Klager and Riverside fund-raiser begins

Along with the new school year, the Klager and Riverside PTO have started their "Fun Run" fund-raiser to bring in donations to help finance their year's programming.

"The Fun Run is a no-nonsense, health-centered event in which the kids from Riverside Intermediate and Klager Elementary raise pledge money, win a variety of prizes and participate in an afternoon of friendly, non-competitive walking/running/dancing/skipping the high school athletic track," said PTO member Ashley Eklics. "The Fun Run will be the PTO's only fundraiser of the year if we meet our goal."

Funds are used to pay for each student's field trip expenses, fulfill teacher wish lists, sponsor the Senior Citizen Luncheon, fund and sponsor the Talent Show, beautify school properties, provide upgrades and maintenance to equipment, and so much more. 

This year's Fun Run kicked off on Thursday, September 5 with pledges being collected until Saturday, October 5th. The kickoff assembly featured Dan Budd as our event MC and Amber Sidebottom speaking to the students about the importance and benefits of incorporating regular exercise into their lives. Dana Andrews played the role of our beloved mascot, Rockin' Rosie at our kickoff event. The actual Fun Run event will take place on Wednesday, October 2. 

"The Fun Run is a very fundamental part of our organization's success," Eklics continued, "and our parents and students rely on the funds raised to pay for field trip expenses, bring in assemblies, support Math & Science Night, put on the Talent Show, award scholarships, fulfill teacher wish lists, host social events such as our annual Winterfest, the Yahoo Boohoo breakfast, and the Senior Citizen Luncheon during the holiday season."

Last year, The PTO spent more than $18,000 for these expenses, so organizers are hoping for another successful year of fundraising by students and sponsors.

"In the past, we have received support from many businesses and community members," added Eklics. "We hope to see that same level of support from our local business owners and community members, since many of our activities are not just student-centered, but community-centered as well."

For more information, contact the PTO at klagerPTO@gmail.com.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.