S.A.F.E. – The acronym stands for Seatbelts Are For Everyone. For Beloit seniors Caleb Burks and Brennan Walker, having the opportunity to help keep their classmates safe by educating them on the importance of wearing a seatbelt was a cause they could both get behind as freshmen.
“I’ve been involved in SAFE for four years,” said Burks while Burks added “I have been a part of SAFE, for four years now since I was a freshman,” Walker added.
Spreading the message of seatbelt safety has been an enjoyable job for this pair.
“I think it is important to spread the message because wearing a seatbelt is such a simple thing you can do that could potentially save your life sometimes,” Burks told VYPE. “I had a cousin who died in a car crash from not wearing his seatbelt. They believe he would have lived if he had his seatbelt on. So, I think it is our duty to promote SAFE and wearing your seatbelt,” said Walker.
Burks also added the job can be a rewarding one.
“The most rewarding part about being in SAFE has been seeing the number of kids wearing their seatbelts go up throughout the years.”
Walker also encourages others to get involved in the program.
“Do SAFE and spread the word.”
Both students are involved in other activities as well. Burks is a member of the basketball, baseball and golf teams, STUCO, History Club, Science Club, and a local youth group. He plans to attend Cloud County Community College for two years then transfer to Fort Hays State for his bachelor’s degree in business. Walker is a member of the football, wrestling, and track teams. He’s also involved in STUCO and plans to attend Kansas State University where he will major in construction management.
Burks and Walker want to leave a legacy behind that other students can follow.
“I want to leave a legacy of being a good leader and someone the younger students look up to,” said Burks. “Sports are a big part of my life. My goal is to win as much as possible. I want to leave my name on the record and state champion wall as much as possible,” said Walker.
