Senior starts club to spread positivity around campus

by Kelsey Soape, VOW editor|Dec 6, 2019

photo or infographic by Avari Ford

PLANNING POSITIVITY. Leading his club, senior LaDre Cleveland discusses upcoming plans. “I want the club to help people learn to take risks,” Cleveland said.

Homework. Stress. Social life. The future.

It is easy for students to get caught up on the negative issues and things happening in their lives. Negativity is everywhere, and it is easy to become a victim of the doubts and pessimism that is at every turn.

All it took was the voice of one student to open the eyes of the school to the power of positivity. Senior LaDre Cleveland noticed that the school needed a boost in morale and optimism and started the Positivity Club. Meetings are held every Thursday during academy time.

“I think it is important because I feel like a lot of people need positivity in their lives,” Cleveland said. “You don’t really see people living their dreams. People need to recognize the talent they have and learn to be stronger.”

The club’s focus is on finding inner happiness and learning to see the glass half full. Cleveland sees potential in people and wants to bring out the best in everyone.

“I never thought about this kinda club until I heard they needed clubs at the school,” Cleveland said. “I want to own a business someday to help people with disabilities like me. I want to help people learn their strengths and work on their weaknesses.”

The club is not exclusive to students with disabilities. Anyone and everyone is welcome. Cleveland wants a diverse group of people coming together and finding and sharing happiness.

“It is for all people who need positivity in their lives,” Cleveland said. “We all have people we don’t like. You have to learn to get along with everyone. One day they may be your boss at a job or you could be their boss.”

Cleveland wants the club to help students find themselves, who they truly are and who they can become.

“There are not a lot of people with disabilities who are famous,” he said. “I want to help everyone find their strengths and work on their weaknesses.”

Cleveland realizes that everyone has a purpose and reason, and they may just need help finding it and that’s what Positivity Club is for. He wants students to know that uniqueness is encouraged, and everybody is welcome in the club.

“People should not judge people on how they look,” Cleveland said. “They should judge their heart and their strengths. “People might judge me and think I could not make a difference. I might be here to teach you something. You never know.”