AUDIO: Local 1st Graders Raise Money For Animals in Australia

Donation jars will be set up around local businesses until March 9.

(Aurora, Ind.) - Some local 1st grade students are joining the rest of the world by using their voices and resources to raise money for the animals affected by the Australia wildfires. 

Aurora Elementary 1st grade classes have teamed up to bring awareness to the Australian wildfires through project-based learning (PBL). 

PBL is a popular way to engage students in what is going on around the world and learn how to become advocates for these issues in their community.

Through this project the children have learned to find a problem, assess the situation, and make a plan of action on how to help. 

It was decided that placing jars in local businesses and asking the community to participate was the best way to be successful. 

All 1st graders went to work by decorating jars, making posters, and agreeing on locations to place their jars. 

You can find these donation jars at Tandy's, DJ's Bakery, Skyline, Wang's, Civista Bank, and even here at the Eagle's nest until March 9. 

Funds raised will be given directly to the Cincinnati Zoo during a special visit on March 11. All money will go directly to the efforts to save these animals and their home. 

A total of $52.64 has been raised since the jars were placed a week ago, Friday, February 7. 

To help these students reach their goal of $120, you can contact Emily Vonderheide at Aurora Elementary School or donate at a participating location. 

Listen to some Aurora Elementary 1st grade students talk Bubbo Bo into donating some money to help save the animals:

More from Local News


Events

Brent Spence Bridge Companion Bridge Set to Begin Construction

Groundbreaking set to take place this spring; opportunities for construction jobs at $30 per hour available

Versailles IGA Named 2026 USA Centennial Retailer of the Year

The Retailer of the Year award recognizes independently owned grocery retailers.

Indiana DNR Announces Free Fishing Days

On these days, you can fish the state’s public waters without a fishing license and trout/salmon stamp.

Jennings Co's Ernstes Selected for Hoosier Gym All-Star Game

The All-Star Game is set for April 25.

Local Sports Report - March 14, 2026

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

Former East Central Star Named NE10 Championship Most Outstanding Player

Hope Fox and the Southern Connecticut State Owls are a No. 1 seed heading into the DII Tourney.

On Air

Rick Bernius playing
Chris Young and Mitchell Tenpenny - At the End of a Bar

Tanya Tucker Strong Enough to Bend 15:24
Shania Twain Man, I Feel Like a Woman 15:20
Brad Paisley Camouflage 15:17
Luke Combs Forever After All 15:09