b'fundraising component. To start the year off, students Developing a heart for justicecreated a video about our recycling efforts and where The recycling program is exceptional and well-the money would be going, Julie says. We showed received, says Joseph Norton, who also serves asthe video to every grade level at their orientations, and faculty leader of the middle schools ecology programstudents spoke about the importance of recycling. called Eagle Pride Initiative for a Clean Campus.PHOTO: MATT DAYKAFather Joseph also visited all religion classes to Student council representatives and ecology discuss the REDS programs and how student partici- committee members are among the recyclingpation in the campus recycling program could help. program leaders, and the entire school participates in the program over the coursePHOTO: MATT DAYKAof the school year.Julie also sees a growing passion amonghigh school students to engage in the recy-cling efforts. Says recent graduate ElizabethZimmerman: This program seemed almosttoo big to tackle at first. But the Chaminadecommunity really has embraced it, and I am Its hard work, but it feelsvery proud of the difference we are making. good to help people whoThis year, the recycling effort yielded about are in need and put them$1,700 with funds expected to grow to more before you.than $2,000 per year. But the money is justpart of the programs success.Adler Dillman, seventh gradeTheres the environmental benefit of nothaving campus recyclables end up in landfills, saysFather Joseph. Plus, school leaders also appreciate howthe program teaches students important lessons insocial and environmental justice. The program has taught Father Joseph something,too. I have learned how to work with a team of faculty,staff and student leaders who embrace the Marianistspirit. With the help of so many, I am hopeful theproject will continue. And I am happy the childrenhave learned about stewardshipfor the Earth andone another.Upon his return from a recent trip to India, FatherJoseph brought back a surprise gift for the school: a special thank-you video message from children inthe REDS programs. These kinds of feel-good moments are an under-lying benefit of the recycling program, says seventh-grader, Adler Dillman. Its hard work, but it feelsgood to help people who are in need and put thembefore you, he says. Its good to know you arehelping people.Kevin Conway is a freelance writer from Bloomington, The school purchased 50 bottle-shaped recycling bins for use at Indiana.the middle and high school campuses.For more information about the Marianist REDS ministries in India, go to marianist.com/india-ministries. If you would liketo make a donation, please use the enclosed envelope or go to marianist.com/donate or call 800.348.4732.marianist.com/donate 21'