Schools

Twin Groves Runners Raise $6,000 for JDRF

"Run for a Reason" benefits Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

On May 25, students made their annual Fun Run a “Run for a Reason.” Previously, the purpose of the annual 4K run was to promote health. This year, however, the students decided their run should also help to change the world.

Several student clubs–assisted by a committee of teachers and administrators–decided to raise funds for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), knowing that a number of Twin Groves students suffer from the disease.

A May 14 assembly featuring a JDRF speaker rallied enthusiasm for the cause and the students got busy. Community Service Club members contributed ad signage they created on the theme that small acts can yield big changes. The Lean On Me Club posted diabetes facts and stats throughout the school, including a special restroom edition known as the “Potty Press.”

The Spanish Honors Society contributed funds raised through pizza sales they hosted at an interscholastic sports tournament. Local businesses and math teacher Cathy Alland, who coordinated the event, donated prizes for a fundraising “sponsor a shoe” raffle and the Lean On Me Club scavenger hunt.

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Teacher Nancy Baker-Curtis noted, “The amazing part of all this was the coming together of the Twin Groves student community and staff to support a great cause.”

The enthusiasm for the work inspired many students to work raffle donation tables during their lunch periods and others to raise awareness and funds in the community. Top fundraisers included Jonah and Talia Rawitz, Jessica Phillip, Annie Mazursky, Benji DeLay and Tressa Macaluso.

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The fundraising goal set by Twin Groves kids was $5 per student – around $3,000. At the finish, however, their “Run for a Reason” netted more than twice that amount.

“Club sponsors–teachers Michele Koulentes, Melissa Kumin, and Nancy Baker-Curtis–and Cathy Alland worked hard alongside Twin Groves students and staff to organize this collaborative effort,” said Principal Heather Friziellie. “I’m so proud of our school and the great role models Twin Groves staff members are for our kids.”

— Submitted by School District 96


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