Members of Unaka High School’s Key Club recently attended the Kentucky-Tennessee District Conference and brought home several awards and honors.

While capturing the awards was fun, UHS Key Club President Jaida Walters said there is more to the event than just competing.

“It’s not only about the awards, it’s about getting to meet people from other clubs in the District and seeing what Key Club is all about,” Walters said.

During the Conference, which the Club members refer to as “D-Con,” the students took part in a variety of activities and events.

As a special community service project during the conference, the more than 400 Key Club members in attendance teamed up to make blankets that will be distributed to children at Shriners Hospital for Children.

It is that focus on giving back that Walters most enjoys about being a part of Key Club.

“I think Key Club has changed my life. It has really opened my eyes about our community and how I can help,” Walters said. “We’ve been able to change lives and help people. I think that is the best part of Key Club, seeing the lives you’ve changed.”

At the District Conference, the UHS Key Club and its members captured the following awards:

• Jaida Walters — Most Outstanding Clubber for Division 7 of the Kentucky-Tennessee District of Key Club

• Axi Erickson — Most Outstanding Clubber for the Kentucky-Tennessee District of Key Club

• UHS Key Club advisor Kayla Clawson — Outstanding KT District Faculty Advisor Award

• Sydney Markland — 1st Place Individual Service to the Ronald McDonald House

• Key Club Distinguished Club-Diamond Level

• Outstanding Service Silver Level Fundraising for Ronald McDonald House

• First Place Non-Traditional Scrapbook

• First Place Major Emphasis Award

• First Place Single Service Project

• Second Place Traditional Scrapbook

• Second Place Non-Digital Poster Contest

• Second Place Ronald McDonald House Pop Tab Contest

• Third Place Club Overall Service to Ronald McDonald House

• Third Place Club Video Contest

• Third Place Achievement Report

• Dues on Time Award

During the 2017-18 year, the UHS Key Club has hosted or participated in a number of community service or involvement events including:

• Police Officer and SRO Appreciation Day

• Creation of 72 fidget aprons for local seniors at nursing homes

• Senior Citizen Prom

• Volunteering at Pancake Day and Kiwanis Anniversary Dinner, Ronald McDonald House, Second Harvest, Book It to the Bridge

• Battle of the Belts with Niswonger

• Attendance at Fall Rally

• Toy drive for kids in partnership with the Sheriff’s Auxiliary (toys donated valued over $10,000)

• Promotion of club to younger grades at freshmen orientation.