Spring 2022 Newsletter | Volume 28
Family Night AT MISSO U RI BOTANICAL GARD E N S E XPRESSIVE TH E R APIES: M USIC TH E R APY, ART TH E R APY, & TH E R APEUTIC H O RTICU LTU RE
Remembering D R . K ARE N GAUVAIN BOARD RETIRE ES
Friends Forever 3 0 FO R 3 0
NAN C Y’ S S E NIO R PH OTO S H OOT
Memory Maker
OUR TE AM E X E C U TI V E B OA R D
B OA R D M E M B E R S
President Scott Biermann
Matt Biffignani
Vice President Susanne Rosenberg
Don Brown
Treasurer Jay Adams
Merri Cross
Secretary Karen Korn
Tony Godfrey
Emeritus* Merri Cross
Sharon Huber
A DV I S O RY B OA R D Dr. Robert A. Bergamini Dr. Gordon Gale
Kristine Arneson William Brasser Jonathan Burke Maura Garascia Rick Henry
Thomas Russo Edwin Schmid
Jill Turec
Molly M. Henry Dan McLaughlin
cancer and blood-related diseases.
Kathleen Manganaro*
Marie Turner, MSN, RN, CPNP
Gene Deutsch
undergoing treatment for, and survivors of,
Rick Lommel*
Margie Sedlack
Allen Brockman*
to enriching the daily lives of children
Cheryl Lawless
Dr. Rob Hanson
H O N O R A RY B OA R D
Friends of Kids with Cancer is devoted
Ben Turec* Susan Venincasa
Our mission is to be an advocate for these special kids
and provide them and their families with the educational, emotional and recreational support needed as a result of the long hours of chemotherapy, illness and isolation.
Joey Venturella Eric Vogel *PAST PRESIDENTS
Tom O’Neal Guy Phillips Gary Saettele
S TA FF Executive Director Brandy Bimslager Program Director Valerie Kennedy Lang, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C Program Coordinator Morgyn Johnson Volunteer & Events Coordinator Kim Wisdom
Development Coordinator Eva Schuller, MPA Marketing & Communications Specialist Angela Hutchings Finance Manager Diane Voigt Office Coordinator Sharon Roth
314.275.7440 • friendsofkids.org 16 Sunnen Drive Suite 161 • St. Louis, MO • 63143
Friends of Kids with Cancer 1
@Friends_of_Kids
FRO M TH E E XECUTIVE DIREC TO R
Through passion, dedication, and vision, Friends of Kids with Cancer was born in 1992 as a local non-profit organization in St. Louis. Over the past 30 years, this amazing charity has become like no other. All of us at Friends are thrilled to be celebrating a wonderful milestone and privileged to be carrying on the mission of our founders. It has been incredible to look back at the growth and the deeprooted impact in our community that the organization has today. We are extremely thankful to our volunteers and supporters who continue to believe in our purpose-driven approach, treating the whole child and family. Our key focus has long been to understand meaningful impact and what our families truly value and need throughout this derailing journey. Now in our 30th year, we are even more intentional in how our Educational, Emotional, and Recreational programs are provided to families who have experienced a pediatric cancer or blood related disease diagnosis. I am personally humbled and grateful to be in a position to celebrate the countless smiles, memories, and hope. Cheers to 30 years of helping kids with cancer... be kids! With deep appreciation,
Brandy
Terri Wurdack and Kris Arneson at the 2004 Golf Tournament.
BOARD HIG H LIG HTS
TERRI WU RDACK RE TIRE S It’s in deep appreciation that we say farewell to Terri Wurdack as a Board Member. Thank you, Terri for over 25 years of service on our Board and in countless committees over the years. From Fashion Show Chair to Golf Auction, Terri has been highly involved in the successes of our fundraising events.
Terri and Tom Wurdack at the 2003 Fahion Show.
“I really don’t think there was an event that I did not participate in over all these years. And I loved them all,” she expressed. We are saddened to see her go, but are so grateful for her influences on this charity and her commitment to continue to support and volunteer at Friends events. 2
B EGIN NIN G TH E YE AR WITH HOPE AND CHEER A SUPER TRIVIA NIG HT On the night of Friday, February 28th, community superheroes came together to support TO SUPPORT Friends of Kids with PROGRAMMING. Cancer and compete in the 19th Annual Superhero Trivia Night. While most dressed in their alter-ego street clothing, some ducked inside phone booths to emerge as heroes dressed in capes and masks. THIS EVENT RAISED ABOUT
$28,000
Volunteers dressed in their super uniforms as they set up the event, managed raffle tickets sales and mulligans, and waited on tables throughout the night. Table runners were free this year and each team had their own waiter to supply drinks to the very thirsty players.
