#United States #Atlanta #Big Blue Marble Academy #Heart Projects #service learning

Big Blue Marble Academy's Young Learners Make a Difference

In a world that often seems overwhelming, the actions of young learners at Big Blue Marble Academy (BBMA) are a beacon of hope and inspiration. In 2025, these students raised more than $275,000, contributing to various local and global communities through innovative service learning projects. This achievement is part of BBMA's ongoing commitment to nurture not just educated minds, but compassionate hearts.

Understanding Service Learning

Service learning is an educational framework that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection, allowing students to acquire skills while making a positive impact. At BBMA, these initiatives are termed "Heart Projects." These projects are intricately designed to enhance core learning areas such as social-emotional growth, cognitive advancement, language and literacy skills, and creative expression. Jomar Jenkins, the CEO of BBMA, emphasizes the transformative power of these projects, stating, "When children take action, they evolve into confident problem-solvers."

Heart Projects in Action

Recently, students engaged in the "Popcorn for a Purpose" project, selling $218,560 worth of popcorn products. The proceeds from this endeavor are earmarked for operational costs and essential supplies for an orphanage linked to the GLOW Mission, as well as for the "Season of Giving," a holiday initiative designed to provide gifts to children in need. This project has not only taught students practical lessons in math and teamwork but has also instilled in them the value of collaborative efforts towards a meaningful cause.

Furthermore, during the summer, BBMA students embraced entrepreneurship through fundraisers for the Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation. They successfully raised $43,463.61 for childhood cancer research. In this endeavor, students engaged in hands-on activities such as measuring ingredients, counting the funds, creating promotional materials, and interacting with customers—all crucial skills for real-world application.

Another impactful project was "Change for a Change," partnering with the Mission of Hope's Madonna Project. This year, BBMA raised $16,718 to support 167 new mothers at Rotifunk Hospital in Sierra Leone. Additionally, students crafted 583 "Blankets of Love" for distribution to orphanages, shelters, and local hospitals, embodying the spirit of giving.

The Difference Between Service Learning and Volunteering

It is essential to distinguish service learning from traditional volunteering. While volunteering is an admirable endeavor, service learning at BBMA is designed to intertwine with the academic curriculum. Each project not only endorses community engagement but also reinforces essential life skills and character traits such as empathy, collaboration, and confidence. Jenkins points out that compassion is not a trait imparted once; instead, it is cultivated daily.

BBMA's Commitment to Education and Community

With nearly 100 schools across nine states, Big Blue Marble Academy serves over 18,000 students ranging from infants to twelve-year-olds. BBMA prides itself on providing a strong foundational curriculum that supports developmental, social, and emotional readiness for future educational endeavors. The institution's focus on global awareness and character development serves to mold children into proactive citizens who are conscious of their roles in the community and the world.

In summary, the achievements of Big Blue Marble Academy's young learners remind us of the power of education coupled with service. By fostering a culture of giving and responsibility, BBMA prepares its students to tackle real-world challenges while nurturing their innate desire to make a difference. To learn more about their initiatives and programs, visit bbmacademy.com.