WETHERSFIELD, Conn. - TelAve -- Two Wethersfield High School students are turning a National Honor Society service project into a community event that supports children's learning.

Students Jena and Elli will host a "Cookies and Cocoa" bake sale on March 29 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Laura's Garden in Old Wethersfield (next to Cove Park), with proceeds benefiting the Myra Boccardi Desroches Advancing Young Minds Fund, a charitable fund dedicated to expanding literacy and educational opportunities for children – managed by the Main Street Community Foundation in Bristol, Connecticut.

The event will feature baked goods along with a book trade, lawn games, fun tattoos, and additional student vendors, creating a family-friendly afternoon centered on community and learning.

The fund honors the legacy of Myra Boccardi Desroches, a beloved educator who died from cancer at age 46. Known for her passion for helping young people grow through reading and education, Myra's influence continues through the fund established in her memory by her husband, Michael Desroches and her sister Becky Zappone.

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"Myra believed deeply that books could change a child's future," Michael said. "Seeing students step forward to support that mission means the world to our family. It's a reminder that her passion for helping young minds grow is still reaching children today."

Over the past three and half years, the Myra Boccardi Desroches Advancing Young Minds Fund has raised thousands of dollars and awarded multiple grants to support nonprofit programs in Connecticut that provide books, literacy programs, and educational opportunities for children.

Recent grants have supported initiatives including book purchases for children through the Town of Plymouth Human Services Small Wonders program, literacy programming at Imagine Nation Museum Early Learning Center, and educational supplies for the Bristol Child Development Center.

Organizers say the bake sale reflects the same spirit that inspired Myra's work—encouraging curiosity, learning and opportunity for young people.

Community members are invited to stop by, enjoy a treat, and support programs that help children discover the power of books and education.

For more information about the Myra Boccardi Desroches Advancing Young Minds Fund, reach out to Michael Desroches at michael@brandinspirationonline.com or 203-824-4282.