The skies are clear, but by the end of the day today, more than a few teachers will likely be drenched.

During all lunches today, Best Buddeies is hosting a dunk tank to benefit the program.  This is the second time NASH staff members have taken the plunge for charity.  According to Ms. Beck, one of the club sponsors, the idea for a dunk tank first came about as a unique way to raise money. 

“Fundraising at North Allegheny is really difficult because everyone is fundraising.  We wanted to do something different and fun that would get a lot of attention.”

The first dunk tank took place on the 4th of March in 2020 to benefit the “Spread the word to end the word” campaign, which is a global initiative that promotes inclusion for those with development and intellectual disabilities.  The first dunk tank was originally supposed to happen earlier in the year but, according to Mrs. Beck, was moved later due to logistical problems.

“We realized we couldn’t fit the dunk tank in the building that year, so we had to push it [back],” she said.

The tank’s date was moved and the event was held outside instead of in the building.  The event proved to be a resounding success, raising $500 for charity, and was intended to be a recurring yearly event.  However, just a few weeks after it took place, school went online due to Covid-19, and the future of the fundraiser was unknown.  

But this year the dunk tank has returned, and by all accounts, it appears to be better than ever.  The planning process, in Mrs. Beck’s words, had no major hitches of any kind.

“There were no issues,” she said. “The staff are great and eager to volunteer.  The administration is supportive, so it was easy to do.”

One throw will cost $2, and three attempts will cost $5.  But Best Buddies is also including the option to forgo the chance of missing the mark and simply walking up and hitting the dunk button for $10. 

Best Buddies is a nationwide nonprofit organization that pairs someone with an intellectual or developmental disability with one of their typical peers to help foster lasting friendships.  

The fundraiser will take place during the three lunch periods today.  Students and staff can visit the tank during 5th period to dunk Mr. Karolski, Mr. Tengowski, Mr. Sekelik, and Mr. Ruppert.  During 6th period Mr. Downs, Mr. Mooney, Mr. Walkowiak, and Mr. Salopek will take their chances.  And during 7th period  Mr. Cremonese, Mr. Bugel, Ms. Grecco, and Officer Ray are in the hot seat.  

“We’re excited for all the laughs,” Beck said.

Syler Corona, a NASH student and a participant in Best Buddies for five years, already has her eyes set on her target for tomorrow.

“I want to dunk Mr. Bugel,” she said.