Pacific Cascade Middle School sixth graders Eli Feduff and Emmett Roughgarden are responsible for reviving the Minecraft Mania community group at Blakely Hall this fall.
The two friends, 11, wanted to form a community group that encourages teamwork and collaboration within a multiplayer Minecraft server. They have taken on a valuable leadership role in Issaquah Highlands by engaging and teaching young children about the game.
Elementary aged kids are invited to join Eli and Emmett at Minecraft Mania on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month from 4:30-5:30 p.m.
We are grateful for their service to the community!
When did you move to Issaquah Highlands? And from where?
Eli: I was born here and have always lived in Issaquah Highlands.
Emmett: I moved here in 2011 from downtown Issaquah by the creek.
What do you like best about living in IH?
Eli: The community, being able to explore outside, and having great friends in our neighborhoods.
Emmett: The thing I like best about living in Issaquah highlands is that all my friends are within biking distance.
Could you tell us about your family?
Eli: We have a family of 5 and I am the youngest of 3 sons. My parents moved to Issaquah Highlands before we were born around 17 years ago.
Emmett: Me and my mom have a rescue cat (Thunder) and dog (Chico).
How did you become interested in leading Minecraft Mania?
Eli: Years ago, I went to Minecraft Mania at Blakely Hall and it was really fun! I remember I accidentally blew up someone’s world, oops! Emmett and I started thinking why not start it up again? We both love playing Minecraft and wanted kids to have an opportunity to socialize and play games together!
Emmett: I became interested in Minecraft in second grade, so I went to a Minecraft Mania session to learn more about it. At that session, the boy who was leading it taught me how to play. And I enjoyed meeting others who played Minecraft, too.
What has your experience been like working with kids during Minecraft Mania?
Eli: We have seen some really amazing builds/talent from all the kids. The kids that come are very funny, entertaining and kind!
Emmett: It’s really fun to see the little kids, and first-time users, start to play with other kids. It is also fun to see the creative builds and the excited winners.
What advice would you give to other youth about volunteering in Issaquah Highlands?
Eli: Some advice I would give to someone who wants to start a community group is to be prepared with a well-thought-out idea, have support from your family, and definitely make sure it’s something you enjoy doing.
Emmett: Helping others do something you enjoy is fun.
Anything you’d like to add?
Eli: I am so thankful to Blakely Hall for supporting us. We are so happy and honored to receive this award.
Emmett: Remember, Rule 1 of Minecraft Mania is no violence. Rule 2 is have fun. Rule 3 is follow Rule 1 and 2.
Emmett lives in the Central Park neighborhood, and Eli lives in the Daphne Park neighborhood.
Are you inspired to get involved in the Issaquah Highlands community?
Opportunities are available!
Click here to discover all the different ways you can get involved in our Issaquah Highlands community, including opportunities to join boards and committees, as well as urgent needs at local nonprofits.
Questions? Contact Cece Kennedy, Highlands Council Program Manager.
