Fourth-Grader Leads Personal Fundraising Campaign

A gift is worth giving if it comes from the heart. This is what prompted fourth-grader Genna C. of Overland Park, Kansas to raise money benefiting brain cancer research.

Genna's teacher, Mrs. Gail Mullin, was surprised and elated when Genna presented her with a heart-shaped red velvet box on the last day of school this past May. Inside the box was cash totaling $131.30. Genna explained that she wanted the money to go to both the beHeadStrong organization and the Tug McGraw Foundation, two organizations fighting brain cancer, in honor of Mrs. Mullin's husband, Rob, currently a 3 1/2 year brain tumor survivor.

When asked how she raised money, Genna replied, "I started making jewelry that I sold to family members and friends. Then I had a garage sale." Her final project she termed "Baking For Brain Cancer Research."

She and her mother, Shelly, also a teacher, baked goodies and sold them at school. “Raising the money was easy,” said Shelly. “Genna planned all of the events herself and explained to everyone what the money was going for and why. People just kept giving money in all forms - cash, loose change, and even checks. They wanted to support Genna and loved the idea that she was doing this as a surprise for her teacher and her teacher's husband."

Going one step further, Genna even put her own allowance and Christmas money into the fund. Mrs. Mullin was speechless when she was given the gift. "I have never had a student go so far above and beyond to help us out,” said Mullin. “She is a truly wonderful little girl with a heart of gold. I give her an A+ for compassion and support!"

Genna will continue this giving spirit next year. What's the idea she's come up with? She responded with a twinkle in her eye, "It will be a surprise...just wait until next year!"

Thank you, Genna! You are one "class" act!