NILES — This month, Niles High School students are collaborating to raise money for breast cancer research. Last week, they hosted their annual Pink Week.

Organizer Karissa Young said students’ efforts raised more than $3,400 and funds are still coming in. Students will continue to fundraise for the cause through October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness month.

During lunch hours, students sold pink items before the football game Friday, Oct. 12. Football players, cheerleaders, and girls’ cross-country teams “panhandled” for donations, which raised $564.06. Additionally, there was a Mad Dash for Cash at Friday night’s game, which raised $227.75 and an annual Pink Walk, where students paid $1 to walk the track, raising $513 – the largest amount raised to date. Community members are also welcome to contribute to the cause by purchasing T-shirts.

To show their support, the whole district participated in Pink Day, which included staff donating to wear jeans.

Several local businesses have also helped students in their mission by serving as sponsors, including Swirlyz, Pete’s Patio, Tyler’s Automotive, Rana’s, Milano’s, Psi Iota Xi, Custom Computer Company, Wing Etc., Young Living- Essentially Heather, Jim’s Smokin’ Cafe, YMCA, Tans Down Under, Pizza Transit, Color Street Nails-Heather Bosch, The Sign Queen, National Honor Society, Viking Vision, Student Council, and Sr. Graphics Club.

For more information about how to support fundraising efforts, call the high school at (269) 683-2894.