Hero Sponsor The Godfrey Family in Memory of Bernadette Godfrey THANK YOU TO THE PLANNING COMMITTEE: Kaye Roberts, Kathy Thomas, Jessica Goodman, Theresa Bartoni, Dyana Schneider, Alex Armbruster, Chad Baker, Teresa Godfrey, Danielle Godfrey VIEW MORE PHOTOS
WALK ING AG AIN AT WALK WITH A FRIE N D THIS EVENT RAISED OVER Volunteers selling game tickets & drink running.
Hart of the City Photo Booth donated hundreds of amazing photos. Jerry Hart, owner of the photo booth spoke about his cancer survivor journey and how Friends helped him through. For the teams that almost made it to the top, we’ll see you next year to see if you can turn from Underdogs to Super Friends and come out on top. Until then, we want to give out our sincere gratitude to all those who made this event possible. Those who attended, volunteered, sponsored, or donated items for raffle or the bar—THANK YOU for helping kids with cancer... be kids! ▪ 3
$35,000 TO SUPPORT PROGRAMMING.
On the crisp, chilly morning of Saturday, April 16th, hundreds of people gathered for one purpose: to remember, honor, and support our pediatric cancer patients, their families and caregivers, their doctors and nurses, and all the kind people who help support Friends of Kids with Cancer at the 22nd Annual Walk with a Friend.
Excitement blew through the windy lakefront of Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park as families and businesses came together for popcorn, snow cones, bounce houses, and games. Kids skipped and played with painted faces as the adults assembled to either walk the 1-mile or run the 5K.
Runners lined up, took their marks, got set, and zoomed down the path, dressed in their Walk with a Friend blue athletic tees. Kids, adults, and even Spider-Man were seen running to make good time back to the St. Louis Track Club Finish Line. Families and businesses then gathered to start the 1-mile walk. While some excitement still permeated, there was a distinct calm as families held hands, held signs, and held honor and remembrance of their loved ones. Many families walked in memory of children and loved ones who are no longer with us. Other families honored the struggles that come with a cancer diagnosis. All who walked celebrated the lives of children and adults alike who are affected by cancer—honoring the
strength, courage, love, and care that can only come from the personal and collective struggle of these special kids and families. After the run and walk, guests enjoyed music by 106.5 The Arch and local radio host Donny Fandango. New to the event this year were local vendors selling wares, food, and showcasing their businesses. Free breakfast items like coffee, fruit, and very popular muffins were available, thanks to some wonderful donors. By the end of the morning, guests were feeling warm with comradery and the sun as winners of the 5K were announced. With the feeling of reverence from their connections to one another and pride for helping raise funds and awareness for Friends, folks folded up their chairs and re-filled their wagons to continue their beautiful Saturday. ▪ VIEW MORE PHOTOS
THANK YOU TO OUR MAJOR SPONSOR:
THANK YOU TO THE PLANNING COMMITTEE: Matt Coriell, Sharon Woelbling, Susan Schnoring Shannon Pfitzer, Rachel Chandler, Beth Randolph
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A BE AUTIFUL DAY TO GIVE BACK AT FRIEN DS’ GO LF TO U RNAM E NT We couldn’t have asked for better weather at this year’s Annual Golf Tournament & Auction. It was clear skies, chilly breezes and all smiles that day as golfers arrived for breakfast. Golfers enjoyed Carrie’s Merries’ bloody marys and breakfast by Russo’s Gourmet Catering. To get the day started, former patient and cancer survivor, Maggie Bohannan, spoke to guests about her cancer journey through her adolescent years and how Friends helped keep her smiling, even when she didn’t want to. Maggie’s father, Bob, was in attendance, too. Maggie wished everyone a great day of golf before she, Bob, and all other golfers headed out to their tees for a beautiful day of golf.
THIS EVENT RAISED OVER
$306,000 TO SUPPORT PROGRAMMING.
Throughout the day, guests imbibed drinks and snacks on the course as well as a great burger and brat lunch by O’B Clark’s and Russo’s Gourmet Catering. “Everywhere I turn there’s a snack or beer!” said one golfer.
After golf, guests joined in the clubhouse for dinner while Rick Lommel, Bob Nuelle, and Ryan Lommel handed out plaques to some of the amazing sponsors that support the event. Pediatric cancer patient, Elle, spoke in front of the crowd about the importance of mental health during treatment. She expressed the feeling of hope in seeing so many supporters gathered in one room together. Rick moved into the auction where signed NHL and MLB jerseys, unique vacation packages, and in-home dining experiences were auctioned to the highest bidders. Collectively, golfers and guests made a huge impact on our ability to provide excellent programming to our patients—and they had fun doing it! Elle, Dinner Speaker, Cancer Patient
This tournament is so successful year after year because of our loyal and generous sponsors, who often return each year for a good time with a meaningful cause. ▪
CLICK HERE TO VIEW MORE PHOTOS 5
Maggie, Breakfast Speaker, Cancer Survivor
THANK YOU TO OUR MAJOR SPONSORS: TITA N I U M S P O N S O R
Elizabeth Albritton and Sarah Petit, volunteers.
