October 21, 2008

Dahlonega, GA - The North Georgia College & State University Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) participated in the NCAA’s effort to raise money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation over the weekend, setting a record for the most money raised by a Peach Belt Conference school.

Student athletes at North Georgia combined to raise $3,138.56 in a two-day span at the annual Gold Rush festival in Dahlonega, bringing in more money over one weekend than the program has raised in two years combined.

“The SAAC representatives far exceeded my expectations this year,” Associate Athletic Director Lindsay Reeves said. “Their commitment and dedication to raising money for the Make A Wish Foundation to grant a wish to a child with life-threatening medical conditions is truly amazing.”

The current Student Athletic Advisory Committee has a goal to raise a total of $5,000, giving North Georgia the opportunity to grant a wish of their own to a child in need.

The Student Athletic Advisory Committee and NCAA Division II have been proud sponsors of the Make-A-Wish Foundation since 2003. Through the partnership, athletes and students dedicate themselves to fundraising on the Foundation’s behalf.

With the collaborative effort of Division II schools, the partnership generated over $315,000 during the 2007-2008 academic year. The funds raised bring joy to a sick child, giving him or her the strength to fight on with the hope of one day living a healthy life.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation grants a wish every 40 minutes. In 2007, over 13,000 wishes were granted across the county.