Elizabeth Barrett Elementary School will once again be teaming up with Martin Parnell for their year-end Sports Day, June 21.
Students from Kindergarten through to Grade 4 will be partaking in the yearly event, which aims to raise funds for Parnell’s Quest for Kids and, ultimately, for Right To Play.
“The idea behind Right To Play goes with our school’s theme of all kids having access to sport and play,” said Heather Nusl, a Grade 3 teacher at the elementary school.
“We’ve asked students to take part by doing some duties at home. We’ve encouraged each child to try to bring in a toonie for the fundraiser.”
Last year the event raised about $700. This year, Nusl said she’s hoping to collect $1,000. Matched three times over by Parnell’s partners, a total of $4,000 will be raised if the school reaches the goal.
Set to run from about 9:15 a.m. to noon, students will enjoy a plethora of activities on Sports Day, including games of tag and kickball. Parnell will join the children for the morning announcements, and will greet class representatives as donations are collected. Then, he’ll be out with the kids playing games.
“With this age group, it’s critical to get them thinking outside of themselves and talking about the idea of kids helping kids,” remarked Parnell.
“It’s not even about the fundraising,” he continued. “Building awareness is important. We’re getting these kids to learn to look after themselves — through exercise and activities — but also to start thinking about looking after others.”
Right To Play is a not-for-profit organization that empowers and educates children and youth from disadvantaged communities through sport and play. The foundation’s reach is worldwide.
