សាលាសាធារណៈ Minnetonka

April 20-26 is National Volunteer Appreciation Week, and to celebrate, we are highlighting just a few of the many ways Minnetonka students and families have given back to the greater good this year. 💙⚓

Sebastian Zorn is an 8th grader at MME who volunteers with non-profit Let’s Go Fishing. Sebastian has worked with the organization to bring more than 4,000 people fishing on Lake Riley. Through Let’s Go Fishing, other nonprofits are able to partner to provide pontoon fishing excursions for their clients, on which Sebastian and other volunteers serve as first mates. From veteran groups to assisted living homes and charities supporting children’s health and wellness, Sebastian has connected with a wide variety of community members to share his love of fishing.

This past year, he was able to combine this volunteer work with his love for 3D printing by creating fish-themed fidget toys for the children and families attending Let’s Go Fishing trips.

Sebastian was inspired to create his 3D fish toys after remembering the popularity of similar fidget toys with his peers. “I came up with a fidget fish design, added the ‘Let’s Go Fishing’ name on it, and then each child and family member received one at the end of the outing with HopeKids [a Let’s Go Fishing partner nonprofit].”

Sebastian’s advice to others considering volunteering is “to think about what pastime activities you enjoy and find opportunities to share your knowledge.” He will be volunteering with Let’s Go Fishing again this summer and plans to continue printing 3d fish fidgets, with a goal of reaching 500 toys.

🔗 To learn more and get involved with service opportunities related to your passions and interests, visit TonkaServes.org or connect with Sarah Johnson, Community Service Specialist, at Sarah.Johnson@minnetonkaschools.org

📝 This post content was compiled by Tonka Serves Steering Committee members Reese Kottke ‘26 and Tatum Engebretson ‘26.