Wellington High School Service Day is set for Wednesday, April 13
by Amber Schmitz, Sumner Newscow — As Service Day fast approaches, the Wellington High School Leadership Class is gearing up for the event, which is set for Wednesday, April 13.
“This will be our fifth year of Service Day,” said Karla Defore, instructor. “Leadership students have been responsible to plan it for four of those years.”
Defore said the prep work is extensive.
“Just the logistics of transportation is something like the moon landing, haha,” Defore said.
The class is seeking participation from the public. They are in need of meaningful service that can be performed by students, while supervised by WHS teachers. There are about 40 teachers, so locations are needed where at least 10 students can serve. There will be approximately 400 sophomore through senior students in the community and 125 freshmen students at the high school.
“First, we need places to serve,” Defore said.
All locations need to provide three hours of service, from about 8:15-11 a.m., for 8-25 students. WHS teachers will provide supervision for all students. A description of the work to be performed, how many volunteers you can host will need to be provided, and know that all supplies needed will be provided by the location. When students choose their location, there is no guarantee that this service will be performed. Non-profit organizations will be given preference.
“Secondly, we are in need of contributions,” Defore said. “Each meal cost only 25 cents. We would like to top last year’s mark.”
Last year, students packaged 5,000 macaroni and cheese meals through the Outreach Program for use in the community. Some of those meals were distributed through the Meals on Wheels for Kids Summer Program, while others were given to the Wellington Food Bank. Donations may be sent to Wellington High School Leadership Class, 1700 E.16th, Wellington, Kansas 67152.
Service Day was started several years ago, and students were able to perform volunteer service for the community.
“We feel it teaches students the value of community and their role in making our town a great place to live,” Defore said.
For more information, please email Karla Defore kdefore@usd353.com, or leave a message with the WHS office at 326.4310.
