The Iola community came together in full force on Saturday, Aug. 12, for the annual “Stuff the Bus” event, aimed at providing much-needed school supplies for students in the Iola-Scandinavia School District. The event, organized by the Iola Lions Club, not only collected an impressive array of essential school items but also raised a substantial sum of money.
Under the bright summer sun, volunteers and members of the Iola Lions Club diligently gathered at the Iola Sentry to spearhead the charitable endeavor. The day’s efforts resulted in an inspiring show of support, with a staggering 15 boxes brimming with school supplies being collected. These supplies, ranging from notebooks and pencils to backpacks and calculators, will undoubtedly help equip local students for the upcoming academic year.
The financial contributions were equally remarkable. A total of $1,792 in cash donations was generously contributed by community members. However, the fundraising efforts did not stop there. An additional $400.50 was generated through a brat fry, adding a flavorful and successful touch to the event’s fundraising component. In total, the monetary contributions reached an impressive $2,192.50.
Chris Nelson, the Iola-Scandinavia School District administrator, expressed his gratitude, stating, “We thank the Iola Lions for holding the Stuff the Bus and their continued support of the school. This event will undoubtedly make a significant difference in the lives of our students.”
Mark Forseth, a representative of the Iola Lions Club, echoed Nelson’s sentiments, saying, “On behalf of the Iola Lions, I’d like to thank the community for their generous support of this wonderful and needed event. It’s heartening to see the community come together to ensure our students have the tools they need for success.”
The Stuff the Bus event has become a beloved tradition in Iola, embodying the spirit of unity and community support. The combined efforts of volunteers, donors, and organizers have once again demonstrated the power of collective action in making a positive impact on the local education system.
As the new school year approaches, the supplies and funds gathered from this event will undoubtedly contribute to a brighter and more successful academic journey for the students of the Iola-Scandinavia School District.
