Here’s everything you need to know before you register

What Is Key Club International Convention (ICON)?

ICON is the largest gathering of high school service leaders in the world, bringing together over 20,000 attendees for leadership development, networking, and celebration .

Dates: June 28 – July 5, 2026
Location: Dallas, Texas (Hilton Anatole)

From workshops to elections to spirit battles, ICON is where Key Club magic happens.

What’s Included in the NJ District Tour?

The NJ District Tour is designed to give you a fully immersive, stress-free experience—but let’s be clear:

Flights are NOT included (you’ll book those separately)

What is included:

• 7 nights at the Hilton Anatole
• All meals + always-available snacks
• All ground transportation in Dallas
• Convention registration & access to all sessions
• Excursions like Six Flags Over Texas
• Dude ranch experience (horseback riding, line dancing & more)
• Tour of AT&T Stadium
• Dallas attractions (aquarium, museums, Deep Ellum)

This is more than a convention—it’s a full-on leadership adventure.

Cost & Payment Deadlines (Don’t Miss These!)

Planning ahead is key—here’s your timeline:

• April 10, 2026: $350 deposit (secures your spot)
• May 10, 2026: Final registration deadline ($300 due)
• June 1, 2026: Remaining balance due in full

Payments after May 1 are non-refundable, so register early!

Tip: Use the “one-third strategy”—fundraise, ask your club, and seek sponsors to split costs.

Meet the ICON 2026 Keynote Speakers

This year’s speakers are seriously next-level:

• Sofía Carson
  Actress, singer, and UNICEF Ambassador bringing global impact to the ICON stage
• Olivia Zhang
  Founder of Cancer Kids First, a global nonprofit with 43,000+ volunteers—started at just 14

Get ready to leave ICON feeling inspired to take action in your own community.

Workshops + GLC Masterclass

ICON is packed with opportunities to grow as a leader:

Interactive Workshops

Choose sessions on:

• Leadership & communication
• Service project planning
• Club growth strategies
• Public speaking

GLC Masterclass (July 3–4)

An exclusive, application-based program where you:

• Dive deeper into leadership training
• Collaborate with top student leaders
• Earn a Global Leadership Certificate

Space is limited—apply early!

NEW for 2026: The Big Pitch

Say hello to the Key Club Big Pitch—a BRAND NEW ICON experience

• Pitch your own service initiative
• Focus on real-world impact
• Compete on an international stage
• Turn your ideas into action

If you’ve ever had a creative idea to help your community, this is your chance to shine.

Why You Can’t Miss ICON

Let’s be real—ICON is more than just workshops:

• Meet thousands of passionate Key Clubbers
• Show NJ pride in spirit sessions
• Make unforgettable memories
• Experience a global community of service

As the packet says: “Service is bigger in Texas.” And so is your opportunity to grow.

Ready to Register?

Don’t wait—spots will fill quickly, and deadlines matter.

Your Next Steps:

• Talk to your advisor
• Start fundraising NOW
• Get your friends to join (and earn referral discounts )
• Secure your spot before April 10

Register for ICON 2026 Today!

Your leadership journey starts here.

Sign up now:
njkeyclub.org/icon

Step outside your comfort zone, represent New Jersey, and experience the biggest Key Club event in the world.

See you at ICON 2026

The post 🌟 Your Ultimate Guide to ICON 2026 with the NJ District Tour appeared first on NJ Key Club.

Whether you’re looking to level up your club, gain professional skills, or just have fun while learning, here are some of the workshops you won’t want to miss.

Super Equity Bros

This interactive workshop dives into the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion in Key Club and beyond. Through discussion and activities, attendees will learn key terminology, explore what equitable leadership looks like, and discover ways to create welcoming, inclusive environments within their clubs. This session is perfect for members who want to help ensure everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

Strike a Pose: Editing, Social Media, and Online Presence

Want to improve your club’s Instagram, TikTok, or overall online presence? This workshop focuses on photo and video editing, branding, and social media strategy. Attendees will learn how to create engaging posts, maintain a consistent aesthetic, and use social media responsibly to strengthen communication and outreach. It’s a must-attend for anyone involved in club marketing or digital content creation.

