On Sept. 19, Zionsville Elementary Schools are teaming up for their main fall fundraiser, but the kids are doing most of the work.
According to Eagle Elementary Co-Chair, Martine Ouellette, “The kids are raising the money and have an active hand in the event, not only in fundraising but in participating in the run or walk. It’s an activity that promotes health. We call it a ‘healthy fundraiser.’”
Students will be involved with seeking sponsors for the walk or run, and all funds raised will remain at each of their own elementary schools: Stonegate, Eagle, Pleasant View and Union. The Jog-A-Thon will be held at each of the participating schools with two race times during the day, determined by each school’s schedule.
The event was first launched at Eagle Elementary in 2010 and was a huge success, resulting in its expansion in 2011 to all four schools.
“It’s all four schools together which makes it a community-building event that affects approximately 2,200 elementary students,” said Ouellette.
It is not only a community-building event, but a fundraising powerhouse. Last year, Eagle Elementary School alone raised more than $20,00 and approximately $90,000 in total for all four schools. The money raised will be funneled through the four Parent Teacher Organizations, and in the past has been used for teacher grants and enrichment activities determined by the unique needs of each school.
Community sponsors will provide t-shirts free of charge to the participants and cover costs for the event so all money raised by the students will go directly back to their own school. For more information, contact Martine Ouellette at 755-8866.
