For the third consecutive year Watchung is participating in the Pennies for Puppies and Dollars for Dogs fundraiser. The fundraiser began on Thursday, April 20 with an assembly from the Seeing Eye Organization featuring Don MacGowen, Volunteer Coordinator for the Seeing Eye and Betty, a puppy in training to be a guide dog. McGowen presented to students the Seeing Eye’s mission to enhance the independence, dignity and self-confidence of people who are blind through the use of specially-trained dogs. He gave a demonstration and answered questions from students.
This year, Watchung’s Student Government assisted school social worker Debra Polizzano in the efforts to make this a successful fundraiser. Kindergarten, first and second graders are donating items for the puppies and dogs. Third, fourth and fifth graders are coming up with creative ideas to collect donations.
“Watchung School’s parents and staff are great at fundraising for good causes and we have a long history of being highly successful, so we hope to continue that tradition,” said Polizzano. “Our goal is to have enough donations so that we meet the criteria to be able to name a dog!”
She continued, “This is an exciting learning opportunity for our youngsters about philanthropic endeavors and the importance of donating to help people in purposeful way,” said Polizzano. “It’s also a way to present to students the message that we can overcome obstacles as human beings if we have access to resources that can help us.”