By Annie Milo, BEAT reporter
BRUNSWICK, OH- A little time and effort can go a long way when it comes to helping others. At Brunswick High School (BHS), Key Club proves this idea by allowing students to turn that idea into action through community service, fundraisers, and volunteer projects. Entirely student-led, the organization brings students together to support local causes while building friendships and leadership skills.
Key Club is an international student organization with groups at several high schools, including BHS. Brunswick's club is led by student president Nathan Milczewski and vice-president Aiden Heger. Heger explained that the club focuses on helping people beyond the school community. "We focus more on helping the community outside the school; we do really anything you can think of," Heger said. Entirely student-led, the club allows members to vote on the projects and activities they participate in, ranging from food drives to helping at homeless shelters.
Some of the club's recent activities include hosting Trunk or Treat events at Hickory Ridge Theater, Huntington Elementary, and in Hinckley. Members also volunteered at the annual soup cooking contest and auction fundraiser at Brunswick Methodist Church, which raised money for Oaks Family Care Center. Additionally, the club sold chocolates to raise money for Kiwanis Educating Youth, a foundation that provides resources for families and students in need. Through activities like these, members get to support local organizations while bringing people together.
Being vice-president also gives Heger opportunities to take on leadership responsibilities, although balancing the club with school and other commitments can sometimes be challenging. One event he especially looks forward to is the annual Christmas Crusade. Members spend several days preparing, serving hot chocolate, and delivering food to an elderly home. For Heger, the event is about more than volunteering; it's also a chance for members to spend time together and spread some holiday cheer.
BHS students interested in joining can attend Key Club meetings on Tuesdays in room 316 of the high school. Meetings will switch to a biweekly schedule during the second semester. Students can also reach out through the club's email at hskeyclub@bcsoh.org or contact one of its officers. Members can choose to participate as they wish while earning volunteer hours and developing leadership skills.
Heger encourages students to give Key Club a try, especially those looking for a way to become more involved in their community. "If you are looking for somewhere to build character, leadership, and you care about inclusivity, then Key Club is great for you," he said.
Whether helping at a community event, supporting a fundraiser, or delivering food during the holidays, Key Club gives students the chance to turn their time and effort into something meaningful for others.
Annie Milo, Brunswick High School, is one of over fifty student “backpack journalists” (grades 6-12) in the award-winning BEAT Video Program. The program, celebrating its 25th year, is sponsored by Donut Land, Plum Creek Assisted Living Community, MODA Gifts, Scripps Howard Foundation and the Brunswick Rotary Club. Go to https://www.bcsoh.org/community/new-beat-site to learn more about the Program, or visit https://thebeat.viebit.com/?folder=ALL to view videos produced by the students.
PHOTOS: Key Club students participate in supporting Trunk or Treat and Soup Cooking Contest fundraiser.