MADISON, Wis. – On Monday evenings, female student-athletes come together to encourage all girls to be strong, smart and bold like the nationally-recognized organization, Girls Inc.

Since it can be challenging for girls to take risks and manage physical, intellectual and emotional changes, this program raises awareness for math and science education, pregnancy and drug abuse prevention, media literacy, economic literacy, adolescent health, violence prevention, and sports participation.

The Goodman Community Center creates a safe and inclusive environment for its members to explore new ideas and step out of their comfort zone. Anika Nelson of women’s rowing noted the impact that Girls Inc. had not only on female youth in the area, but also on herself.

“I loved working with Girls Inc. It was a challenge to gain the girls’ trust [at first], but showing up consistently really helped with that,” said Nelson. “I’m glad I could give back to a community that has given me, as an athlete, so much.”

During past visits, student-athletes tutored girls on homework and participated in a variety of physical activities including dodgeball, tag, nature walks and self-defense.

Gabby Scherle from softball credits Girls Inc. for being a great opportunity to bond and build relationships with middle school girls in the Madison community.

“It’s always a good time playing games and having some friendly competition,” Scherle said. “I feel like I continue to get to know them better each time I go.”

Community outreach opportunities like Girls Inc. at the Goodman Community Center give our Badger student-athletes a platform to positively influence the Madison community and empower females everywhere.

For more information on the Goodman Community Center, please visit their website at www.goodmancenter.org.

Source: http://www.uwbadgers.com/

Students and teachers made great strides in the fight against breast cancer by raising money for the American Cancer Society during the 4th annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, held at the Meszaros Field and Oley Track on Oct. 25. Through generous donations from students, faculty, staff
and community members, the District raised more than $3,000.

“It was a wonderful experience to see so many students come together and work for something bigger than themselves,” said Irvington High School teacher Kathleen Tetro, who helped organize the walk. “Thanks to everyone who gave to this wonderful cause.”

The event was co-sponsored by the Irvington Faculty Association and Irvington High School Bridges Program, as well as members of the Student Council, Key Club and Community Service Club.

Donations will be accepted through Oct. 31. For more information, please visit www.main.acsevents.org/goto/IFA2016.

Photo Captions: Irvington Union Free School District students and faculty members raised more than $3,000 during the 4th annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, held on Oct. 25.

Photos courtesy of the Irvington Union Free School District

Port Jefferson School District students stepped up to raise money for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention through an Out of the Darkness Walk, held at Jones Beach on Oct. 23.

More than 40 students participated in the walk under the banner of Team Dylan, in memory of Port Jefferson student Dylan Berger. They raised $4,565 through sponsorships, T-shirt and bake sales.
“We had a tremendous show of support,” said Principal Christine Austin.

Photo Caption: Port Jefferson students raised $4,565 for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention through an Out of the Darkness Walk held at Jones Beach on Oct. 23.

Photo courtesy of the Port Jefferson School District

Norman J. Levy Lakeside School in the Merrick School District held a costume drive from Oct. 3-14 to benefit local families who cannot afford Halloween costumes.

Assisted by students, teachers and administrators, the school’s student council collected six large garbage bags full of costumes, which will go to help children in need and ensure they have an amazing Halloween.

The Levy Lakeside school community wishes all children and families in the district a safe and happy Halloween!

Photo Caption: Members of the Levy Lakeside School Student Council collected Halloween costumes to benefit children in the community.

Photo courtesy of the Merrick School District

East Islip High School’s girls volleyball teams held their annual Dig Pink event on Oct. 5, in recognition of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and in order to raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Dressed in pink at the games against visiting Brentwood, the crowd, including Superintendent John V. Dolan, cheered the varsity Lady Redmen on to a 3-0 victory. The junior varsity team lost a tough match, but still maintained a winning 5-3 record.

The dedicated athletes also helped support the special event by dipping pretzels, preparing bags of candy to sell, making posters and decorating the gymnasium. Throughout October, the entire high school will follow the volleyball players’ lead and wear pink on Fridays to show support for the cause.
“The support from the students, teachers, staff, and parents makes this event bigger every year,” said varsity head coach Romina Chacon. “We hope to continue to raise more awareness and funds throughout the month and upcoming years.”

Photo Captions:
IMG_0519: East Islip High School’s girls volleyball teams held the annual Dig Pink event on Oct. 5 to raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Photos courtesy of the East Islip School District