On campus, there are over 40 curricular clubs and countless extracurricular clubs that students can join. However, many students find that those clubs are not enough. In addition to their participation in school clubs, these students actively participate in clubs and organizations outside of school. Many of these organizations have religious affiliations, such as the West Plano Young Life and BBYO.  There are many students, however, who participate in groups that have no religious connections like the National Charity League (NCL), Scouts, and both club and recreational sports.

“Being a part of a group has had a major effect on my life,” junior Zach White said.

There are a number of volunteer organizations for students to participate in, but one of the most common, at least among girls is NCL, which is a national mother-daughter volunteer organization.

“It is a philanthropic group that supports community and mother-daughter relationships,” senior Bethany Deaton said.

Many of the members who take part in these organizations feel a certain sense of accomplishment about helping out in the community.

“I have grown in the way that I can appreciate the help of others and appreciate the things I have,” Deaton said.

One of the most common types of groups that students are a part of are religious youth groups.

One of these groups is the West Plano Young Life, which draws students from all over the district, but their main supporters are students on the West campus. White is a Student Leader for Young Life, who attends all of the meetings and campaigns.

“Young Life is a group of students who meet and hang out all the time together and have fun and at the same time get to know Christ,” White said.

Some groups like BBYO, which is a Jewish youth group for students 13 to 18 years old, include volunteer and service as a part of their membership, along with religious events. Senior Ben Shepphard is currently the Regional Vice President of Judaic Heritage and Community Service, for BBYO. 

“BBYO focuses on leadership, community outreach and empowering youth,” Sheppard said.

These are just a few of the many groups outside of school that relate to students’ interests and activities. They are a fun way to meet new people and bond over a common interest.

“It really is what you make of it,” Sheppard said. “You can throw yourself into it and go all out, or it can be an experience in which you just meet up with your friends each week and have a good time.”