Friday, February 26, 2010
By Allie Rosen
Staff Writer
Despite the devastation created by the earthquake in Haiti, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, thanks to the various efforts of Costa’s clubs.
Costa’s Young Entrepreneurs Club, for example, held a bake sale on the Strand on Jan. 17. The Club raised $306 and donated it to the American Red Cross.
“Even though our regular goal is to teach students how to manage business, we decided to have a bake sale for Haiti relief because our club is required to participate in a community service activity once each semester,” sophomore Carina Glasser said.
Young Entrepreneurs Club members say they were quite pleased with the fundraiser. The food was made by club members, and they donated all of their proceeds to relief efforts.
“After holding this bake sale, our club has been inspired to continue to take part in community service activities because we really enjoyed giving back to the community,” Glasser said. “We are hoping to do something once a month.”
Members of the Mira Costa Red Cross Club also participated in earthquake aid by volunteering at a run held by the American Red Cross in Santa Monica.
“I love being part of Mira Costa’s Red Cross Club because it’s a great opportunity to help those who are less fortunate. I especially enjoyed working for Haiti Relief because it is a current issue in need of immediate aid,” junior Jake Walsh said.
Junior Jacqueline Peha from S-Club has planned a walkathon, called Walk For Haiti, which will take place on Saturday, Feb. 27 at Waller Stadium. She wants to donate all proceeds to the International Medical Corps because of the IMC’s rapid response and dedication to the crisis in Haiti.
“In order to raise money, participants will have friends, family and neighbors pledge amounts of money based on how far [participants] walk. We are also planning to have bands play, as well as refreshments and prizes donated by local businesses,” Peha said.
Peha said she chose to host a walkathon because she felt that people within the community would most respond to a fun event that allowed them to participate actively.
“I feel that giving back is very important because I know that there will always be a way for me to help. I think sometimes people become silent about these issues, when really there are easy ways that we can aid those in need,” Peha said.
Overall, the community has been extremely impressed with the initiative that many Costa students and clubs are taking. ASB director Lisa Claypoole, for example, says she is especially satisfied with these rapid and well-organized efforts.
“Within a couple of days, a lot of students told me that they had texted a donation and that countless students and clubs were raising money through fundraising efforts,” Claypoole said. “It’s really great that every time there is a tragedy such as the earthquake in Haiti, the philanthropic spirit of the Mira Costa students is exhibited so whole-heartedly.”
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