The Lakota school district, comprising over 17,000 students, has forged a remarkable partnership with Reach Out Lakota, a local organization, for nearly two decades. This annual tradition has become a source of immense pride for the Lakota community, and this year's response has taken it to unprecedented heights.

Lakota's Generosity Soars to New Levels, Uplifting Families in Need

Lakota's Unwavering Commitment to Community Service

The Lakota school district has long been known for its unwavering commitment to community service, and this year's "Together WE Can" campaign has solidified its reputation as a beacon of generosity. Under this theme, Lakota students, staff, and families came together to collect an astounding 60,000 items for Reach Out Lakota, a remarkable feat that has left the community in awe.The previous record, set in 2022, stood at 27,500 items, a number that was nearly matched last year. However, this year's results saw a staggering 117% increase, far surpassing the initial challenge to match the 31% rise in overall visits to the local pantry. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the Lakota community's dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.

Student Leadership Drives Lakota's Donation Efforts

At the heart of Lakota's donation campaign are the student leadership groups, who have historically been the driving force behind the campaign's success. This year was no exception, as student leaders at various schools spearheaded the collection efforts, showcasing their commitment to community service and their ability to inspire their peers.One shining example is the group of sixth-grade math accelerated students at Liberty Twp.'s VanGorden Elementary School. This small group of students built and executed a campaign that generated over 9,000 donations for their school, earning the building the honor of posting the highest average donation per student compared to all other Lakota schools.Lakota Superintendent Ashley Whitely praised the students' efforts, stating, "Every day, I am reminded of what this district is capable of when we all work together." The friendly competition between schools, fueled by a shared desire to give back and help others, has become a valuable lesson for Lakota students, teaching them the power of collective action and the importance of community engagement.

Reach Out Lakota's Gratitude and the Impact of Lakota's Generosity

The impact of Lakota's generosity has not gone unnoticed by Reach Out Lakota, the organization that has been the recipient of the district's annual donation drive. Brenda Yablonsky, the CEO/Director of Reach Out Lakota, expressed her awe and gratitude, stating, "This year's Stuff the Bus collection surpassed our greatest expectations. It is by far the largest food collection we receive all year long – and it will all go to families right here in Lakota who are struggling with food insecurity."Yablonsky acknowledged the immense effort and physical labor required to transport all the donated items to Reach Out Lakota, a testament to the Lakota community's commitment to making a tangible difference. The generosity of the Lakota community, from the students and staff to the families, has left a lasting impression on Reach Out Lakota, and the organization is deeply grateful for their unwavering support.As Lakota Board of Education President Julie Shaffer eloquently stated, "We are astounded by just how much our students, staff and families stepped up this year. We are beyond proud and humbled by these remarkable results." The Lakota community's ability to come together, surpass expectations, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need is a shining example of the power of community spirit and the transformative potential of collective action.