Even preschoolers were pulling weeds as part of Eagle Ridge Christian School's Helping Hands to the Community project Friday, according to Debbie Carbaugh, wife of Christian Faith Fellowship Pastor Mark Carbaugh.

"It's a fund raiser to help with the various programs offered at Eagle Ridge, including the scholarship fund," Carbaugh said. "It also teaches kids to serve other people, help the needy and their city."

All classes at the private school, from 2-year-old preschoolers to seniors, were involved in washing cars, cleaning houses or doing some sort of yard work for people in Cape Girardeau, Scott City and Jackson. The school called local churches and asked for names of people who might appreciate some assistance.

"I always help out. I help my neighbor, she is older. I help clean her house and with odds and ends around her house," said junior Daniel Ellinghouse. "I think it is important to be involved in a project like this because if we pick up trash and someone else sees us picking up trash, then maybe they will pick up trash."

It was the first time Eagle Ridge school, with a student body of approximately 200, tried its Helping Hands fund raiser, according to Carbaugh. The campaign went well, organizers said, though not all pledges were yet collected on Friday.

"It teaches you how to be a servant, humbles you and gets you in the habit of asking people if they need help. It helps make you more caring, more selfless," said junior Rachel Carbaugh. "I enjoy helping people because it makes you feel good that you are helping people that need help, and it gives you a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment."

jgosche@semissourian.com

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