Dollar Wars Challenge - Not Just Any Fundraiser

Student organizations are notorious for fundraising efforts, which range from covering club related costs and activities to improving their school. Last month, however, West Point Middle School’s Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society led a fundraising effort that was far more successful than they had planned, and the focus was far different than that of previous or typical service projects. Upon learning that a member of the school community, one of their own, had just lost everything to a house fire, the students rose to action to provide assistance. The idea was to conduct a quick fundraiser to support the family as they faced this tragedy. NJHS officers proposed that if every student donated one dollar, they could raise almost $200 to donate to the family in their time of need. The “Dollar Wars Challenge” was born, and as grade levels competed to raise the most money, they did so with an unprecedented level of energy, enthusiasm, and determination. This fundraiser was from the heart. The honor code trait of caring was exemplified as students challenged each other to donate more than the goal of one dollar per student so they could truly make a difference. After a four-day challenge, $1,412.54 was raised, far surpassing the initial $200 goal. NJHS officers proudly presented the collection to the school’s cook, and after having witnessed her surprise, tears, and gratitude solemnly commented, “That moved me to tears.” Another responded, “I know! Me, too... This [donation] might not go far, but we made a little bit of a difference today.” The final, quiet, response as the students traversed the hallways to return to class was, “I’m really proud of our school… this was good, really good.” We agree, Bulldogs, and we challenge each of you to continue to make a difference in all that you do each and every day!