Miller-Schneider Family
Since childhood, Laura Miller and her husband, Brian Schneider have been involved in helping others in need. Now, with a daughter of their own, volunteering continues to be instilled in the family’s culture
“It’s important for kids to see their parents rolling up their sleeves,” says mom, Laura. “Our daughter, Lexi, was just three years old when we found Honeycomb. It was as simple as a Google search…I wanted something for little, little kids.”
The Miller-Schneider Family has participated in a range of Honeycomb events, traveling throughout Chicago’s neighborhoods. From beach cleanups, wrapping gifts for kids living in shelters and hauling bags of donated clothes…to food pantries and packing meal kits to deliver at church sites – the family has supported Honeycomb for over ten years.
“Lexi has become more thoughtful of the world around her,” says Laura. “She’s become an advocate for disadvantaged communities and is more aware…especially with food insecurity not far from her home.”
Now an 8th grader at British International School of Chicago, Lexi has grown more independent around her decision-making process and has several favorite projects.
Lexi shares, “one project that still sticks out to me from years ago was visiting a nursing home on ‘bring your dog day’.’ We shared conversations and some pet cuddles with isolated seniors.” “More recently I enjoyed meeting people in my community at a Greater Food Depository event. It makes me so sad to know that there remains a massive food crisis in the neighborhoods around me…but I am able to share a smile with them, hopefully brightening a day while also providing some food.”
Lexi was recently accepted to The Honeycomb Leadership Corps (HLC). HLC is designed for teens and parents who wish to build their leadership skills through service. Her parents know HLC will be a game changer for Lexi and help her connect further with her peers and drive her independence.
“As an HLC member,” says Lexi, “I’ll get to work together with likeminded teens. I think we will make a dent in bringing Honeycomb to lots and lots of Chicago schools and make community service accessible, meaningful and part of the fabric of teenage and family culture.”
Outside of attending Honeycomb Project events, the Schneider Miller Family keep busy. Laura is in public relations and Brian works in finance. Lexi is a musician at heart, playing the flute and guitar -- and enjoys spending time at Merit School of Music and the School of Rock. The family loves hanging with their dog, Tofu, and watching Marvel movies and exploring the City’s concert and festival scene.