Behind bars

A group of Hammarskjold High School students will spend the better part of the week behind bars.

But these are no juvenile delinquents.

The teens have volunteered to be locked up, cell phones at their ears, in attempt to raise $10,000 for a local charity, matching last year's total. The Bail and Jail for the United Way has become somewhat of a tradition at high schools across Thunder Bay.

Grade 12 student Michelle Oakley, 17, says it’s not easy cold-calling businesses and friends in search of a donation, but it’s well worth it.

"We’re doing this because the United Way is a great organization. It gives money to other organizations throughout Thunder Bay, so it’s done throughout our community, Oakley said. "It’s just a great way to give back."

By 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday the youngster had managed to raise more than $125, and she’s hoping with a little publicity they’ll get a little more response, particularly from the business community.

"It’s a little hard getting them to connect with high school students, but we’re trying our best and most people are open to hearing what we have to say. Hopefully it will get good feedback," she said.

Classmate Georgia Wilkins agreed.

"I really like to get involved at school and feel like I’m doing something for our community. And I know that the money is going to a good cause. In the end we’ll hopefully win the dance, which is exciting, and I know students really like that," she said, noting that students from all schools are fighting to win the right to host a dance, the top prize in the competition.

Wilkins said she’s appealing to potential donors by using her natural charm.

"I’m trying to go a little off the script and sound a little more personal. So far I’m doing pretty well," she said.

Hammarskjold teacher Laura Ferrato said it just goes to show what teenagers can accomplish and the effect they can have on those around them.

"I am always impressed with the power of students," Ferrato said. "They understand the wide scope of the United Way and the good work that it does for so many people in our community."

The United Way is in the midst of its annual fundraising campaign. This year’s goal has been set at $2.47 million, an all-time high.