Putting on a Show for FIRST                           

Bailey's Broadway Bash was held on October 4th and raised $4,145 for FIRST! This event began back in 2020 during the pandemic by Bailey Fabiano. Her birthday is in June and things still weren't opening up yet, so she asked her closest theatre friends to record themselves performing their favorite Broadway tune! They gathered together on the night of her birthday to watch all the videos on Zoom and they all loved it! That sparked an interest in doing this every year.  In five years, they have raised over $17,000 and had fun doing it!

Since that first virtual performance, Bailey, her mom Tracie Pretak, and her friends have held a live performance called Bailey's Broadway Birthday Bash and used it as a fundraiser for FIRST. This year, due to some scheduling conflicts, it wasn't during Bailey's birthday month, but they still were determined to make it happen. There were a lot of changes this year, as they moved to a new location and switched up the fundraising a little bit. 

They mailed out 320 letters to area businesses and clubs seeking donations of a basket for the auction or a monetary donation at different sponsor tiers of giving.  Through that, they educated over 300 people about ichthyosis and FIRST, received several auction baskets, and raised $1,950 in donations, including two in the amount of $500!  The admission price, which included a delicious buffet and a show,  had an additional amount tacked on to ensure FIRST would make some money at the door.   They had a basket auction and a 50/50 raffle.  And though we were at a new venue this year, the owner donated the use of it - a value and savings of over $2,000 on the rental.

The audience had a blast and is looking forward to it next year. One of the highlights this year was Hunter Steinitz performing and Abby Evans attending the event.

Bailey and Tracie have been avid grassroots fundraisers for 39 years.  Their advice to others who want to do this - pick something you enjoy doing and find a way to turn it into a fundraiser!  This reduces the stress and burnout for the organizers.  Someone once told them, "the number one reason people don't give is because no one asked."  So be brave and just ask!  Lastly, they have believed from day one that every dollar helps.  The $4,145 they raised this year is more than FIRST would have had if they didn't do the event.

            3rd Annual Cornhole Tournament            

The Schlitt and Goff families recently hosted their third annual cornhole tournament, bringing together friends and supporters for a day of fun and community. The event was a great success, raising significant funds to support FIRST’s mission. We are truly grateful for their dedication and generosity in organizing this wonderful gathering, where everyone enjoyed both the games and the opportunity to give back.

 

            Michigan Teen Raises $4,755            

How many highschoolers can say this?!?

Adriana Yost of Canton, MI, decided to make her high school graduation a fundraising opportunity. In lieu of gifts, she asked for donations to FIRST, in honor of her cousin Logan Schlitt, a 4 (and a half!) year old with ARCI-lamellar ichthyosis.

            A Third Successfull Year!             

The Schlitt and Goff families hosted their third Annual Cornhole Tournament benefiting FIRST.

These rockstar Michganders welcomed 100+ people for the fully catered event, which drew people from across the region!

Several members of FIRST rallied to support the event. It was as much about community as it was fundraising! 8 affected people were present...from 3 months old to 60+!

Donations are still coming in...stay tuned for the total.

                  Yale Students Swim for Ichthyosis                 

Dr. Choate's lab at Yale has made so many significant contributions to the ichthyosis community. Last month, a team of students decided to join forces and swim for FIRST! They swam 15 miles in open water, about the equivalent of a marathon! Together they raised $2,925!!!!

THANK YOU to all our grassroots fundraisers!

Tips for Creative Fundraising:

• Remember people are eager to connect
• Everyone has different boundaries – allow for many choices in participation
• Food, entertainment, and information are universal draws
• Use technology to get the word out and tell your story
• Contact FIRST to build a fundraising page

To learn more about hosting a fundraiser Contact Denise Gass at FIRST