Herrick eighth grader Abby Goodman is making the world a better place. It started when she joined a student-led march for peace in the Englewood neighborhood of Chicago last April. She then attended a call for peace march with St. Sabina Church in June. Abby listened as mothers who lost their children to gun violence shared their stories. She observed as Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson, Sen. Dick Durbin and other community members spoke about how violence plagued Chicago’s inner city.
“During the marches I saw what other kids have to see when they walk to school,” Abby said. “I listened to kids explain the fear they have just walking to school or playing outside. This inspired me to do more, so I did.”
Through a family friend, Abby and her little sister, Penelope, began volunteering with The Healing Corner, a volunteer group that targets corners known for gun violence and provides free food, free hugs and help for those most at risk in the community. Her volunteerism brought her to some of the toughest parts of Chicago, where she has directly helped people in need.
“I have met the most wonderful people volunteering with The Healing Corner,” Abby said. “I’m blessed to not have to be afraid to play outside or walk to school and I don’t think any else should either.”