The FAST for LIFE is sponsored by the Junior Class, but other students also participate. Every person who attends the FAST is asked to bring two canned goods which will be donated to Waikiki Youth Outreach (YO).

The volunteer leaders have been working hard to make sure that this year’s FAST will be one to remember. Thirty juniors serve as leaders under the guidance of Sr. Katherine Francis Miller and Sr. Irene Barboza. Juniors Tiffany Atud and Nadia Busekrus are the overall coordinators.

This year the FAST for LIFE will not be overnight but from 4 to 8:30 p.m. on Feb. 23 in the school gym. The theme is “Life is Precious, not Cheap.” The song that was chosen to correspond to the theme is “Live Like We’re Dying” by Kris Allen.

Busekrus said, “The theme reflects the ideas of living life to the best of your ability and not to take life for granted. We will be talking about self-harm, gun control, self-esteem and happiness.”

At the FAST, students are separated into different “world” groups.The “first world” groups enjoy a bountiful feast with enough food to last the entire simulation. The “second world” groups receive enough food to satisfy their hunger. The “third world” groups receive only a piece of bread and water.

Between activities, students participate in energizers led by junior leaders.

Atud said, “We are having the Waikiki Youth Outreach come and speak to everyone and to collect the canned goods.”

Students will experience “Praise and Worship,” which will be led by junior Tiera Knight’s uncle.

The FAST underscores the idea that teens with good families, shelter and positive influences need to recognize and show appreciation for their comfortable lives.

Junior Kara Takahashi said, “I usually forget to be thankful for my life. That is why I enjoy participating in events like this at school and at my church.”