Auburn Union, Host Lions, Kiwanis celebrate student service, regional award

The Auburn Union School District (AUSD), Auburn Host Lions Club and Kiwanis Club of Auburn announced the continued success of their joint service club partnership, which provides leadership and community service opportunities to students. While the partnership has been longstanding, AUSD's transition to TK-8 grade schools facilitated the program's expansion from one service club at EV Cain to three clubs across all three AUSD campuses – Skyridge, EV Cain and Auburn Elementary – serving students in grades 4 through 8. These student-led service clubs operate under the guidance of dedicated teacher advisors and mentors from the Auburn Host Lions Club and Kiwanis Club of Auburn. Together, they foster a culture of civic engagement through district-wide and site-specific events. During the 2025-26 school year, these clubs have completed more than 1,500 collective hours of community service within the Auburn community. The year's highlights include the "Hometown Heroes" winter luncheon, where students recognize local first responders for their service. Each fall, the clubs engage in wreath sales, culminating in the December "Wreaths Across America" event where students place wreaths on the graves of veterans at the Auburn Cemetery. Other impactful projects include creating care packages for hospitalized children, food drives and visiting residents at local senior homes. Special recognition: Leo of the Year AUSD and the Auburn Host Lions recognized Jackson Jarvis, an eighth-grade student at EV Cain, as "Leo of the Year." Jackson is the recipient of the prestigious Steve Murphy Award, which honors students demonstrating exceptional civic pride, leadership and a genuine heart for service. Following his local win, Jackson was put forward for the Lions Club district-level award. The Auburn Host Lions are part of a large regional district encompassing five counties and more than 50 clubs in the greater metropolitan region. Jackson won the district-level award for grades 6-12 as well, distinguishing himself as an exceptional youth leader in the region. AUSD and Auburn Host Lions extend heartfelt congratulations to Jackson on this remarkable achievement and wish him continued success in his high school career.