Mineola Primary students will hold a walk-a-thon fundraiser on Tuesday, Nov. 10, to raise money for Home Base, a nonprofit that helps veterans, service members and their families. Home Base supports families through challenges before, during and after a loved one's military service.
Students will collect pledges from family members, friends and community supporters based on the laps they complete. Each grade will take part during its regular physical education class. There is no required number of laps, so students can work at their own pace. Families who prefer a flat donation can give that way instead. Community members who are not connected to the students are also welcome to give.
Donations can be dropped off at the Mineola Primary front office. Checks may be made payable to Mineola Primary School or Home Base. The school will combine all funds and send the proceeds to Home Base.
Third-grade teacher Heather Kinsel said the school chose Home Base because of a personal connection. She said a third-grade teacher at the school, Abraham Burciaga, is a combat veteran who has benefited from Home Base services. Kinsel said many veterans and service members live in the community. Organizers said they hope students learn that honoring veterans goes beyond Veterans Day.