Submitted article
The holidays are financially difficult times for many families. Each year, community organizations work to help provide the basic necessities for these families this time of year.
The Bucyrus Elementary School decided to help this year by collecting donations for the local Salvation Army “Million Penny” drive. The fundraiser, organized by third grade teachers, was held to replace the school’s canned food drive because the monies collected could be used in many ways, including to buy food.
“The Salvation Army helps many families in need in our community and in our school,” third grade teacher Kim Mutchler said. “We thought it would demonstrate how a small act of kindness and good citizenship can go a long way to help a whole community.”
The fundraising goal for the building was set at $700. Teachers in the Elementary School collected money from their class and kept a running total. The donations were collected on a daily basis and deposited directly in the bank.
“I am very proud of our students, teachers and staff for conducting this fundraiser,” Elementary School Principal Todd Roll said. “The Salvation Army helps provide for many in the Bucyrus community, and it’s a tremendous feeling to know our building has contributed to the community.”
Mr. Roll and Associate Principal Mr. Timothy Souder offered an incentive to students to help motivate them to exceed the goal. Each class that averaged $1 raised per student was allowed to throw one snowball per student at each of the principals. If a class averaged $2 per student, then each student could throw two snowballs at both principals. The students and staff surpassed the goal and raised $835 for the Salvation Army.
“I want to commend Mrs. Mutchler and the third grade teachers for organizing an outstanding philanthropy project for our community,” Superintendent Kevin Kimmel said. “Students’ involvements in fundraising activities help teach important life lessons that will be remembered long after a diploma is received.”