Achieve Academy East Supports Breast Cancer Awareness

Achieve Academy East Breast Cancer Awareness Month

The Achieve Academy East community came together to raise over $1,180 during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Fundraising Events That Made an Impact

Throughout October, students and staff participated in a variety of events designed to raise both funds and awareness, including community door and bulletin board competitions, planting pink mums in the school’s Garden of Hope, wristband and ribbon dress-down fundraisers, bake sales, a breast cancer survivors assembly featuring guest speakers. The month culminated in a check presentation to Women of Faith and Hope, a Philadelphia nonprofit dedicated to helping women affected by breast cancer.

Strengthening Community Partnerships

“Supporting a local group with the potential to become a long-term community partner strengthens the very connections we hope to cultivate for our students,” said David Wong, director, Achieve Academy East.

The initiative also created meaningful learning opportunities. Beyond fundraising, students practiced math skills like budgeting, pricing, calculating profits, tracking sales, and analyzing data. Just as importantly, they experienced the power of belonging.

“Participating in a charitable effort allows students to see themselves as part of something bigger, building school pride and reinforcing the bond between Achieve Academy East and our surrounding community,” said Wong.

Guest Speakers Inspire and Educate Students

A highlight of the month was an assembly featuring two inspiring guest speakers: Novella Lyons and Shelley Applegate, both breast cancer survivors and founding members of Women of Faith and Hope. They courageously shared their personal journeys, spoke about the experiences of other survivors, and provided critical information on early detection, risk factors, symptoms, screening, treatment, and prevention. Their message resonated deeply with students and staff alike, bringing purpose and humanity to the initiative.

“I am proud of the compassion, hard work, and community spirit shown throughout this effort,” said Wong. “Together, we honored survivors, supported a local organization, and empowered our students to learn, lead, and give back.”