Panther Prowl in Aspinwall a festive fundraiser for Christ the Divine students

Bubbles, hula hoops and music filled the grounds at Allegheny RiverTrail Park in Aspinwall for the third annual Panther Prowl fundraiser.

Hosted by Christ the Divine Teacher Catholic Academy, a private school along Brilliant Avenue, the event has become a favorite tradition of students.

Held May 13, it brought in just over $5,000 – with donations continuing to be accepted online through the end of the month.

“The Panther Prowl is a favorite event of our students and our school community,” said Elissa Tunno, Parent Teacher Guild president.

“We were excited to be back with activities for the kids that we weren’t able to have last year.”

Pegged as a walk-a-thon, participants trek around the park’s trail as many times as they are able to in one hour.

Money is raised through previously solicited pledges from family, friends and others.

Proceeds benefit school operations.

The goal, according to Marketing Director Katie Lovett, is to reach $15,000 to support academic and technology programs, as well as student community service projects.

“We were thrilled to have a beautiful day to enjoy the park just blocks from our school,” Lovett said. “One of CDTCA’s best gifts is our community of Aspinwall.”

To add to the fun, DJ Steve Maffei played crowd favorites and students enjoyed bubble stations and hula hoops throughout the course.

Anyone interested in donating can visit e.givesmart.com/events/q1l/