Danvers High School DECA students launch fundraising for Colleen Ritzer Memorial Library

In the heart of Danvers, a passionate group of high school students took center stage at the recent School Committee meeting, unveiling an ambitious plan to honor the memory of Colleen Ritzer, a beloved teacher who tragically passed away. The students, members of the DECA program, presented their vision for transforming the high school library into the Colleen Ritzer Memorial Library, complete with a mural that embodies her legacy of kindness.

Natalie Barrett and Megan, both juniors at Danvers High School, shared their journey of creating the "Be Kind Legacy" project. They explained how their initiative aims to not only raise funds for the mural but also to instill the values Colleen Ritzer championed within the school community. "We want to ensure that students and teachers never forget who she is and the morals she brought upon everyone else," Barrett emphasized.

To bring this vision to life, the students are setting a fundraising goal of $30,000. Their plans include community events, a calendar raffle coinciding with Colleen's birthday month in May, and merchandise sales featuring hoodies and quarter zips that promote the project. They aim to engage families, local businesses, and the broader North Shore community in their efforts.

The DECA team also introduced a user-friendly fundraising platform called Givebutter, which will streamline donations and event participation. This approach not only simplifies the fundraising process but also ensures transparency in tracking contributions.

As the students concluded their presentation, they expressed hope for a mural reveal at the beginning of the next school year, marking a new chapter in honoring Colleen Ritzer's legacy. Their initiative stands as a testament to the power of youth engagement and community support, reminding everyone of the enduring impact one individual can have on the lives of many.