Board President Tara Albores introduced two student leaders of the Sunshine Fund, Leo Stamets and Elliot Bell, who provided an overview and update on the Sunshine Fund at RFHS. The group formed in 2016, which means that it’s just about to hit 9 years. It was founded by 2 students whose mother was going through tough times. In March 2017 it was established as a 501c3 non-profit organization, and it met its first annual $5000 fundraising goal. In 2018 they were recognized by Character.org as their non-profit organization of the year, and they served more than 200 families by 2020; from 2020 on, SF has reached over 700 families.
The students pointed out that after starting as a response to one family in need within the RFHS community, the Sunshine Fund now has a mission to provide donations to those in the wider River Falls community who are facing hardships. They emphasized that they provide equitable support. Click READ MORE for the rest of the story and more about the Sunshine Fund.
Tara said that the students run meetings and that the SF recognizes an array of hardships: accidents and injuries, severe medical issues, a family death, fire of disaster, as well as other challenges.
The group’s fundraising consists of an annual appeal letter, a golf outing, 50/50 drawings, baseball concessions, bingo at Johnnie’s, and local business partnerships.
In response to a question, Tara noted that the Sunshine Fund is fortunate to have great support from the RFSD. In addition to the leadership and community service that being part of the group provides, Sunshine Fund member students gain a perspective on the serious situations that occur to families in our community.
About the Group: The Sunshine Fund leaders include: Tara Albores - President; Colleen Jahnke - Past President; Scott Morrissette - Past President; Elliott Bell - Senior, Student President; Avery Kannel - Senior, Student Board Member; Leo Stamets - Junior, Student Secretary; Aly Ghenciu - Junior, Student Board Member