Miracle Foundation Pledges Support for New Cancer Treatment Building at Mercy Medical Center

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Alyssa Nightingale 631.367.8599 [email protected] Public School Teacher Inspires Students to Create Miracles

Nancy Fleming is a public school teacher on a mission -- to set an example for her students and teach them that they have voices, show them that they can make a difference, encourage them to give back to their community and support charitable causes by becoming involved. She is teaching a valuable lesson outside of the classroom that demonstrates the value of caring and philanthropy within a community. As a result of her efforts, students at Garden City High School have raised more than $150,000 during the past six years to support the Miracle Foundation, a 501(c)(3), nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of those diagnosed with cancer and to finding a cure for the disease. The foundation’s mission is to improve patient care, increase cancer awareness and fund worthy scientific research.

Fleming agreed to become the Miracle Club adviser at the request of two students. During the school year, student members devote their extracurricular time to raise funds and participate in various projects focused on making a difference in the lives of those who suffer from the deadly disease. Open to all students, the club is a great way to do productive, community-oriented work. In a few short years, the Miracle Club at Garden City High School has become the largest non-athletic student organization with more than 100 members.

“When it comes to motivating students to become involved in community service and to care, Nancy Fleming has raised the bar,” said Carlo Rebolini, President of the Garden Nightingale & Nightingale * Performance That Matches The Promise City Teachers’ Association. “She is one of many public school teachers who lead by example and inspire colleagues and students at other schools by her efforts.”

The efforts of Fleming and her students have helped support the Miracle Foundation’s successes. “Nancy inspires her students as well as our Foundation trustees with her passion. From hosting bake sales, to holiday boutiques and walkathons, Nancy exemplifies how a public school teacher can impact her students in a positive way with great results,” added Joe Castronovo, President, Miracle Foundation.

“Everyone knows that teaching is a profession that extends beyond the classroom,” said Fleming. “By providing a broader perspective and encouraging students to pool their talents, teachers are able to help motivate students to work for the greater good and help those in need. My students and I have been enriched by our club participation.”

The majority of Miracle Club members have continued their volunteerism after high school through collegiate community and international service programs.

Photo Caption:

Students of the Miracle Club pose prior to their annual Miracle Miles Walkathon

Nightingale & Nightingale * Performance That Matches The Promise