Colonie Central High School iCARE students celebrated mental health awareness month in May by welcoming South Colonie students and families to the high school on Saturday, May 20, for their annual Raiderfest celebration. The event raised over $6,000 in support of Safe Harbour and Charlie’s playground build at Saddlewood Elementary.
The community event featured a wide range of activities, including carnival games, food trucks, live music, a craft/vendor fair, and games. Attendees could enjoy a fun-filled day with various options to engage in.
“Raiderfest provides us an opportunity to gather together, have some fun, and feel a sense of community,” said CCHS seniors Emily Terry and Bella Franchi. “Being seniors and heading off to college, this was a great way for us to finish out our time together as one group here at the high school and welcome families and students from around the district to join in the fun while benefiting an important cause that is important to so many students that attend Colonie.”
The event started with an opening ceremony at 10 a.m., which included the presentation of iCARE’s Kind Human of the Year award and Hill of Heroes recognition. It served as a meaningful way to kick-start the festivities and acknowledge individuals who have made a positive impact on the community.
Congratulations to this year’s Kind Human recipient Gesine Dibble, a longstanding CCHS employee.
“Gesine Dibble has shown her undeniable commitment to the staff, students, and families of South Colonie Central School District since joining the district in 1975. We are inspired by her every day,” said Thomas Kachadurian, executive principal for CCHS.
“Despite the forecasted weather, this event was certainly a great way for our students and families to get out of the house and come together as a community,” said Brian Scalzo, associate principal for CCHS. “We are proud of all the hard work our students have put into making this event meaningful and to provide much-needed financial support to this year’s iCARE partners.”
Raiderfest brought joy and a sense of togetherness to the South Colonie community, allowing students, families, and residents to come together and have a memorable day while supporting important causes.