SLANT 45, which stands for Service Learning in North Texas, was a community project program that aimed to involve children in community service.
If there’s one thing McKinney’s Nathan Bush is out to show the world (or at least Collin County), it’s that one small person can affect a lot of change.
It all started with a seedling planted in kindergarten. His teacher showed the class a photograph of people in poverty in Guatemala. And what was Nathan’s reaction? He wanted to send them gloves.
Unfortunately, he forgot where to send them. These days, the 9-year-old’s big heart is much closer to home. After learning about the organization through his sister, he was inspired to help out kids from CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), which serves foster children removed from unsafe homes in the community.
According to mom, Jacqui Bush, Nathan decided to raise funds for the organization by selling jewelry. Bush owns Stained Glass of McKinney, a local studio that sells stained glass windows, sun catchers, fused glass jewelry and similar items. “He came in and picked out sterling silver rings … jewelry with Swarovski crystals … and Funky Fusion creations—anything he thought people would like,” she says.
He kicked off his fundraiser by setting up shop at the McKinney Art Walk last spring, selling each item for $5, says Bush. A CASA volunteer provided a booth and sat with him, but Nathan did all the talking. He explained his mission: to raise funds for children who don’t always have someone to speak for them. And he continued to raise money throughout the summer by working in his mom’s store every day. According to Bush, people were overwhelmingly appreciative of what he was doing. “They just thought it was so neat and cool that a child was doing this—and continually doing it, not just one day,” she says.
The final tally? Nathan raised $510—and handed it all over to CASA. “I know it makes him feel good to help others,” says his mom. She doesn’t think it’s out of the question for other children to get involved either. “I think if other kids were asked if they feel better with a brand new toy or helping someone, they feel better helping,” she suggests. “They just need an opportunity.” Or, in Nathan’s case, they can make one for themselves.
It just goes to show … it doesn’t take a community to make a difference. It takes just one to make a difference in the community. Take a page out of Nathan’s book—or get help from Slant 45. They will provide a guidebook—and support … all you need is a little idea and a big heart.
