Judah Jog-a-Thon Raises $29,000 for Its Music Program

Fifth graders Cash Johnson and Tavis Turner celebrate their run with popsicles

The Theodore Judah Elementary Jog-a-Thon, in East Sacramento, raised $29,000 for the school’s prestigious music program, surpassing the event’s goal of $18,000.

“The Jog-a-Thon was an amazing success,” said Jill Gardiner, who has been producing the event on behalf of Judah for the last seven years. “Thank you to our staff, parents, volunteers and community members who came out by the dozen to help make it run smoothly. It was the best year ever.”

The event, which was held November 14, is Judah’s second largest fundraiser. Monies raised are used to employ a school music teacher and provides for weekly instruction to students, including music appreciation, history, singing and rhythm, as well as a strong progressive note reading system.

“We see the effects of our music instruction as it enhances our students’ creativity and critical thinking abilities,” said Celeste. “This year’s proceeds will also fund 100 ukuleles, which will expand musical instruction on string instruments to all 6th grade students.”

New this year, the Jog-a-Thon implemented a sponsorship program which included title sponsor Pettit Gilwee of Lyon Real Estate, as well as businesses sponsors: Compton’s Market, Run to Feed the Hungry event producer Rich Hanna, Shields Electric, Law Office of Stephanie Glorioso Epolite, Firefly Art, East Sac Barber Shop, East Sac Give Back and Full Bleed Screen Apparel Printing.

The school also incorporated an online pledge platform so students’ friends and families could donate money electronically.

For more information about the Theodore Judah Jog-a-Thon and its music program, click to the Theodore Judah Elementary PTA website at www.theodorejudahpta.org.