Learning Tree Elementary's 10th Annual Walk-A-Thon was a major success, raising just over $37,000 toward important campus upgrades including an outdoor bathroom, new soccer nets, updated playground equipment, and a kitchen remodel. Their fundraising event matched previous years' results and delivered something even more valuable, community spirit, student enthusiasm, and a reminder of the power of teamwork.

Making Fundraising Easier with PledgeStar

As a small school, Learning Tree turns to PledgeStar each year to lighten the workload and streamline the process.
"We continue using PledgeStar because it's so simple to use and so effective at keeping track of every amount we raise," said event coordinator Crystal. "At the click of a button, we can see totals by class, track who's registered, and easily monitor progress. It saves us so much time."

One of the team's favorite features? Real-time tracking. "Every morning, I would update the total so the kids could see our funds growing," Crystal shared. "It helped keep everyone motivated."

A High-Energy Event With Heart

On the big day, excitement was high as the Walk-A-Thon kicked off with a starting gun. Students made their way around the track, marking each lap with pride. For two full hours, music filled the air while kids walked, families cheered, and volunteers passed out snacks and drinks. The event wrapped with pizza for everyone, a tradition that's become a student favorite.

"The students love it," Crystal said. "And we love that it promotes moving our bodies and staying healthy."

Prizes and Participation

This year's fundraiser included fun incentives to keep the momentum going. Awards were given to top-earning families, students who sent out the most pledge requests, and those who completed the most laps in their class. The class that raised the most earned an ice cream party, just one more way the school keeps things fun and engaging.

Whole-School Involvement

The entire Learning Tree community came together to make the Walk-A-Thon a success. Parents created PledgeStar accounts and shared pledge requests, teachers helped students train for the event, and volunteers donated snacks and helped serve pizza on event day.

Crystal emphasized that the support from parents, teachers, and staff is what makes this event shine each year. "It starts slow," she said, "but once people get on board, the momentum builds fast."

Shoutout to PledgeStar Support

Crystal also gave a special shoutout to Emily from PledgeStar, who provided excellent support throughout the planning process. "She was a superstar, so patient when we had questions or needed to make changes."

Looking Ahead

Though the event is over, the impact continues. The funds raised will go directly toward upgrades that benefit every student and the experience brought the school together in a fun, healthy, and meaningful way.

"To anyone planning a fundraiser, I encourage you to use PledgeStar," Crystal said. "It's absolutely worth the effort and investment."