"A Moment in Time—Providence Academy raises funds with keepsake book"

Like many parents of elementary students, Liz Klodas knows how fast time flies. She is a cardiologist, wife and mother of two boys who attend Providence Academy, a private school in Plymouth, Minnesota.

Recently, Liz coordinated the academy’s annual fundraising project—a keepsake book called Twelve, printed by Litho of MN. The perfect-bound, 10 x 12 book features photos of about 50 sixth-graders, presented alongside self-portraits they created in art class.

The inspiration for this book came when Liz saw a similar project, called Turning Twelve, that a photographer did for the Clara Barton Open Elementary School in Minneapolis. Right away, she knew this idea could be used to fund scholarships and new technology at Providence Academy.

“Twelve is such an interesting age,” Liz shares. “There is so much happening, and this seemed like a great way to remember the kids at that age.”

“Litho of MN Account Executive Julie Nelson was also very creative about helping us reduce costs, since it was a fundraiser.” —Liz Klodas, —Parent and Coordinator of “Twelve,” —Providence Academy

Providence Academy art teacher Darren Rousar served as the art director for the book and took the students’ photos. Liz prepped each canvas by penciling in a rough outline and general location of the eyes and other major features. The students took it from there, adding facial details, colors, backgrounds, hairstyles and clothing.

During this process, Liz noticed that the kids’ enthusiasm didn’t always match her own, probably due to general feelings of awkwardness. “There are times when it’s really tough being twelve,” she admits. “It can be painful. It brought me back to how it felt to be that age.”

Litho Account Executive Julie Nelson recalls Liz’s energy and organizational skills on this project. “Liz put a lot of effort into learning about binding, papers and printing. Her commitment was awesome!”

Likewise, Liz said that Julie was enthusiastic and adaptable from the beginning. “She was also very creative about helping us reduce costs, since it was a fundraiser.” However, Liz says that the proof of the Academy’s relationship with Litho is in the product—and Twelve is indeed a treasure.

“It’s not just a yearbook,” Liz explains. “This book is very personal. You see the innocence and vulnerability at this age.” Although the kids won’t fully appreciate it now, Liz believes this will change as they mature. “When they get to be 30 or 40 years old, that’s when it will be so meaningful to them.”

Litho of MN, Inc. was thrilled to help Providence Academy capture the wonder of Twelve. What a beautiful way to ensure that the spirit of childhood is never left behind.

www.providenceacademy.org