A group of dedicated high school students from Paulding, Ohio, turned their leadership efforts into a $5,000 grant after spearheading a fundraising campaign to build a Veterans Memorial for their community.

Raising Funds, Building Community

In an inspiring example of local youth leadership, a group of Paulding High School students successfully raised over $1,000 to fund the installation of a Veterans Memorial in their town. The initiative was part of their semester-long involvement in the Lead4Change program, a project-based learning opportunity designed to encourage students to tackle real-world issues in their communities.

Over the course of the semester, students worked together, organizing various fundraising activities to reach their goal. From bake sales to selling Valentine’s bears and even shoveling snow, these students worked tirelessly to gather the necessary funds. Their hard work was rewarded with a $5,000 grant, which will help make the memorial project a reality.

The students involved in this remarkable project were Devyn Haller, Ameriona Stiltner, Karson Mudel, Jacob Harris, Xander Schwab, and Noah Pollock. Their teamwork and dedication not only benefited the veterans of Paulding County but also set an example for their peers in the community about the power of collective action.

A Lesson in Leadership and Service

The Lead4Change program, which was the foundation of this project, encourages students to identify a problem in their community and take action to solve it. For the Paulding High School group, the problem was clear: the lack of a memorial to honor the sacrifices made by local veterans. The students knew that a memorial would not only recognize the service of these individuals but also provide a lasting tribute to their dedication.

In addition to the financial and hands-on aspects of the project, students also gained valuable leadership skills. The program requires participants to work together, delegate tasks, and communicate effectively – all skills that are crucial for success in any career. By completing the program, the students not only earned a certificate but also earned the opportunity to apply for a grant to further their project.

From Fundraising to Recognition

It wasn’t just about raising money; it was about honoring those who served. The students knew that their efforts were important, not just for the immediate community, but for the broader cause of recognizing veterans’ sacrifices.

“The goal of the project was to show respect and appreciation for those who served our country,” said one of the students involved. “It’s important to build a memorial for them, to show that their service will never be forgotten.”

The fundraising efforts included:

• Bake Sales: Local community members donated baked goods for students to sell at school events.

• Valentine’s Bears: The students created and sold special Valentine’s Day bears as a fundraising item.

• Snow Shoveling: The students offered snow shoveling services to families in the community to raise additional funds.

Through these activities, the group raised $1,016, which will be added to the $5,000 grant they received for the memorial.

A Lasting Legacy

The Paulding County Veterans Memorial will be a lasting tribute to the men and women who served in the military, providing a place for reflection and remembrance for generations to come.

The $5,000 grant that the students received will ensure that the memorial project can move forward with the resources needed for construction and installation. With this grant, the students have not only secured funding for the memorial but have also solidified their legacy as the driving force behind an important community project.

The initiative serves as a reminder that even the youngest members of a community can have a profound impact when they come together with purpose and determination. It also highlights the importance of teaching young people about leadership, service, and the value of honoring those who serve the country.