West Middle School Exceeds Fundraising Goal for United Way
West Middle School in Sioux City, Iowa, buzzed with an electrifying announcement recently, celebrating a remarkable achievement in community support. Students and staff members joined forces for a multi-week coin drive, ultimately raising an impressive $2,020.41 for the United Way of Siouxland. This figure significantly surpassed their initial goal of approximately $750, demonstrating the collective power of their efforts.
The fundraising initiative was built around the inspiring theme, “Small Coins Make A Big Change.” This slogan encouraged every student and staff member to contribute at least one dollar, emphasizing that even modest donations could collectively create a substantial impact.
Officials from the United Way of Siouxland expressed profound gratitude for the school’s dedication and hard work. Sharon Messerschmidt, development associate for United Way of Siouxland, shared her appreciation, stating, “We’re just so pleased and honored that they chose to participate. ‘Small coins make a big change,’ and they got the message. They’re helping other kids, and it’s so important.” Her words underscored the direct benefit of the students’ contributions to their peers in the community.
The success of the coin drive was particularly noteworthy given the prevailing economic climate. Some West Middle School staff members admitted to initial concerns about reaching their fundraising target. Beck Largent, an 8th-grade teacher at the school, elaborated on these anxieties.
“Our community suffered a lot during the time that SNAP wasn’t being released,” Largent explained. “And when the government shutdown happened, we have parents who have lost their jobs. So, we knew that we had people in our community who were hurting, and we discussed that with the kids. You know that even a small amount will go a long way.”
This candid discussion with the students about the real-world challenges faced by families in their community likely fueled their commitment to the cause. The teachers’ approach fostered a sense of empathy and understanding, transforming the coin drive from a simple fundraising activity into a meaningful lesson in civic responsibility and compassion.
The initiative highlights the crucial role educational institutions play in nurturing a spirit of giving and community engagement. By empowering students to contribute to vital local organizations like the United Way, schools not only raise necessary funds but also instill lifelong values of generosity and social awareness. The success at West Middle School serves as a powerful reminder that when a community comes together, even small contributions can lead to extraordinary outcomes, making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. The students and staff of West Middle School have truly embodied the spirit of their theme, proving that small coins, indeed, can make a big change.
