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RIVERTON -- Riverton High School not only has the state's largest student body, they make a sizable effort to serve the community. As part of our KSL Schools project, we show the teen version of Christmas spirit.
Recently, Riverton High had a food fight, but this one was approved. The lunch ladies even provided the pasta. For a few dollars, students could pelt their friends for a good cause.
If not spaghetti, try a serenade. These are just a few of the fundraisers during several days of Riverton High's Silver Rush.
"It's nice because everyone gets to think of others and how they can help others, and also have fun. I think that's what it's really meant to be," said Fota Mulitalo, student body president at Riverton High.
Fun, it may be; but they raise serious cash. Last year they brought in more than $82,000.
This year, the students will donate to the Road Home shelter. They've looked beyond finals and Christmas break to come together with a purpose.
"Our main goal for Silver Rush is to change lives in the community. That's the big focus," said McKay Wells, a student body officer at the school.
Their craftwork and concerts not only help Utah's poor, teachers will spend these weeks teaching students the issues surrounding homelessness.
During an economy when many students' families are experiencing their own hard times, educators say it's not about the dollars, it's the change -- the change in students.
"Just know that other people are out there, that they're not alone," Mulitalo said.
This may be the last year Riverton can capitalize on their army of 3,000 student volunteers. Next year, the high school will be split when the new Herriman High opens.
E-mail: dwimmer@ksl.com
