How Key Club Changed My Life

Written by: Jose Tabares | Division 6 LTG

When I first joined Key Club as a freshman, I had no idea how much this organization would transform my high school experience, and my life. Like many, I joined because I wanted to get involved, give back to my community, and maybe earn a few service hours. But what I found in Key Club was something much deeper: a family of servant leaders, a platform to create real change, and the opportunity to grow into someone I never imagined I could become.

Before Key Club, I was always unsure, and often hesitant to speak up. I remember walking into my club meetings, nervous but curious. Over time, I started volunteering at events, connecting with members, and slowly stepping out of my comfort zone. Every service project helped me build confidence. Every club meeting gave me purpose. And before I knew it, I wasn’t just participating, I was leading.

By Junior year, I took on the role of Class of 2026 representative at my home club Mountain View High School. This school year changed everything for me. After being in the organization for so many years, I quickly realized how much impact Key Club had around the world. This is the LARGEST youth-led organization for High School students and the benefits that young leaders like me can get from it are countless. 

One of the best parts of Key Club is the people. I’ve met some of the most inspiring, kind-hearted individuals through this organization, people who genuinely care about the world and are willing to act on that care. From my fellow officers to district board members and club advisors, the friendships I’ve built in Key Club are ones I’ll carry with me for a lifetime.

Key Club showed me that I’m not alone in wanting to make a difference. There’s a whole network of students across Georgia, and the world, working toward the same goal: caring, the way of life. The events like GLTC, SLC, and ICON, are all incredible opportunities that you will only find in Key Club, and I had never experienced something like that before.

Now, I serve on the District Board as the Division 6 Lieutenant Governor. In such a short time, this position has given me so many opportunities and I have already made new friends that I will be working closely with this entire service year. Now, Key Club has become one of my most prioritized organizations and I can’t wait to see where it takes me. 

To anyone reading this who’s just starting their Key Club journey: lean in. Say yes to new opportunities. Don’t be afraid to lead, to serve, to speak up. You never know how much one club, one project, or one act of service can change your life.