Carroll raises $600 for coats for kids

"I so admired the Camden Elementary teacher who organizes her class each year to help other students in Carroll County that I contacted our church's representative to the Carroll Christmas Baskets fund to see if more could be done," said Carroll seventh grade English teacher Pat Spence.

"Mary [McDonald] told me they really need more funds to purchase Christmas Basket coats for kids," Spence said.

Next, Spence contacted the teachers at the junior-senior high school about arranging a special donation that could be designated for such a cause.

"I thought of them," Spence said, "because last year four teachers dreamed up a unique idea that netted an additional $4,000 for the Memorial Scholarship Fund, adding eight more $500 scholarships for 2006 seniors."

Those teachers - Ed Geheb, Stacey Brazel, Mike Miller, and Danna Bonfiglio - initiated a special fund that included both students and teachers in the effort.

"The fund helps so many, but hurts no one," said Geheb. "Each Friday students can donate a dollar to wear a hat for the day and/or go to lunch five minutes early. Teachers, on the other hand, donate two dollars to wear jeans or more casual attire."

"This year I've included the cafeteria in the effort, and they plan their best meals on Fridays to raise more money," said Geheb.

At first the teachers in charge didn't want to jeopardize the scholarship money, but they arrived at a compromise, and money donated last Wednesday before Thanksgiving vacation was set aside to go to the county Christmas Basket coats for kids.

"After making the entire building aware of the special donation, we were thrilled that others joined in the effort," Spence said.

Glen Dillman's candy cart added $100 to the collection, and Mrs. Brazel's high school Student Council added $325, to bring the final total to $600.

"I'd like to challenge other schools, churches, and organizations to get on board this worthwhile effort," Spence said.