Kids at Mecca Glen School jumped their hearts out last week to raise funds for the “Jump Rope for Heart” program, which raises awareness for the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
“Basically we’re making sure everyone is aware of heart disease,” explained Lorraine Gladue, Grade 2 and 3 teacher and organizer of the event.
Their efforts raised more than $2,400 to the cause and the halls of Mecca Glen were full May 6 with kids from Kindergarten to Grade 9 jump-roping and hula-hooping. Music kept everyone entertained as some even tried their skills with Double Dutch.
Gladue said students received sponsorship to jump rope and she enjoyed training them to increase their jump rope skills. Many of them were eager to see how high they could jump, but what Gladue was most proud of was seeing students develop a strong sense of community and world citizenship.
Kids in the junior high classes helped the younger students and showed them tips on better jump roping techniques.
Between the many different fundraising programs she plans, such as the Terry Fox Run and Operation Christmas Child, Gladue says students are doing quite well. “My class actually does an enormous amount (of fundraising).”
“It’s very rewarding,” she added.
For Gladue, the joy of the experience also comes from the parents’ involvement and she says they make organizing these events that much easier. Interest in the Jump Rope for Heart has increased this year as well. Gladue says they raised $300 more than last year.
Every single student took part in the fundraiser, which also made the experience more of a team effort.
“It’s the kids that make it happen,” stated Gladue.
Approximately 130 kids took part in the effort.