Churchill School’s third, fourth and fifth graders got their chance at the Glow Run challenge on Thursday, April 17, when they raced around the gym floor to raise money in the Homewood PTA’s fundraising initiative.
Students at Willow School had their Glow Run race in the fall semester. Together, both events raised more than $54,000 for the PTA, said Lisa Opiola, fundraising chair.
Working with the firm Booster, the gym became a ring of blue lights with strategically placed strobe lights. At a cheering section in the middle had parents and fellow students waive pompons to encourage the runners as infectious dance music played. Each Glow Run session is 35 minutes. Students can walk, run or skip through the maze of lights.
Opiola said two and a half weeks before the Glow Run, families and friends donated to student pledges. As of Sunday, April 20, the pot had $23,000 with pledges still being collected. Students also tried to meet a 50-state challenge. As of April 20, pledges came in from 29 states.
Opiola said District 153 PTA gives special thanks to sponsors: Gabe’s Place, The Lauren Roman Group, Homewood Oral Surgery, Harold Johnson, Eyes on Sterling, Dozeli Pizzeria, Asian Harbor, Yesterday’s Gentlemen Barbershoppe, A Piece of the Pie, Homewood Dental Studio, and Aurelio’s Pizza. Their generosity made it possible for all 680 students and school staff to receive a T-shirt. Walt’s Food Center in Homewood donated bags for prize distribution.
“It was a true community event,” Opiola said. The PTA is excited to have the ability to help Willow, Churchill and James Hart Schools “but the best part has been seeing the engagement and excitement from students, families, and the support from the community,” she added.