Touched by the stories and images of devastation, students and staff at Lincoln-Way East and Lincoln-Way North high schools are doing what they can to support the emergency relief efforts in Haiti.

Last month, both schools took up a collection for the American Red Cross, raising over $1,300 for earthquake relief efforts in Haiti.

Seniors Ki’tay Davidson and Dylan Austin initiated the collection at Lincoln-Way East, asking Student Activities Coordinator Katie Meader if they could take up a collection during the lunch periods Jan. 19-22.

“These two students put together the entire fundraiser from establishing a committee to aid in organizing to promoting awareness of this devastation,” said Meader. “I was amazed at the leadership and compassion from not only Ki’tay and Dylan, but from our student body as a whole.”

“It would be unethical not to help,” explained Davidson. “We’re always talking about doing something positive for others. If we have a chance to do something, we should do it.”

“Other countries come to our aid,” added Austin, listing Hurricane Katrina as an example.

Students and staff raised $750 in those four days and sent it off to the American Red Cross to help with the relief efforts in Haiti.

“It was great to see the support,” said Austin. “People were coming up with $5 or $10 at a time.”

At Lincoln-Way North, students were given an opportunity help the people of Haiti by donating to a Haiti relief fund during their social science classes Jan. 26-29.

The school ended up raising $552.

“As a department, we try to teach and instill in our students a sense of efficacy -- that they can make a difference,” said Michelle Maldonado, chair of the social science department at Lincoln-Way North. “The teachers felt supporting the American Red Cross and offering some assistance to the earthquake victims was a great way to teach students about the importance of helping others and recognizing how lucky we are in aspects of our own lives.

“Clearly the students were willing to help,” she added. “Raising $552 in 4 days by simply asking for donations is amazing.”