Terry’s Team: Grade 5 Leaders Making a Difference

After the passing of a beloved classmate earlier this year, grade 5 students at Terry Fox Elementary decided to develop a new leadership club to support the needs of their school, with a focus on fundraising and giving back to the community. With the help of their teachers, Amy Baker and Jeremy Wiebe, over half of the grade 5 students from Terry Fox Elementary formed the leadership club Terry’s Team.

Launched in October, students decided that they wanted their first project to be one that gave back to the children’s hospice where their classmate had spent much of their time. Students immediately started fundraising for Canuck Place Children’s Hospice and were able to raise just over $1900 for the organization.

“We are so thrilled with this donation,” said a Canuck Place Children’s Hospice representative. “Canuck Place is funded mainly by private donations, and this donation will provide much-needed help to a child in need.”

The students were so enthusiastic and excited about what they were able to contribute that they decided to take on an additional fundraising challenge to support another classmate who will be undergoing surgery within the new year. Over the course of a short few months, Terry’s Team has been able to successfully fundraise through bake sales, collecting the school recycling, setting up assemblies and most recently facilitating the Holiday Food Bank Drive.

“I couldn't be prouder of how our older students are modelling citizenship for their younger peers,” said Angela Magon, Principal of Terry Fox Elementary. “What a great example for them to set!"

With their dedication to supporting their school and community needs, these Grade 5 student leaders have been able to make a big difference.