IN an inspiring display of youthful energy and compassion, a group of third- and fourth-graders from Saipan International School visited the Manamko’ Center on Thursday, bringing smiles, songs, and dances to the residents. The students, part of a newly formed “Kindness Crew,” took time out of their busy school schedules to brighten the day of the senior citizens, sharing in a meaningful exchange of joy, culture, and stories.
The visit began with a lively performance as the Kindness Crew, dressed in their SIS shirts and brimming with excitement, sang Hafa Adai and performed a few dances. The children’s enthusiasm was contagious, and soon, the elderly residents were clapping along and, some even joining in the dances with the help of our favorite Gecko MC Mona Celia Mercado, Pre-K 3/4 teacher.
After the performance, the Kindness Crew sat with the residents, engaging them in thoughtful conversations and interviews. The children asked questions about the seniors’ experiences growing up on Saipan and the changes they had seen over the years. Many residents shared fascinating stories about their childhoods, the island’s rich culture, and how life on Saipan has evolved over the decades.
The children listened attentively as a few of the Manamko’ got up and told the students about Taga and other legends of the islands as well as how important it is to keep their own cultures and languages alive. For many of the kids, it was the first time they had the opportunity to engage with the elderly in such a meaningful way.
“We’ve learned so much today,” said Sophia Kim, a fourth grader in the Kindness Crew. “It’s really cool to hear the stories and dance with the Manamko’. I can’t believe how nice they are and how much energy they have.”
In addition to the performances and interviews, the Kindness Crew also shared handmade Christmas cards with the residents. Each card had a personal message of friendship and holiday cheer, crafted by the children as part of their service project. They also gave extra cards so the Manamko’ could give cards out to their families and friends as well.
The Kindness Crew’s visit is part of an ongoing initiative by Saipan International School to teach students the importance of empathy, connection, and community service. According to Ms. Doris Materne, 3rd grade teacher, the project is aimed at fostering a spirit of kindness among students and encouraging them to take an active role in spreading positivity in their communities.
“We wanted to create an opportunity for our students to experience the value of giving, and what better way than to connect with the people who helped shape our community?” said Ms. Doris. “This visit has been a powerful reminder of how much we can learn from one another, regardless of age.”
For the 4th grade teacher, Ms. Amie McRoberts, the visit was a heartwarming reminder of the joy that can come from intergenerational connections. Many residents expressed their gratitude for the Kindness Crew’s visit, saying it had brightened their day in ways they hadn’t expected. They also are looking forward to our return in the future.
Many of the fourth graders said the experience reminded them of the heartwarming stories they see in the “Kindness 101” videos they watch at the beginning of each school day. “It felt just like one of the Steve Hartman stories we watch in class,” said Hayun Choi. “You know, where people help and learn from each other. It was amazing to see how the seniors and us kids could connect, just like in those videos. It makes me feel like we can make a difference, too.”
The students didn’t want to leave. They had so much fun dancing the cha-cha and other local songs with the residents. The Kindness Crew’s visit was a beautiful reminder of how simple acts of kindness can make a lasting impact—spanning generations and creating lasting bonds within the community.
The Saipan International School Kindness Crew plans to continue their outreach efforts with other projects in the plans for Christmas.
