Ms. Perez is all about giving back to the community. In an interview, we asked her “What does the Key Club do?” She responded, “The key club performs service to the school and surrounding community. We recently raised $667 for the victims of Hurricane Sandy, and bought supplies with the money. Then, we distributed the supplies to the victims of Hurricane Sandy in Coney Island. We also went to the Mayor’s Operation Santa Claus event to entertain children with special needs.” The Key Club has helped charities like the American Cancer Society, Muscular Dystrophy Association, and New York City Blood Center. Muscular Dystrophy is a hereditary condition that weakens the muscles. Muscular Dystrophy Association, or MDA, is dedicated to finding a cure for the muscular disease. The New York City Blood center is where you donate your blood. Giving your blood helps to supply blood to hospitals and clinics. It helps with transfusions, surgeries, and other medical situations.

FDR needs more students to help out in the community. It’s not only students that need to get involved- teachers need to step up too. The best way to send out the message is by displaying it on the school website, flyers, and all kinds of advertisements. FDR has many new events occurring soon. January 8th is the Blood Drive, January 18th is the Talent Show, and the school is selling roses on February 14th for Valentine’s Day. The Senior Trip is also coming up on February 15th. January 18th is the deadline for the Senior Trip payments, so get that money in!

I asked Hifza a member of the Key Cub, “How does it feel to know you are making a difference in your community?” She responded, “It feels very good to know I’m making a difference in my community, because I’m making it a better place and helping people.” When asked about students helping out, Hifza said not many are making an effort to help the people around them. Many students showed up for the distribution of food in MCU Park and the JFK trip, but there weren’t as many as there should be. “We’re basically opening up to the students who are not in the Key Club for some actives, so they can get an idea what it feels like to help. We are hoping it would help get more students more involved,” said Hifza.

Attention FDR students and staff members, you should really get involved in helping our community. Brooklyn especially needs your help now, because the recovery from Hurricane Sandy continues. Even the littlest things can make a difference: like donating blood, buying a talent show tickets, or buying a rose for someone special. Right now you should be going to room 119 to join the Key Club. Its cost $10 dollars or $15, depending on whether or not you already have an S.O. card. If you have any questions, ask Ms. Perez in room 119. Remember: GET INVOLVED!!!!!!!