Board Members Tommy Russo and Scott Biermann grilling lunch.
PL ATI N U M S P O N S O R S
G O LD S P O N S O R S Baumann Property Company, Inc. Behlmann Automotive Captiva Marketing Central Bank of St. Louis In Loving Memory of Tandy and Erin Easley Linda Baker In honor of Hazel Meisinger Painters Supply & Equipment Thomas Industrial Coatings, Inc. Veregy S I LV E R S P O N S O R S Consumer Collections Management, Inc.
Guests look in amazement at the huge variety of high-end bottles in the Whiskey Business whiskey pull.
B RO N Z E S P O N S O R S Dogwood Social Engenuity, SSC Engineering, ASC Group & Gray Design Group Footwear Unlimited Gatewood Wealth Solutions Imo’s Pizza Kadean Construction Klamen Real Estate Group Merrill Payne Crest The Opus Group Southwest Oral Surgery UBS Financial Weis Offsite Construction
THANK YOU TO THE PLANNING COMMITTEE: H O N O R A RY C H A I R Ryan O’Reilly CO - C H A I R S Rick Lommel Bob Nuelle Ryan Lommel CO M M IT T E E Matt Biffignani Jared Frank Tony Godfrey Randy Johnson Drew Jones Billy Klug Matt Lamb Eric Moyer Jonathan Renken Philippe Royall Tom Russo Mark Winschel AU C TI O N CO M M IT T E E CHAIR Anne Royall AU C TI O N CO M M IT T E E Anna Boudoures Anna Godfrey Kathryn Jones Jordan Lommel Stella Moyer Rose Reyes Rachel Trumpy Terri Wurdack
Guests browse the auction room as volunteers stand by to assist with online bidding. 6
A QUICK LOOK AT E XPRE SSIVE THER APIE S Music Therapy An established health profession in which music is used in a therapeutic relationship to address an individual’s physical, emotional, behavioral, cognitive, and social needs. Music is a form of sensory stimulation, which provokes responses due to the familiarity, predictability, and feelings of security associated with it. Music Therapy is effective in physical rehabilitation, facilitating movement, increasing engagement in treatment, and providing
emotional support and an outlet for expressing feelings. “Music can heal and bring hope to a child. And sometimes it feels like one song can change your whole life. Music is a language that connects us all,” explains Music Therapist Christy Merrell, MT-BC.
Friends provides Music Therapy services to patients and siblings at the Friends office, Mercy Clinic, and through telehealth. ▪
Art Therapy Improves cognitive and sensorimotor functions, fosters self-esteem and selfawareness, cultivates emotional resilience, promotes insight, enhances social skills, & reduces and resolves conflicts and distress. One of the more widely known expressive therapies offered to Friends patients and siblings is Art Therapy. Offered at each of our hospital partner locations, patients and siblings can work with Art Therapists as a form of expression, distraction, or as a realtime way to process what they’re going through. 7
“We use [art therapy] in order to bring joy, to express ourselves, to process through difficult emotions,” explains Daphne Dierkes, Art Therapist at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Funds are raised specifically for Art Therapy programs at our Art from the Heart art auction event. View the back of this newsletter for more information. ▪
Therapeutic Horticulture
N E W TO FRI EN D S!
Improves a child’s wellbeing by deepening their connection to nature. Jeanne Carbone, Supervisor of Therapeutic Horticulture for the Missouri Botanical Gardens, works in a new program partnership with Friends of Kids with Cancer and Mercy Clinic to provide Therapeutic Horticulture to pediatric patients. She sits with them in the clinic or hospital bedside to discover plant material and life.
Therapeutic Horticulture is currently available to Friends patients at Mercy Clinic with hopes to expand the program to other treatment centers. ▪
“Deepening one’s connection to nature can take on a lot of different forms,” says Jeanne. “Focusing on the details and nuances of the plants takes you outside yourself.” Therapeutic Horticulture is a process in which plants and gardening activities are used to improve the body, mind and spirit, through passive or active involvement. We all know what a rose looks like, but what are the different colors inside the petals? We’ve smelled lavender, but what does a lavender plant feel like? “It’s about the process, not the product. You may walk away with something, but that’s not the goal. The goal is to make a connection to nature. It’s all about the conversation and connection with nature,” Jeanne explained. 8
LOOK ING BACK AT 3 0 YE AR S OF FRI EN DS Over the past 30 years, Friends has built Emotional, Educational, and Recreational programming based on the growing needs of the children and families we serve, as well as expert recommendations from our Advisory Board doctors and medical healthcare partners. We have helped thousands of children live their best daily lives through family support, special gifts, educational support, therapy, special outings, and so much more.
