The National Junior Honor Society is a prestigious organization that recognizes outstanding middle school students who demonstrate high academic achievement, leadership, service and character. The members of NJHS participate in various service projects to make a positive impact on the school as well as the community.
Recently the NJHS at CtMS organized a successful blood drive in collaboration with the Red Cross society, bringing together students, staff, and community members in a united effort to save lives and promote community health. The blood drive was a reflection of a great effort by the NJHS students and the new advisor Ms. Wendy Noriega. This also showed students’ dedication to make a positive impact on society. Former NJHS members helped and trained new members in the process of organizing the blood drive.
About 28 people were able to donate blood for the cause at the blood drive. This number was less than the earlier attendance. Reflecting on the outcomes of the drive and attendance Ms. Noriega and the students felt a need of advertising the event more at a greater level for higher attendance of donors for the future drives.
Throughout the day students worked behind the scenes, greeting donors, conducting registrations, and providing support to those donating blood. Their enthusiasm and active participation contributed to smooth running of the event. “I was able to guide people to the blood donation room and provide them refreshments when they were done donating blood”, said Nicholas Cheang, “ We learned about the effect these events can have on the society and how we as students can help.” Another student Isabella Molina shared, “I liked having the opportunity to help others and learn something new like using the computer to scan the ID cards and organizing events that can help the community,”
By organizing these blood drives and other events the NJHS members make a huge impact directly on the community. The events like these demonstrate that even young students can support the society as early as in middle school.