Disney characters, leprechauns and past presidents filled the Pat Spinola Natatorium Thursday.

Dozens of Norwalk High School staff members and students dressed in costumes for a good cause.

The 12th annual "Bear Flop" made quite the splash, raising money for Norwalk Hospital's Whittingham Cancer Center.

"This is one of the best things we do at Norwalk High school," Dean of Students Larry Anastasia says. "Seeing the kids give back to Norwalk, and raising not just money, but also awareness and having the courage to go out and step outside their comfort zone."

Since its inception in 2013, the event has raised nearly $75,000 for the cancer center.

Organizers say they are approaching $10,000 in donations this year alone.

"It’s a family," says Emily Restaino, president of the Bears Beating Cancer Club. "We hope to inspire other schools, and our own students, to get involved in the Bear Flop and to want to raise money for cancer research."

To donate, visit here: https://bearflop.funraise.org/