Emmerich Olin, Henry Place, Avery Cook, Alma Wick, and Sophia Vermeer

A tradition that has continued for several years at Pella Middle School bolsters non-profit causes, and checks were presented in April to those groups after a year-long project.

The 7th graders in social studies classes learn about the United Nations global goals at the beginning of the school year and start to problem solve how they can individually and collectively make a difference. During their economics unit, the students plan and execute running their own business — a concession stand that’s held at various middle school events.

The group will be featured on today’s Let’s Talk Pella.

This year, the students presented $3250 to nine non-profit organizations:
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Many Hands – AJ Brand, son of CEO Tim Brand, and Rachel DeJong present the check to Tim for $500

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The Raining Season – Lucy Diers came over from Pella High School with her Associate teacher to accept the check on behalf of her family. Allie Hellbusch presented the check for $500

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Team Keegs – Susan Lyons accepts a check from her 7th grade son Kyler Lyons for $400

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JDRF – Carley Farnsworth accepts the check for $400 on behalf of JDRF Foundation from 7th graders Brielle VanZee, Emisyn Jaworski, and Elena Henderson

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Care Bags – Reese Green presented a check to Mrs. Brandt on behalf of Mrs. Foskett for $300

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JUMP – Hayden Bohn presents check for $300 to Jill McKinstrey of JUMP

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Backpack Buddies – Check presented by 7th Graders Raegen Laverman & Molly Schwerdtfeger to Miss Becky Steenhoek and Teah Hugen for $300

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Launching Arrows – CEO of Launching Arrows Kelsie Parton is shown with Jocie VanMaanen, Sibley Carlstone and Nina Carlton and a check for $300 was presented.

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Ronald McDonald House – Students Lynden Schettler and Emily VanEngen present check for $250 to Maggie Siwinski of the Ronald McDonald House in Des Moines