By Brandi McGrath Kong, Director of Communications & Conferences

When our clubs discuss service, fundraising efforts often take the spotlight. While it's crucial to highlight the causes we support financially, it's just as important to recognize our direct contributions to the community through volunteer work. Direct service tends to be especially attractive to younger generations who lean more toward hands-on volunteerism rather than writing a check or helping to raise funds.

The St. James Sertoma Club exemplifies this commitment through various impactful projects. One of their key initiatives involves enhancing city parks for residents. During the holiday season, the club volunteers alongside city staff to set up Christmas decorations across multiple parks. They also recently contributed $10,000 towards a new splash pad, with groundbreaking for the project taking place this summer.

Additionally, the club has dedicated its efforts to improving outdoor spaces by volunteering to clean and paint the shelter at the Meadowlark Prairies Outdoor Lab. They also assisted in clearing brush for a new trail.

In support of their local schools, the St. James Sertomans have launched a backyard clean-up program. Proceeds benefit the St. James Public Schools Foundation. 

Acknowledging the vital contributions of medical professionals, the club prepared and delivered treats to nurses at St. James Mayo Clinic Health Systems. This gesture of appreciation took place during National Nurses Week earlier this year.

The St. James Sertoma Club has proudly served the St. James, MN, community for more than 45 years. You can stay up-to-date with them on Facebook here.