WRITTEN BY Sharon Cindrich • photoGRAPHY BY Eric Lusher
Philanthropy Matters | Donor Spotlight
Involvement and parenthood fuel support of CHKD
Katie and Jake Denton, with sons Patrick, 1, and Jack, 2, understand the importance of CHKD.
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“Being an ambassador for CHKD allows me to let other families know about all the great things that are going on.” – Katie Denton
t seems natural that Katie Denton, a mother of two small children and a former preschool teacher, would understand the importance of CHKD. But Katie’s efforts to support the hospital began before she started her career and her family. In fact, Katie began supporting CHKD before she even graduated from college. A native of Virginia Beach, Katie began to make financial gifts to CHKD while she was attending Randolph-Macon College, choosing the child abuse program as the recipient of her donations. “Growing up in the area, I always recognized CHKD as an important organization in our community,” says Katie. “When I had an opportunity to give, I thought of the hospital right away.” In 2012, a friend invited her to join CHKD’s Future Generations Board – a group of
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Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters
young adults supporting CHKD, many who have young children. Katie was expecting her first child at the time and didn’t hesitate to accept. Attending board meetings gave Katie an even clearer picture of the high caliber of care and vast healthcare resources CHKD provides to local children. “Hearing from the physicians and being educated about the work being done at CHKD has been wonderful,” says Katie. “Being an ambassador for CHKD allows me to let other families know about all the great things that are going on. Now that I have children, I am even more inspired to make sure the hospital thrives. It’s a vital part of our community, and we need to make sure that it continues to grow.” Katie’s husband Jake, who also grew up
in the area, supports Katie’s commitment to CHKD. “I’m proud of Katie’s involvement on the Future Generations Board,” says Jake. “CHKD is one of the most beloved and appreciated institutions in the community. Even if you haven’t had a personal experience at the hospital, you know a child who has been cared for or even saved by CHKD. I can’t think of a more worthwhile organization for Katie to spend her time and efforts on.” As parents of active sons Jack, 2, and Patrick, 1, Katie and Jake are grateful for the access they have to CHKD. “I’m excited about how the health system is expanding,” says Katie. “It’s comforting to know it’s right around the corner if we need it. That’s why I support CHKD.”