School News – May 6

East student raises $1,400 for Riley

Columbus East High School senior Nathan Jeffares, accompanied by his parents Travis and Stephanie Jeffares, presented a check for $1,400 to benefit the music therapy program at Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis.

A former Riley patient, Nathan Jeffares organized a fundraiser for the hospital for his senior project. He combined his desire to help people with his love of music to complete his project.

With the help of parents and his project mentor, Dan Fouts, Nathan Jeffares organized a benefit concert March 23 at the Columbus Elks Club featuring Nathan’s band, Mama’s Headache. The event drew nearly 300 people.

Nathan presented the check to Riley representatives on April 13.

The music therapy program at Riley helps young patients undergoing treatment at Riley in part by reducing stress and anxiety, improving physical, cognitive and speech rehabilitation and supporting developmental and educational needs.