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More than 1,100 hours of volunteering since April 2009 have paid off for the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Circle K.

The club won 12 out of 22 awards at the 47th annual Wisconsin-Upper Michigan District Convention on Feb. 26 to 28, including Outstanding Web Site, Club Achievement and Outstanding Club Treasurer, Secretary, Vice President and President awards, among others.

Circle K, which is part of the international organization Kiwanis, is a University service organization that aims to develop students into responsible citizens and leaders with a lifelong commitment to service.

Amanda Froelich, president of UW Oshkosh Circle K, said club members enjoy volunteering in the community.

“We have a lot of passion for Circle K here in Oshkosh,” she said. “We bring a lot of sprit and enthusiasm to it.”

Last semester, Circle K sponsored a blood drive, co-sponsored the Nearly Naked Mile and began volunteering at Father Carr’s Place 2B every other week.  They also travelled to Marquette, Michigan to do 24 hours of non-stop service.

The group brought 14 of their members to the convention in Brookfield, Wis. this year, winning the attendance award for most club participation.

Arthur Rathjen, the faculty advisor for UW Oshkosh Circle K, said they are recognized as one of the best chapters in the upper Midwest.

“Our chapter has always been well represented at the convention,” he said. “We’ve always done well, but this year seemed to be an absolutely exceptional year for recognition for our chapter.”

He said many non-profit organizations count on Circle K as a reliable volunteer force to help out with events and throughout the community.

Froelich said she will never forget her experiences with Circle K.

“I fell in love with this organization and what they do,” she said. “It is great to get involved with because you meet people from all over the world. I have made lifelong friendships with people in this club.”

The group plans to participate in Circle K International Service Week April 4-10 by doing a service project each day of the week.

Circle K has 13,000 members in more than 500 clubs internationally.  For more information, visit www.circlek.org.