The Catholic Charity Mary’s Hands at St. Margaret of Scotland Parish in Morristown is making happy feet amongst many young soccer players in the area. The organization received 55 pairs of cleats donated by the Oak Knoll community, thanks to a soccer team service project spearheaded by Theresa Racanelli ’24, Avery Fitzpatrick ’24, and Olivia Snyder ’24.

“I am close with a church member in Morristown, and he informed me that they have a huge population of children and adults who play soccer but do not have equipment,” explained Racanelli. “We chose the drive as a way to jumpstart the annual soccer equipment drive held by the charity.”

Each year, St. Margaret’s hosts an event at the end of the annual equipment drive where children come to pick out their new cleats and participate in a big game of soccer together. 

“We were extremely grateful to know that our community’s cleats were going to kids who would cherish and appreciate them the way we did,” said Racanelli.  

Oak Knoll Head of School Jennifer G. Landis praised the students’ efforts and likened them to the wisdom of Cornelia Connelly, founder of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus.

“We are very proud of our students and their desire to serve, especially when accompanied by action. Our founder’s motto is ‘Actions, Not Words,’ and this student-driven initiative clearly reflects that.”