Raffles, sports camps, flower sales and recycling are among the many fundraising activities planned by the Elphinstone 2013 graduating class this year.
Monies raised go towards a gift to the school and a legacy gift to the grads of 2014 as well as a formal dance, graduation ceremony, dry grad and a trip to Princess Louisa Inlet for the entire class of 140.
Grad co-presidents Jake Gjerdalen and Max Crumpler-Haynes said the grads hope to continue the community building work begun by last year's graduating class.
"The activities we have planned for the year are about more than simply having a good time or throwing a great party," Max said. "Last year's class showed us that creating experiences where the class spends time together as individuals and in groups creates a sense of belonging. And that's what we want, for every person in our class to feel like part of the group."
There are many ways the community can participate and support the fundraising efforts. When you shop at either SuperValu or Marketplace IGA Gibsons, a portion of your bill can benefit the grads. At SuperValu, just put your receipts in the box marked Elphinstone grad class. At Marketplace IGA, pick up an IGA reloadable shopping card by asking for an Elphi grad card at the service desk. Load up your card before you shop, and then use it to buy your groceries. You can continue to use last year's cards as well and the funds will go to the current class.
If you plan to buy poinsettias to decorate for the holidays, you can order through the grad class by going to http://elphinstone.plants4nonprofit.com/or request an order form from one of the students. All orders must be in by Nov. 22 and flowers can be picked up Nov. 30 in the Elphi school library.
Ticket sales have recently begun for a fantastic holiday raffle with a first prize of a two-night stay at Crystal Lodge in Whistler along with two spa passes to the Scandinave Spa. Or you could win a Christmas tree over one metre tall decorated with 100 scratch cards donated by DNI Automotive Repair. A second raffle with great prizes is planned for the spring.
"There are 10 student teams of 14 people each," Jake added. "So we're working as individuals, in small groups and as a class to create a year we'll all remember. We have a great class that works well together and we have fun even when it's a lot of work. Really, it's shaping up to be an awesome year."
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