A key fundraiser for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, the campaign is also an effective megaphone for spreading accurate information about blood cancers and a unique chance for teens to hone skills they may soon need as professionals.
Here’s how it works: Student leaders are nominated by community leaders, educators or their peers. They then work with LLS staff to develop a business plan for success. Teams then have seven weeks to educate their respective communities about blood cancers and fundraise for groundbreaking research and patient support programs.
“When young people advocate for LLS, they not only raise critical funds — they inspire entire communities to take action,” said Coker Powell, LLS’s executive vice president and chief revenue officer.
Teens also get to practice public speaking, networking and financial planning, among other professional skills, through this philanthropic leadership program. Many top teen fundraisers have gone on to make remarkable achievements, gaining admission to competitive universities, winning prestigious awards like becoming a Top 40 finalist in the Regeneron Science Talent Search, and launching their own startups.
“Through this program, students gain leadership, empathy and a strong sense of social responsibility while raising money for lifesaving research and patient support,” said Loretta Mason, senior manager of social responsibility and community investment at Sunbelt Rentals, a National Presenting Partner of Student Visionaries of the Year.
