THE HELPERS
The second project of its kind in New Jersey history, The Helpers includes 61 stories of high school students throughout the state who received help from others during challenging times. It highlights the importance of asking for help, kindness, perseverance, and community.
The student memoir collection is now available to purchase on Amazon in paperback format ($14.95).
By the beginning of summer, I found myself confidently cracking jokes with them. I had presented many projects throughout the year and talked to a lot of classmates, but it was all thanks to them that I could talk without worries. Thanks to them I found the courage to speak.
Thanks to them, I found my voice.
Unless you were my close family, I didn’t speak to you as a kid. I had a speech impediment that caused others to mock and bully me, so I learned to keep quiet.
That is until one teacher found a way to speak to me.
My freshman year of high school was the start of a life without my mother. My friend Michael helped me focus on the new beginnings, by teaching me about love in the face of pain.
My mother taught me that too.
Around the house were mountains and a small river that used to be deep enough to drown in. After that trip I grew to better understand not just my roots, but who I am.
My father smiles a lot now. So do I.
Ramapo We Care Program
The Ramapo We Care program is dedicated to providing resources for students who are experiencing food, financial, or other basic needs insecurities. Programs include the campus Food Pantry, Clothing Closet, and Student Relief Fund. For further information, email wecare@ramapo.edu or view the We Care Program website.