Money Money, Fundraiser

Fundraising is essential to a successful Key Club year, and this workshop breaks it all down. From choosing effective fundraising ideas to planning logistics, marketing events, and managing funds, this session covers it all. Attendees will also gain insight into dues payments and financial responsibilities, making it especially valuable for club treasurers and officers.

Glow Up Your Club: Member Recruitment and Growth

Looking to grow your Key Club or increase member involvement? This workshop focuses on recruitment, retention, and club culture. Learn how to make meetings more engaging, attract new members, and keep current members excited and involved all year long. This session is ideal for officers and members who want their club to thrive.

Dance Battle

This high-energy, entertainment-driven workshop is all about creativity, confidence, and fun. Featuring interactive activities and friendly dance challenges, this session embraces the spirit of DECON while encouraging teamwork and self-expression. With a possible tie-in to the 1980s theme, it’s the perfect mix of excitement and personal growth.

Pac-Plan: Gobbling One Obstacle One Strategy at a Time

Inspired by classic gaming, this workshop takes a fun and creative approach to planning and problem-solving. Through interactive demonstrations, attendees will learn how to navigate challenges, collaborate with officers, and develop long-term goals. It’s a great option for members who enjoy hands-on learning and strategic thinking.

Present Like a Pro: Interview and Networking Essentials

This professional development workshop helps attendees build confidence in interviews, networking, and public speaking. Learn how to present yourself effectively, communicate clearly, and form meaningful connections in academic, service, and leadership settings. Skills gained here will benefit members long after DECON ends.

Time After Time Management

Balancing school, Key Club, and personal life can be challenging—but this workshop is here to help. Attendees will learn practical strategies for time management, organization, and productivity, including using planners, digital calendars, and goal-setting tools. This session is perfect for anyone looking to reduce stress and stay on top of responsibilities.

Guest & Advisor Workshops

In addition to student-led sessions, DECON 2026 will feature workshops led by guest speakers, Kiwanis representatives, and advisors, covering topics such as international service organizations, post–high school involvement in CKI, mental health awareness, and leadership development. Descriptions for these sessions will be released as they are finalized, so stay tuned!

Make the Most of Your DECON Experience

With so many workshops to choose from, DECON 2026 offers something for everyone—whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned Key Club leader. Be sure to explore sessions outside your comfort zone, participate actively, and take what you learn back to your home club.

DECON is more than a conference—it’s an opportunity to grow, connect, and lead. These workshops are just one of the many ways DECON 2026 will help you do exactly that.

Get ready to learn, have fun, and level up your leadership at DECON 2026!

The post Workshops to Look Forward to at DECON 2026 appeared first on NJ Key Club.

Whether your club is attending DECON or supporting the project from home, here’s everything you need to know about what to donate, why it matters, and how you can help.

About the DECON 2026 Service Project: Together Totes

Together Totes is a hands-on, districtwide service initiative where Key Clubbers will assemble hygiene-care totes filled with essential personal care items. These totes will be donated to local shelters, outreach organizations, and community partners to support individuals in need.

This project focuses on dignity, health, and compassion—turning small items into a big impact through collective service.

What Items Do We Need?

To successfully assemble our hygiene totes, we need new, unused items in travel or standard sizes. The most-needed donations include:

Personal Hygiene Items

• Bar soap or body wash
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Deodorant

Oral Care

• Toothbrushes
• Toothpaste

Essential Care Items

• Menstrual hygiene products (pads and tampons)

These everyday items may seem small, but they make a powerful difference for individuals who may not have regular access to basic necessities.

How Clubs Can Get Involved Before DECON

Clubs across the district are encouraged to host hygiene-item drives at their schools leading up to DECON. This is a great way to involve members who may not be attending the conference and to expand the reach of the service project beyond one weekend.

