Decorah High School students are raising money for Haitians

Decorah High School students are stepping up to help victims of the recent earthquakes in Haiti.

Several different student groups are involved with the effort, including DHS's Young Democrats, Community Club, Art and Science Club and FFA. Students will be collecting money for earthquake victims. All contributions will be donated to UNICEF to help further their efforts in Haiti. Donation containers will be placed in several classrooms around the school as well as in many local businesses.

The fundraising drive is held in memory of Benjamin Larson, who was the first confirmed American fatality of the earthquake and had many ties to the community. "In the face of such a tragedy, the DHS students felt compelled to help with the earthquake efforts in Haiti," said Becca Eastwood, Community Club President. "And because the major news programs advocated sending cash donations, we decided to start a community relief effort," added Josh Martin, Young Democrats Vice President.

"This drive speaks volumes about our school. It's great how many different student groups stepped up and gave their time and effort to the project," commented Jacob Knobbe, Young Democrats President.

Donations will be accepted through February 2nd. Contact Community Club advisor Liz Fox at 382-3643 with any questions.

(Pictured above, Front Row, left to right): John Werner, Pearl Faldet, Liz Hovden, Jonathon Knudson. (Back Row, left to right): Emma Breitenstein, Josh Martin, Erik Sand, Marea Holkesvik, Jacob Knobbe, Claire Breitenstein, Gavyn Samuelson and Becca Eastwood. (Not pictured): Allie Canoy, Erica Bjelland, Gabe Eide and Kaia Miller.