Photo Taken by Paige McCowan
For 100 years, Key Club has empowered students to change their communities one project at a time. At South Salem High School, this legacy continues to thrive through the efforts of its dedicated members. It was founded in 1925 in Sacramento, California by Kiwanis Club, an international service organization. This year marks one century of Key Club, the largest student-led service organization in the world.
Key Club began as a way for high school students to make a difference in their communities. Today, the club spans 45 countries with over 1,000 different clubs and a mission to give back to the community.
South is home to one of the largest Key Clubs in Oregon, with dozens of active members. The club is student-run, with current President Vi Nguyen and Vice President Tuesday Garrison leading the way to improvement.
South’s Key Club is involved in various service events within and outside of the school. One main event they take part in is the John Piper Day of Service. This annual leaf-raking tradition brings students together in one of the club’s most visible service projects. Another event the club takes part in is wrapping gifts for the Christmas party hosted by the YMCA for underprivileged children.
Nguyen and Garrison have big plans for improvement. This year, the officers are focused on expanding and reforming the club.
“We hope to reorganize our online spaces so that future Key Club leaders will have easier navigation and improved efficiency,” Garrison said. .
The club has decided to prioritize organization, to further productivity.
“With my leadership team, we plan on creating and regulating a better volunteer hour system along with brand new opportunities,” said Nguyen.
Nguyen emphasizes the importance of connection, both within South and across the district.
“We want to collaborate with the district and work alongside them to contribute to district projects and opportunities, while also providing a sense of community for South,” said Nguyen.
However, there are more benefits to Key Club than service hours.
“It allows students to grow and use their leadership and teamwork skills. We are trying to leave the world better than we found it with one action at a time,” said Nguyen.
Key Club not only focuses on giving back but assists students with developing leadership and teamwork skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Membership in Key Club is open to all South students. Meetings are held every Monday at 3:30 p.m. in Room 204, starting September 22. Members are asked to show up, do their best and to have a good time giving back to the community.
Expectations are not set too high for new members, as key club’s main goal is always to do your best.
“We don’t expect a lot from new members except for a willingness to show up, do your best, be kind, and be helpful,” Garrison said.
