The giving spirit has taken over Oquirrh Hills Middle School cloaked as Oquirrh Fest, the school’s three-week charity drive happening Dec. 1 through 19. The students will be working to collect funds for two worthy causes.

Each day, we lose more of our World War II veterans. As their numbers dwindle rapidly, time is of the essence in helping them to go see the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C built in their honor. Oquirrh Fest’s first cause is Honor Flight.

“The average trip on Honor Flight costs about $900 per veteran. There are two vets in Riverton who have applied to go that we would like to support, as well as nine or 10 others. We hope that students will invite grandparents or other vets to apply,” Oquirrh Hills Middle School teacher Travis Braun said.

Honor Flight takes applicants on a first-come, first-served basis. The flight, lodging and meals are completely free to the veteran. Each vet must take a guardian with them who is asked to cover their own expenses. If a vet doesn’t have a family member to fill the guardian role, Honor Flight has volunteers willing to step in and accompany the vet.

Local families in need will not be forgotten by Oquirrh Fest either this year. The school’s second charity is Local Heroes operated by the Unified Police Department and Fire Departments in Riverton. OHMS plans to support this worthy cause with $5,000 from their proceeds this year.

“This is a really great school. One of the goals here is character development. We strive to get the students invested in their community and to look outside themselves,” Braun said.

So, where do these proceeds come from?

On Friday, Dec. 12, students will be caroling in front of Peterson’s Fresh Market at 1777 West 12600 South and a teacher will be camped out on the roof. It’s a sight not to be missed.

The Blue Aces, a teenage all-girl rock band who has opened for the Neon Trees will be playing in the OHMS auditorium on Thursday, Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 and available for purchase in the school’s main office.

Wendy’s at 1938 West 12600 South is also sponsoring Oquirrh Fest from 4 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 17. Be sure to mention Oquirrh Fest. If you’d simply like to donate to the cause, please stop by the main office at OHMS before Dec. 19.

A final celebration assembly will be held on Friday, Dec. 19 at 10 a.m. in the OHMS auditorium. The public is invited to attend and learn more about Honor Flight and Local Heroes.