On Feb. 19, Whitehall High School held a mini-thon to help raise awareness of and donations for Four Diamonds, a cancer research organization.

Four Diamonds’ mini-thons are fun-filled events for students of all ages. According to fourdiamonds.org, the mini-thons inspire teamwork, leadership and creativity while empowering young people through philanthropy and service in the fight to conquer childhood cancer. Mini-thons are modeled after the Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon and have been making a difference in the lives of childhood cancer patients and their families for more than 20 years.

The event at Whitehall High School was organized by members of Student Council. A fundraiser was first held Feb. 18 at Keystone Pub. The group’s goal was $10,000. The mini-thon began in the afternoon of Feb. 19 in the high school gymnasium.

Matt Kelly, president of Student Council, said. “It is a large success.”

“The Four Diamonds mission is to conquer childhood cancer by assisting children treated at Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital and their families through superior care, comprehensive support and innovation research,” the website states.

“Each year, Four Diamonds provides direct support to approximately 600 children with cancer, 100 which are newly diagnosed and 500 who are continuing their fight.

“Since its creation in 1972, Four Diamonds has helped more than 3,600 children and families and supported a diverse platform of childhood cancer research at Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital, seeking improved treatments and cures to benefit those around the world.”

With more than 188 schools and 30,000 student participants throughout the region, mini-thons are bringing hope to families in need and creating a legacy of service within their community.

The contribution totals for this year’s fundraising efforts are not in yet. However, during the 2014-15 school year, elementary, middle and high schools raised $4.3 million-plus for Four Diamonds.

Donations can be made online at fourdiamonds.org.