Conroe Interact: Over 2000 Hours, Award-Winning Service

Conroe High School Interact Club Wraps Up Banner Year of Service, Earns Rotary International Distinctions

CONROE, TX – May 13, 2024 – The Conroe High School Interact Club concluded a profoundly impactful service season on May 13, celebrating a year marked by significant local and global contributions, culminating in prestigious recognition from Rotary International. Over 60 dedicated student members collectively logged more than 2,000 hours of service, demonstrating a powerful commitment to community betterment and global citizenship.

Under the guidance of faculty advisor Mary Helen Johnson and student leadership, including President Sophia Martinez and Vice President Anna Clare Wilson, the club's efforts spanned a diverse array of initiatives. Globally, the students successfully raised an impressive $5,000 for Rotary International's "End Polio Now" initiative. This contribution supports Rotary's long-standing worldwide campaign to eradicate polio, a preventable disease that once paralyzed hundreds of thousands of children annually. More information about the initiative can be found at [www.rotary.org/en/our-causes/ending-polio](https://www.rotary.org/en/our-causes/ending-polio).

"Our students truly embody the spirit of 'Service Above Self'," stated Mary Helen Johnson, the club's faculty advisor. "To see their passion for making a tangible difference, from fundraising for global health to dedicating countless hours right here in Conroe, is incredibly inspiring. They've learned invaluable lessons in leadership, empathy, and the power of collective action."

Domestically, the Interact Club was deeply woven into the fabric of the Conroe community, tackling several critical local needs: * Miracle League: Members volunteered their time to the "Miracle League," an organization dedicated to providing children with special needs the opportunity to play organized baseball in a supportive environment. * Backpack Buddies: The club actively participated in the "Backpack Buddies" program, which ensures that food-insecure students have nutritious meals and snacks to take home over the weekends and school breaks. * Holiday Assistance: During the holiday season, students contributed to both the "Salvation Army Angel Tree" program, providing gifts for underprivileged children, and "Santa's Helpers," offering holiday cheer and support to local seniors. * Meals on Wheels: Interact members regularly assisted with "Meals on Wheels," delivering essential meals and a friendly visit to homebound seniors in the community, combating isolation and ensuring nutritional support.

"This year has been an incredible journey of growth and impact for all of us," said Sophia Martinez, the club's president. "Knowing that our efforts, big or small, are making a real difference in the lives of children, seniors, and even people across the globe, is the most rewarding part. We're proud to carry on Rotary's mission."

The Conroe High School Interact Club's exceptional dedication did not go unnoticed by Rotary International. For the 2022-2023 academic year, the club earned the prestigious Rotary International Presidential Citation with Distinction, recognizing outstanding commitment to service, leadership development, and fostering international understanding. Building on this success, they achieved Gold status for the 2023-2024 academic year, further highlighting their sustained excellence and impact. These accolades place the Conroe High School Interact Club among the top-performing Interact clubs worldwide.

The Interact Club serves as a vital component of Rotary International's youth programs, fostering leadership and community service among high school students globally. Through their consistent efforts, the Conroe High School Interact Club continues to set a benchmark for student engagement and community impact within the Conroe area and beyond.