Adopt a Senior group seeks to recognize Gilman High School seniors

A group of Gilman residents don’t want members of the class of 2020 to feel forgotten.

They have recently taken to social media with a program encouraging people to “Adopt a Senior” and are planning a community parade on Friday evening for the graduates.

Local resident Vonda Kinas is a lead organizer in the efforts to celebrate the Gilman High School Class of 2020.

Through a Facebook group, Kinas is encouraging friends, community members and almuni to “Adopt a Senior” or a few.

Once “adopted,” the idea is to recognize the student by sending a card, flowers or a gift card from a local restaurant, coffee shop or business. Another idea it to decorate the student’s yard — with the parents’ permission, of course.

“Encourage them and let them know we care about them, we are proud of them and support them during this difficult time. They are not forgotten,” Kinas stated, noting that the students have worked hard over the past 12 years and deserve recognition.

“We just want these young adults to know that people do care. That they are not forgotten due to the unprecedented times,” Kinas stated. If you want to adopt a senior, comment “adopt” under their picture and we’ll send you a private message with their address, information, etc.

On Friday night, when Gilman would have normally held its graduation ceremony, the community will instead be inviting the graduates to take part in a parade. Graduates are invited to decorate their vehicles at 6 p.m. with the Gilman Fire and Ambulance on hand to escort the seniors on the parade route in downtown Gilman beginning at 6:30 p.m. The Gilman Police Department will be on hand for traffic control. Community members are encouraged to come out along the parade route and (observing social distancing) cheer on members of the 2020 senior class.