Bremen High School Energy Club Collects Cell Phones to Support Troops Overseas

Bremen High School’s Energy Club continued a long-standing tradition of service this January by collecting used cell phones to benefit Cell Phones for Soldiers, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping military members stay connected with their families.

During the week of January 19–23, members of the Energy Club organized a schoolwide drive to collect unused cell phones. The devices will be recycled through Cell Phones for Soldiers, with proceeds used to provide satellite phone services for troops serving in remote areas around the world. In many of these isolated locations, traditional cell phones do not function, making satellite communication a vital lifeline home.

These donations allow service members to place phone calls to their loved ones at no cost — a simple but powerful way to maintain connection while serving overseas.

Bremen’s Energy Club has supported this initiative for more than 15 consecutive years, collecting hundreds of phones during that time. This year’s participating students included Joshua Chapan, Esequiel Roa, Jacob Aguilar, Allen Padilla, Kaitlyn Carey, and Catie Dwyer. The Energy Club has 17 members dedicated to service, sustainability, and community outreach.

Energy Club Sponsor Jeff Dyke, who is retiring at the end of this school year, has proudly guided the project throughout much of its history.

“I am proud to support these students as they help connect service members with their loved ones,” said Dyke. “A simple phone call can mean the world to someone serving our country.”

The Energy Club’s continued commitment reflects Bremen High School’s dedication to community service and global awareness. By turning unused devices into meaningful connections, students are making a lasting impact both locally and abroad.

About Bremen High School District 228

Bremen High School District 228 is located in the southwest suburbs of Chicago and serves the communities of Midlothian, Posen, Tinley Park, Markham, Hazel Crest, Country Club Hills and Oak Forest. District 228 serves over 5,000 students and employs 800 full and part-time staff members. Bremen High School, in Midlothian, opened its doors to students in September of 1953. Since then, District 228 opened three additional schools. Tinley Park High School opened in 1961; Hillcrest High School, in Country Club Hills, opened in 1967; and Oak Forest High School opened in 1970. For more information, please visit https://www.bhsd228.com/