Whiz Kid: Clever Idea Raises Funds for New Playground Equipment

Each Wednesday, Mehlville Patch will be highlighting a young person in the community who is making a positive difference in the lives of others. These kids are doing outstanding academic work, winning an award or exhibiting exemplary qualities. Know a great kid? Nominate them by emailing sarah.flagg@patch.com.

Name: Brooke Frost

Age: 9

School: Beasley Elementary School

Achievement: Brooke Frost thought of a very clever way to raise money for new playground equipment.

Key to Awesomeness: Gold Honor Roll student Brooke Frost is known for her creativity, so it was no surprise when she proposed an innovative idea to help raise funds for a new playground. She had heard a rumor that Frito-Lay donates 2 cents to non-profits for every empty chip bag they collect. The information was confirmed by the company and Brooke began collecting the used bags at her school. Brooke’s grandmother works in the Mehlville High School cafeteria and has access to many more empty bags than Brooke could collect at Beasley Elementary. To date, Brooke has collected more than 23,000 bags with the resulting money all used to buy playground equipment.

When she is not fundraising, Brooke is often playing soccer, softball or practicing karate moves. Now a green belt, Brooke began her karate lessons a few years ago and thoroughly enjoys the challenge of the sport.

At Beasley Elementary School, Brooke serves on the Student Council. She is involved in service projects at school and with her Girl Scout troop.  She also does volunteer work at the Jefferson Barracks Veterans Hospital where she helps decorate for the holidays.