**Story first appeared in News & Tribune December 10, 2024.
Though it may just sound like a boating club, NAHS’s Anchor Club is doing a lot of good for the Southern Indiana community.
For five years, NAHS has hosted an anchor club led by a teacher sponsor. NAHS’ Anchor Club was founded by New Albany Floyd County science teacher Stephanie Lone in 2019. The club’s 151 student members sign up for events in order to earn community service hours; earning nearly 1300 community service hours as a whole in only the first semester of the school year.
“Doing real, meaningful service and seeing the smiles on people’s faces is some of the most rewarding work I’ve done in my life,” NAHS senior and three-year member Jacob Evaldi said. “I think the club has inspired me to continue to serve my community and those less fortunate than me.”
Participating in the Anchor Club can earn these student leaders recognition from their school and their community. For the second school year, psychology teacher Ashley Manger sponsors the club.
“It’s very rewarding to see young emerging adults get involved in their community,” Manger said. “I wanted to see the club continue so I took on the role as sponsor so it could continue its work. We’re always available to discuss opportunities and if an organization in the community is looking for help, we welcome any requests and we’ll see if we can help out,” Manger said.
With the sponsor’s help, the club serves the community at various events, from feeding the homeless to participating in Light Up New Albany.
“Many thanks to all the volunteers at NAHS Anchor Club and NJROTC for helping to make this year’s Light Up New Albany more special than ever!” Mayor Jeff Gahan said. “We had a record-breaking turnout to help kick off our holiday season downtown, and it wold not have happened without the help from NAHS.”
On November 30, 15 Anchors participated in Light Up New Albany, a community event where holiday celebrations began in the city, such as hanging lights and decorating downtown New Albany.
“I really enjoy working events like these where I’m able to do on the ground work serving my community. I carried presents and managed the line for kids to see Santa,” Evaldi said.
For some students, like Anchor Club President senior Stella Read, this club is more than just one or two after school activities.
“For all four years, I believe I’m around 250 [service hours],” Read said. “As president, I make connections with businesses and people around us. I definitely think I’ll take a lot of the leadership skills that I’ve gained from this and apply it to future jobs and opportunities.”
