The Washburn Rural High School HOSA Club (Health Occupations Students of America) made a meaningful  impact in the community this holiday season through a successful toy drive benefiting the pediatric unit at  Stormont Vail Hospital.  

From early November through December 2, HOSA organized a school-wide collection that resulted in more  than 60 donated items. Donations included plush stuffed animals, coloring books and crayons, fuzzy socks,  board games, card games, and other child-friendly gifts. Following the drive, HOSA members volunteered their  time during multiple wrapping days to prepare the items for delivery.  

Adding a personal touch, the WR Letters of Love Club created handmade holiday cards to accompany each gift,  helping bring extra warmth and encouragement to young patients. 

On December 18, Stormont Vail staff welcomed  HOSA students for the official toy drive allowing them  to see firsthand the positive impact of their service.  HOSA officers Justin Jeon and Alizah Alvarez-Chedzoy  played key roles in promoting the drive and  delivering the donations.  The Washburn Rural HOSA Club extends its sincere  gratitude to the student body and community  members whose generosity made the drive possible.  The experience provided students with a powerful  opportunity to practice compassion, give back to  others, and serve the community during the holiday  season. 

Washburn Rural High School’s newly formed SkillsUSA chapter launched its very first community service  project this semester, hosting a successful fundraiser to support the Impact Topeka Foundation, a local organization dedicated to improving the lives of families and youth across the Topeka community.  

As a new Career & Technical Student Organization on campus, SkillsUSA has quickly gained momentum,  attracting students who are passionate about leadership, service, and hands-on career preparation. The fundraiser marked the chapter’s debut public event and students were eager to make a meaningful impact  right from the start.  

SkillsUSA members planned and executed the entire event, applying skills tied to leadership, teamwork, organization, and professional communication. Students created promotional materials, coordinated donation stations, and collaborated with teachers, staff, and local partners to spread the word about the foundation’s  mission and needs.  

Advisers praised the students for their initiative, creativity, and dedication, noting that this event set the tone  for future projects and competitions the chapter will pursue. The fundraiser not only provided meaningful support to a local nonprofit but also gave students firsthand experience in planning, leadership, and public engagement.  

As SkillsUSA continues to grow at Washburn Rural High School, the chapter looks forward to hosting more  service events, participating in leadership conferences, and competing in career-based contests. Their first fundraiser stands as a proud milestone one that highlighted both their commitment to community and their excitement for what comes next.