On November 12, Minnetonka Public Schools hosted the 14th annual Celebration of Service. The Celebration of Service recognizes students, families and community members who have served the greater good in significant ways in the past year. 

The event showcased the many ways these individuals have positively impacted others in the community. More than 300 students, families and adults who have earned either the President's Volunteer Service Award or a Varsity Letter in Community Service were recognized. “​​Together, our honorees reported more than 43,000 hours of service to our local and global communities,” Minnetonka School Board Chair Meghan Selinger shared during the program. “This is truly amazing!”

Dan Narr, executive director for the ICA Food Shelf, and Minnetonka High School students Meredith Kusilek and Regan Donnelly spoke at the Celebration about their experience with service. Kusilek and Donnelly are leaders in the Minnetonka High School Interact Club, the high school arm of Rotary International. In Spring 2023, the Interact Club partnered with ICA and the Excelsior Rotary to start a food shelf inside Minnetonka High School as a way to address food insecurity within the local community.

“Students, no matter what your age, just remember that what you are doing matters and can impact others all around you,” shared Kusilek. “Use your voice for good and take advantage of the volunteer opportunities Minnetonka has to offer to make a difference in your community.” 

Minnetonka Schools has been a certifying agent for the United States President's Volunteer Service Award program—designed to thank Americans who, by demonstrating their commitment, inspire others to serve—since 2007. Each year, hundreds of Minnetonka students and family members apply and receive the President’s Volunteer Service Award. 

“It is part of the mission of Minnetonka Public Schools to inspire our students to understand and serve the greater good,” said Sarah Johnson, Community Services Specialist for the District. “We know that when we give back to others, we get much more in return.” 

The Celebration of Service is an effort of the Tonka Serves Office, a districtwide initiative to build connections between students in grades K-12 and non-profit organizations in the greater Twin Cities community. To learn more and to get involved with service opportunities tailored to your family’s interests and age levels, visit tonkaserves.org.

Congratulations again to all of the volunteers earning awards this year, and thank you for your positive contributions and impact in our community.

Click here to watch the 2024 Celebration of Service Video