Manchester High’s Biggest Turkey fundraiser exceeded all expectations, raising $25,550 to support the school’s Angels Program. This year’s goal was $15,000, which sponsors initially thought would be a stretch because the annual fundraiser had never before surpassed $12,000.
The National English Honor Society and PTSO organize the Biggest Turkey fundraiser. They thanked the community via social media, saying the goal was not just met but was “obliterated. … Your generosity has blown us away, and we are truly grateful for the heart, kindness and spirit you brought to the fundraiser.”
The Biggest Turkey fundraiser started 20 years ago to provide Manchester High students and families with Christmas gifts, stockings and food. Each participating teacher gets a construction paper turkey on their door. For each $1 donation, students can add a feather to the turkey of their choice.
As the fundraiser progresses, the turkeys grow feathers and ultimately one teacher is named the Biggest Turkey.
This year’s Biggest Turkey is English teacher Kelley Perrotte with 8,508 feathers. She’s also the main sponsor of the National English Honor Society and said, “This fundraiser makes the magic of the spirit happen. … Manchester has many families who really need some help through the various hardships they face. … I’ve seen this program do amazing things for loving and grateful families. It eases burdens, creates smiles and offers a sense of belonging and support to our Lancers who are struggling. We do not want anyone in our Lancer family to face challenges alone. Manchester is a family.”