Aug 24, 20232 min read

Seniors paint parking spots to raise funds for cancer support

This year’s Senior class raised over $2,000 to be donated to the Cancer Support Community of East Tennessee. They painted their personalized parking spots Aug. 19 and 20. CSCET is an organization that provides education and support to all people impacted by cancer, including family members and loved ones. All programs are professionally led and free of charge. In addition to the $20 for a parking pass, the extra $30 Seniors paid to personalize their parking spots was funneled into a collective fund to be donated to CSCET.

This is the third year that West High has allowed Seniors to paint and personalize their parking spots. Numerous seniors, their friends and families showed up with paint, supplies, and canopies to enjoy the day. A few food trucks joined to sell meals and pastries. Last year, members of the 2023 Senior Class raised $3,125, which was donated to CSCET.

Kristin Davis, a Senior, shared her thoughts on the event, stating “I enjoyed getting the opportunity to paint my senior parking spot. I loved seeing the before and after of all the spots.” Kimberly Hall, one of the overseers of the event, had much to share about the origin of this event, saying “We started this in honor of our colleagues Cari Ashford and Jane Dickerson who both passed away due to cancer. Dr. Amie Rumph, a former West High teacher, was an early advocate for this, and we all quickly recognized what an amazing opportunity this was for students and their families and friends to come together and have fun while making a difference in the lives of people in need.” Hall also gave a few more details on this year’s event specifically, stating “This year, Mr. Landefeld suggested inviting food trucks to join us. … While we waited a little late with our food truck plan, we did have the Hungary Czech and Twins Main Squeeze join us on Saturday, and CRAVE Hotdogs and BBQ Food Truck dish up delicious food on Sunday. … We’ve already begun plans for next year, and parents and faculty alike have expressed our hope that this is a tradition that will continue for generations to come.”