A three second plunge into an inflatable pool of icy water unfroze college funds for 19 Grand Rapids’ Grace Christian University students.
“School can be pretty pricey so any way to lessen it is really helpful.”
Sophomore Kaliann Newberry works as a resident assistant in the dormitory to help pay her way.
“Then I also work part time at the Home Depot about 20 hours a week to help lessen the costs as well.”
In the Big Freeze fundraiser, students raise donations then are eligible for matching funds plus scholarships.
Senior Noah Fulford raised more than $2,700 this year.
“It takes a huge burden off of that student loan, and just paying off college, especially for me. I'm getting married next summer, so, this has been really helpful for me to be more financially stable going into that.”
Emily Lazor is the Advancement Coordinator at Grace Christian University.
“We try to teach everyone that we can do hard things. You put in the effort and you get rewarded. You’ve got to be your own ambassador sometimes, and advocate for yourself and your education.”
This year’s crew raised nearly $29,000 - more than twice last year’s record.
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