MARION — Students will be running for fun and funds at Volunteers at Sippican Elementary’s “Boosterthon,” the group’s largest annual fundraiser, from March 1 to March 12.

The theme of this year’s Boosterthon is “World Changer Workshop” where students will learn about what it takes to make a difference by being introduced to a number of character lessons, according to an Old Rochester Regional School District press release.

The Boosterthon event is a “favorite” among students, according to the district.

The Boosterthon will feature a glow-in-the-dark “fun run” where students run laps to raise money for VASE’s enrichment programs.

“The Boosterthon is their largest fundraising effort that raises funds for all enrichment activities and grosses over half of all monies needed to support VASE.'s annual budget,” read the press release.

Over the past two years VASE has coordinated presentations from many performing artists who have engaged with students during school meetings, classroom visits and community events. VASE also raises money for annual field trips for Sippican School students. Past field trips have included visits to the Plimoth Patuxet Museums and the Mayflower, the Cape Cod Natural History Museum, the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra and a three-day field trip to Camp Burgess.

"I am proud that our organization has continued the longstanding tradition of providing enrichment beyond the classroom for the students of Sippican School," said VASE President Joanna Vergoni. "VASE volunteers include parents and family members from both current and past Sippican students, community members from all across the Tri-Town including Tabor Academy, Old Rochester [Regional] High School as well as retirees and volunteers from other local non-profits.” "

VASE also organizes a program for students called “After School Enrichment.” The program is free for all Sippican Elementary students and features activities and learning opportunities like jewelry making, robotics and intramural sports.

According to the press release, VASE’s primary objectives are to provide Sippican School students with enrichment beyond the classroom environment and to support teachers and staff. Of the money raised by VASE, approximately 49% goes toward performing arts and enrichment, 19% goes toward community outreach and teacher support services, 12% goes toward fundraising investments, 10% goes to in-school events and nine percent goes to administrative costs. 

"We appreciate the VASE volunteers for their consistent effort in coordinating and funding these educational and memorable activities for our students," said Old Rochester Regional School District Superintendent Michael Nelson.

According to VASE, they hope to raise $25,000 through the Boosterthon this year. To donate, visit mybooster.com.