News Photo by Temi Fadayomi The members of the Hillman Community Schools Students Leading Students group sit during their meeting in the high school’s library on Thursday.

ALPENA — Student organizations throughout Northeast Michigan are working together to make their communities a better place.

Students Leading Students is a leadership group that has local chapters all over Michigan, including local schools: Alpena Public Schools, Alcona Community Schools, Hillman Community Schools, and Posen Consolidated Schools.

Since its start just last year, Posen Consolidated Schools’s SLS is one of the many groups pushing to create a supportive environment within their school.

Their efforts include organizing events like Red Ribbon Week to promote a drug-free lifestyle among teenagers.

Through engaging in activities like scavenger hunts, the group effectively raises awareness about the importance of staying away from substance abuse.

Another impactful event, Grateful for Christmas, saw the SLS group setting up an awareness tree where students could show solidarity and support for those facing various challenges like cancer, mental illness, or ADHD. The group’s dedication to promoting self-expression and unity among students was further highlighted during a Spirit Week in March.

Looking ahead, the SLS group has ambitious plans, including hosting a Summer Leadership Camp aimed at empowering middle schoolers with essential life skills and resistance techniques. Their goal is to shape a brighter future by empowering younger students to make informed decisions and resist peer pressure.

Meanwhile, at Hillman Community Schools, the SLS group is leaving a lasting mark with their commitment to community service and positive impact. Recently, the group visited Medi Lodge and Hillman Haven, bringing joy and companionship to residents through engaging activities like bingo.

In addition to their community outreach, the SLS group is actively involved in promoting awareness and safety initiatives within their school. Their recent focus on distracted driving led to a campaign titled Strive for a Safer Drive, where students worked tirelessly to spread awareness and educate their peers about safe driving practices.

Looking ahead, the group is determined to continue its mission of spreading positivity and making a difference. Ideas like sidewalk chalk messages and inspirational window displays are on the agenda, aimed at fostering kindness and encouragement throughout the community.

As these student-led groups continue to make waves across Northeast Michigan, their dedication to positive change serves as an inspiration to peers and community members alike. With their dedication and innovative ideas, local Student Leading Students groups plan to work on continuing to leave a positive impact for years to come.