By MIA LENZI – IHS annually hosts many activities in order to contribute to the Teddy Bear Fund Drive. Activities range from a 5k to a whole day filled with fun experiences. Not only can students participate, but many students involved in SGA (Student Government) have the opportunity to chair and help plan events.
Popcorn and Milkshake sales were one of the most popular ways to raise money at IHS. Sophomores Sarah Denver and Connor McQuaide were in charge of all sales. They sacrificed their free time to sell and make popcorn and milkshakes during periods throughout the day. Snacks were not only being sold during the school day, but one day after school a bake sale was held. Sophomore Hanna Contrucci led the sale to success. Baked goods were donated by Contrucci herself and other members of SGA.
Donations were also being gathered throughout the week. Community donations were accepted by sophomores Katie Wachob and Molly Kodman. Business donations were accepted by junior Ella Spadafora and Wachob as well. Also, in order to really get into the giving spirit, junior Maura Nutter and Denver contributed to decorating the whole school with numerous Christmas trees, garlands, lights and more!
Throughout the week, students could also gaze at the many items up for grabs in the annual TBFD raffle. Senior Hannah Uschock comments, “This is my third year of being chair, and I believe this is the best raffle we have ever had. We [had] more items than ever before.” Teachers and students were able to donate items to be won in the raffle. Tickets could then be purchased for the chance to win very special items such as a signed picture of spanish teacher Mr. Brian Henninger, Vineyard Vines apparel, gift cards, etc.
During Friday morning, students could watch and participate in a student/faculty variety show! Following the show, students were welcomed to sign up for activities to participate in for the rest of the afternoon. Seniors Lauren Bertig and Mia Spadafora helped to organize the events on Friday. Bertig comments, “The purpose of activity day is to have a day of fun and relaxation before we leave for break… We raffle off the baskets, have the variety show which creates a lot of laughter, and we hang out with friends in the afternoon.” This is also the day where students wear their Teddy Bear Fund Drive shirts which were designed by the portfolio club. All students were encouraged to sign up for the activities. “Signing up for activity day gives you the chance to have a fun day with you friends before leaving for break.” Spadafora adds.
All proceeds gathered for the event are delivered to the Teddy Bear Fund Drive at the local radio station. They then take all the money raised and donate 20% to Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh and 80% goes to IRMC here in Indiana. Spadafora includes, “The money helps families pay for medical bills for their children and will assist them in any way possible.”
Students not only enjoyed all the activities, but they were donating to make a difference as well. IHS is proud to not only give locally, but to other pediatric centers as well.
(Photo by Dylan Latore)
Photo Caption: “Seniors Lauren Bertig (left) and Mia Spadafora (right) proudly chaired the Teddy Bear Fund Drive events.”
