Kindergartners in Gina Preszler’s class at Needham Elementary School on Friday helped announce the first observation of Red Nose Day in the United States.

Red Nose Day is an international fundraiser for children in poverty.

Comic Relief, a British nonprofit, promotes the cause through big-name entertainers. A three-hour NBC network special featuring comedians, Hollywood stars and musicians will introduce Red Nose Day to America on Thursday.

The slogan of Red Nose Day, first observed in 1988, is “Have Fun, Raise Money, Change Lives.”

At Needham Elementary, students can wear their favorite headgear Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday by donating $1 each day to Red Nose Day. Otherwise, headgear is not allowed inside Needham.

“It’s breaking the rules, but I think this is a good cause,” Principal David Tanaka said at the kindergartners’ ditty-singing presentation that was broadcast on the school intercom. “I won’t frown at you in the hallway if you’re wearing a hat.”

Each kindergartner wore a store-bought red nose.

Preszler learned of Red Nose Day through an ad.

“I have a passion for helping kids in need,” Preszler said. “This is a fun way to help a good cause.”

Half of the money raised on Red Nose Day will be donated to established charitable organizations to spend in the U.S. On the list are Boys & Girls Club of America; Children’s Health Fund; Feeding America; Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance; The Global Fund; Project Lift; Oxfam America; Save the Children; and United Way.

The other half of the proceeds will be spent on projects to eliminate poverty in Latin America, Asia and Africa.

daler@durangoherald.com