Saint Augustine School Commences 6th Annual Walk-a-Thon

As the rain fell from darkened and cloudy skies today, Saint Augustine School Andover successfully held its 6th Annual Walk-a-Thon which was created as an opportunity for students to contribute to school fundraising efforts, while stressing the importance of physical exercise and value of community service.

For the last five years, students and faculty have typically swarmed the Andover Common on this special day yet this year, weather conditions created safety issues, thus forcing the event indoors to the James D. Doherty Centennial Gymnasium, a structure successfully built using funds from Walk-a-Thons past.

Lori Iacono, co-chair of this year’s walk said, “While the weather may not have cooperated, our walk today provided an opportunity for the students to enjoy our beautiful new gymnasium, which their past efforts, help build. We are so grateful for all the support.”

So far this year, fundraising efforts have totaled more than $33,000, which added to previous years, results in more than $200,000 raised in six years. Lead sponsors for this year’s walk included: JB Edward Uniforms, Leonard Orthodontics, Andover Pediatric Dentistry, and Biondo & Foley Dental Group of Wilmington.

Today's Walk-a-Thon was also bittersweet for creator Lisa Dello Russo, whose daughter Ava, will this year graduate from St. Augustine School. “Students at St. Augustine learn about service, mission and giving, all of which is directly in line with the purpose of our walk,” said Dello Russo. “I am thrilled about what has been accomplished in six short years, and look forward to all that has yet to come even as our family departs the school. We are so proud to have been a part of something so special.”

Founded in 1914 by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, Saint Augustine School (26 Central Street Andover, Mass.) provides high-quality Catholic education to children Nursery through Grade 8 within an environment supporting, encouraging and nurturing spiritual, intellectual, social and personal growth. St. Augustine School celebrates its strong Catholic identity, promotes academic excellence and fosters respect and justice for all individuals. Through its dedicated group of educators committed to teaching and learning in the Catholic tradition, St. Augustine School recognizes the unique gifts in each child and remains committed to helping each child reach their full academic, social and physical potential. For more information visit St. Augustine School at: www.staugustineandover.org.