Hope student carolers put their talent on center stage at a nursing home during the holiday season.

Backed by music therapist Karen Herzel on the guitar, the students sang a medley of songs—including Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree, Holly Jolly Christmas and Jingle Bells—on Tuesday, Dec. 9 at Heritage Health Therapy and Senior Care in Springfield.

“It makes the seniors feel like somebody cares and it shows how our students look out for the community,” said teacher Laura Sandrolini. “It’s important for people to see what our students can do.”

Students play bingo with the residents each month and it culminates in the annual Christmas party. In addition to the singing, students also presented the residents with gift bags that included perfume, scarves, money, jewelry, cards and beauty shop certificates. Hope students not only shopped for the items, but they also packed the gift bags to display the true meaning of Christmas.

The project allows students to give back and shop for others, which can assist in developing critical social skills.