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The IJ Holton Intermediate School Student Council has been named the 2024 Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy – Group recipient for their work in fundraising for The Hormel Institute.

Each year, the student council at IJ Holton selects an organization to support. In the past, students have selected various causes including purchasing goats for families in Kenya, wearing caps to raise money for children battling cancer, and a food drive to fight local hunger. Last year, they chose to raise both awareness and funds for the Hormel Institute. In just four days, students raised $3,212.91 to support the Institute’s groundbreaking cancer research

“We are honored to receive this award,” said IJ Holton Student Council advisor Ashley Mclaren. “Seeing students passionately raise funds for such a vital cause is both exciting and gratifying. Their dedication not only helps advance scientific knowledge but also fosters a sense of community and shared purpose. It’s inspiring to witness the energy and commitment of young people coming together to support research that could lead to significant breakthroughs in cancer treatment and prevention.”

 According to the Southern Minnesota Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, who sponsors the award, the IJ Holton student council was selected due to their “passionate and inspiring support for The Hormel Institute using creative and fun fundraising techniques that … engaged [the] student body, setting an example for philanthropic giving amongst students, faculty, and beyond.”

 “We are so honored to receive the Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy Award for 2024,” says IJ Holton Principal Dewey Schara. “In the face of so much negative perception around student engagement, our students have proven that they are engaged, involved, active, and ready for the future.”

The Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy – Group award recognizes groups of youth aged 10-18 “who demonstrate outstanding commitment to the community through direct financial support, development of charitable programs, volunteerism, and leadership in philanthropy.”

“Seeing the IJ Holton student council come together to create meaningful fundraising efforts that engage peers and the entire school community has been truly inspiring,” said Austin Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Joey Page. “This award reflects the core values we uphold at Austin Public Schools—being contributors, taking responsibility, and demonstrating resilience in everything we do. I am very proud of the way our students have made a real impact and inspired others in the community.”