A spirit of service has been growing steadily across Christian County Public Schools, and this year, that spirit has reached a powerful new milestone. After years of collaboration, the Hopkinsville High School and Christian County High School Key Clubs have officially united into one combined organization, bringing students from both schools together under a shared mission: to serve, uplift, and positively impact the community they call home.
This transformation didn’t happen overnight. The roots go back eight years, when Kim Batts and Beverly Fort revived Key Club at Hopkinsville High School. Their dedication helped rebuild a culture of service that continues to influence students today. Over time, both educators expanded their support to include the Christian County High School Key Club as well, becoming the sponsors for both clubs and guiding students on their journey to become leaders who serve.
Their vision was simple but ambitious: create a unified Key Club where students across the district could work together, share ideas, and multiply their impact. Last year, this vision began to take shape as the two clubs partnered on outreach initiatives and service events. The partnership felt natural—students quickly bonded, and service projects became stronger and more meaningful with both schools working hand in hand.
This school year, that collaboration became official. The Key Clubs of HHS and CCHS now operate as one cohesive club, meeting monthly, planning projects together, and demonstrating what unity in service truly looks like. The excitement among students is unmistakable. They enjoy the shared meetings, the friendships formed across campuses, and the feeling of being part of something bigger than themselves.
230 Hours of Service — and the Year Has Barely Begun
Even early into the school year, the club has already logged over 230 hours of service—and remarkably, that total doesn’t include the major holiday projects now underway. The students’ hardworking spirit has become a shining example of leadership, responsibility, and generosity within CCPS.
Most recently, the club kicked off the holiday season by visiting Chapel House, where members played bingo with residents, shared conversations, and helped bring joy to seniors who truly appreciated the company. It was a simple act of kindness, but one that left a meaningful impact on everyone involved.
A Strong Lineup of Service Projects Ahead
With the holiday season approaching, the united Key Club is gearing up for a series of impactful events:
Baking A Difference – Nov. 26
Students will bake brownies and cupcakes for Thanksgiving meals distributed through Saint John Methodist Church. Their desserts will provide a sweet touch to meals going to families in need.
Back 2 Back Shopping & Wrapping – Dec. 7
In support of Brice Long’s Back 2 Back Foundation, students will spend a Sunday shopping at Walmart and wrapping gifts at HHS. This event brings joy to local families and reminds students of the importance of generosity during the holiday season.
Holidaze at the Bruce – Dec. 8
Key Club members will help run activities and support this beloved community event, ensuring that families enjoy a festive and well-organized Christmas celebration.
Warm the Children – Dec. 3–9
Partnering with the local Kiwanis Club, students will assist families as they shop for Christmas gifts, helping make the season brighter for children across the community.
Salvation Army Bell Ringing – Dec. 1–6
Ringing the bell at Food Lion has become a meaningful tradition. The club will serve daily, including an all-day shift on Saturday, raising support for families in need.
Key Club Blood Drive – Dec. 16
The club will host its own blood drive at the regional center. Students who are too young to donate will encourage family members to give on their behalf, magnifying the club’s impact on local health needs.
Growing Leaders, Strengthening Community
For sponsors Kim Batts and Beverly Fort, watching students grow through service has been one of the most rewarding parts of the journey. They’ve seen shy students step into leadership roles, watched peers from different schools connect over shared goals, and witnessed how acts of service can transform both the giver and the receiver.
The united Key Club is doing more than completing service hours—it is building character, compassion, and community-minded leaders. Students are beginning to understand that leadership isn’t only about positions or titles; it’s about showing up, giving back, and leaving the world a little better than they found it.
This year marks a new chapter for Key Club in Christian County, one defined by collaboration, unity, and purpose. As students continue their work this season and beyond, their efforts stand as a reminder that when young people come together with a shared mission, their impact is limitless.
The future of service in CCPS is exciting—and these students are leading the way.
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