Healthy Harvest Festival through Chiara Silvestri’s Eyes

Chiara Silvestri chose to join the PTO because she wants to be present in her children’s lives as much as possible. Volunteering before, during, and after the Healthy Harvest Festival is one way she shows up. It supports the school community and gives her children a chance to see and practice responsibility and service. She smiles when she repeats the ILTexas motto, Others Before Self. Helping on the Friday before the Healthy Harvest Festival was not a duty for her. It was an opportunity.

She arrived early on Friday and immediately noticed how well organized the PTO board is. Plans were clear, materials were ready, and volunteers were supported at every step. The leadership impressed her and set a calm tone for the busy weekend. She also lifts up the student volunteers who embraced the spirit of service with energy and kindness. They checked in often, followed safety instructions carefully, and even added creative touches to decorations. Their teamwork deserves applause.

On Saturday Chiara spent time in the Kids Zone and helped support the basket auction team. The Kids Zone felt joyful from the start. Children were excited, especially with the new games offered this year, and the area ran smoothly. Her two hour shift flew by because families were engaged and helpers were attentive. The basket auction buzzed with friendly competition and generous spirits. Everywhere she looked she saw neighbors chatting, children laughing, and volunteers guiding with patience. It felt like a true community gathering.

For Chiara the festival is much more than a fundraiser. It strengthens relationships among families who already call ILTexas home and also welcomes those who may join in the future. People chose to spend their family time at school because they felt happy, comfortable, and connected. That feeling matters. She was also grateful for the many vendors, both familiar faces and new partners, who enthusiastically joined in and supported the event. Their presence did not go unnoticed.

When asked to sum up the weekend she offers three words. Community. Engagement. Unity. If she had to pick a song that matched the day she would choose Let’s Get It Started because she was just as excited as the kids. And if someone asked why they should volunteer next year she would say this. Joining the PTO is one of the most meaningful ways to be part of your child’s life. This is where they spend most of their time. Know it, support it, and help make it even better. Volunteering is not just giving time. It is investing in your child’s opportunities, building friendships, strengthening the school, and making it a safer and happier place.

Chiara is proud to be part of this community and grateful for everyone who helped make the Healthy Harvest Festival such a success.