By Hilltop Staff—

“I promise to honor my parents and those to whom wisdom has come through years of experience, respect the beliefs of other, prize friendship and keep its sacred truth,” is the first line of the Junior Optimist Octagon International club. Associated with the Optimist Club of Passaic, this club focuses on honoring others. It is the core of this service minded club, which is comprised of a special group of students.

“It is a club that provides fun, fellowship and community service learning opportunities for youth of all ages,” said club advisor Mr. Sheridan. He has been advisor of this club for six years and doesn’t plan to quit any time soon. “I hope to assemble special students who want to make the world a better place,” Sheridan continued.

How do they do this? Fundraising allows the Octagon Club to make donations to worthy causes locally and around the world. They have sponsored many fundraising events including the Youth Appreciation Dinner, Thanksgiving Luncheon with Passaic’s Bravest and Wisest, and many canned food drives. Other fundraisers include many cookie sales, concession sales, and water and balloon sales at the graduation ceremony.

After fundraisers are held donations can be made to many worthy causes. Donations have included the Passaic Senior Center and the Passaic Boys and Girls Club, even the Outreach Ministry of Guatemala. These PHS students have made a difference to many in need both near and far.

Most recently the Octagon Club helped to raise money for those affected by the tragic fire of May 31. “It started out as a dress down day that was already in place, but I decided to get the word out that all proceeds will be donated to the families affected by the fire,” said Sheridan. He added, “It is amazing how many teachers have helped me to raise funds and organize activities.”

Donations have ranged from three to over a hundred dollars, and every single donation went to help the victims of the tragic fire, so close to the school. Mr. Sheridan and all the members of the Octagon Club would like to send a huge thank you to all who contributed.

If you would like to participate in the Octagon Club they meet every other Wednesday, in Caf. E, after school. Everyone is welcome to attend and join.