The Volunteer Center and Komachin Middle School, 3650 College St. SE, Lacey, are inviting all parents and neighbors to join us on December 15 at KMS at 7 p.m. (with doors opening at 6:30 p.m.) to experience the hour-long “Rachel’s Challenge” presentation for themselves and to begin their own positive chain reaction of service in their communities.

Rachel Scott was the first person killed at Columbine High School on April 20, 1999. Her acts of kindness and compassion coupled with the contents of her six diaries have become the foundation for one of the most life-changing school assemblies and programs in America. The powerful video/audio footage of Rachel's life and the Columbine tragedy and facilitated presentation holds the audience spell-bound during a one hour presentation that motivates students and adults to create a positive change in the way they treat others.

“The Volunteer Center is working to make better connections between schools and the community and we’re excited about using ‘Rachel’s Challenge’ to help inspire new ideas and ways to make that happen,” said Volunteer Center Director Sara Ballard.

Attendees are challenged to perform acts of kindness for their families, friends and neighbors in an effort to create a ripple effect of compassion in their area.

“Community service is a huge part of the Komachin culture already so this is the perfect partnership event to help them spread that message and involve the surrounding community directly,” said Courtney Schrieve, spokeswoman for North Thurston Public Schools.

Komachin Middle School will host their own “Day of Service” on January 15, with more than 700 students involved in service projects throughout the community.

If you or your organization would like to get involved, please contact Megan at 360-741-2622 or megan@volunteer.ws. You can also visit www.volunteer.ws for information on other volunteer opportunities through the Center.