PHS Junior Raises More Than $1400 Autism Resources of Marshall County

PHS Junior Raises More Than $1400 Autism Resources of Marshall County

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Plymouth High School Junior Samantha Zechiel is overjoyed after hosting, A Walk on the Wild Side Family Fun Carnival, on April 13 at Menominee Elementary School. This is the second year in a row that Zechiel organized an event to raise funds and awareness for autism resources available in Marshall County. Last year’s Family Fun Carnival took place at Plymouth High School and it raised $800 for Autism Resources of Marshall County (ARMC). This year the proceeds increased by more than 50 percent. “We raised over $1400 for ARMC, which will go a long way to help them continue the programs they have currently and expand their reach even further,” said Zechiel.

The two-hour event included games and fun activities for children, such as carnival games, bouncy houses, and concession type food and snacks for purchase. An estimate of 250 to 300 people attended this year’s event that took place in the Menominee cafeteria and gymnasium. Zechiel said she is most proud of the attendance growth. “It grew astronomically in size between last year and this year. Publicity was a big priority this year and it was truly amazing how many people heard about it and came out to support a great cause,” she said.

Not only did attendance grow this year, but so did the list of community business supporters. “The Family Fun Carnival wouldn’t have been possible if it wasn’t for the support of Ameriprise Financial, Collins Real Estate, Plymouth Bounce, Bowen Printing, Felke Florist, K Three, LLC, Coca-Cola, Pizza Hut, Papa John’s, Mancino’s, and Kroger,” said Zechiel.

Another important growth factor is the knowledge she has gained by organizing the second autism awareness fundraiser. “I have learned so much over the last two years. I have learned the importance of communication and publicity. This year I learned that we actually underestimated how many supplies we needed and will have to buy more next year. I have learned how to organize extremely well and run the event efficiently. Overall, I think I have probably gained the most knowledge about working with all different kinds of people and bringing them together to make something incredible happen, said Zechiel.

When asked if she foresees a third event to raise autism awareness her senior year, she was confident in her following answer. “Yes, the carnival will definitely take place again next year. We are already starting the plans!”


PHS students, Ryan Wolfe, Samantha and Teri Zechiel working welcome table.

students and bounce house   students working and playing games

students working and playing games   Thanks to our sponsors Ameriprise Financial, Collins Real Estate, Plymouth Bounce, Bowen Printing, Felke Florist, K Three, LLC, Coca-Cola, Pizza Hut, Papa John’s, Mancino’s, and Kroger

Ameriprise Financial, Collins Real Estate, Plymouth Bounce, Bowen Printing, Felke Florist, K Three, LLC, Coca-Cola, Pizza Hut, Papa John’s, Mancino’s, and KrogerPHS Students and Teri Zechiel working welcome table.