Darryl Schmitz and Mini stop for a refreshment break at the Church of the Nazarene during the 23rd annual Walk last weekend.
by Barry Bauer
The annual Capital Area Community Services of Clinton County Walk took place on Saturday, February 23 to raise funds for those in need of help with heating bills.
The volunteer walkers set out at 11:00 a.m. for approximately a three mile walk through the city and by doing so collected donations for their efforts.
When members from the St. Johns Kiwanis sponsored student Service Leadership Programs, and regular Kiwanians join forces, the blend is a prime example of youthful enthusiasm and adult resolve.
The 23rd annual Walk for Warmth felt the impact of that dual effort and families in need of heat-related assistance will share in over $3,500.00 the walkers raised to add a measure of warmth to winter’s waning months.
Kiwanian Jan Havlik, coordinating advisor to middle school Builders Club and high school Good Wins Key Club, expressed delight that so many students volunteered to assist Capital Area Community Services in the yearly program, helping area families during cold weather. “The students recognize the benefits of community service,” she said, “and in particular the aid this walk creates for families in need.”
The young strollers were joined by a group representing the St. Johns Kiwanis Club. From left, Jeanette Huard, Greg Teichman, Rhoda Hacker, Sharon Bassette, Ken Perin, Kimberly Brzozowski, Ken Brzozowski,Laura Mullaney and Jan Havlik.
Meanwhile, Pauline Baert, coordinator of Clinton County Service Center, voiced similar appreciation that the students took the better part of a Saturday to participate in the fund raising endeavor. “The students were part of a group of more than 50 walkers, treading the three-mile course, helping to raise over $3,500.00. Aside from home heating, that is heart-warming,” Ms. Baert said.
Kiwanis Service Leadership Program is a mentoring effort to acquaint students in middle school through high school with the merits of performing community service acts. The three groups – Builders, Good Wins Key and Aktion clubs – perform numerous projects throughout the year, benefiting individuals or lending general community well-being.
Students from the Kiwanis sponsored Builders and Key Clubs were in high spirits before striking out in support of the annual Walk for Warmth. All from left, front row: Jenna Krish, Alex Lane and Mackenzie Graff. Middle row: Lexi Martens, Emilie Krish, Kaythlyn Krish, Sarah Noonan, Brock Labar, Jesse Ballard and Maddy Slamka. Back row: Jane Kyde, Caitlyn Theis, Hannah Paksi, Jake Eaton, Allie Marier, Ellie Kebler, Alex Davis and Mariya Pieters.