Rotary Interact, the student arm of Rotary International, recently recognized Boothbay Region Elementary School ninth graders Hali Goodwin and Mitchell Partner for their essays on charitable donations. The pair were chosen from a group of 40 who were asked where they would donate $1 million and why.

The contest was designed to instill a sense of community awareness and enforce the spirit of Rotary International, said BRHS German instructor Ingrid Merrill, who, along with Debbie Graves, leads Rotary Interact. For their fictional philanthropy, second place finisher Goodwin chose to donate to the resurrection of the Fishermen’s Festival, an annual late spring celebration in Boothbay Harbor that was unexpectedly canceled this year. 

“I really want to see it come back,” said Goodwin. “I think it’s a really important piece of our history and culture in the town.” 

First place winner Partner chose to donate his money to area food banks so people will realize how important the resources are for underprivileged kids and parents. Other ideas from contest entrants included donations to the Lincoln County Animal Shelter and money to build a track at the high school.

The awards also help ease the transition for ninth graders and attract new recruits to the Rotary cause. 

“Ninth graders don’t always feel so in control,” said Merrill. “Honoring them with a prize makes them feel like they can take action and make a difference.”

According to Rotary International, the Interact Club gives students ages 12-18 the chance to make a real difference while having fun. Every Interact club carries out two service projects a year: one that helps their school or community and one that promotes international understanding. Clubs meet at least twice a month and are sponsored by their local Rotary club. The goal is to help people connect with community leaders, develop leadership skills, make international connections and discover more opportunities to connect with Rotary, including Rotaract, RYLA, and Youth Exchange, said Merrill. 

“We do a lot of volunteer work,” said BRHS Rotary Interact vice president Molly Thibault. “We’ve done work both locally and internationally. You really learn how in need our community is.”

Merrill — in her first year as coordinator — said Rotary Interact provides members with firsthand experience in giving and living as good community members. 

“I’m always surprised at how much the Rotary does and how much it provides,” she said.

For their efforts, Mitchell will receive $100 and Goodwin $50 to donate to a charity of their choice.