As the holiday season approaches, Moline High School is keeping the spirit of giving at the forefront of seasonal celebrations. This year, Moline students and staff are hosting the 75th year of their Share Joys fundraiser.
Starting as a toy drive in 1949, Share Joys has since evolved into a fundraiser to clothe Moline-Coal Valley District students in need, partnering with the National Honor Society, Student Congress and local organizations. Since its founding, the annual fundraiser has raised over $1.5 million in donations.
In honor of the fundraiser’s anniversary, Moline English teacher and Share Joys Co-Coordinator Heidi Norcross said the school has set a goal to raise $75,000 this year, its highest target yet.
"The 75th anniversary is just a really big deal," Norcross said. "The fact that we've been doing this fundraiser for as long as we have, and it's continued to be a tradition here at Moline High School, is something that we're really proud of."
The fundraiser includes efforts from Moline High School students and staff, as well as the district's middle and elementary schools. On Dec. 5, the high school will host its annual costume-themed donut-eating contest for students at 7:15 a.m. in the east gym. The event is open to the community, with raffles, fundraising activities and treats for sale.
"Share Joys isn't just about providing clothing to students in need within our district," Norcross said. "It's also really teaching our students here to be sharers and the goodness of giving to others, so they're kind of sharing in that experience as well."
Donations to the Share Joys fundraiser can be made through checks sent to Moline High School or online at the school's website.
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