Now in its second year, the White Plains High School UNICEF Club has become a welcoming space for students who want to get involved with real issues and make a meaningful impact. Centered around advocacy, volunteering and fundraising, the club offers students an accessible way to connect local action with global purpose.
The club’s Co-Presidents are Marabel Cedeno and Svara Gawde, with Francis Fokoue and Ethan Menothumalil serving as Co-Vice Presidents. Mr. Rickles is the advisor. UNICEF Club meets every Monday from 2:30–3:00 PM in A116, where members plan projects and events that align with UNICEF’s mission and values.
About UNICEF
UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund) is a global humanitarian organization that works in more than 190 countries to protect children’s rights and well-being. Its work ranges from delivering emergency aid and ensuring access to clean water to expanding education, healthcare and child protection services. At its core, UNICEF is dedicated to making sure every child, no matter where they are, can grow up safe, healthy and supported.
The WPHS UNICEF Club brings this mission into a local context, showing students how small, community-based actions connect to much larger conversations about child rights and global equity.
WPHS UNICEF Club in Action
The club takes on a variety of projects throughout the year. Members help run Tiger Community Time tables, giving students chances to participate in school-wide activities and build a stronger sense of community. Volunteer work, such as organizing food drives, helps to support local families and brings attention to issues like food insecurity.
Advocacy plays a big role as well: last year’s Chalk the Walk covered our school’s front walkway with messages promoting mental health awareness. Members also created advocacy videos for elementary schools across the district, helping younger students learn about topics like Women’s History Month and global citizenship.
What sets the WPHS UNICEF Club apart is its combination of practicality and purpose. Students don’t need prior experience, just an interest in learning and helping. The club offers a space to take part in projects that matter while staying connected to broader global issues.
As UNICEF Club enters its second year, it remains focused on raising awareness and encouraging students to think critically about issues affecting children both locally and worldwide.
Anyone interested in service, advocacy or global humanitarian work is welcome to stop by A116 on Mondays at 2:30 PM!
