Jessica Morgan:
Despite the steady rainfall, students from Elhaam Academy turned a cloudy day at Cunningham Park into a vibrant celebration of community, connection, and joy. The public field trip brought together children, educators, and families in a spirited outdoor event that defied the weather and embraced unity.
Children raced across the damp grass with laughter, shared snacks under umbrellas, and played with determination as if the sun had never left. What made the event even more impactful was its inclusive spirit and the collective effort behind its success.
The trip was made possible through the collaboration of multiple supporters. The Council of Peoples Organization (COP) generously sponsored transportation, ensuring students could travel safely and comfortably. The Zakat Foundation provided delightful goodie bags for the children, bringing smiles to young faces with thoughtful treats and gifts. Most notably, the event was held in partnership with the New York City Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes, Save The People USA, and other community advocates whose continued commitment to fostering cross-community understanding added a powerful dimension to the day’s purpose.
Though originally planned as a field day for enjoyment, the event served as a platform for something deeper: a reminder that inclusion, resilience, and shared public space are essential for healthy communities. Children from diverse backgrounds played and learned together, unburdened by the divisions that often shape the adult world.
Educators from Elhaam Academy emphasized how events like this help reinforce classroom teachings on empathy, kindness, and civic responsibility. “When students see people coming together like this, even in the rain, it teaches them more than any textbook ever could,” one staff member noted.
Parents and volunteers also helped foster a sense of warmth and collaboration. The event became more than a school trip—it became a celebration of what’s possible when communities come together for the good of their children.
By day’s end, soggy shoes and muddy clothes told the story of a day well spent. Beneath the clouds, Elhaam Academy and its partners proved that joy, inclusion, and unity can thrive—even in the rain.
For more blogs, visit nyn.press
