The 47 students in Summerland Secondary School’s two Civics 11 classes came together in May to raise more than $2,000 in support of Syrian refugee families in Summerland.
The students raised $2312.25 at G.A.M., a Get Active Marathon taking pledges for six non-stop hours of physical activity like dodge ball, yoga, walking, and big ball volleyball with all proceeds going to the Summerland Refugee Sponsorship Group.
“It was a good way to bring both classes together,” said one of the students, Summer Scott, while another, Amber Coltrin, said the marathon was a great way “to promote a healthy lifestyle while benefitting the community.”
Committee organizer Doug Holmes said each family in Summerland requires about $30,000 for their first year in the community, so fundraising is a key concern.
As well, students at the school are concerned about the sedentary lifestyle of many teens, so G.A.M. was a motivator in terms of having fun and keeping fit at the same time.