Marion Harding High School students are on a mission to pay it forward.
Nearly the entire student body is expected to again dedicate a day to community service on Friday, April 17, 2015, its second annual United Service Day. They will take part in service projects throughout the district and community as well as at a few sites in Columbus.
“For us to go into the community and do all these projects, the whole city recognizes it and appreciates it,” said Trent Ramsey, among members of the Student Leadership Council organizing the event.
The leadership council this year paid special attention to businesses who have supported the community over the years. Students wanted to make sure to do something for these businesses to support them.
“We are trying to give back to the community that gives back to Marion,” said Cheyenne Abrams, also a member of the council.
Ramsey said the council wants to “take it to the next step.”
From city parks and nursing homes around Marion to the Ronald Mc¬Donald House in Columbus, students will be seen making a difference. To the council, it’s not just about paying it forward. They also hope it improves what people think of both their gen¬eration and of Harding.
“We actually have a lot of groups that make is look better, but people focus on the negative aspects,” Abrams said.
“I just want people to see that young people, and Harding, are full of kids who want to be future leaders,” council member Win Adissem said.
Along with United Service Day, the student leadership council is preparing for a two-day retreat at Recreation Unlimited in Ashley that will focus on leadership skills.
Leadership council members said leadership is what determines if a school is good or great.
“It’s about not only building leadership but bonds and a strong community,” said council member Sydney Cook. “It prepares you for the real world and builds better connections.”
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