Collected items can be:

• Brought directly to DECON by attending clubs, or
• Coordinated for pickup through the Service Project Committee

Every donation counts—no matter how big or small.

Friendly Competition: Make Service Fun!

To encourage participation, the school that donates the greatest number of hygiene items will receive special recognition at DECON. This friendly competition is a fun way to motivate clubs while highlighting outstanding commitment to service.

Why These Items Matter

Access to basic hygiene products supports not only physical health, but also confidence, comfort, and dignity. By donating these items, Key Clubbers are helping individuals feel cared for and supported—one tote at a time.

Together Totes shows how teamwork and compassion can turn simple actions into meaningful change.

What Happens at DECON?

During DECON, attendees will work together to assemble the hygiene totes as part of the official service project session. Members will also learn more about organizations addressing homelessness and explore ways to continue supporting vulnerable communities beyond the conference.

Final Thoughts

The success of Together Totes depends on all of us—clubs, members, and advisors working together toward a common goal. Whether you’re collecting items at your school, donating individually, or assembling totes at DECON, your effort matters.

Let’s come together to show that service truly never goes out of style.

If you have questions about donations or participation, keep an eye out for updates from the Service Project Committee or NJ Key Club communications.

Together, we can make DECON 2026 a weekend of compassion, impact, and unforgettable service.

The post What We Need for Our DECON Service Project appeared first on NJ Key Club.

If you or your club are interested in applying for a DECON Grant, this guide will walk you through the process and help you put your best foot forward.

Apply here!

What Is a DECON Grant?

A DECON Grant is a form of financial assistance provided by NJ Key Club to help reduce the cost of attending DECON. Grants are designed to support clubs or individuals who may otherwise be unable to attend due to financial limitations.

Receiving a grant can help cover part of the registration cost, making DECON more accessible while still encouraging commitment and responsibility from attendees.

Who Should Apply?

You should consider applying for a DECON Grant if:

• The cost of registration creates a financial hardship for you or your club
• Your club has limited fundraising opportunities
• You are passionate about attending DECON and actively participating in sessions, service, and events

Grants are not just about need—they’re also about dedication to Key Club and willingness to make the most of the DECON experience.

Step 1: Review the Requirements Carefully

Open the grant application here. Before starting your application, read all instructions thoroughly. Grant applications often require:

• Basic applicant or club information
• A written response explaining financial need
• A statement describing why attending DECON is important to you
• Advisor confirmation or signature

Missing information or late submissions may result in disqualification, so attention to detail is key.

Step 2: Write a Strong Application Response

One of the most important parts of the DECON Grant application is the written response. Be honest, clear, and thoughtful. When writing, consider including:

• Why DECON matters to you or your club
• How attending DECON will benefit your leadership or service efforts
• How you plan to apply what you learn after the conference

You don’t need to write something overly complicated—authenticity and sincerity go a long way.

Step 3: Communicate with Your Advisor

Most grant applications require advisor involvement, whether it’s a signature, confirmation, or submission through the registration system. Talk to your advisor early so they are aware of your plans and can help ensure everything is completed on time.

Strong communication with your advisor also shows responsibility and preparedness.

Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline

Grant deadlines are strict. Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues. After submitting, double-check that all required materials were included and that your advisor has completed their portion if needed.

Late or incomplete applications are typically not considered.

What Happens After You Apply?

After the application window closes, submissions are reviewed by district leadership. Applicants are notified of decisions before DECON registration is finalized so clubs can plan accordingly.

If you receive a grant, follow all instructions provided and continue through the DECON registration process as directed.

If you are not selected, don’t be discouraged—many clubs still attend through fundraising, school support, or alternative funding options.

Why DECON Grants Matter

DECON Grants help ensure that every Key Clubber—regardless of financial background—has the chance to grow as a leader and servant. By applying, you’re not just asking for support—you’re investing in your future involvement in Key Club and your community.

