One day in a grade three classroom in our community, a group of students were sitting in a circle on the floor with their teacher and their Roots of Empathy instructor. On this particular day, the students were talking about how different emotions can make you feel different things. They had talked about emotions such as happiness, fear and sadness. One little girl named Victoria*, raised her hand and asked, “What do you call it when you feel sadder than sad? This is how my whole family feels since my baby sister died”.

The instructor was completely unaware of the situation and looked to the teacher for guidance. While it was clear the teacher and Roots of Empathy instructor were trying to think of the best way to support this young girl, her 8 year old classmates were quick to respond. They immediately began to move towards the Victoria and gave her a great big group hug. Some of the children rested their head on her shoulders while others patted her back and rubbed her arms. In that moment, this little girl was surrounded by an overwhelming amount of care and support. Through actions alone her classmates provided her with the empathy she needed and the hope that everyday things will get better for her and her family. Her teacher began to sing the song, “We Are a Family”, and this Roots of Empathy program proved to be a success.

This one teachable moment will stay with these children for years to come, whether it is at the forefront of their mind or something they retrieve when they are in the presence of another fellow community member who needs an empathetic touch.

The Roots of Empathy Program (run by Kids Can Fly) is designed as a preventative tool against bullying and aggression. It allows children to develop emotional literacy and empathy towards others.

This is only one instance of support, success and hope that Brant United Way has helped to provide for ALL members of our community. Creating real, lasting change is imperative for our community to continue to grow and succeed. In the moment of sadness and loneliness for one little girl, her community gathered around her to hold her up in the same way that the ships rise with the tide.

*Names have been changed for confidentiality