Geneseo Middle School recently wrapped up its first Defeat Diabetes fundraiser, with all proceeds being donated to Breakthrough T1D Research Foundation, formerly Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).
“The idea came while I was discussing the annual Breakthrough T1D walk in the Quad Cities,” explained Jessica Jansen, the District #228 Lead and GMS Nurse. “It worked out perfectly that April is Defeat Diabetes Month, giving us enough time to do the fundraiser and get donations in before the walk.”
GMS spent the week of April 21-25 having a “penny war” in which students were encouraged to bring in pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters, and bills on certain days of the week.
Additionally, each morning during the daily announcements, various students and staff shared facts about diabetes, history to relevant medical advancements, and information on how they could recognize a person in need of help.
“We also made sure to give our diabetes warriors recognition for their daily hard work,” noted Jansen. “It is no small task to do something that their bodies can't do on their own.”
As for the collection process, Mrs. Hogue's Life Skills program helped to count each day's donations, separated by homeroom. After a week of hard work, a total of $2,045.72 was raised and donated to Breakthrough T1D.
“It’s truly outstanding to see so many dedicated student leaders, supportive parents, caring educators, and committed community members come together at GMS for a cause that is so personal, and important,” said Principal Nathan O'Dell. “They are living the mission of Teach Learn Care every day.”
