IRON MOUNTAIN, Mich. (WZMQ) — The Youth Advisory Council, affectionately known as the YAC Club, is gearing up for an impactful school year in Dickinson County. With the students returning to their academic pursuits, the YAC Club is set on making a positive difference in the community.
“I’m really excited for this year, and I hope we do great things,” expressed one of the enthusiastic club members.
Two juniors, Bella Vicenzi and Betsy Vanegas, are leading the charge to create a bigger impact on their community through the YAC Club. After learning from other YAC Clubs across the state during a conference held at CMU over the summer, the students have been inspired to step up their efforts.
“A couple of us had the opportunity to go to this conference which was located at CMU. We got to learn about not only our YAC Club, but other YAC Clubs that are downstate. We learned that they are more involved downstate than we are, so we definitely plan to get more involved with the community, and do a lot more fundraisers,” shared Betsy Vanegas.
As the school year kicks off, the YAC Club is already making its presence felt by participating in school functions to engage more students in their cause. The members are looking forward to continuing their tradition of community involvement, which includes raking leaves at the cemetery and distributing grants to local initiatives.
“Every year we rake leaves at the cemetery, that’s a big one. We do a grant, like we hand out money to different things in the area and community. And just a lot of volunteering,” said Bella Vicenzi.
Despite the challenges that come with community service in colder U.P. weather, the club members cherish the memories they’ve created while making a difference. Betsy Vanegas recounted her experience of ringing bells in the winter for the Salvation Army, saying, “It does get cold, but you know it’s always fun doing it with your friends. And I remember doing it for ladies night out, and it did start snowing, but it kind of made it more memorable.”
The YAC Club’s efforts have already borne fruit, as more students are showing interest in joining their ranks. “We have gotten a couple already, we’re just trying to get as many people as we can to help out,” shared one member.
For these students, joining the YAC Club is more than just a commitment—it’s a meaningful way to give back to their community and help those in need. “I chose to join YAC because I like being involved with my community and volunteering. It makes me feel good and it helps others,” said another club member.
Looking ahead to the upcoming holiday season, the Iron Mountain YAC Club is excited to continue their tradition of ringing bells for the Salvation Army, and creating lasting memories while making a positive impact in their world. For students at Iron Mountain School District interested in getting involved, the club meets once a month on Sundays in the Izzo-Mariucci building. Students can contact the club advisor, sixth grade teacher Kaye Miziniak.
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