Final Tips for Success

• Start early
• Be honest and thoughtful
• Follow instructions carefully
• Ask for help if you’re unsure
• Believe in your reason for attending

DECON is a milestone experience filled with leadership, learning, and lifelong memories. If finances are a concern, a DECON Grant could be the opportunity that makes attendance possible.

Don’t be afraid to apply—you might be one step closer to an unforgettable DECON experience.

The post How to Apply for a DECON Grant appeared first on NJ Key Club.

Not sure how to fully embrace the DECON spirit? Here are 8 totally rad ways to channel the 80s and make the most of your DECON experience.

1. Go Bold with 80s-Inspired Spirit Wear

Thursday night’s Opening Session is the perfect time to show off your spirit gear, so don’t hold back! Think neon colors, funky patterns, oversized shirts, leg warmers, and headbands. Whether you’re repping your school colors or creating custom spirit wear, the brighter and bolder, the better. Just remember—keep it school appropriate and glitter-free.

2. Dress the Decade (While Following the Dress Code!)

The 80s had style for every occasion—just like DECON. During casual times, rock vintage-inspired outfits like denim jackets, graphic tees, or colorful sneakers. For recognition sessions and workshops, you can still nod to the theme with bold accessories, fun ties, or retro color palettes while staying within DECON’s business casual and semi-formal guidelines.

3. Bring the Energy to the Dance

Friday night’s DECON dance is where the 80s truly come alive. Get ready to move to the beat and bring your best throwback dance moves. Whether you’re dancing with friends or just soaking in the atmosphere, this is your chance to celebrate service, friendship, and 80 years of NJ Key Club memories.

4. Channel the 80s Attitude: Big Passion, Bigger Impact

The 80s were all about confidence—and that energy belongs at DECON too. Participate in workshops, speak up during caucusing, cheer on contestants, and fully engage in sessions. The best way to honor the theme isn’t just through outfits—it’s through enthusiasm and involvement.

5. Serve with Style at the Service Project

This year’s DECON service project, Together Totes, is a hands-on opportunity to make a real difference by assembling hygiene kits for individuals experiencing homelessness. Bring the 80s spirit by showing up ready to work, collaborate, and serve with heart. After all, compassion never goes out of style.

6. Turn Your Club into an 80s Crew

Coordinate with your club ahead of time to create a unified 80s look or theme. Matching colors, accessories, or even a shared decade-inspired idea can boost school spirit and make your group stand out—all while strengthening teamwork.

7. Capture the Throwback Memories

The 80s gave us unforgettable moments—and DECON 2026 will too. Take pictures with your friends, your club, and new people you meet along the way. Retro outfits + oceanfront views at the Berkeley Hotel = memories you’ll never forget.

8. Remember What the Theme Truly Represents

While the 80s theme brings the fun, it also represents something bigger: 80 years of service, leadership, and impact. Every session you attend, every tote you pack, and every connection you make adds to the legacy of NJ Key Club. The theme is a celebration of how far we’ve come—and where we’re going next.

The post The 80’s Are Back! 8 Ways to Get into the DECON Theme Spirit appeared first on NJ Key Club.

What Is a District Officer?

District Officers are student leaders elected to represent and support Key Clubs across New Jersey. Positions include Governor, Secretary, Treasurer, Editor, Webmaster, DECON Chair and Lieutenant Governors. Together, these officers work to plan events like District Convention (DECON), support local clubs, communicate with members, and promote service initiatives statewide.

Being a District Officer means you are no longer just representing your own school—you are representing thousands of Key Clubbers and helping guide the direction of the entire district.

Why Do Students Choose to Run?

Most candidates are motivated by a desire to make a bigger impact. If you love Key Club, believe in service, and want to help other clubs succeed, district leadership offers that opportunity. Many officers also run because they want to challenge themselves, grow as leaders, and develop skills that will benefit them long after high school.

Running for office isn’t about titles: it’s about service, teamwork, and dedication.

What Does the Commitment Look Like?

