By MICHELLE ADAMS / Community Columnist

Organizing a toy drive, collecting essential items for families in need and visiting the elderly—these are just a few activities Montevallo High School students participated in during the holiday season.
Future Business Leaders of America sponsored a food drive and coin drop earlier in the school year, donating food items to Shelby Emergency Assistance and using the money to provide a meal for a family at Thanksgiving. Their service project for the Christmas season was a toy drive, in which they collected toys for toddlers, children and teens.
“FBLA members created a box for other students, faculty members and staff to participate in the toy drive,” FBLA sponsor Samantha Nunn said. “To show their own dedication to the project and care for others, each member of FBLA decided to donate 10 dollars of their own money to help purchase toys.”
The Peacemakers group, who volunteer throughout the year at events such as Art Walk and Art in the Park, also took up donations for those in need this holiday. They collected essentials such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap and laundry detergent.
“Much food is collected during the holidays,” Peacemakers sponsor Amanda Harvie said. “It’s easy to forget the need for personal products and household items. Peacemakers hoped to fill the gap with this service project and continue making a positive impact in Montevallo.”
The Student Government Association decided to hold a Christmas party for the residents of Knowlwood Assisted Living. SGA members made desserts and filled gift bags with items such as socks, lotion, candy and puzzle books to give to residents.
They played Bingo for prizes and sang Christmas carols together.
“I was impressed that our students wanted to do something face-to-face with a group,” SGA sponsor Lee Pastor said. “They had great fun and did such a good job reaching out to the residents.  These students are working hard to become leaders not only in their school, but also in the community.  I believe the backbone of leadership is service, and many of our students are gaining lifelong skills through their help and willingness to assist others.”