Key Club at Saugerties High School

The Key Club at Saugerties High School gives students the opportunity to develop leadership skills while serving their school and the greater Saugerties community.

Founded by Kiwanis in 1925, Key Club has grown into an international student-led service organization focused on leadership, volunteerism, and community involvement. 

The Kiwanis Club of Saugerties proudly supports the Saugerties High School Key Club through annual funding, volunteer coordination, mentorship, and support for club activities and leadership opportunities. 

Student Leadership

The Saugerties High School Key Club includes student officers including:

  • President
  • Vice President
  • Secretary
  • Treasurer

Students also work with faculty advisors and regional student leadership within the New York District Key Club organization. 

Community Service in Saugerties

Key Club members participate in a variety of volunteer activities and community events throughout the year.

Hudson Valley Garlic Festival®

Many Key Club students volunteer during the annual Hudson Valley Garlic Festival, helping support festival operations and community activities. Student volunteers assist in a wide range of areas and help make the event possible each year. 

Community Events

Key Club students also assist with additional local events including:

  • Mum Festival
  • Holiday Open House
  • Community volunteer projects
  • School and local service activities

Backpack Program

One of the most important ongoing projects supported by the Saugerties Key Club is the Backpack Program. 

The program helps provide food to families in need during weekends and school breaks when students may not have access to school meal programs. Key Club members help purchase, pack, and organize food bags that are distributed through local schools. 

Funding for the Backpack Program comes from donations collected during the Garlic Festival and support from the local Kiwanis Club. 

Leadership Opportunities Beyond Saugerties

The Key Club program also provides opportunities for students to participate in regional and district leadership events, including the annual New York District Key Club Convention. 

These experiences help students:

  • Build leadership skills
  • Meet students from across New York
  • Participate in educational workshops
  • Develop lifelong friendships
  • Strengthen their commitment to service

Youth Protection and Safety

Kiwanis International requires youth protection training and background checks for volunteers and chaperones involved with Key Club activities and events. 

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