Mrs. Jansma (front center) presenting the check for $1,000 to Michael Thacker (front left) and Deonte’e Smith (front right). In the back row are TVHS Student Government Co-Sponsor Cami Shriver and TVHS Principal Kirk Doehrmann.
(Photo provided)

Rosy Jansma, Mentone resident and parent of students that attend Mentone Elementary School and Tippecanoe Valley Middle School, serves on the K21 Health Foundation Board of Directors. Because of Mrs. Jansma’s involvement in the community and her commitment to making a difference, the K21 Health Foundation recently made a donation of $1,000 in her honor.

Mrs. Jansma has chosen to use the donation to support the effort of Tippecanoe Valley High School (TVHS) Juniors, Michael Thacker and Deonte’e Smith, to bring “Rachel’s Challenge” to Tippecanoe Valley.

“Rachel’s Challenge” is a series of student empowering programs and strategies that equip students and adults to combat bullying and allay feelings of isolation and despair by creating a culture of kindness and compassion. “Rachel’s Challenge” is based on the writings and life of 17 year old Rachel Scott who was the first student killed at Columbine High School in 1999.

Michael and Deonte’e, under the guidance of TVHS JAG Instructor Katie Duran ([email protected]) and TVHS Student Government Co-Sponsors Cami Shriver ([email protected]) and Crystal Heckaman ([email protected]), have raised almost one-half of the $4,000 needed to bring “Rachel’s Challenge” to Tippecanoe Valley. Additional donations are needed. Potential contributors are encouraged to contact any of the individuals listed.