On any given week, a group of students can be found quietly making a difference, such as serving meals, helping children or lending a hand wherever it’s needed. These students are part of Key Club, a service-based organization that focuses on leadership through actions.

The club encourages students to grow by giving back, whether it is inside the school or throughout the community. Owatonna Key Club Adviser Mr. Jonathon Miron said, “Key Club is all about service and becoming a better leader.”

Unlike many other activities, Owatonna Key Club is designed to be flexible while still meaningful. Miron said, “We meet once a month, and it’s a club for someone who is looking for low commitment but making a large impact in the community that they live in.” This makes it accessible to students with busy schedules who still want to get involved.

This year, Owatonna Key Club has made a noticeable impact both locally and beyond. In the fall, they organized a school-wide book drive, collecting more than 13 boxes of books for a Twin Cities organization that provides books for children. Members also created 11 tie blankets for Beds For Kids in Owatonna and volunteered at the Special Olympics in Mankato. In addition, they attended a leadership retreat in October to strengthen their teamwork and leadership skills.

Much of Owatonna Key Club’s work happens right here in the Owatonna community. Members regularly serve meals at two local churches, volunteer at nursing homes and provide childcare once a month, so parents can have a night out. They also support elementary schools by helping with book fairs, judging science fairs and assisting with leadership activities. At  Owatonna High School, they help with the college and career fairs and work concessions at sporting events.

As the school year comes to a close, the club continues to offer opportunities for students to stay involved. One ongoing project that they have been working on includes cleaning the OHS parking lot every second COMPASS of the month.

Beyond the projects, Key Club emphasizes the importance of connection and understanding. Owatonna Key Club Vice President, Junior Carlin Maas said, “I think volunteering is important because it helps push people to get to know one another and engage with each other.” This highlights how service brings people together in a meaningful way. Through these experiences, students not only help others but also develop into more thoughtful and capable leaders.

For students looking to make a difference, Key Club shows that even small acts of service can have a big impact, both on the community and on the people doing the work.