A heartfelt idea from a Garden City third grader is making a meaningful difference for young patients at Cohen Children’s Medical Center — and it all started with a pretzel.
Jojo Nadolny, a student in Miss Dwyer and Miss Oppedisano’s class at Stewart School, recently submitted a service-learning proposal for the school’s popular “Pretzels with a Purpose” initiative. The program allows students to purchase hot pretzels from the Philly Pretzel Factory during snack time, with proceeds supporting charitable causes. This time, Jojo had a special request: he wanted the funds to benefit the hospital’s pet therapy program — specifically, its beloved therapy dog, Dutton.
Dutton, a two-year-old golden retriever and yellow Labrador mix, brings comfort and emotional support to young patients at Cohen. Jojo’s thoughtful proposal suggested that the money raised through pretzel sales be used to purchase plush stuffed animals modeled after the gentle pup. These cuddly companions would then be donated to the hospital and gifted to Dutton’s “friends” — the children receiving care.
But Jojo didn’t stop there; each stuffed animal also included a handwritten note from one of Jojo’s classmates, offering words of encouragement and cheer to the children who receive them. Students from Miss Dwyer and Miss Oppedisano’s classes worked hard to craft these heartfelt messages.
“Jojo’s idea captures the true spirit of service learning,” said Stewart School service-learning coordinator Brenda McCarthy. “His empathy, creativity and desire to bring comfort to others show what a big difference one small voice can make.”
Stewart School is proud to support Dutton and the incredible pet therapy work being done at Cohen Children’s Medical Center. Through Jojo’s leadership and his classmates’ kindness, these Garden City students are proving that even the smallest acts of kindness and generosity can bring comfort and joy to those who need it most.
Photo captions:
A: Jojo Nadolny with Dutton.
B: Jojo Nadolny with the stuffed animals donated to Cohen’s Children’s Medical Center.
Photos courtesy of the Garden City School District
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