Members of the club traveled around during each lunch shift to collect pieces of candy from the student body. Donations were also accepted in a bucket found in the front office. Additionally, the club was able to collect candy from a handful of the feeder pattern schools. They collaborated with Deer Crossing Elementary School and tried to partner with Spring Ridge Elementary, Oakdale Elementary, and Oakdale Middle. 

The planning process for the drive was relatively simple since a majority of the framework was set last year. While there was some talk about having a collection in class, the club came to the conclusion that the lunch shift method would be more effective. 

While on the surface it may not seem like much, the candy drives hold a lot of weight for active troops. Club president, and senior, Emily McEntire describes, “I think it’s important because the candy goes to troops and active duty military; they don’t get a Halloween with their families, they don’t get the typical trick or treating, seeing all the little kids in costumes. So, getting that few pieces of halloween candy can just help brighten their day.”

Of course, the drive is also a small way to help veterans as well. Freshman Jordan Lebo explains, “The candy drive is just a nice way to show support for them. Especially because a lot of veterans who are in a bad place now, they don’t really get help even though they served us for many years.”

The club is unsure exactly when the donated candy will be received. However, with the conclusion of the drive, it will be boxed up and taken to the American Legion Post. From there the candy will be sent out to veterans and active military. 

The drive was the clubs first big event of the year, and acted as a way for club members to begin to get comfortable in activities, such as asking for donations. Possible future plans include making cards to send out during the next Main Street Mania. The club had previously done card making for both Veterans Day and the holiday season last school year.