On November 2nd Interact held its annual Blanket-making event.
Neuqua Valley High School is home to a heartwarming and positive club, Interact, which has over 300 members. This club is open to all students who are interested in giving back and supporting their community. Interact has several events and activities throughout the year that volunteers can participate in. Although, the Blanket-making event seems to be a favorite, receiving the most support. It has been deemed their most successful event, stated by Priya Patel a member of Interact, “Blanket Making is one of the largest volunteer events that we have throughout the year…It has grown over the years to be one of our most popular events”
At the beginning of every year, students gather to create these tie blankets, it’s a fairly easy process. They begin by selecting two pieces of fabric and cutting off the corners, then they go back in and cut slits down the sides, later tying the two fabrics together. However, this year the event had a deeper meaning to the people of Neuqua. The blankets were made in honor and memory of Paula Mueller, a beloved science teacher. She sadly passed away last October after a 6-month battle with cancer, she is forever missed.
After these blankets are made they are donated to many different organizations such as PADS in Wheaton, DCFS and Alliance for the Children in West Virginia. Paula Mueller had done years of work with Alliance for the Children, it made her content knowing that these kids would have a piece of happiness in their lives.
Since its founding in 2009, the Blanket-making event has grown, turning into an adored tradition at Neuqua. However, this isn’t their only event, Priya Patel explains that they have numerous events throughout the year. Two of their more common events include Pink Box and Girl Scout Workshop. Pink Box is very important, “This event is a valuable event at Neuqua because of its deeper purpose in our society.” At this event, students make reusable menstrual pads, which are sent to women in Honduras. Priya Patel elaborates on how it helps women, “These pads allow young women to stay in school and [become] educated… this [charity also presents opportunities for women to work]” In addition to this event, Neuqua also hosts a Girl Scout Workshop. This is held around February and allows scouts to come and earn their badges. Girl Scout Workshop helps provide students with experience in working with kids and creating fun-filled activities to keep them entertained.
Through these efforts, Interact not only encourages giving back and helping others to our students but also impacts the community and people around us positively. Interact is one of many clubs at Neuqua but stands out for being a great one. If you ever have the chance, stop by one of their events and connect with your community.