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“After the death of my young daughter, Ellen, in 1992 I knew immediately that I wanted to help Jill Turec and others form an organization that would bring smiles to the faces of other young cancer patients we had met during her treatment. It was a way to focus my grief onto something positive and inspiring. FOKWC has grown beyond our wildest dreams and serves children with cancer and their families in so many ways we never thought possible.” –Molly Henry, Co-Founder
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“Friends Forever is an easy way for me to give back to this amazing organization on an ongoing basis and help build a legacy of giving to Friends for my family. Every little bit helps to support these amazing kids and their families on this incredibly challenging journey!” —Merri Cross, Friends Forever Loyalty Club Member
Sustained giving from Friends Forever donors, like Merri and many others, provides essential resources for tutoring, therapy, and activities that make a big difference in the daily struggles of our pediatric cancer patients and their families. Friends Forever loyalty members provide an extraordinary gift to the pediatric cancer community through their monthly commitment.
We count on our loyal monthly donors to keep our programs running smoothly. Stability is what our patient families need most while juggling hospital appointments, long stays in treatment, and all the devastating emotional impacts that come with having a child with cancer. Thanks to regular incoming gifts, we are able to provide them with stable programming, which can only be done with committed monthly or annual donors.
Help the most and make a monthly or annual donation by joining our Friends Forever Loyalty Club. Donate today using the enclosed envelope. Or visit friendsofkids.com/donate and select Make Me A Friends Forever Loyalty Club Member. DONATE NOW
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DR . K AREN G AU VAIN Dr. Karen Gauvain, a prominent neurooncologist at Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, made an extraordinary difference in the lives of her patients, families, and colleagues. A childhood cancer diagnosis turns a family’s world upside down. During this time of deep vulnerability, Dr. Gauvain immediately connected with patients and their families in a wholehearted way. As a mother of three, Karen was full of empathy. She walked families through the many layers of treatment with clarity and compassion. She listened to their concerns, answered their questions, and advocated on their behalf. She attended to families with patience and steadfastness through their darkest times.
Dr. Karen Gauvain, patient Taylor Cole, and Mary Beck, Neuro-oncology Nurse Coordinator at Siteman Kids.
Karen was also a beloved colleague. As one of her co-workers shared, “I would not be where I am today without Dr. Gauvain. Her passion for Pediatric Neuro-Oncology inspired me not only to grow in knowledge of this rapidly developing field, but also to care and advocate for my patients with commitment and compassion.” Furthering her advocacy, Karen served on the Friends of Kids with Cancer Advisory Board, lending her medical expertise as well as her understanding of patient needs for resources. Dr. Gauvain will forever be remembered as a caring physician, loyal colleague, and fierce advocate. She will sincerely be missed. ▪
Friends has received an incredible outpouring of support from the community in memory of Dr. Karen Gauvain, including Mehlville High School Class of 1985, pictured here in a check presentation with spouse, Dave Gauvain.
W R I T T EN BY S U S A N N E RO S EN B ERG , R N , M S N FR I EN D S O F K I D S W I T H C A N C ER B OA R D M EM B ER , E X EC U T I V E D I R EC TO R , C L I N I C A L O P ER AT I O N S O F S I T EM A N K I D S AT S T. LO U I S C H I L D R EN ’ S H O S P I TA L
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PROGR AM HIG HLIG HTS NANC Y ’ S MEMORY MAKER In July of last year, 17 year old pediatric cancer patient, Nancy, received what many teenage girls dream of—a personalized, professional photo shoot complete with wardrobe changes. Looking forward to graduation this Spring, she wanted the best graduation photos. Nancy chose the location of the photo shoot at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, where she was treated. While posing, Dr. Bob Hayashi surprised her in the garden with a rose and plaque, showing his support of her and getting a few photos together. This Memory Maker wouldn’t be possible without the help of volunteer and professional photographer, Jessica Mangus, who donated her time and expertise to shoot these beautiful photos, as well as the support of the 9th floor hematology/oncology staff at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Recently, the Friends of Kids with Cancer team received Nancy’s Class of 2022 graduation announcement in the mail, featuring her graduation photos. On her announcements, Nancy chose a great quote by Eleanor Roosevelt.
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
We certainly believe in your dreams, Nancy, and we can’t wait to see what you do next. Congratulations on graduating High School! ▪ Friends of Kids with Cancer gives Memory Makers to provide an extra special, personalized gift to a child at a milestone time in their treatment, providing lasting memories.
