Students at Waldon Middle School will be participating in the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s ‘Pasta for Pennies? program, to raise funds to find cures for leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and to improve the quality of life of patients and their families.
Pasta for Pennies is supported by the Olive Garden restaurants, and is one of the Society’s National School and Youth Programs, teaching young people compassion while they learn the value of helping others.
Last year, Waldon raised more than $2,200 during its campaign. Their goal this year is $2,500.
Pop recording artist Mandy Moore serves as the program’s National Honorary Chairperson, along with the US National Soccer players.
Waldon’s Pasta for Pennies program will be Jan. 10-31. The Auburn Hills Olive Garden will provide a luncheon to the organizers and faculty of Waldon, while the top classroom will enjoy pizza from Hungry Howie’s.
Gift cards for educational materials may also be presented to the school. If you’d like to make a donation, please drop it off at the school.
Local businesses are encouraged to support the students? efforts too.
School administrators champion the concept of young people reaching out to those in need.
‘Student involvement with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society reinforces the importance of community service. With several local students and faculty battling blood cancers, our students are especially motivated to help,? said Melissa Robertson, school coordinator.
During the 2003-04 school year, eight million students in 15,000 schools nationwide raised $13 million through Pasta for Pennies and the Pennies for Patients programs.
‘The support of Lake Orion area students, parents and businesses will really help us in our mission of finding cures for blood cancers and helping patients and their families deal with these diseases,? said Linda Kozianowski, campaign manager for the Michigan chapter.
For more information, call the Society at 1-800-456-5413, or (248) 582-2900. Waldon Middle School can be reached at 391-1100.