Submitted by Nicole Harlow
(August 20, 2025) — The Haddam-Killingworth Intermediate and Middle School Parent Teacher Organization (HKIMS PTO) has observed a worrisome trend of diminished fundraising as students move from elementary school into the intermediate and middle grades. Lack of funds results in fewer opportunities for cultural enrichment and social experiences at a time that is most critical for maintaining student engagement in their school.
When fundraising is successful, the PTO is able to provide support for the veterans breakfast, cultural arts presentations and assemblies, field trip subsidies, social events for students and their families, staff recognition, and more.
Please consider becoming a sponsor for this year’s Cougar Color Challenge fundraiser so that the PTO can do more to keep students feeling valued, engaged, and excited about their school community. The fundraiser will culminate in an event where the kids run laps outdoors to music while colored powder is tossed by parent volunteers.
Families will be able to register their kids, set individual fundraising goals, and earn prizes as they reach certain donation levels. But we need sponsors in order to purchase the supplies needed to make this event a success. The Cougar Color Challenge is planned and presented by the HKIMS PTO and does not use a service provider, so every dollar you give directly benefits our school community!
HKIMS PTO is a 501(c)(3) organization, and any donation is tax-exempt. The PTO can provide a letter for donation purposes. In exchange for business sponsorships, the sponsor’s logo will appear on yard signs of various sizes to be displayed at the school near Route 81 during the month of October. Sponsors also will receive recognition by HKIMS PTO on town social media pages as well as the private HKIMS PTO page where parents subscribe. HKIMS PTO remains committed to the students, families and staff of HKIS and HKMS and is grateful for any charitable donations made by businesses and residents.
Donations can be made online at: https:// www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/2025-cougar-color-challenge-sponsorship. Cash and checks are also greatly appreciated and should be made payable to HKIMS PTO and mailed to Haddam Killingworth Intermediate/Middle School, 451 Route 81 Killingworth, CT 06419.
For more information, contact: HKIMSPTO@gmail.com