Before deciding to run, it’s important to understand the time commitment. District Officers attend meetings, trainings, service events, and conventions throughout the year. They often spend time responding to emails, preparing presentations, and collaborating with fellow officers. Some positions require weekly work, while others have heavier workloads during certain times of the year.

Balancing district responsibilities with schoolwork, extracurriculars, family, and personal time is essential. Strong time management and communication skills make all the difference.

Skills You’ll Gain (and Use!)

You do not need to be a “perfect leader” to run for district office. Many officers begin their terms still learning, but you should be open to growth. Some skills that are especially helpful include:

• Communication and public speaking
• Organization and responsibility
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Problem-solving and adaptability
• Confidence and professionalism

Even if you don’t feel strong in all these areas yet, district office is one of the best places to develop them.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Running

Still unsure? Ask yourself these questions honestly:

• Am I passionate about serving others and helping clubs succeed?
• Can I manage my time and meet deadlines?
• Am I willing to step out of my comfort zone?
• Can I work respectfully with people who may have different ideas?
• Do I want to grow as a leader-even when things get challenging?

If you answered “yes” to most of these, district office may be a great fit for you.

Common Fears (and Why They Shouldn’t Stop You)

Many students hesitate to run because they fear they aren’t experienced enough, confident enough, or well-known enough. The truth is, every District Officer started somewhere. What matters most is your willingness to learn, listen, and serve.

Another common fear is losing. While not being elected can be disappointing, running itself is an achievement. The process builds confidence, interview skills, and self-awareness—and many candidates run again in the future.

How Running Impacts You Beyond Key Club

District Office doesn’t just shape NJ Key Club-it shapes you. Alumni often say their term taught them leadership, professionalism, and resilience. Colleges and scholarships value the responsibility and initiative district leadership shows, and the friendships formed often last a lifetime.

Most importantly, you’ll leave knowing you helped make a difference.

Final Thoughts

Running for District Office is not for everyone-and that’s okay. But if you feel passionate about service, excited by leadership, and ready to grow, it could be one of the most rewarding experiences of your high school career.

Whether you decide to run or support someone else who does, remember that Key Club thrives because of students who care. If that sounds like you, maybe it’s time to take the next step.

NJ Key Club is always stronger when leaders step up. Could that leader be you?

The post Is Running for District Office Right for You?  appeared first on NJ Key Club.

Restaurant/Food Partnerships

• Chipotle: donates 20% if you fundraise over $120 – needs to be tied to a specific location and use a code in-app or flyer in-person when purchasing
  • https://marketing.chipotle.com/partner/fundraiser-request/
• Panda Express: does a virtual fundraiser where you can pick a date and ask people to support at any location throughout the country – gives back 28% of proceeds
  • https://community.pandaexpress.com/fundraisers
• Chik-Fil-A Spirit Night: Most do a 15% give back rate – tied to a specific location and date
  • https://blog.groupraise.com/chickfila-fundraiser/
• Panera Bread: Offers 25% give back rate – minimum requirement sales of $100 – tied to a specific location and use a flyer similar to Chipotle
  • https://fundraising.panerabread.com/
• Pizza Hut: Donates 20% back to your school – ties to a specific location and flyer like Chipotle
  • https://www.pizzahutgivesback.com/welcome
• Applebee’s: Gives back 25% of proceeds – in-restaurant fundraiser
  • https://applebees.force4good.com/
• Krispy Kreme: Digital Dozen – donates 50% back to your organization of $15 dozen purchase
  • https://www.groupraise.com/offers/krispykreme
• Buffalo Wild Wings: Donates back 20% of proceeds
  • https://www.groupraise.com/buffalowildwings/locations/25286
• Double Good Popcorn: Donates 50% of proceeds – ships nationally
  • https://www.doublegood.com/virtual-fundraising
• Mrs. Fields: Donates 50% back – ships nationwide
  • https://specials.mrsfieldsfundraising.com/mrsfields-fundraiser-page 
• Ask your local business!! Some of them might be willing to help and give a generous donation for a sales night

