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Students to hand-deliver messages to the White House

JANESVILLE — Local residents and businesses have a chance to share their opinions about important issues affecting the area and have them hand-delivered to the White House next May.

The eighth-grade class at St. Mary’s school in Janesville has come up with a unique way to help raise funds for the school’s annual trip to Washington, D.C. Individuals can write a letter for a $20 donation and businesses can participate for a donation of $100. A video message also will be delivered along with the hand-written letters.

“During this time of transition, it is our hope to support our community and encourage growth and development that benefits our neighbors and future generations,” said Barb Bortner, a St. Mary School parent who came up with the fundraiser idea. “This project also helps the young women in charge of the fundraiser learn how to respectfully share their own opinions and be heard within our system of government. It is a great opportunity for them to grow as individuals.”

The eight girls making the trip will have a chance to visit historic sites as well as meet with U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Janesville. Ryan was among the first class of eighth-graders at St. Mary’s to make the field trip to Washington, D.C. and it was the beginning of his political career, he said.

Read the full story in the e-edition of The Janesville Messenger, HERE.