Under the clear night sky on May 15, students from C. M. Russell High School gathered in the main student parking lot with their buttery popcorn, candy, and blankets to attend and support the HOSA club’s annual drive-in movie fundraising event for The Lost Enzyme Project.
This student-led event not only created a social attraction for the week to bring students together, but also added to HOSA’s list of successful fundraising efforts this year. Thirty-eight cars filled the school’s parking lot, a slight increase from last year’s 35. Moviegoers enjoyed the classic movie: The Sandlot and were given options for sales in snacks, popcorn, and refreshments. While the event was free to enter, donations were encouraged upon arrival. According to Christi Virts, the HOSA club advisor, approximately 10-15 students from the club dedicated their time and efforts to make the event a success.
“The kids usually come up with all the ideas for fundraising,” Virts said.
Typically, HOSA brainstorms fundraising plans as a team at the start of each year. However, the drive-in movie night idea came from Marti Marcum, a local friend and staff member, in 2024, based on her experience with a similar hospice care event. Through Marcum’s connections, HOSA was introduced to Ace Seeversen, owner of a small screen lending business. For the past two years, Seeversen has generously provided his movie screen at a discounted rate for the fundraiser, which has encouraged HOSA’s profit success rate. This year, despite increased attendance, the event raised $864, compared to last year’s $1,200.
“The goal this year was to exceed last year’s earnings, but we didn’t quite get there. There were more cars but less donations,” Virts said.
Looking towards the future, the expenses of the drive-in event are beginning to show fewer profits than what the club would hope. While last year’s event benefited from a full sponsorship from First Interstate Bank, this year’s expenses, including screen rental, were only partially covered by sponsors. The club will potentially still be covering around $500 out of pocket. The popularity of the attraction holds strong amongst students; but, next year it’s possible new fundraising strategies may be used in its place, Virts said.
“I’m not sure if we’ll continue to do it, but I do think it’s a fun event,” she said.
Among the dedicated volunteers at the drive-in, three main organizers stood apart from the rest. Seniors Shae Sweeney, Talin McCartney, and Lainey Bralick. McCartney demonstrated his commitment to both the fundraiser and the club that night. He became known for his exceptional “Door-dashing” skills, constantly running between coolers and cars to deliver refreshments and popcorn during the movie.
“I was definitely running around a lot that night,” McCartney, a first year HOSA member, said.
Joining due to his interest in his EMT class and past involvement in the club, he couldn’t have been happier with his decision to get more involved, he said. Earlier in the year, he supported HOSA’s initial efforts for the Lost Enzyme Project and matched his dedication at this event by handling responsibilities such as preparing the area, delivering refreshments, collecting donations, and ensuring everyone had a great time.
“I think it all was pretty successful. I think a lot of people enjoyed the movie and we raised a decent amount of money,” he said.
Being one of many attendees who participated in the drive-in, junior Avalena Smith rated her experience 10 out of 10. Not only did she enjoy being able to have a venue to spend time with her friends, but also shared feelings of compassion towards the cause she was supporting.
“It was a super cool event to be able to take part in to give support for Oliver and his family,” she said.
Oliver, CMR biology teacher Nathan Gregier’s son, has Beta-mannosidosis, and was the first U.S patient to be diagnosed. The drive-in highlighted the importance of community support and the positive impact of coming together towards causes such as this, Smith said. At the end of the day anyone can make a difference. Whether that’s $100 or 25 cents, it all adds up to make that bigger change, she added.
“I think they’ve done a great job raising money for Oliver, and I hope they keep it up,” she said.
HOSA members’ dedication and enthusiasm continue to shine and positively impact CMR, driven by their commitment to helping others. To conclude their fundraising efforts for the year, the club is hosting a spike ball tournament on May 27. Through all their hard work and passion for the Lost Enzyme Project, HOSA has been fulfilled with rewarding news shared by Gregier that their funds have significantly advanced Beta-mannosidosis trials, and they strive to continue their support for years to come.
“Being able to know that the people are being helped by our money – – that’s what makes it all worth it to us,” Virts said.
