The LEO Club “Roars” in Support of Literacy and Art

Photo left to right: Zach Fincher, LEO Club, BJ Brandli, Lions club, Karen Meenan, SJPSF, Rich Meenan, SJPSF, Darlene Clark, FHES Teacher, Diane Ball FHES Principal – Contributed photo

The LEO Club, a youth service club affiliated with the San Juan Island Lions Club presented two donation checks to the San Juan Public School Foundation (SJPSF) in support of literacy at the Friday Harbor Elementary School and art at the Friday Harbor High School.

The San Juan Public Schools Foundation helps supplement state and federal funding to provide a quality education for our island’s children through supporting the public schools with materials and supplies.

On December 4^th, the LEO Club surprised SJIPS President Rich Meenan with a targeted donation of $600.00 in support of a mini-grant request submitted to the SJIPSF by the 2nd grade teachers. This mini-grant was for the purchase of leveled reading books for grades K-2 at Friday Harbor Elementary School. In addition, a check for $350.00 was presented by the LEOs for on-going art supply needs at the high school.

The LEO’s gift came from a discussion between San Juan Island Public School Foundation member Krista Mattox, and Lions Club member BJ Brandli. When Mrs. Brandli heard about this funding need, she passed the information to the LEO Club.

LEO Club President Zach Fincher pounced on the opportunity. Every year in May the LEOs hold a “Golf Scramble” as a fundraiser at the San Juan Golf and Tennis Club for the money to address local needs. This coming May will be their 12^th year ‘scrambling” for philanthropy. “LEO” stands for Leadership, Equality, and Opportunity.

LEO Co-advisors BJ Brandli and John Bostrom are delighted with their young pride. Leos members include President Zach Fincher (Sr.), Vice President Finoula Bourne (Soph.), Secretary Kiana Woods (Sr.), and Treasurer Lucy Urbach (Jr.). in all, there are currently 31 high school members of the LEOS club,

According to Ms. Brandli, “Doing good things is what the LEO Club is all about. We contribute time, labor, and money to our community. In short, we fulfill our motto: We Serve.”

SJIPSF President Rich Meenan stated, “The LEO Club is a great example of local students serving their community.  Their generous donations will help our 2nd graders learn to read as well as advance the school arts program.  We thank the LEO Club for their contributions and applaud them for their community spirit!”  

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