Chandler Ciccarello: A Young Leader with a Heart for Giving

For the past five years, fourth-grader Chandler Ciccarello has held the title of Principal for the Day at Saint Michael Lutheran School in Fort Myers. This coveted position is an annual auction item that helps raise funds for the school, and Chandler’s family has successfully bid on the role each year. As part of her duties as Principal for the Day, Chandler takes on an initiative to give back to her community while spreading joy among her classmates.

For five consecutive years, Chandler has chosen to organize a toy drive, collecting hundreds of gifts for children in Southwest Florida. Her decision to lead these drives stems from a deeply personal experience. In 2022, Chandler’s family lost their home and all their possessions during Hurricane Ian. Understanding firsthand what it feels like to lose everything, Chandler channeled her empathy into action.

A Legacy of Giving

2024 marks Chandler’s third year donating toys to Valerie’s House, a safe space for grieving children and families in Southwest Florida. Over the years, her efforts have brought joy to countless families coping with loss. Chandler’s toy drives have amassed an impressive collection of donations, including dozens of bicycles, scooters, skateboards, and thousands of toys.

"This is her fifth year doing this, and she’s collected dozens and dozens of bikes, scooters, skateboards, and thousands of toys. This is our third year in a row supporting Valerie’s House," said Chandler’s mother, Renee.

Despite the large undertaking, Chandler embraces her role enthusiastically. "It’s a lot, but it’s fun," Chandler shared, reflecting on her experience.

Bringing Joy to Grieving Families

For families at Valerie’s House, the holidays can be a particularly challenging time. Chandler’s toy drives provide much-needed relief for grieving parents who may lack the financial resources, energy, or emotional capacity to shop for gifts. The toys donated through her efforts offer comfort and joy to children who are navigating loss.

"The best gift for these families would be for that special person to be with them this year. That’s the one thing we can’t do. But what else can we do? Send them home with tons of gifts and take the pressure off the parents," said Angela Melvin, founder and CEO of Valerie’s House.

An Inspiring Example

Chandler’s dedication to helping others has inspired her school and community. Saint Michael Lutheran School emphasizes service learning, encouraging students to develop a heart for giving back.

"We just need more of this in the world," said Chandler’s principal, Kati Miser. "This is the type of service learning we want to embrace at our school. This is the kind of adults we want to raise."

At Valerie’s House, Chandler’s contributions have made a tangible difference. Her generosity reminds grieving families that they are not alone, and her actions encourage others to embrace the spirit of giving.

As Chandler continues her remarkable journey of leadership and kindness, her impact on Southwest Florida’s grieving families serves as a shining example of how even the youngest among us can make a meaningful difference.