UPDATE: Immanuel Walk-A-Thon Surpasses 10K Goal

hosted its fourth walk-a-thon Friday to raise money for breast cancer research and new technology for the school's classrooms. The goal was set at $10,000, but by the event's end, the school had raised $24,000 total.

In addition to the monetary goal, eight male staff agreed to shave their heads, provided the goal had been met, including Principal Bob Christian and Pastor Mike Lutz. With the goal not only met, but surpassed, seven of the staff lost their locks.

The theme of the walk was "Breast Cancer," and students set out to walk in honor of , an Immanuel teacher who passed away this past year from breast cancer.

Christian said it is fitting that the event also raises money for Immanuel's computer hardware and software needs as Lederer loved using technology in her classroom and did so in innovative ways to assist both students and other faculty.

"She would be delighted with our choice to keep our computer systems on the cutting edge of technology for the benefit of the students," Christian said.

The faculty at Immanuel purchased pink breast cancer kerchiefs for all students to wear during the walk-a-thon and pink T-shirts were also being sold. Students got pledges for the laps they walk and preschool 4-year-olds assisted in handing out water to the walkers during the event.

The first lap was a ceremonial lap by survivors of those who want to walk in memory of those who have passed away from breast cancer.

Mount Clemens Regional Medical Center provided information and banners in support of Breast Cancer research for the walk.

Immanuel has had three other walk-a-thons. In 2001, they raised funds for the first computer lab. In 2005, they helped a Lutheran School in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina and in 2008, they raised money for the Lutheran World Relief in aiding Haiti after the hurricane.