Products Fundraising

• Yankee Candle: donates 50% of proceeds back – ships nationwide
  • https://gntinc.com/yankee-candle-fundraising
• Gertrude Hawk: earn up to 50% profit with chocolate bar fundraiser – ships nationally
  • https://fundraising.gertrudehawkchocolates.com/candy-bar-program-campaign
• Meadow Farms: fundraiser give back varies on campaign – direct to home delivery, no school distribution required
  • https://meadowfarms.com/ 
• Print to Order – partner with CustomInk or Bonfire to design a shirt (maybe make it club themed?) and sell online – each item you can add a specific profit margin to it
  • CustomInk: https://www.customink.com/fundraising 
  • Bonfire: https://www.bonfire.com/fundraising

On-Campus Ideas

• School bake sale – members bake and donate and sell for a profit
• Candy grams – members assemble and sell candy grams (great for Valentine’s Day coming up)
• Friendship bracelet sales – take a page from TSwift’s book and embrace friendship bracelets 
• Photography Session – does your club have a shutterbug? Offer photos or portraits for a donation to your club (great for professional portfolios) – if your school or club has awesome backdrops even better!
• Locker decorations – for a donation, offer to donate lockers if your school allows for a birthday or special occasion 
• Pie a Teacher – if you have a teacher gracious enough for this, auction off the chance to pie the teacher in the face or charge a set amount (depends on tolerant your teacher is)
• Locker Clean Out – For a donation offer to do a locker clean up service (great if you have any neat freaks in your club that love to clean)

The post Fundraising for DECON 2026 Tips & Tricks appeared first on NJ Key Club.

Mission, Vision & Values

• Mission: Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time. (kiwanis.org)
• Vision: Kiwanis aims to be a positive influence in communities everywhere so that children “wake up in communities that believe in them, nurture them and provide the support they need to thrive.” (kiwanis.org)
• Motto: “Serving the children of the world.”

Kiwanis also has guiding statements called the Objects of Kiwanis—core principles that emphasize the human and spiritual over material values, encourage higher ethical standards, promote friendship and public service, and support justice, goodwill, and citizenship

What Kiwanis Does: Causes & Focus Areas

Kiwanis clubs carry out service through several key causes:

• Health & nutrition
• Education & literacy
• Youth leadership development

By working in these areas, Kiwanis clubs aim to support children from infancy through young adulthood.

Kiwanis also organizes Service Leadership Programs—clubs aligned by age group to magnify impact:

• K‑Kids (elementary)
• Builders Club (middle school)
• Key Club (high school)
• Circle K International (CKI) (college/university)
• Aktion Clubs (for adults with disabilities) (k05.site.kiwanis.org)

These programs help young people develop leadership skills, serve their communities, and connect with Kiwanis ideals.

The Name “Kiwanis” & Its Meaning

The name “Kiwanis” comes from an expression in an American Indian language in the Detroit area: “Nunc Kee‑wanis”, meaning “we trade” or “we share our talents.”

This reflects the organization’s spirit: community members offering their skills, time, and care for others.

Why Kiwanis Matters

• Kiwanis empowers local volunteers to address the specific needs of their own communities, while also contributing to global goals of child wellbeing and opportunity.
• It fosters “fellowship, service, and leadership” among members—people meet, plan, and act together.
• Because no two communities are the same, Kiwanis encourages local flexibility: each club can adapt based on local needs, whether that’s health, education, or leadership work.

The post What is Kiwanis? appeared first on NJ Key Club.

Date:

Location:

What Is Fall Rally?

Fall Rally is NJ Key Club’s most energizing statewide gathering of the fall season. High school students from across New Jersey converge for a half‑day of connection, inspiration, and fun, all fueled by a shared passion for leadership and community service.

Why You Should Attend

• Celebrate at Six Flags
  Kick back and bond with fellow Key Clubbers—this year at New Jersey’s premier amusement destination.
  
