Police Sponsor Fundraiser for Rwandan Spring Valley Academy Students

Story by Vicki Swetnam

When Police Officer Tom Thompson heard about the 26 Rwandan refugee students attending Spring Valley Academy (SVA), he determined to raise money to help provide them with lunches, tuition and other expenses. He encouraged fellow officers at the Grandview, Ohio, police department to join him in a “no-shave” fundraiser challenge. They proudly presented a $3,000 check for the Rwandan students to Principal Darren Wilkins at a pizza party held at the school.

“This experience was a blessing for us and we really enjoyed talking and listening to the children,” shares Thompson. “It is especially rewarding when you can put a face to those we endeavored to help.”