by Linda Bewley, outreach coordinator

One person can make a huge impact on the lives of students and on an organization. Todd Roberts, a teacher at Northwood Middle School, is just such a person. Ten years ago, he started Aunt Elena’s Hair Care Challenge to honor his aunt and teach students the value of working to help others. Each year, he agrees to get a funky haircut and wear it for a number of days if certain fundraising goals are met. Students and faculty alike think up and participate in a variety of fundraising ventures to reach these goals throughout November. While having fun, they are working toward a goal and learning the value of helping others.

What was so impressive was the zeal with which these students collected money for charity. They were so happy to contribute to a worthy cause. Many of them have been personally touched by cancer—parents, siblings, grandparents, friends– so they understand the effect it has on people.

On November 21, I attended the wrap-up assembly and received a $4,000 check to be used to help our clients! I also came back with over 50 letters from students telling us why they wanted to help us and what they did to earn their contributions. One comment stands out: “You guys are the rock for cancer patients.”

Thank you Northwood Middle School!