Gay-Straight Alliance:

Whether you’re gay, straight or anything in between, if you’re interested in learning about sexuality, dealing with hate, and figuring out who you are, Gay Straight Alliance would be a good choice in clubs.

Officially starting in 2014 (although it’s been around since about 2010), GSA has been helping kids figure out who they are in terms of their sexual orientation and gender identity and connecting them with a supportive community.

“Being with other people like them helps others stand out,” senior Campbell Royales, GSA’s leader, said.

GSA’s primary goal is to provide a safe place for kids who feel like they don’t have one at home. They also teach about different people and that it’s not only acceptable to be unique, but that it’s a good thing.

Although the group’s mission is serious, they also have fun bonding over “gaymes.” That’s right. Gaymes.

“When we play gaymes, we goof around and have a good time,” freshman Sara Coleman said. The “gaymes” that they play usually demonstrate how they are connected and how much they have in common, and they are a fun bonding experience for members.

“GSA unites people,” senior Maddi Vogel, another group leader, said. “You’re supported and accepted, and you learn not to judge other people.”

The Gay Straight Alliance is a smaller club, but they’re like a family.

“You can always go to Mrs. Vetta or me for help, regardless of the situation,” Ryan Richardson said during a presentation. “We’re here to help.”

Vogel stresses that GSA is open to anyone, regardless of age or sexual orientation. Meetings are Thursdays after school in B8.

Interact:

Interact is an amazing idea if you like to help out others or have wanted to get out and help others, or simply want something to put on your college application.

Interact does various projects throughout the year, including buying a truckload of food and distributing it to people in and around Algonquin, and fulfilling the wishes of disadvantaged children who write letters to Santa.

They recently sold pink shirts for $10 to raise money for cancer research. They are also planning to sell red bracelets to raise awareness of female trafficking.

“We try to help people,” adviser Mr. Kelly said. “When you help other people, you see how fortunate you really are.”

The projects they do are all student ideas, some from years ago that they liked so much that they kept doing it. Over the last 14 years, Kelly has been very pleased with some of the ideas that have come his way, such as the bracelets or shirts that they sell for different causes.

“[Cary Grove students] get the idea, and do it because it’s the right thing to do,” Mr. Kelly said.

Informational meetings are every Wednesday morning at 7am, although you are not required to attend. Overall, Interact is not a huge time commitment, and is a great way to get out there and help people. There are more than 150 students involved who love the volunteer work they do, but there is always room for more.