Lighting the Night with Key Club

Keeping Up

WRITTEN BY MAYAH LUCKENBAUGH

Everytime I am asked, “What is the best service event you’ve attended?” or “What is your favorite event you’ve done with Key Club?” it is never easy to answer what seems like such a simple question. Every event ends up having its ups, downs, pros, and cons. Yet, there is always that one event that you can never stop thinking or talking about. Light the Night Walk in benefit of Leukemia fighters and survivors was the event that really stood out to me. The ironic part was that the event started off kind of slow; we were constantly looking for jobs that we could do or stations that needed help. But, as the night progressed the atmosphere and emotions of our environment changed drastically. As the sky darkened, me and my group of friends were assigned to spread out along the path and cheer on runners. While we got in position, speeches from survivors and those who have had loved ones diagnosed with Leukemia were given. Hearing each story, I felt my emotions shift as the weight of everyone’s words flowed into my ears. I was so happy to know that by volunteering my time,

WRITTEN BY MAYAH LUCKENBAUGH

I was able to at least do something for people in the crowd. My eyes scanned the crowd from above, filling my vision with the sea of glowing red, gold, and white lanterns. I was so touched to see a crowd of strangers come together with one another in support of the same, unified cause. Not only was the cause great, I can tell that the members of my club really enjoyed the event as well. Seeing them walk around the grounds of the event with wide smiles and filling the surrounding area with laughter, made me extremely glad and, in a way, relieved.

I loved scrolling through every picture of the event that everyone had taken: group pictures of members together After all, small efforts like this will build up to make a big change.

different angles of the lanterns, pictures of the participants walking, the Dallas skyline, etc. My members bonded with each other, but I was also able to grow closer to my own friends as well. Key Club is what brought me close friendships and relationships with people, and events further solidify our bond with one another. Though we show up with the mindset that we have a job to do, no one said that we can’t have fun while doing so. Waiting for the participants to march through, we all sit and enjoy each other’s company while admiring the view around us.

UNICEF works to protect children and their rights, ensuring protection for children suffering from war, poverty, disabilities, exploitation, and violence. UNICEF also advocates for the equal rights of women and girls and are working to accomplish the Sustainable Development Goals, which are set to attain a sustainable future and leave no one behind.

March of Dimes strives to prevent birth defects and infant deaths by conducting research on infant health. They are committed to preventing premature births and have launched campaigns to promote the importance of prenatal care.

Children's Miracle Network raises funds for children’s hospitals, medical research and awareness for children’s health issues. They have raised funds for 170 children’s hospitals across North America.