What do you get when you combine a group of determined kids, stuffed animals and a dunk tank? Approximately $286 and awareness about kids suffering a world away, of course!

For this school year, the Builder’s Club of East Troy Middle School has decided to adopt the Measles Initiative, an international collaboration of organizations---including the Red Cross---working to eliminate Measles in Africa and Asia. To support the initiative, students came up with some very creative ideas to generate money for measles vaccines while having fun and meeting their club's goals.

For the first event of the school year, the club held a one-day fundraiser called "Bring Your Favorite Stuffed Animal to School Day." Students and staff who brought their stuffed animals were required to purchase a pet license, which cost $1.

Then on a sunny day in late October, the school used a donated dunk tank for their next event. During their lunch period, students tried to dunk one of their favorite teachers, Mr. Johnson. With the combination of his taunting and their well-aimed throws, the students were able to raise enough money to vaccinate 133 children against measles.

If these events sound like fun, consider this fact: it is only the start of the school year and the kids’ brainstorming. With the support of the school and Red Cross, these kids have plenty of ideas to keep them going and spreading the word about the Measles Initiative throughout the school year.

Would your school or church like to support this important cause? Use our Contact Us form or call Gina Trimboli at 414-342-8680!