The Davie High’s National Honor Society (NHS) had a busy summer.

Members must complete 30 hours of independent service during summer vacation so NHS can continue making an impact even when school is not in session.

NHS members contributed 1,100 hours of service during summer 2015. The independent service gives members the opportunity to explore their interests while giving back to the community.

Many members chose to spend time volunteering through churches and religious groups.

Allison Staley contributed hours towards Vacation Bible School events, and Maria Stillson chose to hit the roads as a mission trip participant. Others decided to focus on helping the hungry in this area at local soup kitchens, stacking cans at A Storehouse for Jesus, or delivering meals to homebound individuals.

Several aspiring medical professionals chose to combine their service with an opportunity to learn more about careers. Seniors Kaitlin Fletcher and Payton Cartner participated in the Novant Health teen program, and Keri Tatum worked with Baptist Medical Center.

Also volunteering with the medical field were Emily Ruble, Jesse Tkach, and Emmie Tkach who helped to organize a blood drives, and Tessa Ivester, who made cookies for a hospice center and served at the health department.

As top-notch students, NHS members know the value of a good teacher.  Therefore, members contributed many service hours to helping Davie County teachers set up their classrooms before the start of the school year.  Other NHS members chose to serve local students, such as Kasey Potts, who tutored local kids to prevent summer learning loss, or Nick Simmons, who finished a picnic table for the special children’s school.

Several NHS members shared their athletic experience this summer. Michael Rauen, who also coached lacrosse, and Gabe Gonella served as volunteer coaches for youth football teams, while Julia Grachen did the same for a volleyball team and Hadley Hilton helped out with the local youth swim team. Madison Kitchene volunteered with track athletes.

All five NHS members reported enjoying the opportunity to share the love of their respective sports with younger athletes as they encouraged active lifestyles and positive team values.

“This summer, students displayed the commitment to service that is the backbone of National Honor Society,” said member, Grace Cain. “Members used their free time to work hard and give back to the community, and they look forward to continuing the tradition during the 2015-2016 school year.”