Ridgewood High School junior, Stefanie Witkowski recently raised $600 for Shriners Hospitals for Children — Chicago. This fundraiser started off as a school project for her Sociology class, but it turned into a passion project. Over the course of 3 months, she reached out to local businesses (Jewel, Jimmy Johns, Target, Potbelly, etc.) to raise funds and collect gift cards. She also organized a GoFundMe page, to reach friends, family and community members that were willing to donate.
Witkowski is interested in continuing her philanthropy efforts and has continued to raise money to benefit the children admitted at Shriners Hospitals for Children — Chicago.
“I chose to fundraise for them because I was looking for an opportunity where I could make a difference in children’s lives. I’m also looking to possibly pursue a career in pediatrics,” said Witkowski.
The hospital will use the gift cards to reward children when they complete their therapy sessions and as birthday gifts.
The GoFundMe account is still running and Witkowski plans on continuing to collect and donate to Shriners Hospital for Children — Chicago. If you wish to donate, you can do so here: DONATE HERE
We at Ridgewood High School, are proud of Stefanie’s philanthropy efforts and commitment to helping others.
Below is a picture of Stefanie and Mary McCauley, the Donations Coordinator of Volunteer Services Recreation Therapy and Child Life Department at Shriner's Children Hospital — Chicago.
