Activism is defined by the Cambridge dictionary as “the use of direct and noticeable action to achieve a result.” That looks like a pretty broad definition, one might see and think that getting involved in activism is too daunting of a task. This idea that is perpetuated about activism being some grand task is demonstrably false. Helping out in the community constitutes activism, and if someone has no idea where to start then joining a club would be a more than effective way to be a part of it. Groups like Key Club, National Honor Society and Young Impact are terrific ways to get involved in the community.
Key Club is the oldest and largest student-led organization that focuses on high school students doing service work in their communities. They are a branch of the organization Kiwanis International, which is a group that strives to better communities.
Junior Jackson Avery stated that he believes the goal of Key Club is to “help out the community by helping volunteer and other activities.” Avery has been a member of Key Club since the start of this year.
National Honor Society (NHS) is another group that places an emphasis on community service. NHS is the primary organization that represents and recognizes students for their excellence in academics and constitution. Junior Aaden Gareau has been a member of NHS since his sophomore year. Additionally, he participated in National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) since he was in middle school.
When asked about the difference between the two, Gareau stated NHS is more selective, but that they have more opportunities to do service work and that overall, it is a smooth transition.
One of the stand out features about NHS is the events they host. Events such as EL Scream and the blood drive are loved by the students and staff alike. The different events can raise money or donations for various charities and organizations.
“My favorite is Coffeehouse, a semiannual SAHS talent show, where all proceeds are donated to a local organization or school club,” NHS senior officer Grace Young said.
One of the largest differences between Key Club and NHS is that any student can join Key Club. If a student is interested in joining NHS, the process is slightly more complex. Students must maintain a certain GPA that is dependent on their grade level. Contrastingly, absolutely anyone can join Key Club, regardless of academic performance.
“It’s open to anyone, whereas, like NHS requires a certain grade, anyone can join Key Club,” Avery said about the benefits of Key Club.
NHS offers a chance for students to step into leadership positions. Students will run for a position as an officer and if elected, they will become a junior officer and the following year become a senior officer. A position like this offers a myriad of leadership opportunities and gives real life hands on experience at organizing and coordinating events.
“Being an NHS officer has improved my professionalism, communication skills, and collaboration skills. I have had a great experience as an NHS officer and have met so many amazing people through my role,” NHS senior officer Young said.
While NHS is more selective, there is a level of prestige that comes with that. If a student is able to become a member of NHS then that prestige can set them up tremendously well. Not only does it teach students about leadership, it can help when applying to colleges.
Gareau said one of his main reasons for joining is that “it’s another thing to put on a college resume. I mean, as a junior, that’s what you’re always trying to do.”
Becoming an active member of the community helps people build a sense of purpose. Activism does not need to exclude students. There are ways to be an activist while still being a student. Participating in the community and volunteering gives students an opportunity to make a real difference and to help their peers, building a foundation for a better sense of self, purpose, and community.
