Five Oaks Academy: A Compassionate Community of Givers

We recently received a donation totaling $4308.65 from Five Oaks Academy in Simpsonville, South Carolina.  The dollars raised symbolizes the tremendous spirit of these 42 students, their passionate teacher and their generous community of givers.  Throughout the school year in various fundraisers some sponsored by the Wells of Love program, the students raised $614.50.  In May, 41 students took part in an Amman-a-thon raising $3,694.60 by turning cartwheels, jumping rope, dribbling a basketball and engaging in other athletic activities.  Teacher Bonnie Benthall sent us this letter:

Dear Debbie and Ariane,
It is with great pleasure and a happy heart that I send this donation to you today.  I'm extremely proud of my students and all their efforts.  They have worked so hard for this wonderful cause.  All year long the students have been passionate about helping Amman Imman.

We have sold water at carlines and festivals.  Each student made crafts to sell at Christmas time for the Hand-in-Hand campaign, and all but one student was able to participate in our Amman-a-thon. Additionally, many of our students were so moved by this cause that they decided to raise money at home by selling soaps door to door, setting up a road side fruit stand, selling drawings, and selling candy. Other students donated allowances with parent matching their amount.  Many students are part of a local girl scout troop, which graciously donated part of their girl scout cooking money to Amman Imman.

The generosity of our students and parents continue daily.

Our school has participated in many other fundraising events, but no other organization or cause has created this large an impact on our students. I speak for all staff members at Five Oaks Academy in saying, Amman Imman and the efforts on behalf of Amman Imman have inspired our students to understand the true importance of philanthropic giving and helping others less fortunate.

I feel blessed to be a part of such a remarkable cause.  Thank you both for your support and efforts.

In Peace and Love,

Bonnie Benthall and Five Oaks Academy

Thank you, Bonnie, for being a beacon of light 

for your students and the children of the Azawak. 

You are an inspiration to teachers everywhere 

who want to teach their students 

what it means to give and take action.

Here are some photos from the Five Oaks Amman-a-thon through which the students engaged their philanthropic spirit, improved their athletic abilities, and employed their math skills while raising funds.