help people that remind me of my family I am excited to do it,” Hewitt said. “Our goal is to make our visitors feel at home at Irmo High School and in our community especially during the holiday season when many of them may not have access to their families, so being able to serve them while sharing my love for my school and our community makes it all worthwhile.”
District Five community member Suzanne Switzer was in attendance and was delighted to be back in attendance.
“I have actually done this for several years and it is always over the top wonderful,” Switzer said. “Not only is the food good but the program is outstanding and the students are so loving and caring and welcoming. This event gives us something special to do during the holiday season and I am so thankful the school invites us to come!”
