Recently the JCHS staff organized a Thanksgiving Fundraiser called the “Make a Difference Fundraiser” in honor of the late GCMS Principal Jim Brown. Jim Brown was the GCMS principal for many years and was very passionate about his job and students. His tragic passing in 2020 left a hole in the community. Thanksgiving was Mr. Brown’s favorite holiday, and he loved to give back to the community and was very dedicated to making a difference. His kindness changed the lives of many students and adults alike, so this Thanksgiving, the CWCSD staff and student councils are creating a fundraiser to honor Mr. Brown’s contribution to the community and his memory. According to Mr. Devlin, the JCHS Principal, “The fundraiser is all about getting food for those in need and remembering Mr. Brown.”

The High School was assigned to donate peanut butter and jelly products for the fundraiser, and everyone was encouraged to participate, with donations finalized on Monday, November 14th. Students who could not donate can still participate and support the cause. You can spread the word and encourage your friends to donate. Another element of the program that is sure to attract attention is the auctioning off of the free senior parking spot. Every marking period, a different JCHS senior wins a free parking spot. Last marking period, the winner was Justin Dominges. 

The fundraiser is an opportunity to support the Caldwell Food Pantry to help provide food to those in need. This is especially important during Thanksgiving time, when it is important to give back to the community and the community can use any help. To conclude, in memory of Jim Brown, here is his letter to the JCHS faculty on Thanksgiving 2011:

JCHS Faculty,

I want to take a minute to wish everyone here at JCHS a happy Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is truly one of my favorite holidays.  My favorite not because of the food that my mother prepares as if we are all going to the electric chair the next day, but because of the little things that the day brings. The little things from waking up with my family in the morning and watching the parade on TV to gathering later in the day around a dinner table and enjoying the company of family and friends as much as the meal.

Tomorrow enjoy your turkey, mashed potatoes, and the company of those who are around your Thanksgiving table. Be thankful for those who are still in your life and remember those who are no longer here.  As always, keep in your hearts those who are hungry and alone this holiday season and pray for the brave men and women who are away from their families protecting the things that we are thankful for. 

When Thanksgiving Day comes to an end, wrap up the leftover turkey, cranberry sauce, and stuffing and save it for Friday. When you get in on Friday from whatever sale you attend in preparation for your next holiday, take out two slices of bread and sandwich all of those leftovers together for a great lunch. Don’t be in a rush to finish the sandwich so you can head back out the door to the next sale. Instead, take your time and again think about everything you are and should be thankful for. Hopefully, you will even have some family members around the table  enjoying the leftovers with you.

Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

Letter courtesy of Jim Brown