The silent impact Ashland High School's club has on the community
Ashland High School's Community Service Club works with charities and local organizations to build relationships and awareness.
ASHLAND – The Christmas Toy Drive almost didn’t happen at all.
When the people who originally organized the event could no longer continue, Hayden Hitchcock, an executive member of Ashland High School’s Community Service Club, stepped up to make it happen.
It wasn’t because the club wanted recognition or volunteer hours. Rather, Hitchock wanted to make a difference in his community and ensure children in Ashland had presents under their trees.
The club then cleaned, prepared and organized the donated toys. Despite the deadline for the event rapidly approaching, and not required, they chose to wrap every present, adding a personal touch to each gift.
“The impact I saw at that toy box — I felt that so I really wanted it to keep going,” Hitchcock said. “So within this club and with me leading it, I took the initiative to make this Toy Drive because it’s something I really cared about.
“I do genuinely think that because of this club stepping up — even if it’s just a dozen or so kids — some children had happier Christmases because they could get toys that they might not have been able to afford at all.”
Lizzie Condit, the club’s supervisor, sees their willingness to go above and beyond their requirements as one of the main qualities for the Community Service Club at Ashland High School.
Condit remembers when there were only five members. This past school year, membership grew to 72 students. Despite how large the club has become, their generous acts often happen out of the spotlight.
“They do a lot of behind-the-scenes things that you don’t necessarily see, it’s not as public,” Condit said.
The club has volunteered in numerous organizations like Spread the Warmth Campaign, Ashland’s Cancer Association Rummage Sale, food programs like the Hunger Center and participating in the community Easter egg hunt.
They have also organized their own initiatives like blanket making, food and hygiene drives through the school, and sending cards to nursing homes, just to name a few.
Together, club members have dedicated over 1,000 service hours.
Apart from the volunteering, the club gives students a chance to connect with their community. Interacting with residents of all ages has allowed them to learn about issues they may otherwise not be aware of.
Club members say it has also shaped them. Seniors Ashley Schmitz, Hayden Hitchcock and Emma Schmitz reflect on their years with the club and what the experience meant to them.
“Community Service Club has built such a beautiful environment and community of its own and it really is a joy to get to see my classmates create an impact on other people at every event,” Ashley Schmitz said. “I am so grateful that I am able to call myself an executive of all of the amazing students that participate in the club!”
Hitchcock got involved looking for ways to connect at a new school, but left with an appreciation for community service.
“I was kind of new to the district and I wanted to fit in with a group of people, being part of that club helped me grow as a person and showed me what service was really like,” Hitchcock said. “I think that this club has given me a heart for service I didn’t know I had and without it, I’m not sure if I would be the same person who I am today.”
Emma Schmitz said working alongside other volunteers has shown her the value of giving back.
“Providing services and goods to any and all people is the best gift I can give to such a wonderful community. In this club, I get to see so many people who put their heart and soul into helping other people just as the people before us have,” Schmitz said.
“I am truly grateful to give my all to such a heartfelt club that feels like family inside and out!”
The club’s commitment is especially visible in how students show up for events regardless of the day or forecast. Condit explains the students do it for the heart of the service.
“These kids spent hours after school preparing and getting ready for them, they showed up early on Saturdays, they’re handing out food in the rain. Just watch from the sidelines and you’re going to see how much they care, the proof is right there,” Condit said.
Even when their acts of service go unseen, Condit reminds her students of a quote from Mr. Rogers: “Look for the helpers.”
