Carolina For The Kids

Meet Cheryl, The Public Relations Committee Leader!

3/26/2021

Nicole DeBlois is a member of the Public Relations committee

Carolina For The Kids is full of selfless members who are always giving their committees, as well as the organization, their absolute best. Cheryl Phillips, the 2020-2021 chair of the Public Relations committee, is one of these exceptional members. Her committee was in charge of running all social media channels, reaching out to reporters, getting coverage for major events, as well as keeping the blog and website updated. As the chair, Cheryl was in charge of coordinating between different committees in CFTK and other members of the executive board. Due to the shift of making everything virtual this year, Cheryl had to take on new responsibilities of getting engagement for these virtual events and making sure everything runs smoothly. Frankly, she has mastered breakout rooms better than some of our professors ever will after all of the weekly meetings she was in charge of running. She emphasizes the importance of adapting to situations and running with them, similar to what we all did for Kilometers for the Kids.
When asked why she chose to join in the first place, she was candid with her response telling how it was on a complete whim. She feels lucky that she chose “the best student organization out there” and truly gets to see the incredible impact that this club is making. Seeing first hand how the patients and community around Chapel Hill have been affected in positive ways by CFTK’s contributions is rewarding for her and the reason why she is so involved.
She strongly recommends this club to anyone and everyone and believes that CFTK is not only her home but offers the same warmth to anyone. Though the Public Relations committee is where she personally has exerted her time, she emphasizes the fact that there are so many committees that can fulfill diverse interests. The people that this club has brought, as well as the learning skills, is an experience she would never trade. Not only have the people in the club made her experience but the families from PNO and other wonderful people she works with. She is nothing short of excited for what is to come for the future of Carolina For The Kids and hopes that everyone else is too!

A Day in the Life of a Committee Member (Dance Marathon Day Edition)

3/18/2021

Jackson Pace and Lindsey Poole are members of the 2021 Public Relations committee

I wake up Friday morning with a huge smile on my face. It’s my first year at UNC and first year participating in the Dance Marathon! All year I’ve seen so many fun pictures and videos about this day and it’s finally time for me to participate. I leave my apartment and walk to Purvelo, a local cycling studio, to warm up for the big day tomorrow.

After I crush my workout, I head over to Target to grab a few granola bars and my guilty pleasure, a big bag of DUOZ Cheez-Its. This is my secret for staying upbeat and energetic the entire weekend.
It’s 1 o’clock and I meet up with a few other committee members to get our Dance Marathon packets outside of Fetzer Hall. The sun is beating down on us and the warm temperatures put me in the best mood to be on-campus. I see so many other students picking up their packets and try to find out their costume ideas, as I have yet to fully pick out my winning outfit.

Next, I drive over to Party City to browse around for a few extra jungle theme items. I’m really glad that I dressed as an 80s workout instructor for Halloween last year and can piece together some borrowed items from friends. I watch a few episodes of Survivor to get my mindset right and lockdown my strategy for tomorrow before going to bed early to make sure I am fully rested for the long day ahead of me. I can hardly handle my excitement!

It’s finally the day! I hear my alarm start playing CAN’T STOP THE FEELING! and for once, I jump out of bed. I have plans with a few of my CFTK friends to go to Brandwein’s Bagels to start our day off right. Everyone says a good breakfast is the key to a great Dance Marathon, so we had to go with our favorite local restaurant.

I go back to my apartment to put together all of the essentials: two water bottles, snacks, costumes, and my dancer packet. I turn on my favorite playlist of pump up music to get me ready to go and break into my bag of Cheez-its.
It’s 11:59 a.m. and one minute away from starting the best day ever. I pull out my laptop to join the Zoom and I’m ready for the countdown to begin! See you on the other side!

Q&A with Public Relations Committee Subchair: Nicole and Chloe

3/15/2021

Ella Coxe and Brooke Watson are members of the 2021 Public Relations committee

Carolina For The Kids does so much for the UNC Children’s Hospitals, but none of it would be possible without the amazing committee members that work incredibly hard to make the organization as successful as it is. This week, we want to highlight two hard-working sub chairs from the Public Relations Committee: Nicole Wesche and Chloe Yopp. The PR committee is lucky to have members like Nicole and Chloe and we hope you enjoy getting to know them!

How are you involved in CFTK/what is your role?

Chloe: This year I am the Media Relations sub chair on the Public Relations committee. This is my third year on the PR committee and my first year as a sub chair. As a Media Relations sub chair, it is my job to compile media lists and contact news outlets about covering CFTK events throughout the year. I write press releases and send them out to various news organizations whenever CFTK has newsworthy events like our Virtual Kilometers for the Kids 5K this past fall or our One Day Campaign coming up at the end of February.

Nicole: I’m the Social Media sub chair

What is your favorite CTFK memory?

Chloe: One of my favorite CFTK memories is the time I was able to volunteer at the Pediatric Playroom at N.C. Children's Hospital my freshman year. It was such a fun and rewarding experience to be able to spend time with the patients and siblings of patients and see them smile and have fun. The hospital can be such a sad place for some of these families, so it was such a nice feeling to see these kids playing games and just being kids for a little while.

