from Rick Caplan

As part of a high school’s 50th reunion celebration, it is a welcomed tradition that a donation is made to a charity or non-profit service program. For this purpose, our reunion committee has chosen to support Shawnee Mission East’s SHARE program. For over thirty years, SHARE has had its roots in service activities by providing a powerful opportunity for students to develop a life-long habit and legacy of serving their community. SHARE is unique in that both the student volunteers and recipients of the services provided benefit.

SHARE students have assisted numerous nonprofit organizations including Operation Breakthrough, Harvesters, and the Uplift Organization. SHARE has built a Habitat for Humanity home, and responded to the 9/11 tragedy in 2001 by providing meals for First Responders. This past school year, 750 Shawnee Mission East SHARE students served 51 projects. Each SHARE project is headed by a student Chair who organizes and heads the project. “The kids drive the whole program and bring projects every year,” said Krissie Wiggins, the current SHARE coordinator. “They choose their project, recruit the team and take ownership, that’s what makes it work.”

SHARE’s Pack Pals and Unified Teams are especially near and dear to me. These unique programs form a special bond and friendship between Shawnee Mission East’s special education students and general student peers. Unified Teams provides the opportunity for special needs student to play on teams for SME, competing against other high schools, and a rare chance to wear a SME jersey and represent their school in competition. 

How can you help:
SHARE does all that it does through private funding—they do not receive money from SME. Our Class of 1969 is making a general donation to SHARE by contributing the funds left over after all reunion expenses are paid. In addition, we are giving you the opportunity to make an individual donation. No amount is too little, and your tax-deductible donation will remain anonymous. You can donate to SHARE by including a second check with your registration, made out to SME SHARE PROGRAM. Your Reunion committee will then present the total donation to SHARE.