HOLLAND, Mich. (WZZM) - A Holland teacher and more than a dozen of his students are literally running after a global cause.
Every week, the group at Great Lakes Elementary School runs a mile during recess to raise money for schools in Ethiopia. It was only an exercise routine, until fifth grade teacher Dan Lynn saw a documentary filmed in Ethiopia. The movie made by the Michigan non-profit group "On the Ground", used a marathon race to raise money.
"They raised more than $200,000 for schools in Ethiopia," said Lynn.
Lynn's second reason for joining the cause was his adopted daughter, Hana, who was born in the impoverished country.
"When you adopt from Ethiopia, you travel there, and it's the kind of poverty you just don't see here," said Lynn.
"Every time I run, I think about the kids in Ethiopia. It's hard but it's fun, " says Hana Lynn.
So far, the weekly race has led to a few hundred dollars in donations. Lynn hopes to expand the program to a per mile basis.
"Kids would be more inspired to run knowing that every mile they run would raise 'x' amount of dollars," says Lynn.
Logan Chavez needs no extra push. He leads all of the students in total distance, with 16 miles run already this year.
"I like running because its healthy, but I also want to run to help Ethiopia, so everyone can have a school," says Chavez.
"On the Ground" is currently beginning construction for four schools in Ethiopia. If you'd like to donate, contact Great Lakes Elementary School at 616-738-6300.