From doing chores to breaking open their piggy banks, students at Penticton’s Columbia Elementary School did just about everything they could last month to raise funds in support of children in need.
Students came together to raise a total of $3,000 for the OSNS Child and Youth Development Centre in June, with the money set to go to therapy equipment that will support infants and young children who aren’t able to sit up by themselves.
“Being able to come out of the pandemic and celebrate our fundraising as a school community in a fun way has created memories that will last a long time,” said Rachel Peters, the vice-principal at the school. “I’m really proud of the efforts from the staff and students to come together, have some fun, and raise money for great causes.”
Many students spent last month tracking their fundraising progress through a money-metre. It wasn’t just the students, though, that got in on the efforts. Teachers and staff would sign up to partake in silly activities if students were able to reach certain fundraising milestones.
Among the activities included “egg roulette, getting a student makeover and sliming the principal.”
“We are so impressed by the creative fundraising efforts of the Columbia Elementary students,” said Megan Windeler, the community engagement lead at OSNS. “This generosity will make a huge impact on our families for many years to come.”
The Penticton-based centre has supported children with developmental challenges since 1978, with speech therapy and autism intervention among the services offered. More than 1,600 children from across the South Okanagan visit the centre annually.
READ MORE: Penticton Quiz Night raises $4k for OSNS Child and Youth Development Centre