As Kate Gardner visited the Make-A-Wish-Foundation headquarters, all her hard work was worth it as she saw the glow of the workers faces when she told them she wanted to help. Junior, Kate Gardner helped to create a non-profitable club called Raffles for Wishes. Raffles for Wishes sells virtual raffle tickets to members of the community, and parents can purchase them to give their child the opportunity to become a varsity player for the day. If their child wins the raffle, they can sit on the bench of their chosen sport, wear the team’s jersey, and warm up with the team. All profits go to Make-A-Wish Connecticut.
Gardner states, “The club helps create and foster connections between the youth and the high school athletes at Morgan.” Gardner emphasizes the importance of introducing the youth to the sports programs, as it is a way to make them more comfortable and excited to play sports at Morgan. Gardner says that the most valuable outcome of the club is being able to support and donate money to Make-A-Wish Connecticut which helps to fulfill the wishes of children with critical illnesses. She states, “Your help and support of Raffles for Wishes will have a huge impact on a child’s life.” Gardner is excited to put the club into action and make an impact on others.
The average cost of one wish is nearly $9,000. For the Make-A-Wish Connecticut to continue granting the wishes of the kids, it is important to help by donating to the organization. This is exactly what this club is doing. 87% of Make-A-Wish kids say that their wish marks a turning point in their illness, as it gives them hope, which is why it is so important to help this organization continue. Make-A-Wish Connecticut receives no federal spending money, so mostly all of their money comes from donations.
Mrs. Sears is the club’s advisor. She “felt goosebumps” when she first heard of the club as it is a do-good type of club. “I’ve always wanted to find ways to give back to the greater good. I love that it is not only benefiting our community but also the Make-A-Wish foundation.” As the athletic director, a goal is always to link the youth to the athletes at the high school level. She was interested in being the advisor of the club as she could build connections with the youth of the community, create memories for the youth, and be a part of an organization for the greater good. Mrs. Sears shared how almost ¾ of our students participate in sports, so it is so important for the youth to be engaged in the sports, and make connections with the older players. “I have seen through youth nights how some of the younger students and athletes look up to the players as if they are superstars, which is super special to be able to create these memories for the kids.” The club fosters a connection between the youth of the community and the high school athletes, and helps kids in need by giving all the profits to Make-A-Wish Organization.
The club meets every Monday at 7:10 AM, located in the A collab room. In the meetings, they discuss ideas to promote the club and the responsibilities of the members of the club. Furthermore, they will discuss how they will carry out the opportunity for the child who wins the raffle, and who will be their mentor.
