JACKSON – You’d expect a sports team to rally for a good cause, and this team didn’t disappoint. In fact, they went above and beyond.
For National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the Jackson Boys Basketball Team adorned their campus with gold ribbons and signs honoring the event, Liberty coach Don Connor said. But the team wanted to do more, so a “Change for Cancer” fundraising drive was created.
Team members placed empty water jugs in a number of areas throughout the school. Anyone with loose change was asked to donate, hence the name “Change for Cancer.”
The jugs were in place for five days, from Monday, September 27 to Friday, October 1. Then, at the annual Jackson Liberty vs Jackson Memorial Boys Basketball game, a portion of the proceeds went to the Chase Ryan Olsen Foundation. Chase, who attended the Jackson School District, succumbed to cancer in 2009, when he was just 9 years of age. So, the team did not have to look far for the right group to donate their proceeds, Connor said.
Maureen Olsen, Chase’s mother, was invited to Liberty Hall for a check presentation with the team and Liberty Principal Geoff Brignola. The original goal was to raise $400 and they were able to give $1011.73 to the Chase Ryan Olsen Foundation.
Mrs. Olsen did not have enough words to thank them on behalf of her family and foundation, but Connor did. “I am so proud to work in a school such with amazing teachers and staff and as for the student body who was amazing in promoting and donating to this cause, makes me so happy to say I am a Liberty Lion!”
Connor credited the team for their heart and dedication to the cause. He believes there is so much more to teach to his team than just shooting and dribbling. He believes in teaching his kids about life and what they can do not only to change their own but others’ lives as well. He feels a connection between school and community is extremely important during these times.
The success of the fundraiser was a bright spot in the middle of the difficult pandemic, he said. It showed that no matter what, Liberty staff and students will go above and beyond for each other. They look forward to doing this event again in the future.
