‘Helping Hawks’ assist elderly

The players meet before practice on a regular basis to discuss different life lessons. Seniors are taught principles of leadership and are expected to put those principles into practice with the younger players. Through these and other activities, Jarvis makes it very clear to his players that he expects them to be outstanding off the field as well as on.

This past weekend, the team completed its “Helping Hawks” service project.

The Mill Creek football program teamed up with Gwinnett Senior Services to help area elderly in need. The players mowed grass, weeded, hauled debris and did other chores at 18 different homes. The homeowners were senior citizens unable to do the work themselves or unable to afford the cost of hiring yard help.

The program helps both the players and the elderly, Jarvis said.

“My number one goal is to touch these kids’ lives and let them see that five miles from Mill Creek High School, from $300,000 houses, are people who need help,” he said. “I want them to see they can change lives through a simple act of kindness.”

Not only do the players develop as individuals, the team develops as well.

“If you develop the kids’ heart and soul, it affects the playing field,” Jarvis said.