Students high five the “Lend a Hand” cause.

Students helped with the "Lend a Hand" fundraiser on April 18th, 2013.

Students helped with the “Lend a Hand” fundraiser on April 18th, 2013.

High fives are used for celebration, but some MSUM students are using them to change lives.

MSUM mass communication’s event planning class decided to help the mission of Lend a Hand, a program of the Dakota Medical Foundation that raises funds for families who have experienced a medical crises.

The duo planned an online giving drive and video competition for April 18th in celebration of “National High Five Day.” Almost $5,000 was raised and will be given directly to families in need.

“The number one reason for bankruptcy is medical expenses,” said Jeana Peinovich, Program Director.

Peinovich said that illness alongside with loss of income can be devastating to a family’s finances.  All proceeds raised will be given to families with this need.

Dikshya Ban, a mass communications major who helped with the event, said that planning the event was slightly daunting, but it “all came together in the end.”

Ban helped with the Facebook video contest leading up the April 18th. Anyone could submit a video with a  creative high five through the Facebook group. The drive helped create awareness for Lend a Hand and the fundraising day.

Looking to help Lend a Hand for future drives? Check out their website at http://www.dakmed.org/lendahand/

BY MEGAN HAVIG
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