Under the leadership of Credit Recovery teacher Lisa Chandler, the club was revitalized in 2023 with just a handful of members. Today, it thrives with approximately 20 active members dedicated to serving the East Central community. "I get to help our community, and the service projects we’ve done have made a real impact," Chandler said. "I’m also teaching my own daughters and these high schoolers the importance of giving back."
Supporting Chandler is co-sponsor Jacqueline Glass, a Physics teacher helps organize the club’s numerous projects. "Being involved with the kids has been so awesome," Glass said. "In a world focused on electronics, this gets them interacting for a good cause."
Leading the club as president for the 2024-2025 school year is Cameryn (Cami) Heckman, who will continue in her role next year. “Cami is always there when I need her, bringing ideas and staying organized,” Chandler said. Heckman’s leadership has been instrumental in the club’s success.
Interact, a Rotary International program for youth aged 12 to 18, fosters leadership and community service. The name “Interact” reflects its focus on “international” action and service. With over 10,700 clubs in 109 countries, Interact inspires young leaders to make a difference locally and globally.
Notable Service Projects for 2024-2025
The East Central Interact Club completed several impactful projects this school year, including:
Personal Hygiene Items Drive: Partnered with Good News Lutheran Church to provide essentials for the homeless and survivors of domestic violence.
Stuffed Animal Drive: Collaborated with the San Antonio Police Department’s Special Victims Unit to collect stuffed animals for child victims.
Angel Tree: Worked with Communities in Schools (CIS) and Life Skills to provide gifts for 57 East Central Independent School District students.
Spring Break Snack Food Drive: Partnered with CIS to distribute snack and drink bags to 40 East Central High School students for spring break.
Ransomed Life Presentation: Club officers met with Principal Gomez in December to bring Ransomed Life to East Central High School, delivering a prevention education presentation on child sex trafficking to at-risk students in April.
Teacher Appreciation: Created goodie bags for the entire East Central High School staff and assisted with serving lunch during Teacher Appreciation Week.
The club’s achievements were celebrated by Rotary District 5840 leadership, including Governor Kristin Salazar, Public Image Chair Sandy Cordell, Interact Chair Mike Canales, and Rotary Club of San Antonio South President Rosie Ramirez.
The East Central Interact Club’s commitment to service and leadership continues to inspire, making a lasting impact on the community and its members.
