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What is March of Dimes? The March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation is the nation's third largest voluntary health agency committed to improving the health of babies by preventing birth defects and infant mortality. It was created in 1938 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to help polio victims and to aid in research for a cure or a vaccine. After the Sabin and Salk vaccines became available and succeeded in eradicating polio, the March of Dimes turned its attention to preventing birth defects. The mission of the March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects and infant mortality and is carried out through programs of research, community service, education, and advocacy. One of these programs is the Folic Acid Campaign, Get the "B" Attitude. To learn more about this, click here! What is Chain Reaction? Chain Reaction is a youth council, with members from public and private high schools in Winston-Salem/Forsyth County. The council raises money and awareness for March of Dimes in their schools and in the community. The Greater Triad Chain Reaction has three main projects during the year. These are Bucks-4-Babies, Health Conference, and WalkAmerica. Chain Reaction Activities During the month of October, canisters are set in classrooms in all high schools in Forsyth County. Students and teachers donate generously to the March of Dimes, and students are often rewarded by teachers for their contributions. The school that raises the most money, both overall and per capita, recieve a prize. In 1998, North Forsyth won both categories, and therefore won both computers. Teachers also have competitions within the school to boost support. North Forsyth also won the competition in 1999, winning a gift certificate to Office Depot. In 2000, R. J. Reynolds High School raised the most money, and UPS awarded the school with a $200 check. Health Conference takes place in February each year. Chain Reaction is solely responsibile for this 1 day event, in which students from area high schools are chosen to attend. Classes are offered on topics relevant to students, along with health plays performed by Chain Reaction. In April, millions of people participate in WalkAmerica to raise money for March of Dimes. Members of Chain Reaction raise money and walk to support the cause. |
