BY KARISSA MILLER

Exchange Club of Troutman officially chartered the Vikings Exchange Excel Club at South Iredell High School Friday afternoon. The new club has about 30 members.

Excel clubs have the same mission as their parent Exchange Club, which is to make communities better places to live.

“Today is the beginning of a new chapter in service, leadership and community impact by officially chartering the Viking Excel Club of South Iredell High School,” said Jane Babela, Exchange Club of Troutman president.

The club, she promised, will bring fresh energy, new ideas and change to the community.

“You are now a part of a tradition — dedicated to serving others — upholding the values of unity, service and excellence,” Babela told the students. “Your work will have a ripple effect for years to come.

Babela presented student Lily Hall with the gavel, which she said symbolizes trust, leadership and purpose.

After accepting the gavel, Hall addressed her peers.

“This club started as an idea — something I wish we could build,” she said. “Now, seeing it become real with all of you, is incredible.”

Hall said she first learned at Excel Club at another school.

“Right away I connected with its four pillars: Americanism, youth, community service and prevention of child abuse,” she explained. “I’m thankful for the chance to build something meaningful together.”

The group will organize service projects and events to bring the community together. 

“We are excited to show you what we can accomplish,” she added.

Back in July, Hall met with Exchange Club members at a community event. She expressed an interest in building a club and then worked with the Troutman Exchange Club to bring it to fruition.

During the ceremony, students made a commitment to unity, leading through service, inspiring their peers to make the community better, honoring armed forces and first responders and preventing child abuse through education and awareness.

Special guest speakers included Town of Troutman Mayor Teross Young and South Iredell High Principal Robert Little. 

The national headquarters in Toledo, Ohio, will fly the national flag in honor of the newly chartered club. It will stay up until another club is formed.

South’s Excel club members have already been volunteering in the community, including the recent Veterans Day breakfast.

“At South Iredell, we are very passionate about service. We are excited to be a part of Exchange,” said faculty advisor Terrance New.

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