As everyone quickly gathered for the check presentation during my freshman year Charity Ball, I remember the anticipation in the air. No one knew how much we raised or if we actually hit our goal. The week before had been filled with frantic, last-minute fundraising and a determination to never give up.
When the check was revealed at a whopping 180k, I still remember the feeling of amazement and wonder I felt, and I don’t think that feeling has ever really left me. All throughout the Charity Ball season I still get that same sense of astonishment, from seeing classrooms pull their efforts together for 2A Wars, watching kids band together in joyful winter carols, and from being in the annual Raleigh Christmas Parade.
This past weekend was the 2024 parade, and as usual, the Charity Ball magic seemed to weave its way through the cold air. Never mind the below-50-degree weather, Enloe Student Council still managed to bring the holiday spirit, waving and whooping our way through the parade, and of course repeating the iconic chant: “When I say Charity you say Ball!”
I had the opportunity of carrying one of the huge gift box balloons alongside my two best friends as we laughed and smiled our way all down Hillsborough Street. Seeing complete strangers cheer for our cause and little kids gazing wondrously at our balloon, I remembered what it means to be a part of this community, and I hope that feeling never leaves me. Next year will be my last Charity Ball, but the memories I’ve made will last me a lifetime.