Editor’s note: This is the first of a series of weekly reports by the Shelby County United Way discussing the programs the organization offers. The annual United Way campaign is underway.

SIDNEY — The Shelby County United Way has announced the beginning of Student United Way in Shelby County.

Twenty local junior and senior students representing each high school in the county will participate. Students will attend monthly sessions learning about the Shelby County United Way, funded programs, and issues facing residents in Shelby County. The Board of Directors was excited to learn from them what is impacting youth today and include them in the dialogue.

The students will be allotted a $5,000 allocation budget where they will review and award $500 to $1,000 grants for youth programming based on their determined focus areas.

“We are excited to have these students involved and learn from their experiences and perspectives. They are the leaders of today, not tomorrow, and their voice will be critical to have,” said Scott Barr, Shelby County United Way director.

Students participating during the inaugural year are Claire Bensman and Carly Becker, Anna High School; Grace Homan and Page Lane, Botkins High School; Alexandria Baughman and Michael Toal, Christian Academy; Skylar Jones and Tyler Kelch, Fairlawn High School; Riley Middendorf and Hattie Meyer, Fort Loramie High School; Ailia DeWitt and Angelina DeLullo , Houston High School; T.J. Esser and Riley Jackson, Jackson Center High School, Grace Olding and Kameron Lee, Lehman Catholic High School; Daniel Kerns and Lauren Monnin, Russia High School; Josiah Hudgins and Emily Jones, Sidney High School.

Through the first week of the campaign, $145,511 has been pledged towards the annual goal of $1,325,000. Donors can make payroll contributions with participating employers or make a one time or reoccurring donation by visiting www.shelbycountyunitedway.org or text SHELBY to 40403. Contact Barr at 937-492-2101 with questions or to volunteer.