Submitted by the San Juan Island School District

The LEO Club, a youth service club, affiliated with the San Juan Island Lions Club, presented two donation checks to the San Juan Public School Foundation in support of literacy at the Friday Harbor Elementary School and art at the Friday Harbor High School.

The SJPSF helps supplement state and federal funding to provide a quality education for the island’s children through supporting the public schools with materials and supplies.

On Dec. 4, the LEO Club surprised the foundation President Rich Meenan with a targeted donation of $600 in support of a mini-grant request submitted to the SJIPSF by the second grade teachers. This mini-grant was for the purchase of leveled reading books for grades K-2 at Friday Harbor Elementary School. In addition, a check for $350 was presented by the LEOs for on-going art supply needs at the high school.

“The LEO Club is a great example of local students serving their community,” said Meenan. “Their generous donations will help our second graders learn to read as well as advance the school arts program.”

The LEO’s gift came from a discussion between SJIPSF member Krista Mattox, and Lions Club member BJ Brandli. When Brandli heard about this funding need, she passed the information to the LEO Club.

LEO Club President Zach Fincher pounced on the opportunity. Every year, in May, the LEOs hold a golf scramble as a fundraiser at the San Juan Golf and Tennis Club for the money to address local needs. This coming May will be their 12th year ‘scrambling” for philanthropy. “LEO” stands for Leadership, Equality and Opportunity.

LEO Co-advisors Brandli and John Bostrom are delighted with their young pride.

“Doing good things is what the LEO Club is all about,” said Brandli. “We contribute time, labor, and money to our community. In short, we fulfill our motto: We Serve.”

Leos members include President Fincher (senior), Vice President Finoula Bourne (sophomore), Secretary Kiana Woods (senior), and Treasurer Lucy Urbach (junior). in all, there are currently 31 high school members of the LEOS club.

“We thank the LEO Club for their contributions and applaud them for their community spirit,” said Meenan.