The Humans of Abelemkpe project was born in preparation for the Service Lion Day event on October 23rd, 2024. It raised the question, “Besides students, parents, teachers, or administrators, how much do you know about the people working behind the scenes at Lincoln who live in Abelemkpe and also those who live in Abelemkpe outside of LCS? Over the last few weeks, an interested group of students worked to remedy this issue.

The initiative began when Ms. Alexis and Ms. Ann emailed the entire high school, inviting student leaders to participate in a project for Lions Day. For four weeks following this initial email, students engaged in weekly meetings with teachers and middle schoolers interested in supporting the project. Each hour-long meeting focused on several key areas: organizing the interviewees, addressing the logistics and equipment needed for the interviews, and discussing the specific roles each student would play in the interview process.

The in-school interviews with members of the school community were conducted during the lunchtimes of October 8th and 9th. Students ventured around the school and interviewed security guards, cleaners, and maintenance workers. For LCS students, these were individuals they passed by daily but hadn’t taken the time to get to know. Interviewees were often pleasantly surprised by the student’s interest and willingness to listen. Some shared stories about their daily routines, family lives, or years of service at the school, while others offered insights about the small details that make their work meaningful. The students were often struck by how these staff members had unique experiences and aspirations that contributed to the school’s atmosphere in ways they hadn’t previously recognized.

“This setting (a library) held a special significance, symbolizing Lincoln’s legacy of community service and connection in the community.”

Avik (Class of 2026)

Finally, on Thursday, October 10th, the students conducted interviews with members of the Abelemkpe community after school. Accompanied by members of the service department, the students walked to the venue, a community library built by a Lincoln Alum. This setting held a special significance, symbolizing Lincoln’s legacy of community service and connection in the community. Students interviewed a local congregationalist, local business owners, and the mayor.

Meeting the mayor was a particularly memorable experience; he shared insights into Abelemkpe’s growth, its ongoing community projects, and his aspirations for the neighborhood’s future. They learned about the Abelemkpe community’s structure, values, and individual lives that make up its fabric.

The experience climaxed on Lion Day, which is dedicated to service when we were able to showcase all these connections we made. I am thankful for the staff Service Learning Taskforce and all who made this a success since this experience reinforced a sense of connection and responsibility, bridging the gap between the school and the greater community.