Local church helps PCHS dance night away
By Nicole Burns for the FCT
Homecoming week is a hectic time packed full of activities. It can also be a strain on a school’s budget with extra cost for glitz, reunion festivities and added security. That’s why one church stepped in to help Phil Campbell High School generate funds to help offset homecoming costs.
“Part of the church’s mission is to be vital to our community,” said Restoration Church Lead Pastor Chris Burns. “We chose to sponsor the dance so the school could raise money – that is being vital to the community. We got to spend time with the students, and building relationships is being vital to the community. When we step outside the walls of the church, we can make a difference in our community … Better students make a better school, and that is a win-win for everyone.”
School dances are generally held as fundraisers for the school or school organization. This year’s homecoming dance at PCHS raised money for the school’s general fund. Restoration Church leadership team members were at the dance to help chaperone and sell donated drinks, and they hired the DJ. DJ JB Nelson kept the students on the dance floor with popular music.
PCHS Assistant Principal Darit Riddle said the event was a big success. “This is the biggest turnout we’ve had to a school dance in several years. The kids seemed to really enjoy themselves, and the church was great to help us get cleaned up and out of here before midnight.”
“It’s a different way to do church,” said Restoration Church Music Pastor Jonathan Maze. “While we didn’t give a Bible lesson, we were able to build relationships with kids who might not feel comfortable going to church. Now that they know us a little better and since we’ve come to them, they might be more comfortable coming to us. I want them to know that we’re here if they ever need us.”
The dance generated about $400 for the PCHS General Fund. Members of the church leadership team said they plan to continue to find new ways to reach out to the community.
