A group of Ottumwa High School students are supporting Habitat for Humanity.
Students in the OHS iJAG program decorated a tree that was auctioned off recently. Proceeds from the event, sponsored by John Deere Ottumwa Works, will be donated to Habitat to Humanity.
iJAG, Iowa’s Jobs for America’s Graduates, is a program that helps remove barriers and show students how to achieve the next step of their career or education. Tina Walker is the OHS educational specialist who encourages students to graduate and explore career options.
Their theme was military and police. It seemed appropriate after recent attacks on police officers in Iowa. This has become an annual event for the group. Last year they created an antler tree. “The activity teaches us team work, group responsibility, and shows we care about our community,” said Madyson Randall, an OHS senior.
“Right now there is a lot of negativity about police officers and our armed forces and the pride in our country,” said Alexandria Young, another senior.
Proceeds from the event are “going to help families in need,” said senior Shannon Porter.
iJAG does a lot of community service, according to Walker. “It promotes team work and getting involved. “It makes us aware,” said Randall.