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FAMILY NIG HT AT THE BOTANIC AL G ARDENS In April, patient families enjoyed a free night at the Missouri Botanical Gardens. Just in time for spring blooms, kids and families enjoyed snacks, activities, and walking the gardens together. Families enjoyed music in the Children’s Garden and fed fish in the Japanese koi pond. What a wonderful evening to spend with family and friends!
Events and parties like this are just one part of our Recreational, or Smile, programming, helping kids regain their childhoods and live their best day-to-day lives with joy.
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CO M M U NIT Y PARTN ERS SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESSES WHO CARE
HART OF THE CITY PHOTO BOOTH Jerry Hart, of Hart Of The City Photo Booth, is a two-time cancer survivor. He was diagnosed with a form of pediatric cancer called Neuroblastoma when he was 21 years old. After being referred to Dr. Bob Bergamini and Dr. Rob Hanson at Mercy Pediatric Oncology, he met Jill Turec, a co-founder of Friends and Development Specialist at the time. “This woman was God sent, she helped me and my family in so many ways,” Jerry expressed. Jerry says Friends assisted in almost every aspect of his life when he was sick.
Jerry promised himself that if he was ever in a position to give back, he would. Fast forward 10 years and he’s a Small Business Owner of Hart Of The City Photo Booth—Premier Interactive Photo and Video Experiences for Brands, Parties and Weddings. Jerry has donated his photo booth services at Friends’ fundraising events and has committed to donate to many more events throughout the year. “I’m so honored to be able to give back to the very organization who gave me a fighting chance in life. I’m so grateful to be a part of the FOKWC family!” ▪
W E B S IT E : hartofthecityphotobooth.com P H O N E : 314-384-8300
@hartofthecityphotobooth
ROCK PAPER SPRINKLES Friends has worked with Rock Paper Sprinkles to provide fun activity kits for various occasions. During last year’s Covid-safe Art from the Heart virtual Arty Party, the patient artists were sent fun art-filled activity boxes from Rock Paper Sprinkles. “I have been so grateful to collaborate with an organization whose mission is to bring joy to the children and families who need it most. Like Friends of Kids with Cancer, my business is also dedicated to enriching the daily lives of children. Rock Paper Sprinkles products are created with the goal of building imagination and fun into the everyday,” Cara Kopec, the owner of the company, explained. “For FOKWC families, I understand that the patient journey can be tough, and bringing joy through imagination and play can distract from the difficulties and focus on the fun of childhood.” ▪
W E B S IT E : rockpapersprinkles.com E M A I L : info@rockpapersprinkles.com @rockpapersprinklesco S E RV I N G : St. Louis & Nationwide
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GE T INVOLVED COMR ADERY & FRIENDSHIP FOS TERED THROUG H HATS ON DAY THIS SCHOOL YE AR Schools, businesses, and churches can host in the 2021/2022 their own School Year to support Hats On Day, programming and allowing kids and foster comradery and staff to wear their friendship for cancer favorite hat by patients in schools. making a small donation. This year, entire school districts like Lonedell R-14 School District raised money, as well as local businesses. Even a school in Queens, New York participated and raised over $2,000. HATS ON DAY RAISED
$15,600
This fundraising program originated to support pediatric cancer patients who suffer from hair loss and go to school each day or miss their friends and classmates due to long hospital stays. Kids’ friends, classmates, and teachers and show support for their struggle by making a donation and wearing a hat. It can be an easy and heartfelt way to build school spirit while supporting classmates who are struggling with their hair loss. Businesses can build a culture of community support around pediatric cancer with their
teams by fundraising with us. Friends provides everything you need: Hats On Day stickers to wear on the day, a guide with fun ideas, a promotional poster, and informational brochures. Just pick a date, collect money, and have fun! ▪
NOAH R AISE S $14, 50 0 THROUG H T-SHIRT FUNDR AISER Students and staff at Liberty Middle School and the Edwardsville School District 7 bought 815 t-shirts from Noah Rensing’s fundraiser, benefiting Friends. The shirts were worn in honor of 7th-grader Noah, a cancer survivor, and in support of his classmate, Ben, who is undergoing treatment for brain cancer. The shirts were worn throughout the school district. Edwardsville High School basketball team wore their shirts to practice. Faculty and staff proudly posed with
students showing their support with the tees. “Thank you for letting us give back to your organization in some way. Words cannot say how grateful we are for all the things that you have done and continue to do for all kids and their families going through cancer in the area,” Noah’s father, John Rensing expressed. Thank you, Noah and the entire Rensing family for giving back and fostering so much awareness and support in your area. ▪ 16
VOLUNTEER SP OTLIGHT SHARON WOELBLING
How long have you been volunteering with Friends, and how did you get involved? I have been volunteering with FOKWC on a regular basis since 2015. That is the year I retired. One of my goals as a retired educator was to give back to those who had made a difference in my life. What does volunteering at Friends mean to you? It was proven to our family time and again, how involved FOKWC was in their patient families’ lives! The list of what they give back to their families is never ending and I felt the need to give back as well. Sharon is a retired school principal whose granddaughter, Mackenzie, lost her battle to cancer in 2013. Mackenzie’s little sister, Zoe, (seen here) helps Sharon volunteer. Most recently, Sharon made a huge impact as the Walk with a Friend activities coordinator on the volunteer committee, securing all the fun activities and food for kids and families at the event.
