Working to Give All Children a Reason to Smile.

Teachers and Students

Are you a student in elementary or middle school? Are you interested in making a difference in the lives of children your age? If so, talk to your teacher(s) and direct him/her to this site. We have two specific fundraising programs set up for elementary and middle schoolers, as well as an annual writing contest.

Spell-a-Thon "Reason 2 Spell"

Spell-a-Thon "Reason 2 Spell" - a school fundraising activity. Ideal for 2nd through 4th grades but can be used at any level in which vocabulary is of importance. This is an easy and effective way to raise money for a good cause while also improving/reinforcing spelling skills.

Click here for a printable copy of the full details for this fundraising event.

  1. Each child is given a spelling list, a parent letter, and a sponsor sheet (with columns labeled: sponsor's name, amount pledged per word, number correct on test, and amount owed) about 2 weeks before the test date. He/she studies the words and collects sponsors (usually 1 cent to 25 cents per word, but some people may want to pledge a flat rate) from family, friends, and neighbors.
  2. The spelling words could be from word walls or review words for your curriculum.
  3. Students turn in their pledge sheets the day before the test. (Of course they will have been studying because the better they do, the more money they will collect.)
  4. After you have given and scored the tests, you enter the test score on each child's pledge sheet. Then figure out (or help your students figure out) how much each of their sponsors owes.
  5. The children then collect money in an envelope (you may include this on the envelope so parents fully understand the procedure) and return it to school. Give them a week or so to collect it.

You may want to run the money through your school PTA/PTO or a student organization. Then have them make out your total check to "Reason2Smile Inc."

Koins for Kenyan Kids

"Koins for Kenyan Kids" is a simple fundraiser which raises awareness as well as funds. Ideal for children ages 5 to 15 years. This is a wonderful way to raise awareness and appreciation for what we have and how lucky we are, while helping those less fortunate.

The printable sheet is self-explanatory. Please contact Keela Dates at keela@reason2smile.org if you're interested in this activity.

Reason2Smile Annual Writing Contest

Each year Reason2Smile Inc hosts a writing contest for students from grades two through six.  The contest offers students the opportunity to showcase their talents in response to a specific theme.  Each year's theme is related to our mission to assist impoverished orphans and at-risk children living in developing countries.  Competition categories include: prose and poetry.  Click here to view this year's writing contest details.  Please find the submission release form here.