MV Outreach president Rachel Sunderman passes out popsicle sticks, glue, and construction paper while club members begin making Halloween themed crafts. Faces of jack-o’-lanterns, scarecrows, and festive designs begin to form.  

To get into the Halloween spirit the club met in room A213 during seminar on Wednesday, Oct. 9 to work together to make crafts and discuss future plans.

Sunderman has been a member of MV Outreach since her freshman year. This year she was given the opportunity to take charge of the club. 

“I decided to step up and make this more student lead,” said Sunderman.

Previously teacher-led by special education teacher Amanda Wondra-Appl. When Appl left Mill Valley, the district wanted to dismantle the club entirely. Sunderman had other ideas. 

“I fought them on that because this club is really good for the community. It helps [bridge] the gap between kids with disabilities and non-disabilities and tries to do something good,” Sunderman said. 

Sundermn hopes to involve MV Outreach in getting a booth at Pumpkin Palooza, an event including games, face painting, balloon artist, trunk-or-treat, and live entertainment, hosted by Sunflower House as well as participating in the Autism Speaks walk.

Being able to go to those events all depends on getting sponsorships. 

“I think we’ve had a lot of difficult situations come our way,” said Sunderman.

One obstacle the club faces it that it has been more difficult than in past years to get funding. Sunderman and MV Outreach officers have been using their money to buy supplies.

“We do have a sponsorship from the Rotary Club and Westside Family Church, but we plan on getting two more so hopefully we don’t have to spend our money anymore,” Sunderman said.