Nicole: Making breakfast with my committee at the Ronald McDonald house for the patients and their families who are staying there. It was so great to get to interact with the patients and have the opportunity to serve them while they are going through all of the stress and expense of having a child in the hospital.

How has CTFK impacted you?

Chloe: CFTK has really enhanced my experience as a student at UNC. Sometimes I feel stuck in this Chapel Hill bubble when I am constantly on a campus full of people my age, but CFTK has helped me feel more connected to the Chapel Hill community and beyond. When I leave UNC, I can know that I truly helped to make a difference in someone's life and that I had an impact while I was here and I think that is really cool.

Nicole: CFTK has given me the opportunity to volunteer in the hospital and serve the Chapel Hill community during my four years here and helped me to make some amazing friends. I've gotten to know so many people who are so passionate about helping families in need, and this has inspired me to want to give back even more.

Why should people sign up for the dance marathon?

Chloe: If you're unsure about signing up for the dance marathon, as Nike would say, just do it! With the dance marathon being virtual this year, it is less of a commitment than it has ever been before and you still have a chance to make the same impact on the patients and families of N.C. Children's. During this pandemic, I have sometimes found that it is hard to feel like I'm doing something with my life or making an impact because the world is just so crazy right now, but signing up for dance marathon provides an opportunity to make a difference during these unprecedented times. There will be so many fun activities to participate in during the virtual marathon and being able to hear from the patients and families about what your donation has done for them makes it all worth it. So long story short: sign up today

Nicole: People should sign up for the dance marathon because it is a great way to serve those who are in the hospital, make friends, and have a super fun weekend all at the same time!! Participating in the dance marathon has been one of the best and most fun things I've done in my time at Carolina and think that every student should participate at least once!!!

Carolina For The Kids Research Grants

3/1/2021

Khanh Vu and Lindsey Poole are members of the Public Relations committee

While the work of CFTK as a service club that helps to raise and donate money for families that have children in the UNC hospitals is widely known, we also participate in a variety of other efforts to help children. We further prioritize the health of patients through intensive research by supporting a Research Grant Program. Like CFTK, the research grant focuses on children and projects tend to be based at UNC. Research funded can be conducted by a wide range of professionals from those early in their career to very established investigators.

For the 2019 research grants, 3 have been awarded:

1. “Novel RNA Sequencing Based Diagnostic Testing for Leukemia,”
- Dr. Alexander
- Evaluate a novel technology that can be used to subtype certain types of cancers, helping to guide therapeutic decisions. This new technology may drastically improve diagnostic capabilities in resource-poor areas

2. “Identifying the Genetic Basis of Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorders,”
- Dr. Pandya
- Seeks to uncover possible genetic causes of a certain form of hearing loss affecting loss. Data from this project will empower larger research projects to better characterize patients and explore genetic etiologies of this disease – a critical first step in research involving rare diseases

3. “Trends in the initiation & continuation of long-acting reversible contraception among adolescent females in North Carolina.”
- Dr. Bianca
- Despite huge strides at addressing teen pregnancy across the US, rates of adolescent pregnancy are higher in the US, particularly in NC, when compared to most other developed nations. This project aims to uncover socioeconomic factors affecting the use of long-acting birth control options in populations across the state.

Faculty are encouraged to apply for the grants and two investigators may be awarded forty-thousand dollars to fund their research. In the past, this grant has helped fund a wide variety of projects based on children's health like improving the process of prescribing antibiotics to children in North Carolina and procedural competency in the placement of neonatal chest tubes. The research grants provide further assistance to upcoming health professionals by offering two CFTK Fellows Awards that fund up to five thousand dollars to fellows in a pediatric training program with a focus on children's health.
These innovative and ground-breaking research efforts are possible through donations from supporters of CFTK like you. Generally, our annual dance marathon and other events are the biggest contributors. This year, it is especially important to remember past successes for patients and their families through generous contributions from sponsors. Despite this year’s unpredictability, CFTK is thrilled to continue to be able to support research grants and the application is still open. We cannot thank supporters and encouragers enough for allowing us to continue to make the lives of patients and families easier during this uncertain time.

Pregnancy During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Supporting Mothers-To-Be

1/26/2021

Emily Graham is from mightymoms.net and a featured guest writer for our page

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, pregnant women have dealt with many unique concerns. While there are many organizations that support families in tough situations, like Carolina For The Kids, mothers-to-be also need lots of love and encouragement from their friends and families right now. Are you wondering how you can give your pregnant loved one the reassurance she needs? These resources are packed with advice!

Classic Celebrations

Gathering in person to celebrate pregnancy milestones is not recommended at the moment. But you can contribute as your loved one plans for alternatives.

Don’t outright cancel your loved one’s baby shower — just shift the festivities to a virtual platform!
Help your loved one come up with a safe and fun way to reveal their baby’s gender online.
Is your loved one nervous about hiring a maternity photographer? Pick up your camera and plan a socially distanced, outdoor shoot with her.

