It was a bright, sunny day, albeit on the chilly side as Huntington High School Environmental Club members swung into action last Friday afternoon for a post-Earth Day cleanup of the courtyard area around Eli’s Garden.
The club’s officers turned out en masse for the job. The hardworking group included Jasjeet Kaur, Sarah Krisch, Nadeera Ali, Sophia Segal, McKenna Buffa, Tess Stanley and Laurel Bonn.
“We planted perennials and annuals, including lavender and marigolds and helped to clean up the area as well,” Ms. Segal said. “I thought that this gardening event was the perfect way to show my appreciation for nature and do a COVID-19 safe activity. I was so happy to spend time with the other officers and make the garden look beautiful.”
Eli’s Garden is living tribute to a very special teenager. Eli Mollineaux will always be remembered at Huntington High School and throughout the community for being an inspirational young man who faced every considerable challenge with his head held high.
The teenager passed away in October 2016 after a lifelong battle with Pearson’s Syndrome, a rare disease triggered by a mutation in the mitochondrial DNA. Mr. Mollineaux was just 15 years old.
Environmental club members tend to Eli’s Garden with the loving care one might expect from such a dedicated group. Dozens, if not hundreds of students pass by the garden area each day.
The club’s executive board consists of Carrie Kilgour (president), Tess Stanley (vice president), Laurel Bonn (treasurer), McKenna Buffa (recording secretary), Sarah Krisch (corresponding secretary), Nadeera Ali (historian), Nina Varvatsas (administrative assistant), Jasjeet Kaur (social media coordinator) and fundraising coordinators Lauren Holly, Rachel Deegan and Sophia Segal. Science teacher Deborah Beck is the group’s faculty advisor.
The club’s officers are all committed to making the world healthier and greener. They take turns making presentations on interesting and timely topics, with one featured during each club meeting. “The discussions are always engaging, informative and helpful,” Ms. Ali said.
The organization is guided by the motto: “Every small action counts. Let’s protect the environment together!”
Interested in getting involved? The club’s Google Classroom meeting code is h5rfmyn. Text its Remind code @hhsenv19 to 81010.
