Today celebrates the endless daily contributions individuals and organizations who help make Aquinas a better place. This signifies the importance of working together for the common good. Philanthropic deeds come in all different shapes and sizes — charitable giving, volunteering, etc.

This past summer, Aquinas sophomore Noah Collins-Howard embarked on a life-changing journey to Ghana bringing essential school supplies to multiple villages and helping install a borehole to provide fresh, clean water to underserved communities.

Noah went on the trip with his father, mother, and brother, as part of the Water for Life initiative, an effort to address water scarcity and related health issues in remote regions in Ghana.

The borehole not only provides safe drinking water but also fosters educational opportunities by freeing young girls from hours-long journeys to fetch water. Reflecting on the experience, Noah noted how easily we take running water for granted in the US. Traveling to Ghana opened Noah’s eyes to the daily challenges many people face. Even routine tasks, like brushing his teeth, required bottled water due to the lack of running taps.

Reflecting on his experience, Noah shared a powerful message: “When we come together, we can create meaningful change.”