In the spirit of compassion and community service, Grand Ledge High School’s own chapter of the Kiwanis Club, Key Club, is supporting those in need during the harsh winter months. Under the slogan “Share the Warmth”, Key Club’s fundraiser is rallying students and staff to donate winter essentials for the benefit of Ken’s Coat Closet, an initiative aiding community members struggling to afford cold weather necessities.

  “The goal of Share the Warmth is to collect winter essentials to donate to Ken’s Coat Closet for community members who struggle to afford gloves, hats, scarves, and socks during the winter,” said Senior, Sarah Bovee, President of Key Club, aiming to share the purpose and significance of the fundraiser.   

  The importance of Key Club not only impacts those at the school, but the community as well. “With this collection, we seek to make it easier for those who are in need to stay warm, extending our impact beyond the school, a priority for Key Club,” said Bovee. 

  The inspiration for this fundraiser came from a year-long collaboration between Key Club and Grand Ledge Kiwanis Club. “I have been meeting with the Kiwanis club for about a year now. At their meetings, they often have representatives from local food banks and other organizations that give back to the community,” said Bovee.

   “One of the representatives shared that over the year, they have a substantial deficit of donations following the holidays,” said Bovee. “Key Club decided that now would be the perfect time to collect items to donate that help people stay warm,” Bovee stated. 

  In their efforts to maximize participation, Key Club has used various promotional strategies, including social media, posters throughout the school, and educating other clubs about the purpose of the fundraiser. “We’ve spoken with the crochet club to see if any members would like to make a project to donate!” Bovee elaborated,

  The Share the Warmth fundraiser shows the commitment that defines Key Club and shows the values of compassion within the Grand Ledge community. As donations pour in, they bring warmth and generosity that have the potential to touch the lives of those in need.