Whiz Kid: Newton Teen Organizes Fashion Show for Charity

Name: Valerie Herman

Age: 15

School: Gann Academy  (lives in Newton)

Accomplishment: Valerie has spearheaded a fashion show fundraiser for Franciscan Hospital for Children with her best friend Maddie Pontin.

“We both love music and wanted to organize a fun event that would let people know about the incredible benefits of the hospital’s music therapy program," Valerie said. "When we went to visit the program we immediately saw the impact that music had on the children. No matter their age or why they were hospitalized they all came together as a community and really enjoyed participating."

Valerie explained that she reached out to 15 friends and asked them to help out with this fundraising event at Bloomingdales, which will include a fashion show, collecting silent auction items and selling tickets to raise money for the music therapy program.

"The music therapist found interesting ways to involve each and every child. Some of these children have to remain in the hospital for several months and having this special time to look forward to is really important to give them some joy during their long stay," Valerie said. "Watching their faces light up was so touching."

Key to Awesomeness: “Being aware of other peoples’ needs and concerns and finding creative ways to do something about it," Valerie said. "I want everyone to know about the music therapy program because once they learn about it I know they will be  determined to make sure that this program continues in order to bring happiness through music to the patients at Franciscan Hospital for Children.”

Nomination information provided by Kelli Fletcher for the Fashion for Franciscan Bloomingdale's Fashion Show.

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