The Rotary Interact group at Wallace High School brought Halloween magic to the school’s social area, transforming it into a fabulously spooky end-of-term celebration in aid of two remarkable causes — The Hiding Place Orphanage and the Paws and People animal charity.
Table of Contents
Spooky Sweet Sale
Pupils organised a “Spooky Sweet Sale”, stocking the space with irresistible treats. The event was student-led from start to finish, showcasing the initiative, organisation and compassion at the heart of Interact.
What began as a fundraiser quickly evolved into a mini festival. The social area was completely transformed, with Halloween music setting the scene for a lively break-time party. Pupils arrived in costumes ranging from spine-chilling to hilarious, and impromptu dancing soon took over the room, giving the morning break a celebration-style energy worthy of the final day of a busy term.
Rotary Interact Charities 2025-2026
The event raised important funds for two charities close to the pupils’ hearts:
- The Hiding Place Orphanage, supporting vulnerable children in desperate need of safety and hope
- Paws and People, a charity dedicated to improving the lives of both animals and the individuals they support
Mrs Julie Dumigan and Mrs Gillian Weir praised the Rotary Interact members for their creativity, organisation and compassion. Beyond the money raised, the event was a powerful expression of community spirit — proof that young people at Wallace High are not only talented leaders but passionate global citizens.
Supported by the Lisburn Rotary Club, the Wallace High Interact group continues a proud tradition of community service and compassion. Interact provides pupils with the opportunity to follow in the altruistic footsteps of the school’s benefactor, Sir Richard Wallace, whose legacy of generosity remains an inspiration today.
The group embodies the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self”, which is evident in their weekly meetings, where students come together to plan events, discuss ideas, and explore their chosen charities. For this fundraiser, pupils not only organised the sale itself but also designed the eye-catching promotional materials that helped spread excitement across the school.
Student Leadership
Rotary Interact at our school is a truly student-led service club, run entirely by young leaders who design and deliver its impact in the community.
At the head of the team is Alexa, our dynamic Chairperson, who sets the vision for each term and ensures projects align with Rotary’s values of service, international understanding and leadership. Supporting her is Phoebe as Vice Chair, who helps coordinate meetings and steps in to lead when needed, ensuring continuity and smooth teamwork.
Our communications and records are expertly managed by Aaliyah, who serves as Secretary, keeping agendas, minutes and project plans organised.
Financial planning and fundraising accountability are overseen by our Treasurers, Laura and Tristan, who track donations, income and charitable allocations with clear reporting.
What makes this Interact club especially powerful is the diverse committee drawn from both Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5, allowing younger and older students to collaborate, mentor one another and generate fresh, ambitious ideas. Every decision, from which causes to support to how events are executed, is driven by students themselves rather than staff. That independence builds confidence, responsibility and real-world leadership, making Rotary Interact not just a club but a platform for meaningful youth-led change.
Future Plans
The school looks forward to future Interact initiatives — but this Spooky Sweet Sale will be remembered as one of the most joyful and impactful events of the term. Teacher in charge Julie Dumigan concluded:
“Our next event will be our ever-popular annual Candy Cane sale and Singing Santa delivery service, a festive treat for the entire community.”
You can keep up to date with the Rotary Interact Club via http://www.instagram.com/wallacehighlisburn
Last modified: October 24, 2025
