Parents

The Haverford School Parents' Association returned to in-person events in 2022. On Friday, March 4 the One and Only Fords Party for a Purpose took place at Overbrook Golf Club. The event included a silent auction, paddle raise, food, cocktails, and dancing. The HSPA Book Fair returned to campus this year and was hosted in the Lower School Multipurpose Room on April 12-13. Lower School students were able to select their favorite books, purchase fun pencils and pens, and stock up on some snacks for the rest of the school day. On Thursday, May 12 the Lower School gathered on Eagle Field to participate in the HSPA’s annual Spring Fling. The boys enjoyed an obstacle course bounce house, carnival games, snacks, and prizes.

What is your first memory of volunteering at Haverford? EB: I volunteered at the Perfect Present event for my oldest son. It was his first year at the School and I wanted to jump in and lend a hand. I also wanted to meet other parents and guardians of his classmates.

KC: I recall helping as a volunteer for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service event in the Dining Hall. The boys were packing meals to be distributed to the food insecure in the community, we had a clothing drive for a local homeless shelter, and so much more. It was such a fun day of service and everyone had a great time.

Do you have mentors within the HSPA? If so, how have they encouraged you over the years? EB: I’ve always felt like I can rely on Kim. While I’m still fairly new to the HSPA, my relationship with Kim has grown exponentially and I know that if I ever have questions or concerns, I can always call Kim.

KC: I love the relationships with the other parents and guardians I’ve met, and I’m fortunate to count many as mentors. Dorothy Walker P’22 ’24 ’27 and Kristin Vollmer P’23 have been great resources within the HSPA. I also connect often with former HSPA chair Ann Glavin P’14 ’16 ’20 for advice. I’ve also found a great mentor in Caroline DeMarco P’20 ’22. I’m lucky to have experienced moms and dads to reach out to and it has definitely enhanced my Haverford experience. Did someone encourage you to get involved? If so, what did they share with you that made you want to join the HSPA? EB: Dorothy Walker reached out to me, saying that she thought my energy and positivity would make me a good fit for the HSPA.

KC: Debbie Rippie P’20 was my Friendship Families sponsor, and she spoke to me about volunteering at Haverford. Debbie and her husband Chris always volunteered and their encouragement led me to getting involved too.

What would you say to someone who is interested in volunteering, but doesn’t know where to start? EB: The HSPA meetings are open to all parents and guardians. If you’re interested, the immediate option would be to join one of our meetings and ask questions. Another option is to chat with a class parent to get a better understanding of processes and events. I learned so much about the events and special activities handled by the HSPA. It truly is a special group within The Haverford School.

KC: I would agree to connect with a class parent. They send out a monthly class letter that lists activities and volunteer opportunities. Getting involved within the class is a great start.

Why do you volunteer at Haverford? EB: I volunteer because I want to show up for my children at as many events as possible. Above all, I love seeing their smiling faces when I volunteer at an event. It warms my heart.

KC:I love to volunteer and be involved. It is a great way to learn a new skill and meet great people. In addition, my son loves to see me on campus volunteering (although he pretends he doesn’t)!

Can you think of a time when you knew Haverford was the right place for your son and your family? EB: I remember being at a new family social event many years ago, and unfortunately someone had a medical issue. The way the members of the community reacted—both from the School and from the new families—just left me in awe. There was such compassion and an outpouring of care to the individual within seconds. I knew we were in a place where support and care for others was paramount.

KC: My family has been at Haverford since pre-k and we were assigned a Friendship Family to help us navigate the School in the first year. I knew immediately after my experience with this family that Haverford goes above and beyond to make sure everyone has a great experience. The Friendship Family invited us to their home, gave us uniforms that their son outgrew, and became our friends. They truly cared about us and our Haverford experience.

Contact Dorothy Walker P’22 ’24 ’27 at dwalker@haverford.org to learn more!