LA PLATA, Md. (Dec. 30, 2009)—Students at Walter J. Mitchell Elementary School in La Plata recently raised more than $1,250 for the March of Dimes by participating in a book-reading fundraiser.
More than 65 students participated in the fundraiser, and medals were awarded to students who read the highest number of books. Bronze medals were awarded to 21 students who read 10 books or less; ten silver medals were awarded to students who read between 10 and 19 books; and gold medals were awarded to 36 students who read 20 books or more.
Mathew Lehman, a fifth-grade student, also received a trophy in recognition of $155, the highest amount for the fundraiser. Students at Mitchell participate in the fundraiser each year to support the March of Dimes efforts.
The mission of the March of Dimes, a non-profit organization, is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.