YAN’s Pennies for Panzi fundraising competition will be back in action again on February 6th- 16th.

All of the money earned from this event will go to the PanziUSA Foundation in support of the Panzi Hospital in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which specifically helps victims of war, rape, and abuse.

Since 1999, the hospital has treated 85,864 women and girls who have been victims of sexual violence and complex gynecological injuries. The Panzi Hospital offers physical care, psychological support, legal assistance, and education among other programs.

“Over the past few years our funds have been used for the children’s school on site.  We are helping the children of the women survivors.  After [the women] surgeries, they are then provided with additional education and skills so that they can support themselves and their children moving forward.  The more education that they receive, the greater their chances at long term survival are,” said YAN Adviser Cummins McNitt.

All of the following high school teachers will have donation cans in their rooms: Ms. Beigle, Mrs. Burket, Mr. Cammarata, Ms. Davis, Ms. Grugan, Mr. McNitt, Mrs. Redinger, and Ms. Taylor.

The two classrooms that raise the most money will each receive $40. The teacher will decide what the class will do with the winning prize.

“This is so important because it gives the small town of Tyrone an opportunity to reach out globally. This is something so much bigger than any of us. It’s rape and abuse. Women and children need our help, and anything we can do to relieve that pain is such a big help to them,” said YAN president Riean Minnich.

For the first time, collection cans will also be placed throughout the community, including Caterpillar Corner, Silver Screen Video, OIP and Burger King.  

Last year, YAN raised $1176 for the Panzi Foundation; $800 of that total came from Anslee Walk, the 2015 Homecoming Queen.

“But, our students are determined to have a go at [raising an equally high amount].  We have a great club with some amazing student members and leaders. I truly believe they can achieve this goal,” said McNitt.