Notre Dame High School held its first “Spirits Ignite” Walkathon on Friday, September 28, 2012. The afternoon began with the entire school community walking laps out on the softball fields followed by a wonderful barbecue lunch prepared by parent volunteers. The day continued as students enjoyed a variety of games that included Egg Toss, Tug-of-War, Hula Hoop Wave, Whip Cream Bubbles, Limbo and Three - legged races. In addition, the girls enjoyed a delicious popcorn station, they learned how to make cotton candy, and they had the option of having their faces painted. The afternoon ended with the students learning that they successfully raised more than $23,000. The freshmen class took first place in the class competition, having brought in the most sponsorships, followed by the sophomores, seniors then juniors. In addition, the winners of the individual student incentives were drawn. 

The idea of a student-driven fundraiser was first conceived when a team of students were invited to take the lead to plan and organize the event. With the guidance of volunteer alumnae parent, Mrs. Cheri Swain, and the ND Director of Development, Mrs. Corrie Cubillas, the students turned a vision into reality over the course of three months. The team met weekly to develop a marketing plan in order to educate the student body as to the importance of supporting their school.  Proceeds from this fundraiser aid the Notre Dame Annual Fund. As an unrestricted fund, contributions help toward such things as technology programs and equipment, service programs, athletics, and facilities. Gifts are used to meet the school’s most pressing operational needs. 

We wish to thank all those who sponsored our students. Your donations truly make a positive impact and help to fill the “gap” between tuition revenue and the actual cost of educating the young women of Notre Dame.

We also wish to thank the numerous parent volunteers who worked behind-the-scenes on the day of the event and/or who donated requested items and prizes. In addition, we are grateful to our faculty for their support and participation. Finally, a very large shout out and thank you to those students who reached out to family, friends and community members for sponsorships; they have earned the title, Young Women Philanthropists of Notre Dame High School.