provided to The Santiva Chronicle
The Sanibel School Rotary Interact Club is earning recognition for its commitment to leadership, community involvement, and the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.”
Sponsored by the Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club, the Sanibel School Interact Club welcomes students in grades 6–8 and encourages young leaders to develop leadership skills while making a positive impact both locally and internationally. Throughout the school year, club members have planned and participated in a variety of meaningful service projects designed to support their community and help others around the world. The Interact Club has provided students with opportunities to engage in hands-on service projects while developing teamwork, leadership, and organizational skills.
This year, the Sanibel School Interact members partnered with FISH of SanCap to assemble holiday ornaments for the community tree, helping spread holiday cheer across the island. Students also participated in two Feed My Starving Children food-packing events — one in Bonita Springs and another hosted at Sanibel Community Church — supporting international hunger relief efforts.
In addition, students volunteered at the Rotary Arts & Crafts Fair, where water sales organized by Interact members raised $545 for Feed My Starving Children. Their efforts highlighted how student-led initiatives can create meaningful impact both near and far.
Club members have also successfully operated the newly established Interact School Store throughout the academic year. Students managed customer service, transactions, inventory, ordering, and budgeting, gaining valuable hands-on experience in teamwork, responsibility, and leadership. Since launching in 2025, the school store has officially sold more than 500 items.
“Club members have planned and participated in multiple projects this school year and have earned deserved recognition for their ‘Service Above Self,’” said Rotary Club representative Barb Ellis. “These efforts not only support important causes but also inspire continued Interact participation and leadership among students.”
A special thank you goes to Social Studies teacher Edna Dykhuizen for her continued dedication and service as adviser to the Interact Club. Her guidance has helped foster a culture of leadership, compassion, and community engagement among students at The Sanibel School.
Rotary Interact Clubs challenge students to discover the power of service while developing the skills needed to become future community leaders. The Sanibel School Middle School Interact Club continues to exemplify those values through its enthusiasm, teamwork, and commitment to making a difference.
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