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Carrying the Torch: Adopt a School Network Volunteer Brings Hope to Students at General Johnnie Wilson Middle School

Carrying the Torch: Adopt a School Network Volunteer Brings Hope to Students at General Johnnie Wilson Middle School
a volunteer stands behind a table in a cafeteria

 

Two days a week, you’ll find Adopt a School Network Volunteer Dominique Whitman seated at a table in the cafeteria at General Johnnie Wilson Middle School. If she’s not there, she’s walking around talking to students and connecting with them in different ways.

In a heartwarming tribute to her late friend, Laurel Cooley, Whitman, a parishioner at A Fresh Wind Church in Elyria, has taken on a mission of compassion and connection at the school. Her presence in the school’s cafeteria is a continuation of the program "Everyone’s Mom," which Laurel initiated at Huron Schools to provide a supportive figure for students navigating the often tumultuous journey of adolescence.

Laurel Cooley’s dedication to the students of Huron High School began after the tragic loss of two students in 2019. She recognized the critical need for young people to have a trustworthy adult they could turn to during their darkest moments—someone who could offer more than just advice, but genuine empathy and understanding. This realization led to the birth of "Everyone’s Mom," a program where Laurel spent countless hours in the school cafeteria, simply being there for students, offering them a listening ear and a kind heart. Tragically, Laurel’s life was cut short in a traffic accident in 2021, but her legacy lives on through the actions of people like Dominique.

Inspired by Laurel’s example, Dominique now spends her afternoons at General Johnnie Wilson Middle School, hoping to make the same kind of impact on the students there. “I wanted to carry that torch for Laurel,” Dominique said. “To be a light, to shine for these kids, and give them someone to talk to—a real outlet.”

The importance of having someone like Dominique in the lives of middle schoolers cannot be overstated. This age group is particularly vulnerable to the pressures of modern life. Students today face a myriad of challenges, including academic stress, social anxiety, and the pervasive influence of social media. These pressures can lead to significant mental health challenges, including depression and feelings of isolation. For many students, just having someone who is willing to listen can make all the difference.

Dominique’s presence in the cafeteria provides a safe space where students can express themselves without judgment. “These kids are not alone,” Dominique emphasizes. “I want them to know that there’s always hope, and that anything is possible.”

a photo of laurel cooley on display

A memorial photo of Laurel Cooley is on display on a table in General Johnnie Wilson Middle School's cafeteria.

 

Programs like "Everyone’s Mom" and Dominique’s efforts at General Johnnie Wilson Middle School are crucial in fostering a supportive environment where students can feel seen and heard. In a world where the mental health of young people is often overlooked, having someone who genuinely cares can help students navigate the difficulties of adolescence, offering them a beacon of hope during challenging times.

 

a volunteers speaks with students

 

As Dominique continues her volunteer work, she hopes to honor Laurel’s memory by making a positive impact on the students at General Johnnie Wilson Middle School.

Dominique’s dedication is a reminder of the profound impact that one person’s kindness can have on a community, and how the spirit of compassion can transcend even the greatest of losses.