Original Works has been helping schools across the USA create and implement successful fundraising programs since 1989! With high quality products, superior customer service and attention to detail, Original Works helps dedicated art teachers and school fundraising coordinators like Ruth Palczynski create and complete successful fundraising programs to raise more money for their schools.
We are delighted to introduce you to Ruth Palczynski in this Meet The Fundraising Coordinator post! A few facts about her:
Name: Ruth Palczynski
Title: Art Teacher
School(s): Virginia
Experience With Original Works: 9 Years
Q. How long have you been teaching, and what was it that sparked your interest in becoming an art educator?
A. I have been an Art teacher for 28 years. I have always loved art! I won my first art contest in first grade and I was hooked! Sharing my love of art with kids and watching their excitement when they experiment with paint or clay for the first time is very rewarding!
Q. In your position, what are some of the biggest challenges you face?
A. One of the challenges I face is ordering supplies with a limited budget. Teaching hundreds of students on a couple dollars each for the year makes me more creative, but it can be very limiting.
Q. What was it that interested you in running an Original Works program?
A. I love the Original Works program because it is very user friendly. I like that I don’t have to use my own paper, and directions are easy to follow. All kids can participate even if they don’t want to purchase anything. Most of all, I have direct contact with Original Works for questions, and concerns. The orders are organized, labeled and easy to distribute to students.
Q. What were the greatest benefits the kids received from participating in the program?
A. Every year the students are so excited to create a masterpiece that will be viewed on line with their family. It is a great way for kids to talk about art share their art with family and friends who don’t live with them. This program supports arts in our community, generates excitement and builds self-esteem.
Q. Speaking of the kids, tell us about one of your most memorable experiences in the classroom!
A. I have so many great memories in the art room. My favorite times have been watching the kids experiment with materials they have never used before. Being part of that moment is very rewarding. Original Works has given me the opportunity to purchase clay, glaze and other supplies that I would otherwise not be able to afford.
Q. The Original Works programs focus on creativity and self-esteem, while providing a vehicle for raising needed funding. What will you be doing with the funds you raised from the Original Works program?
A. I like to purchase clay and glaze with the funds we earn from Original Works. Students have made things like; clay lanterns with battery candles, kindness pots, clay pumpkins, clay cookie stamps, clay fortune cookies and more!
Q. Since art educators from around the country will be reading this post, do you have anything you would like to share with your peers?
A.  Original Works is a great program. We have participated for many years. It is easy, parents are happy with the products, the Original Works regional manager, Cindi Custard, is very prompt getting back to me and answering all of my questions within minutes of emailing her. She is very patient and knowledgeable. I highly recommend this program!
We are thrilled to have Ruth Palczynski share her time and perspective with us! Lean more about how teachers across the country are using Original Works fundraisers to bring students artwork to life!
Contact us at 518-584-9278 to schedule your school fundraiser today! Better yet, download our FREE brochure here and let us help you get your fundraiser started!