The student council at Warrendale worked tirelessly to raise money throughout March for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). During their Friday Moral Focus assembly, students did a kickoff fundraiser that touched many of the student’s hearts. An LLS video of children in need of care and funding for research was shown.
LLS is the world’s largest non-profit health organization dedicated to finding cures for blood cancers. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world and provides free information and support services. Their Pennies for Patients program is for elementary and middle schools that would like to support their mission of creating a world without cancer by conducting a fundraising campaign.
Warrendale’s goal was to raise $2,019 and the school beat their goal and successfully raised $2,544. With six days left of the fundraiser, Warrendale was $600 away from their goal and had only $50 donated online. Three days later, Juanamia Kelley, principal at Warrendale, held an online telethon and received $460 overnight from staff donations.
“I am so proud of the family we have at Warrendale Charter Academy,” said Kelley. “Warriors pull together when someone is in need. Many of our students don't have much, but they gave what they could because they were determined to help.”
Each week, Kelley highlighted students and staff that joined the “Hero Squad” once they donated $5 or more.
Two classes were able to raise over $400, and three were able to raise over $200. The top class will receive an Olive Garden party and bronze, silver, and gold pendants which will be given to classes based on money raised.
“I witnessed the impact of the fundraiser on our students because they wanted to make a positive change as they raised money to save lives,” said Kelley. “Cancer has affected many of the staff and student’s lives and they wanted to help make a difference.”