At Upper St. Clair High School, the Kids Helping Kids club is proving that small acts of kindness can lead to big change. With a mission to serve both local communities and international partners, the club provides a space for students to come together and make a meaningful impact. Through local volunteering, global outreach trips, and community-building activities, Kids Helping Kids encourages students to step outside their comfort zones and connect with those in need.
The club meets twice a month after school, but its efforts extend far beyond those meetings. About three times a month, members participate in weekend service events, partnering with local organizations to support families, children, and individuals in need. One of the club’s key partnerships is with the Ronald McDonald House, where students help prepare meals for families staying there. In early 2024, members served breakfast to residents, providing comfort and support during difficult times. What makes the club unique is its hands-on approach—rather than simply donating, students directly engage with the communities they’re helping.
Beyond the Ronald McDonald House, Kids Helping Kids runs a wide range of community projects throughout the year. From collecting supplies for underserved schools and organizing fundraising drives for medical needs to volunteering at local shelters, the club stays dedicated to its core mission: helping kids wherever they are.
While its roots are in Upper St. Clair, the club’s reach extends far beyond Pittsburgh. Each year, Kids Helping Kids organizes international service trips that allow members to engage with communities on a global scale. In January 2025, members traveled to the Dominican Republic for a life-changing experience. The trip included a mix of educational and service-oriented activities—students taught English at an orphanage, painted murals with a Haitian community, helped build a water tower in a rural village, and planted trees as part of an environmental initiative. These experiences provide students with valuable insight into different cultural and economic realities, while also promoting personal growth. Many return with a deeper understanding of privilege, gratitude, and the power of human connection.
The club is led by a passionate group of student leaders under the guidance of faculty sponsor Mr. Hoburg. The leadership team—including Ryan LaRocco, Brady Bernard, Cassidy Guarino, Ava Kasper, and Yelena Knobel—works tirelessly to organize events, coordinate service projects, and keep members engaged. Their dedication ensures the club continues to thrive as a force for good at USC.
Equally important is the sense of community within the club itself. Meetings aren’t just for planning—they’re also a time for reflection, connection, and inspiration. Many members form lasting friendships through their shared experiences, creating a welcoming and supportive environment that grows stronger each year.
Kids Helping Kids is open to all Upper St. Clair High School students who are passionate about making a difference. To stay informed about upcoming events and projects, students can follow the club on Instagram (@khk_usc), where they share updates, photos, and service trip highlights.
Through its commitment to local and global service, Kids Helping Kids proves that high school students have the power to create real, lasting change. Whether they’re preparing meals in Pittsburgh or building infrastructure in the Dominican Republic, these students show that compassion and kindness truly have no borders.