Sometimes the biggest acts of kindness don’t come from those with the deepest pockets.
Sometimes they come from little hands dropping pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters into a collection bucket.
Recently, the students at Mapleton Elementary from Ashland, Ohio proved that generosity has no age limit.
As part of a “Silver for Service” coin drive organized by members of VFW Auxiliary Post 2743, 362 students spent two weeks collecting spare change with one simple goal: Kids Helping Kids. Every coin they donated was destined to support the children and families of the VFW National Home.
What began with a fundraising goal of just $500 quickly became something far greater.
Each morning, fifth-grade students eagerly gathered and counted the donations, cheering as each classroom added to the growing total. It became more than a competition between grades—it became a lesson in teamwork, compassion, and giving back.
When the final coins were counted, the students had raised an incredible $1,577.32. More than three times the original goal!
The fifth grade led the way with $522.99, earning a well-deserved pizza party, while the fourth grade followed closely behind with $412.12. Every student celebrated their generosity with popsicles, but the greatest reward wasn’t the treats, it was knowing they had made a difference.
For many of these children, this may have been the first time they realized that even small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact on someone else’s life.
At the VFW National Home, that impact is real.
This gift will directly support our Early Education Center, providing a safe, caring place where military and veteran children can laugh, learn, and grow each day. From educational materials and classroom supplies to enriching activities that spark curiosity and confidence, their generosity helps create a nurturing environment where children can simply enjoy being kids. Every donation, no matter the size, gives families the peace of mind that their children are receiving exceptional care while they work toward building a stronger future together.
When Ivy Bush, our Early Education Center & Support Services Supervisor, heard the news, she was overcome with emotion. “Oh my gosh, I am in tears right now! This is amazing. I can’t express how much this touches my heart. I would love to personally thank these children and the school administration.” Her response reminds us that generosity doesn’t just provide resources, it reminds our families that people they’ve never met believe in them.
It tells a child that they matter.
It tells a veteran parent that their family is not forgotten.
It tells our staff that the work they do each day is seen and supported by communities near and far.
To Misty Smith, the members of VFW Auxiliary Post 2743, the faculty and administration at Mapleton Elementary, and every student who searched through piggy banks, pockets, and couch cushions to give what they could…
Thank you.
You didn’t just collect coins.
You collected hope.
You showed that compassion is something that can be taught, shared, and multiplied—one child at a time.
How You Can Help
The students at Mapleton Elementary proved that you don’t have to give a lot to make a big difference. Every gift—whether it’s spare change, a one-time donation, or ongoing support—helps provide safe housing, educational opportunities, and life-changing programs for the military and veteran families who call the VFW National Home home.
If a classroom full of children can change lives with handfuls of coins, imagine what we can accomplish together.
Join us in building brighter futures for veteran families. Make your gift today and help us continue turning compassion into hope.
