A group of students from Colonel Macleod Middle School organized a Tsunami Run for Relief Fund on Friday, January 21, 2005.  This fundraiser took place to support the natural disaster that occurred in Southeast Asia. 

The objective of the run was to raise money for Tsunami victims, and to acknowledge the fact that even though we are half way across the world we are still capable of showing our concern for those in agony.  We believed that this run relates to those who are suffering because Calgary was having harsh weather conditions, and for our whole school to go run outside in the cold for 20 minutes was nothing in comparison to what people in Southeast Asia have been through. 

This event was completely student planned, including getting the media involved.  A-Channel News was able to have this school wide event broadcast on television, and interviewed a couple of students as well.  The school also received donations from Calgary North Hill Coop of hot chocolate for students to enjoy after the run.  It was very much appreciated.  Having the support of not only the media but Calgary Coop North Hill and others has made this event the success it turned out to be.  We were open to donations throughout the weeks before the run, and also ran many other fundraisers from which all proceeds were added to the Tsunami relief fund. 

All together by the end of the run, our school had reached a total of over $2,000.00 for the Red Cross.  The turn out was terrific for the run, for students and teachers were enthusiastic and were really into it.  Cars driving by were also “honking for hope” as they saw the large banners and passionate students and teachers running and cheering for relief.  Every person who donated and helped out at this event should be glad to know that they have made a world of difference.  Each and every penny donated by the staff and students will make a difference. 

This event has left the members of Colonel Macleod Middle School with a positive feeling, for we are all proud to have made a difference in other's lives, and to help out in an international disaster which is bringing the whole world together.