Students from Central Tech’s Drumright campus recently put their skills and compassion into action at the Gold4Kids Walk, an annual event hosted by the Gold4Kids Foundation of Tulsa. The walk celebrates survivors, encourages families battling childhood cancer, and honors the memory of children who have lost their battle.
This year’s event carried special meaning, as it marked the first Gold4Kids Walk since the COVID-19 pandemic. Volunteers and organizers were determined to make its return stronger than ever. “We wanted to show strong community support to help kick off the event’s return and keep it growing for years to come,” said Monica Frick, Cosmetology instructor and SkillsUSA advisor.
Student volunteers from four classes, representing three Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs), worked together to deliver a busload of fun and free career-oriented activities for families.
Members of HOSA–Future Health Professionals from the Advanced Health Careers program hosted a Teddy Bear Clinic, where children received stuffed animals and practiced “treating” their bears’ boo-boos with skilled hands and caring hearts. Students from Business Professionals of America (BPA) in Business Information & Technology brought smiles to families by dressing as popular characters, greeting guests, and posing for photos. SkillsUSA students from Cosmetology offered colorful salon-style experiences including nail polish, hair tinsel, and hair chalk, alongside an art station and free popcorn.
“It was important to us that we had something for everyone to enjoy at our booths,” said Jaxyn Elliott, Cosmetology student and SkillsUSA member from Cushing High School.
A highlight of the day came from Digital Media student and BPA member Jason “Sam” Kelley of Drumright, who volunteered his photography talents to capture priceless memories for families and volunteers. His photos will be gifted to the Gold4Kids Foundation of Tulsa to help promote future events.
For students, the experience connected classroom learning to real-world service. “We got to use our skills to bring people joy,” shared BPA member and Cleveland High School student Jayden Wynn. “It wasn’t about money or recognition; it was about making a difference.” Many participants left inspired by the families they met.
“We thought we were there to help them … but they ended up inspiring us even more. It reminded us why we chose a career focused on helping others.”
– Karol Flores, Advanced Health Careers Student and HOSA member from Cushing
Central Tech students hope to continue supporting the Gold4Kids Walk each year, helping it grow stronger with every event. Projects like this show how career training and community service go hand in hand, proving that helping others is at the heart of every great career.