As the fall semester starts, the OHS Key Club is excited to make a difference in the community. This club focuses on volunteering and leadership in an effort to get students involved in various meaningful service projects throughout the school year.
“Our main goals for Key Club this year are to serve OHS and local organizations in Oxford, collaborate with other high school clubs, and to make volunteer opportunities more accessible to students,” senior and OHS Key Club member Annelise Osborne said.
OHS Key Club is about students being involved in community service, building character, and developing leadership skills. Members aim to complete 30 hours of volunteering each year, and many are working hard to reach the national goal of 50
hours. This club has a packed schedule for the year, giving everyone plenty of chances to get involved and make a positive impact. Upcoming events include participating in the Suicide Awareness Walk with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, creating Veterans Day cards, and organizing a book drive for Read Across America Week. Recently, the club prepared goodie bags and handwritten notes for teachers, highlighting its commitment to supporting the OHS community.
“For the past few years, the Key Club has looked for ways to recognize and value our veterans,” OHS Key Club advisor Tuesday Arizaga said. “Many of our members have dedicated their time to veterans and have formed relationships with them. Our stu-
dents have connected to our local veterans in many ways, which is something I am very proud of.”
Strong leadership is crucial for creating an environment that encourages everyone to participate and work together. Junior and OHS Key Club Vice President Kennedy Schock says that her role has given her valuable communication and organizational skills, which are essential for successful teamwork.
“To effectively manage a club, you need good communication skills,” Schock said. “Key Club has helped me improve in not only that aspect, but also improved my skills as a leader.”
The club meets on the last Wednesday of every month, giving members a chance to share ideas, work, and plan activities. Monthly meetings ensures that every member has a chance to be involved and voice their ideas. These gatherings help strengthen friendships and create a strong sense of community in the club.
“I believe my role influences the club’s atmosphere because I try always to be open-minded and make sure our members feel comfortable sharing their ideas,” Schock said.
As OHS Key Club continues to grow, both Schock and Osborne are excited to see how their classmates will step up to serve the community. Their enthusiasm encourages others to participate and contribute to meaningful projects that contribute to the common good.
“My advice for anyone thinking about joining Key Club is not to be afraid of sharing your ideas and resources; your voice matters,” Osborne said.
By fostering a spirit of service and teamwork, the OHS Key Club is not only helping the community but also allowing students to develop essential life skills. With a focus on leadership and inclusiveness, the club is ready to make a big impact this school year.
“In today’s society, I think it’s essential for people our age to contribute their skills and resources to help their community in, even the smallest ways,” Osborne said.
