Members of the HJHS Volleyball team, annual staff and pre-transition class get ready to pass out boxes for the “Change for a Cure” fundraiser for childhood cancer. | Randy Garrison

Randy Garrison

Hartselle Enquirer

Hartselle Junior High will once again be raising funds for childhood cancers leukemia and lymphoma. Beginning February 15 and continuing through March 4 “Change for a Cure” will be taking place at HJHS. This is the theme chosen for an annual fundraiser held each year at the school, which encourages donations to help fund cancer research.

The late Robin Riley had headed the program “Pennies for Patients” for several years at the junior high. This fundraiser was one of Riley’s loves each year. She loved raising money for these causes.

Tasha McKee, who moved into Riley’s classroom will also be heading up the fundraiser this year. McKee is the pre-transition teacher at HJHS. McKee is also a two-time cancer survivor.

Last year, the school raised approximately $1,000. This year HJHS will be holding the fundraiser in memory of Riley who passed away unexpectedly in August of 2015. The goal this year is $1,500. McKee mentioned the name was changed to let donors know any change or denominations of money will be accepted and not just pennies.

Each homeroom will have a donation box in the classroom beginning next week; boxes will also be located in the school office, library and cafeteria. Students will also carry a small donation box home for parents and other family members to make donations in as well.

Volleyball players who played under Riley will be helping with this fundraiser, along with the yearbook staff and pre-transition students. The money will be collected daily from each homeroom. The special needs students will also help count the money each day.

While students are encouraged to bring in change each day, the public is also welcomed to help with the fundraiser. Donations of any amount can be dropped off at the school office during school hours.

The homeroom that raises the most money in donations each week will receive doughnuts for breakfast during the fundraising event. The winning homeroom that raises the most in donations during the entire time will win an Olive Garden lunch.

Hartselle Junior High asks that you please help honor the memory of Robin Riley, and help raise money for a cure for childhood cancers, during the time period of Feb. 15 – March 4.