• Connect with Members Statewide
  Make new friends from other clubs and get energized by shared passion and unity.
  
• Get Inspired
  Hear from a powerhouse keynote speaker and student leaders dedicated to making a difference.
  
• Brainstorm Fresh Ideas
  Whether for food drives, environmental cleanups, or awareness campaigns, you’ll get creative inspiration to bring home.
  

What You’ll Bring Home

• New statewide connections and friendships
  
• Fresh motivation and action ideas for your club
  
• A stronger sense of purpose and leadership
  
• Memories of a fun, inspiring day at Six Flags
  

Who Should Attend?

All NJ Key Club members—first-timers and officers alike—are invited. Bring your club to build morale, spark creativity, and enjoy the unique combination of service and amusement.

Save the Date!

Fall Rally—Sunday, November 16th, 2025
Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson, NJ

Ready to Get Going?

1. Chat with your Key Club advisor or club officers to register.
   
2. Mark November 16th on your calendar.
   
3. Stay tuned to NJ Key Club communications for specific arrival times, park passes, and exact meetup spots.
   

Final Call to Action

Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind Fall Rally—where unity, inspiration, service, and Six Flags thrills come together!

Watch for your registration email and gear up to rally your club for an unforgettable day of fun and impact!

The post Fall Rally 2025: Ignite Your Service Spirit appeared first on NJ Key Club.

Let’s explore some exciting fall service ideas to keep your club active and impactful all the way through Thanksgiving.

1. Host a Fall Food Drive

One of the most meaningful ways to give back during fall is by organizing a food drive. Many families struggle to put meals on the table as the holidays approach. Rally your school and community to collect canned goods, pasta, rice, and other non-perishables for a local food bank or shelter.

Tips for success:

• Set a clear collection goal (e.g., 500 items by Thanksgiving)
• Offer a reward for the class or grade that donates the most
• Partner with local grocery stores for donation boxes

2. Clean Up Local Parks and Trails

Fall is ideal for outdoor cleanup projects. As leaves and debris pile up, your club can help beautify local parks, school grounds, or nature trails.

How to do it:

• Contact your town’s parks department to coordinate a cleanup day
• Bring gloves, rakes, and trash bags
• Invite other school clubs to join in and turn it into a mini eco-festival

This is also a great opportunity to take photos for your club’s Instagram or TikTok!

3. Create Care Packages for Veterans

With Veterans Day in November, it’s a meaningful time to honor those who have served. Your Key Club can assemble care packages or write thank-you letters to local veterans.

What to include:

• Snacks, hygiene products, socks
• Handwritten notes of appreciation
• Mini American flags or small fall-themed decorations

Partner with local veteran organizations or VA hospitals for delivery.

4. Organize a Pumpkin-Gram Fundraiser

Want to combine service with fundraising? Try hosting a “Pumpkin-Gram” sale. Students can send cute fall notes (with mini pumpkins or candy) to friends and classmates.

Steps:

• Sell Pumpkin-Grams during lunch or online
• Deliver them on Halloween or before Thanksgiving break
• Donate proceeds to a charitable cause or your club’s upcoming service project

It’s a fun way to boost school spirit and raise money at the same time!

5. Volunteer at Fall Festivals or Local Events

Many towns in New Jersey host fall festivals, charity walks, and harvest events during September and October. Reach out to local organizations and offer your club’s help with:

• Event setup and breakdown
• Running activity booths or face painting
• Handing out snacks or water to participants

These events often need energetic, responsible teens—and that’s where Key Club shines!

Ready to Make This Fall Count?

Fall is full of chances to make a difference. Whether you’re raking leaves, writing thank-you notes, or hosting a food drive, your Key Club can bring light and leadership to your community this season.

Here’s what to do next:

• Choose one (or more!) ideas to bring to your next club meeting
• Plan early and assign tasks to make it successful
• Share your service on social media with #NJKeyClub

Let’s fall into service together!

The post Fall Service Ideas for Key Clubs That Make a Real Impact appeared first on NJ Key Club.