Mineola Primary students will lace up their walking shoes on Tuesday, Nov. 10, for a walk-a-thon fundraiser to raise money for Home Base, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping veterans, service members, and their families.

Home Base supports families as they navigate the challenges that can come before, during, and after a loved one's time in the military.

Students will collect pledges from family members, friends, and community supporters based on the number of laps they complete during the walk-a-thon. Each grade level will participate during its regularly scheduled physical education class, with students encouraged to complete as many laps as they can during their allotted time. Rather than setting a required number of laps, the fundraiser allows each student to participate at their own pace while working toward a shared goal. All funds collected will be combined, and Mineola Primary will submit the proceeds to Home Base.

Those who prefer not to donate per lap are welcome to make a flat donation. Donations are welcomed from the community, not just families of participating students. Those who wish to contribute may drop off their donations at the Mineola Primary front office. Checks may be made payable to either Mineola Primary School or Home Base.

“We chose Home Base because this cause has a personal connection to our school community,” Mineola Primary third-grade teacher Heather Kinsel said. “One of our beloved third-grade teachers, Mr. [Abraham] Burciaga, who is also a combat veteran, has directly benefited from the amazing services Home Base provides. In addition, our community is home to many veterans and service members. This makes this an especially meaningful opportunity for our students to give back to those who have sacrificed so much for our country.”

Through the project, organizers said they hope students will learn that honoring veterans goes beyond celebrating Veterans Day.