Students at St. Francis Holy Ghost Raise Over $21,000 for Vitality Women’s Clinic

Seventh and eighth graders led over 15 creative projects, raising funds to support women and babies throughout the region in an inspiring year-long effort.

Jackie Duty

May 20, 2026 7:35 AM

Listen to the story

JERSEYVILLE - The 7th and 8th grade students at St. Francis Holy Ghost School have proven that young people can make an extraordinary difference in their community. Through more than 15 creative and entrepreneurial projects completed throughout the school year, students collectively raised an incredible $21,676 to support women, babies, and families across the region.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

The students organized and led a wide variety of fundraising initiatives from October 2025 to May 2026, including: handmade craft sales, auctions, entrepreneurial business projects, product sales, raffles, shoe drives, farm work, sports lessons and camps, community events, and other innovative campaigns designed to make a meaningful impact. Their efforts demonstrated teamwork, leadership, compassion, and a strong commitment to serving others. Regardless of how much each project raised individually, all required students to give of their time and talent to help the most vulnerable of God's people. It really is both humbling and amazing to see how students' creativity, ingenuity, and effort can make such a huge difference to others.

Teacher Katie Forrester praised the students for their dedication and determination throughout the year.

“Watching these students come together with such passion and creativity has been truly inspiring,” said Katie Forrester. “They learned valuable lessons about leadership, entrepreneurship, teamwork, and compassion while seeing firsthand how their efforts can positively impact lives in our community. I could not be more proud of what they accomplished together.”

The funds raised will directly support programs and services that provide assistance, resources, and hope to women and families throughout the region.

Jackie Duty, Executive Director, expressed gratitude for the students’ remarkable contribution and the lasting impact it will have.

Article continues after sponsor message

Reach Your Local Community with Us - advertise today!

It's as easy as 2 - 3 - 4! That's right, Taco TWOsday - 3 for $4

Shop Local

Historic Route 66 Flea Market

Get This Deal →

“These students have shown what is possible when young people are empowered to lead with purpose,” said Jackie Duty, Executive Director. “Their generosity, innovation, and hard work will help provide critical support for women and babies across our region. This is more than a fundraiser; it is a powerful example of the next generation stepping up to make a real difference in the lives of others.”

Vitality Women's Clinic is also currently in the middle of its annual Baby Bottle Campaign, which runs through Father’s Day. Large baby bottles can be delivered to local businesses, while standard baby bottles are available for area churches, schools, and community groups that want to participate in this impactful fundraiser. The campaign helps provide essential resources and support services for women, babies, and families throughout the region.

The success of the students’ projects serves as a model for how schools can inspire civic engagement, entrepreneurship, and service learning among students of all ages.

Organizations and schools interested in launching community impact projects or partnering on future initiatives are encouraged to learn more about opportunities to get students involved in meaningful service projects that drive real results.

For more information about the Baby Bottle Campaign or student partnership opportunities, visit: https://www.vitalityspeaks.net/events

For more information about Vitality Women's Clinic, upcoming events, or ways to support the organization, please visit their social media pages or contact the clinic directly.

About Vitality Women’s Clinic

Vitality Women’s Clinic provides free medical services, education, resources, and compassionate support to women and families facing unexpected pregnancies. Through personalized care and community partnerships, the organization works to empower women with clarity, confidence, and hope for the future.

Prefer RiverBender on Google