Ronson Leach, a student at The Heritage School, was awarded the Gold Citizenship Award, the highest recognition given by the school’s Honor Guard, for his leadership and fundraising efforts to support families who have lost homes in the recent devastating California wildfires. The award was presented by teacher and Kiwanis Builders Club advisor Todd Anton during a recent Club meeting in front of peers, family members, and fellow Kiwanis members.
Ronson, a lieutenant in the Honor Guard and active member of the Builders Club, raised $3,701 through a student-led raffle and community dinner benefiting Samaritan’s Purse. His efforts were supported by the Tri-Community Kiwanis, which sponsors the Builders Club at The Heritage School and the Key Club at Serrano High School. These youth leadership programs are part of Kiwanis International’s service-learning network, designed to teach civic responsibility and promote Student volunteerism.
The fundraiser featured a prize raffle, including a Magic Johnson autographed jersey, a $100 Ranch Steakhouse gift card, and a large Bluetooth speaker. Ronson and his fellow Builders Club members sold tickets at local businesses, including Pizza Factory, and helped promote the cause to neighbors and friends. The campaign culminated in a dinner event at The Ranch, drawing strong support from the local community, with the restaurant owners donating a percentage of the night’s sales to Ronson’s efforts.
“I just wanted to help people,” Ronson said when asked what inspired him to take action. “It’s good to help people [rebuild] their homes, and then they can help other people.”
His mother, Sarah Leach, explained that the idea began after Ronson saw an ad on Facebook promoting Samaritan’s Purse fire relief efforts. “He was the one that mainly came up with [the idea],” she said. “He was just hoping to make $1,200 at least, and he almost doubled that. I think for him, it was just that if you work as a team, then anything’s possible.”
Anton praised Ronson’s commitment and initiative, stating, “That just shows me what great things we can do together. And I want the community to know about it.”
The funds raised will be sent directly to Samaritan’s Purse and earmarked for California fire relief. The organization is expected to provide an update showing how the funds were used and will be shared with the Builders Club and the school.
When asked what message he would share with other kids his age, Ronson encouraged his peers to take the initiative and speak up. “Just do what you can and think of other ideas that you think are good, and tell whoever’s [in charge of your club] and try to do it,” he said.
The Builders Club, guided by Tri-Community Kiwanis and the Club advisor, provides students regular opportunities to engage in meaningful service. The club also collaborates with the Key Club at Serrano High School, allowing students to continue their community service journey throughout high school.
