Maeson Wagner, Arts and Technology Editor
@mwagnercourant
“Finding Cures. Saving Children.” St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital opened in 1962 with the mentality that “no child should die in the dawn of their life.” Since it’s opening, the childhood cancer survival rate has increased from 20% to 80%.
“All parents should have to worry about when they are at St. Jude is their child surviving cancer, not the expenses of medical bills, travel, or housing.” Celia Parkhill said, a freshman at NCHS and active member of the St. Jude Leadership Society. Celia helps with raising awareness and donations for the hospital. “I have to raise $2,500 by June 15 which will help curing cancers and life-threatening diseases.” she said.
Most members of the St. Jude leadership team campaign among family and friends to meet the $2,500 fundraising goal but Celia has decided to take a different route. “I wanted to make sure the donors were getting something out of giving the money, which is why I chose to sell art.” she said. Art naturally draws people’s attention but with the St. Jude element attached, people are more inclined to give away their money. “Selling art to raise money for St. Jude is a good marketing point because it’s unique and draws attention to the cause,” Celia said.
The leadership society has also found a way to connect their motives to benefiting the New Canaan community. “I have been reaching out to featured student artists to see if they are willing to sell their art in exchange for a donation to St. Jude.” Celia said. Luckily, student artists have been very responsive to the cause. “Originally, I was worried students wouldn’t want to sell their paintings because they wouldn’t be receiving any money in return, but so far they have been eager to contribute to St. Jude.”
Although Celia reaches out to several of the artists’ whose paintings she sells, she also has a hyperlink on her website where those interested can submit their artwork. “All you have to do is fill out a Google Form with what you’re submitting and leave the art in the front office (assuming the artist attends NCHS) and I will take care of the rest,” Celia said.
Celia has found that donors are likely to spend more money on the art because they know exactly where the proceeds are going to. “Unlike the lemonade stands I used to have as a kid where I would sit and ask for money, when I sell the art on my website it is based around the idea that with a purchase you will be helping a child in need,” Celia said.
