Pep club contributes to T.E.A.R. Fund

MINGO JUNCTION -- The pep club at Indian Creek Middle School came together to help cancer patients through Trinity Health System's Trinity Emergency Assistance Relief Fund. The student organization raised approximately $1,500 during an end-of-year carnival in May, donating the proceeds to benefit Trinity's TEAR Fund. The donation will go toward helping to purchase gas cards, food and assist with utility bills while patients undergo treatment at the Tony Teramana Cancer Center.

"We do a spring fundraiser each year and it was our end-of-year carnival," explained Stacy Zink, club adviser. Disc jockey Anthony Bailey provided inflatable rides and the club had various activities to raise the money, students said.

Students Against Destructive Decisions sold treats and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes provided face painting.

"It was nice to have different clubs help out," she commented. "We had a football toss, a basketball free-throw and a baseball home run derby. Anthony has Ha Ha Concessions and had popcorn and cotton candy, making it a real carnival atmosphere."

Zink stated students were able to learn a valuable lesson while Trinity officials were appreciative of the gesture. "The kids really enjoy helping and I try to make sure the eighth-graders are involved," Zink commented. "They are very happy and gracious with donations at the Teramana Cancer Center."

Pep club members Kendall Canestraro and Kaylin Lee expressed they like to help others. "It makes me feel proud that we are able to help people," said Canestraro.

"We're happy that the school has the club," added Lee. "We can have fun and help people." Zink said 15 to 20 fifth- through eighth-grade studenht are involved in projects.

"Members typically work on signs and other projects each week after school," she concluded.