Dear reader: Each week, The Mirror will highlight ideas for improving quality of life in Federal Way. Quality of life relates to the satisfaction people derive from social, cultural and intellectual opportunities in the place they call home.

—–

The seed has been planted for an annual day dedicated to making Federal Way a better place.

The Federal Way Chamber of Commerce’s Advancing Leadership Youth (ALY) program will hold its service project, “One Day Federal Way,” 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 22 at three locations: Mark Twain Elementary, Star Lake Elementary and Totem Middle School.

The 30 students in the ALY class of 2011 have recruited nearly 150 volunteers to spruce up the outdoor areas at these three schools. Tasks include painting a brick play area at Mark Twain as well as cleaning up weeds and installing beauty bark on the schools’ courtyards. The goal is to attract 300 volunteers — and eventually turn the One Day Federal Way concept into a tradition that benefits multiple facets of the community.

“I hope it’s something we can do every year,” said Teri Hickel, executive director of Advancing Leadership. “We’re putting ideas in these kids’ minds. It’s amazing what they do independently.”

Ashley Pinson, a junior at Thomas Jefferson High School, said her ALY class chose to help Federal Way schools with the highest number of students who receive reduced-cost lunches. These schools will receive donations of food and clothing, including socks and underwear, she said.

“My hope for that day is that it would motivate more people to consider the schools and see the change that can happen in one day,” said Pinson, 17. “In a perfect world, this would continue.”

To learn more about volunteering, contact Teri Hickel: terih@federalwaychamber.com or (253) 528-0846.

Watch a video about project ideas for ALY’s class of 2011, including “One Day Federal Way:”