Academic League helps out 8-year-old
CARMICHAELS – For the last three years, Carmichaels Area Elementary Academic League has held fundraisers to help people in the community in need. This year was no different.
The students chose to help a family and went to work. Academic League coach Traci Dobish said she wanted to teach her students to “pay it forward” through hard work and commitment.
“There are certain emotions, such as sadness, joy, anger and fear that are hardwired into our brain. Other emotions such as compassion, humility, empathy, patience, and gratitude must be taught,” she said. “We want to instill these qualities into our students at a young age.”
The elementary Academic League includes eight students in fifth and sixth grades. The students sold lollipops for $1 to send to other students. Students attached a tag and delivered the lollipops to the homeroom of the recipient. The students were excited to receive the friendship lollipops from their friends, and they were happy to know the money went to a great cause.
All proceeds were donated to the family of Jacob Stepp. Jacob, 8, has cerebral palsy. He recently spent five days in Children’s Hospital for hip and ankle surgery and then went to the Children’s Institute for therapy. Jacob has an older brother, Justin, and an older sister, Jessica.
The $882.35 raised by the League will be used for a wheel-in shower for Jacob. The Academic League is currently raising money for another family that was involved in a car accident.