High School students being encouraged to stay up all night? That's
exactly what happened at Bellport High School on March 5th, 2016 -
except this time it wasn't for homework.
As part of their entry into Optimum's Community Charity Champions
Challenge, the High School Student Council organized a "Stay Awake
a-Thon" where students tirelessly raised money for HELP Suffolk, a
temporary housing facility located in the South Country School District.
Students were asked to raise at least $100 to participate in the
event; 40 students accomplished the goal, many raising much more than
was required. Altogether, over $3,000 was raised for the organization.
"It was a success due to everyone's willingness to stay up for a good
cause," said senior Marisa Rupolo, an executive officer of StuCo.
Not only did the students take part in a charitable act, but they had
fun doing it! "I was so excited the whole time," senior Linnzi
Hossein-Sarro said. "We played volleyball for many hours - like eight
straight hours." Other activities included Dance, Dance Revolution,
basketball, Twister, playing with a parachute and karaoke.
"We had a squirt bottle that we went around with squirting people who
were falling asleep," senior Joshuah Cohen, the Vice President of
Student Council, added.
Senior Jaye Bookhart said, "If you spend the night with anyone -
straight hours - you create a bond like no other. I made a lot of new
friends with people I've never spoken to before."
Bellport High School is one of only eight schools selected to be a part
of the Optimum Community Challenge. Brookhaven Town Councilman
Loguercio and a representative of Optimum came to the event and awarded
HELP Suffolk with a $1,000 check on behalf of the Bellport High School
Student Council to benefit the organization as a start to Bellport's
fundraising campaign. StuCo is now planning a 5k to further raise money
for HELP Suffolk. The 5k will be held on May 15th, 2016 in Brookhaven.
Registration will be available online or on the day of the race. Email ehoffman@southcountry.org for more information.
By Cassie O'Connor