English teacher Autumn Barry-Kyle’s homeroom is divided into four subgroups. Each group is working on projects by making dog collars, dog treats, dog and cat toys and blankets. These items will be donated directly to the Central PA Humane Society. 

The community service project stems from the Leader In Me program that is a homeroom requirement. 

Barry-Kyle’s freshman homeroom took a poll in order to determine what their project should include. 

“I surveyed my homeroom,” Barry-Kyle said. “They wanted to do something for the Humane Society, and we went from there for as far as what we wanted to do. They decided to make things.” 

Freshman Lilly Lohsl is making dog treats. 

“We made the batter here [in homeroom], and Mrs. Storm baked them at her house,” Lohsl said. “I like helping the animals because they’re cute. I like making things with my friends and knowing I’m making a difference.” 

Instructional coach Julie Storm is helping by transporting the dog treats from her house to the school. 

Freshman Vivian Markley is making blankets. 

“I helped by cutting the edges and knotting them,” Markley said. “It makes me feel good to see the blankets get done and to be able to help the cause.” 

The blankets are made with two pieces of fabric that are cut with slits surrounding every side. The sides are tied together to create the blanket for the animal in need. 

The Humane Society and Barry-Kyle’s homeroom have not partnered in any way. The projects will be donated completely by walking in and presenting them to the counter. 

“I haven’t talked to the Humane Society yet, it’ll be a ‘my class did this, and we hope you like it,’” Barry-Kyle said. “They’re [Central PA Humane Society] always in need of all kinds of things, and it can be seen on their social media. We wanted to make it something a little more personal and something that they can call their own.”