What is your favorite Friends activity or event? My assignments vary and I feel so rewarded as I help in any way I can. I have worked just about every event, for the past eight years, have shared my resources to help with events and have given my time shopping, delivering lunches, hoping to help make the patients and their families day to day journey a little easier.
“To me volunteering is so rewarding... it is a way to show appreciation to those in need as well as to show gratitude for the gifts, talents and blessings we have received in our lives.” hool Does your sc ave a or business h ram? service prog 17
Connect with your school’s guidance counselor or your company’s HR department to see how you can get credit or use company time to volunteer. We can tally your hours and provide documentation of your volunteer time.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIE S HIGHEST NEEDS
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Run Errands
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Plan and Execute Fundraising Events
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Deliver to Treatment Centers
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Toy Closet & Donation Organizing in the Office SIGN UP
Help at a Fundraising Event Saturday, July 30 3v3 Soccer Tournament at Woodlands Sports Park
Sunday, September 25 Chip In for Charity at Top Golf St. Louis
Saturday, August 20 Randi Perkins Memorial Golf Tournament at Forest Park Golf Course
Thursday, November 3 Fashion Show & Boutique at The Ritz Carlton–St. Louis
Thursday, September 22 Art from the Heart at Mungenast-Lexus of St. Louis
JOIN YOUNG FRIENDS
We are young professionals with the joys of childhood still fresh in our minds. We support Friends of Kids with Cancer in exciting and unique ways. Our mission is to provide an enthusiastic and energetic base of young professional supporters and future leaders for Friends of Kids with Cancer. GET INVOLVED
• Attend fundraisers or
networking events with other young professionals. • Become a member.
It’s free!
• Join a committee to
help in the most meaningful way.
2022 YOUNG FRIENDS EVENTS 3v3 Soccer Tournament Saturday, July 30, 2022 Woodlands Sport Park Young Friends of Kids with Cancer & Black Sheep Foundation
Randi Perkins Memorial Golf Tournament Saturday, August 20 Forest Park Golf Course Chip In for Charity Sunday, September 25 Top Golf St. Louis LEARN MORE 18
HONOR ARY & MEMORIAL DONATIONS BOLDED NAMES ARE THOSE BEING HONORED OR MEMORIALIZED.
Honorary Donations
Abel Julius Samantha Eagan
Gary Odom Danielle Verkamp
Booker Barnes Pat Ciapciak
Malorie Klug Suzanne Braun Aaron and Jen Pawlitz
Elizabeth Barraza Bob and Peggy Nuelle
January–May 2022
Beckham Bass Janet Bass Lily Beck Nancy Cassidy Ryder Boles Dexter School District R-11 Craig Bomkamp Quantum Solutions, Inc. Tanya Braatz Alltru Credit Union Lily Briscoe Insperity Macey Brown Rockwood South Middle School Carole Ann Brown Fred Brown
Brooks and Janis McArthy Michelle and Craig Forthaus Hazel Meisinger Linda Baker
Dick Burton Thomas Zacaroli
Mary Rodgers Dave and Cathy Rodgers Monica Sondhi
Mick Byrne Kelly and Larry Deam
Melissa Schmittgens William and Mary Schmittgens
Meghan Mulvihill-Taylor Sadie Smith
Edwardsville High School & Lincoln Middle School The Forinash Family
Khloe Tucker Harper / Claire Sanford
Dominic Gibson Shilpa Lascino Kathleen Godfrey Nick and Danielle Godfrey Kay Hagan Alison Berry
Alex Venardos Maull and Constantine Venardos Eric Vogel Rick and Jeanine Boggs Joe Kreps RPT Specialties, LLC Wedding Guests of Daniel Pabst & Mary Rodgers Daniel and Mary Ryan Williams Jason and Christine Williams
Nick Handing Lynn and James Feicht
Memorial Donations
Luca Heidenreich Gary and Sandy Baum Rayma Ripplemeyer
Drew Albritton Don and Linda Curtis
