Little Fundraiser Makes a Big Impact

The IWK Foundation is pleased to celebrate the generous donation made by 6-year-old Blythe O’Connor, a grade one student at Armbrae Academy in Halifax.  Blythe recently presented the foundation with $5,002 for the IWK!

 “I wanted to help the children so they could get better and live longer and get to go home,” says Blythe.

Blythe was prompted to take on her philanthropic initiative at school, as a member of a fundraising group called Friends of the IWK.  Her teacher, Cheryl O’Rourke, began the year by teaching the grade one class about helping others in selfless and caring ways. 

In December, Blythe decided to roll all the money from her piggy bank and donate it to help IWK patients.  Her parents offered to match her contribution and as a result, Blythe proudly handed over $233 to her teacher.  

Next, Blythe crafted a letter to family and friends asking for loose change for the IWK.  She received over $350 towards her cause. 

But she didn’t stop there.  With the help of her parents, Blythe approached the Halifax business, FRED, and asked them if they would donate their space for a fundraiser called Change for Life.

On April 13, 2008 over 200 people showed up to lend their support with bags upon bags of loose change.   Two local bands donated their time and performed, and everyone at FRED donated their time, effort, support, and spare change to support Blythe’s efforts. 

Blythe’s efforts prove children can make a big difference in the lives of IWK patients and their families.  Blythe’s photo and story are on display on the IWK Foundation’s donor recognition ladder for the month of May.  Way to go, Blythe!