The Independence Middle School Pep Club recently donated $1,849.10 to the St. Augustine Community Cupboard and Closet—an organization the club has proudly supported for more than a decade.
“Thank you so much for your generous donation,” said Outreach Coordinator Maria Boyer, Saint Augustine Church. “Your support of our mission helps us provide food, clothing and personal hygiene items and household supplies that will benefit more than 1,000 families we serve each month.”
Throughout the years, the Pep Club welcomed sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-grade students who dedicated themselves to building school spirit and uplifting their classmates. Members collaborated during weekly “working lunches,” where they wrote scripts and created jingles that were recorded with the WIMS crew and shared during school announcements. Two years ago, they added “Pep Club Positives,” a weekly tradition in which students offered uplifting messages over the PA system to help start each week on an encouraging note.
At the heart of the club’s service was its annual “Paper Candy Slip Sale,” held from Thanksgiving through mid-December. Students purchased paper slips—earning a candy cane with the purchase of six or more—to enter grade-level raffles, with prizes awarded right before winter break. Proceeds from the sale were donated to the St. Augustine Center, a cause close to the hearts of Pep Club members.
Thanks to years of student effort, generosity, and community support, the club raised significant funds that culminated in this year’s donation of $1,849.10. These funds will help provide many meals to individuals and families in need.
Photo: IMS and IHS students who have participated in Pep Club through the years.