Chris Henry BMO Harris Bank Rick and Molly Henry Alexandra and Kyle Cherry Shay Hietpas Sadie Smith
Patricia Biffignani Matt and Julie Biffignani
Rilee Rippon Amanda Starwalt
Breanna Colombo Carroll and Joann Johnson
Jolene Gentry Don and Judi Stotlemeyer
Ed Bierman Mark Eidelman
Jacob Neu Lorie Westhoff
Mr. & Mrs. Peter Cohen, Jr. Peter and Gisela Cohen
Ellie Fitzgerald Donald and Mimi Fitzgerald
Adam C. Behrhorst Lana Juedemann
Leroy Bullock Bill Sr., Billy & Carla Bullock Christopher Rand
Gary and Dianne Schuette Brandy and Adam Bimslager Toni and Duane Moody Rebecca, Matt, Whitley & Wesley Lisa Yanker
David Buck Rogers Middle School
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Makayla Markus Jamie and Justin Swier
January—May 2022
Eddie Barczewski Scott and Nancy Barnes Mike, Vicky, Rob & Brendan Craven Beth Intagliata Erin Jones Ken and Karen Krus Carol and Mick Markway
Betsy Clark Kathy Manganaro Darrell DeVoss Mark Eidelman Laura Jean DuFaux Tim and Debbie Champion Jake Franzel Taylor Pfaff Jerald Friedman The Bricker Family Jeff Frost Barb Fritz Dennis Fuist Andy and Jessica Bollier Geraldine Gauvain Julie and Matt Biffignani The Bono Family Scott & Wendy Combs & Combs Auto Service & Tire Center Colleen Connelly Judy and David Cunningham Dennis and Patricia Czajkowski Bryan Fay Jane Fay Mary Feldmeier Carol Frericks Helen Gagen Kate Hardin Joe and Sarah Hoff Richard Keefe Kevin and Mary Kelly Barbara Krumrey Richard and Cathy Krumrey Steve and Lisa Krumrey Al and Marie Luchetti Allen and Kim Maddy Dan Martin
The McDonough Family, Crews Family and Zesch-Mauren Family Andy & Lisa (Heaman) Meyer Michelle Ostermueller Jimmy Ray and Geraldine Thwing Mike and Gretchen Schmidt Jay and Barbara Skitt Robert Spellmeyer Bob and Jean Taylor Joseph and Julie VanderPluym James and Pat Wood Dr. Karen M. Gauvain The Alexander Family Jessica Allen Alicia Bach Elizabeth Bamvakais Joseph and Diane Barron The Bellistri Family Paul Berra Tim Berra Lisa Bick Julie and Matt Biffignani The Boeger Family Carolyn Bollinger The Bollwerk Family Mark & Carroll Brcic, Adam & Jenny Brcic and Rachel Brcic Ron Breville & Cathy Hagemann Sandy Bujnak Tom, Donna, Rafi & Arianna Chambasian Tim and Debbie Champion Kelsey D, Mikayla H, Amanda N & Lizzie S (CJ Soccer Class of 2016) The Linda & Gary Cloninger Family Dennis and Patricia Czajkowski Sue Dombek Jim and Linda Duke Andrew Eggleston The Ellis Family (Bill, Pat & Zach) Joan Finley Carol Frericks Helen Gagen Denny and Lisa Galati The Garrone Family Ben Gauvain Dave Gauvain Thomas Gauvain Tony Godfrey Marianne Haberstroh Donald and Mary Hacker Brian Haddock Ray and Denise Haddock Steve, Meg & Marc Hager Kate Hardin Chad and Pam Harris Patrick Hazzard Rick Heinrichs Joe and Sarah Hoff
Judy O’Connell & Charley Hopfinger The Jolly Ranchers Colleen Judge Richard and Margaret Kage Nicholas and Nicole Karcher Richard Keefe Richard and Joan Kofron Karen Korn James Kreutz Barbara Krumrey Lawrence and Linda Krumrey Richard and Cathy Krumrey Steve and Lisa Krumrey Gerald and Elizabeth Langsdorf The Looney Family Al and Marie Luchetti Allen and Kim Maddy Kathy Manganaro Jack Mathis The McDonough Family, Crews Family and Zesch-Mauren Family Dan and Tina McGrath & Family Andy & Lisa (Heaman) Meyer MHS Class of 1985 Jim and Ann Mueller Ray and Gigi Mueller Michelle Ostermueller Parkway South High Boys Soccer Booster Assn. Tony Patrico Jimmy Ray and Geraldine Thwing Lauren Redmond Mark and Barbara Reinholz Earl and Frances Richter Caroline Riesenbeck Hayashi and Susan Robert Pete and Lisa Rosener Cheryl Scheuermann Aaron and Laura Skidis SKPRINT / BO15 Kathy Smith St. John Vianney High School Andrea Stacy Swiss American, Inc. Bob and Jean Taylor The Traughber Family James and Patricia Trelford The Valenta Family Joseph and Julie VanderPluym Washington University School of Medicine Dept. of Pediatrics James and Pat Wood Lori Woodward Debbie Gilbert Harold and Deborah Douglas Bernadette Godfrey Anna Godfrey Nick and Danielle Godfrey
