Chapel Hill Elementary Students Run for Funds

When Jennifer Meeks was in grade school, she remembers trying to sell "cheesecake or wrapping paper" for PTA fundraisers every three months.

In contrast, Meeks said she was happy to watch her son participate in only annual fundraiser—the , a sponsored run held Thursday on school grounds.

"People are more likely to get involved because it's only once a year," she said.

Weeks before the race, students were given mailers to send to family, friends and neighbors, requesting sponsorship for their participation in the run. The response is traditionally very generous, said Tiffany Ginski, PTA president.

Each year for the past four years, the event has raised about $40,000, Ginski said.

Funds have been used to support cultural assemblies, new play equipment and school amenities, including an in-school television studio, added Greg Heitner, a PTA volunteer.

In addition to helping raise money for the school, Principal Jonna Hundley said the event "promotes a healthy lifestyle" by getting kids excited about exercise.

Parent John Hughes said he enjoyed watching his son Ashton participate in the race.

"Every time he goes around he looks for me," Hughes said.