Seekonk High School Spanish Club Builds Lasting Friendship with 102-Year-Old Veteran Through Community Service

The Seekonk High School Spanish Club, led by Spanish teacher and advisor Señora Taylor Brillon, has developed a meaningful intergenerational friendship with 102-year-old WWII veteran and local hero Mr. Soule through its long-standing community service work and Veterans Leaf Rake initiative.

The Veterans Leaf Rake, started by Seekonk High School Vice Principal Mr. Bosh five years ago, brings students together each Fall to assist local veterans with yard clean-up. The Seekonk High School Spanish Club has participated in this initiative since its inception, proudly taking part each year in support of area veterans.

Through this program, members of the Spanish Club Executive Board met Mr. Soule two years ago, and a lasting relationship quickly formed. Since that time, the executive board has continued to visit him regularly and maintain an ongoing connection that has grown well beyond the original service project.

The executive board, along with Señora Brillon, has shared countless meaningful moments with Mr. Soule—spending time at his home listening to his stories and building a connection over coffee, hot chocolate, donuts and cookies. Spanish Club executive board members exchanged Christmas cards, pen pal letters, surprised him with lunch at one of his favorite local restaurants (special thank you to Micheletti’s) and simply enjoyed the gift of time together. What began as an act of service has naturally grown into a genuine and deeply valued friendship.

In addition to the executive board’s continued involvement, the entire Spanish Club participates annually in the Veterans Leaf Rake each November, supporting local veterans throughout the community.

To honor Mr. Soule, Spanish Club students along with Executive Board members contributed personal messages to a special book titled 102 Things Seekonk High School Spanish Club Loves About Mr. Soule, which was presented during their June monthly visit. On this special occasion, the graduating senior members of the executive board, just before embarking on their college journeys, took photos in their caps and gowns as they delivered the book and shared their goodbyes for now with Mr. Soule.

While this connection began through a school service project, it has become something far more meaningful to both students and their advisor. Mr. Soule has impacted the lives of SHS Spanish Club members in lasting ways, teaching them the value of slowing down, listening, and truly seeing the people in their community. Mr.Soule’s stories, kindness, and presence have left a lasting impression on every student who has had the privilege of spending time with him.

What has grown between Mr. Soule, Señora Brillon and the Seekonk High School Spanish Club is not just a tradition of service, but a profound and enduring bond—one that has shaped how students understand gratitude, respect, and the power of human connection.