Tim and Megan Godfrey Jimmy Lang Allison Tornetta Jennifer Wardlaw Olivia Welch Josephine Godfrey BKD, LLP / John Mather Joan Fuchs Todd and Cathy Fuchs Marcia Jankowski Kathleen Janson Lawrence and Karen Marsiello Thomas Stewart & Family Robert and Rhonda Stuckey Joyce Gonzalez-Viator Pally Walsh Wayne Automatic Sprinkler Corporation Carl Gravier III Daniel O’Shea Construction / O’Shea Builders Don and Margie Sedlack Alice Handelman Peter and Gisela Cohen Lynn Handing Maureen and Doug Boland Laina Donovan Mark and Debbi Luebbert Brenda Bander Schaper Mary Weis Amber Hardester Gaye Bailey Ellen Henry Molly and Rick Henry Kathy Manganaro John Henry Molly and Rick Henry Kathy Manganaro Carter Hinkle Melinda Smith Grant Hock Crum / Ewing / Woodhouse Families
Sam Knackstedt Bud’s Trailer Repair, Inc. Amanda and Karen Veron Gemma LaVoy Suzanne Braun Caleb Leslie Bill Sr., Billy & Carla Bullock Susan Davis Christopher Rand Phillip Lingg MaryAnn Lingg Emily Linneman Sharon Roth Brad Lobsinger The Eddie Barczewski Family Anne Malecek Ed Schmid Ann Manganaro Kathy Manganaro Nick McCord Kelly and Duane McCord Royce McDonald Jim and Liz Murphy Miles Meyer Jill Meyer Mary Ellen Christman Hyde Mooney Molly and Rick Henry Nelson Morose Jill and Ben Turec Maxine and Henry Morose Jill and Ben Turec Tom Mulvihill Shay Hietpas The Lamartina Family Kathy Manganaro Winnie Nagel Steve Nagel Caleb Nehring Webster Groves High School
Jeanie Hood Cindy and Alan Woods
David Orf Paulette Whitworth
Trevor Joerling Billie Haller Brandee and Todd Joerling New Melle Sports & Recreation, Inc.
Cole Owens Laura Owens
Mindy and Tim Kippenberger Mary Kim and James Ojile Aidan Klenc Erin and Brian Klenc Ms. Anne F. Leners & Dr. Daniel J. Cook
Donald Patt Suzanne Ell Gerry and Maria Everding Carol Garrett Ellen Littleton Deborah McNamee Jerry and Mary Sue Pensel Ed and Jeannette Trenary
Hannah Quirk Crossroads Elementary Monica Reilly Jim Reilly Vincent Remsburger Don and Margie Sedlack Julie Ross Jason and Christine Williams Scott Runyan Karen Korn Sarah Smallen Katie Smallen Shirley Smith Galord Smith Clara Snover Henrietta Chesnek Linda Dalton Elizabeth Dial Shawn and David Ginsberg Barbara Roeseler Margaret Thompson Barry Sternick Mark Eidelman Rachel Stricklin Cindy and Alan Woods Griffin Thomas Diane and Bob Kopitsky Kathy Thomas Marshal Trachtman Mark Eidelman Wolf and Celia Turec Ben and Jill Turec Natalie Turner Gary, Carl, Mike, Jim, Dan, Bob, Phil, Bud, Bob, Tony, Tom, Kurt & Kathy Betty White Sandy Torbeck Diane and Keith Voigt Scott Wood Sam and Janet Ventimiglia WE MAKE EVERY EFFORT AT ACCURACY. PLEASE CONTACT US IF THERE’S A DISCREPANCY OR CORRECTION WITH YOUR DONATION.
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UP COMING E VENTS SATURDAY, JULY 30TH
SATURDAY, AUGUST 20TH Young Friends of Kids with Cancer & Black Sheep Foundation
Young Friends of Kids with Cancer
3v3 Soccer Tournament
Randi Perkins Memorial Golf Tournament
at Woodlands Sports Park
at Forest Park Golf Course
LEARN MORE
LEARN MORE
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22ND Art from the Heart at Mungenast-Lexus of St. Louis LEARN MORE
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25TH
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD
Young Friends of Kids with Cancer
Fashion Show & Boutique
Chip In for Charity at Top Golf of St. Louis
at The Ritz Carlton—St. Louis
SATURDAY, JANUARY 14 TH 2023
VooDoo in the Lou at The Fabulous Fox Theatre, St. Louis
Visit friendsofkids.org for more details on all our events. Friends of Kids with Cancer
@friends_of_kids
Friends of Kids with Cancer
Friends of Kids with Cancer