KEYSTONE HEIGHTS – A Volunteer Appreciation Lunch was held at the Keystone Heights Jr/Sr High on Thursday, May 11, for all the volunteers. The group consisted of about 45 residents who’ve dedicated their time to assist with the Trading Post, school events such as Junior High Dances and classrooms.

Some of these volunteers have become mentors to the students.

“It’s just a way to say thank you for all or volunteers and mentors,” said Alicia Hunter, Family and Community Engagement Coordinator.

The lunch was at the school’s Culinary Dining Room, where Laura Leach and her culinary students provided lunch. She served Poblano or vegan burgers and Santa Fe fries with sweet tea or lemonade and students prepared Biscochitos cookies with coffee ice cream as a dessert for the guests. As everyone enjoyed their meals, volunteers got to connect with each other, and Principal Laurie Burke visited to thank the volunteers.

“We have the most amazing volunteers,” Hunter said. “It’s just giving back. They give so much. This is just one little thing we can do to say ‘thank you’ to our volunteers.”

The event was a success. Everyone who attended the lunch enjoyed themselves.

“I think it’s nice,” one volunteer said. “We love what we do, but having a little extra thank you is nice.”

All of the volunteers were impressed by the food that the culinary students prepared.

“It was good. Culinary went above and beyond,” Hunter said. “The food was delicious and the volunteers are very grateful.” As of now, Keystone Heights High School is looking for volunteers to help next year with the Clothes Closet, a clothing store where families and students can get clothes for free. “We are desperately in need next year for volunteers to come in daily and work in our Close Closet.”

To learn more about volunteering at the Keystone Heights Jr/Sr High, contact Alicia Hunter at Alicia.hunter@myoneclay.net.