Assisting With the Birth Plan

Creating a birth plan with the pandemic in mind can be challenging. These resources will allow you to help your loved one navigate her options.

Go over necessary precautions for doctor’s visits with your loved one if she is nervous about going to her appointments during the pandemic.
Your loved one may be thinking about choosing a home birth. Discuss the benefits and risks together to help her make the best decision for herself and her baby.
Talk to your loved one about giving birth at a birthing center, which can be a good middle ground between a hospital or home birth.

Giving Helpful Gifts

Shower your loved one with affection by giving her a thoughtful and useful gift! If you’re stuck for ideas, these suggestions might inspire you.

Looking for an affordable, homemade gift option? Create DIY stress balls for your loved one!
Make your loved one feel beautiful by gifting her a lovely maternity nightgown that she can wear while nursing her baby.
Think about small, useful items that your loved one would appreciate, and assemble a postpartum gift basket that can be sent to the hospital.
What are your loved one’s favorite meals? Cook and package freezer-friendly dishes that she can heat up after her baby arrives for convenience.

This pandemic has been a trying time for pregnant women. Trying to plan for motherhood and protect your household from the virus is a difficult task. That’s why it’s so important for friends and relatives to go the extra mile for their pregnant loved ones, and with these resources, you’ll be a crucial part of her support system!

Interested in supporting an organization that supports children and families? Carolina For The Kids raises money for patients and their families at the local children’s hospital. Find out how you can get involved!

Photo via Pexels

Ringing in the New Year CFTK Style

1/12/2021

Madeline Leung is the 2020 Newsletter Subchair

The year 2020 was a year full of uncertainties, surprises, and challenges. Despite the changes, Carolina For The Kids stayed true to our mission of supporting the patients and families served by UNC Children’s Hospital.

To celebrate the new year, Carolina For The Kids partnered with UNC Children’s to have a special pinwheel celebration. Any purchased pinwheels were placed on the lawn of the children’s hospital. They served to honor the children, healthcare workers, and community. With the pinwheels being a great success, we were able to raise $10,487 to benefit UNC Children’s through the For The Kids Fund. The fundraiser was not only able to spread some holiday cheer, but it created some beautiful scenery (take a look below!)

We are so grateful for all of our donors who made this pinwheel celebration possible. Additionally, we are always happy to see our CFTK members hard at work, planting the pinwheels right outside N.C. Children’s to make it all come together. It is always our goal to make the patients and families feel supported and loved in any way we can.

If you want to learn more about the impact Carolina For The Kids and our pinwheel campaign had, please check out this interview! Here’s to 2021 being the best year yet!

2021 Dance Marathon Survival Guide

10/28/2020

Ella Coxe, Lacy McKee, Jackson Pace, and Brooke Watson are members of the 2021 Public Relations committee

Every year, UNC Chapel Hill students take part in a classic Carolina Tradition - the Carolina For the Kids Dance Marathon. Participants stay on their feet for 24 hours in order to raise money for the UNC Children’s Hospital’s patients and families to provide them emotional and financial relief during their stay. This year, the marathon is on March 19-20, 2021. Keep reading to find out how to survive the Dance Marathon!

Survival Guide:

Mentally and physically prepare for 24 hours of unforgettable memories!
Eat a good breakfast and have snacks/ water on hand
Get comfortable! Make sure to wear comfy shoes (you will be on your feet for a very long time)
Sleep well before Marathon, you need all the energy you can get
Eat a good breakfast!
Wear a fun but comfortable outfit
Don’t be afraid to cry… you will hear from some patients and families that are directly affected by CFTK and it can get pretty emotional
Friends! You don’t need to have them right away, but recruit or meet some of your pals so you can motivate each other to keep on dancing! What’s better than dancing for a great cause than dancing for a great cause with your friends?
Bring a camera! These are some memories that you want to keep forever as a reminder of how much fun you had at UNC, so grab your phone and take some pics during the dance!
Have an open mind. Dance marathon is a chance to learn more about yourself and the cause you’re supporting (What are your Reasons to Stand?)
Get ready for beautiful nature scenes! Dancers will stay awake to see a beautiful sunrise
After the event, check off Dance Marathon from your UNC bucket list and let everyone know you participated in a HUGE Carolina tradition!

Still not convinced? Dance Marathon is as much fun as it is valuable, which is why over 2,000 students sign up each year. Although COVID-19 has erased many things this year, Dance Marathon is not going anywhere. Instead, there will be a virtual marathon with livestreams, Zooms, and more, as well as a shorter in person component. We will ensure the weekend will be full of great memories while still being extremely safe. This week is Dancer Recruitment Week so sign up while you can, you will not want to miss it this year… visit this link to become a 2021 Dancer!

4 Reasons to Run for KFTK This Year

9/22/2020

Madeline Leung is the 2020 Newsletter Subchair

Carolina For The Kids’ annual Kilometers For The Kids (KFTK) has never been anything less than a success. This year, we invite you to join us for our virtual KFTK weekend from October 9th to 11th… keep reading to find out why YOU should sign up to run this year!

1. All proceeds directly benefit the patients and families of UNC Children’s!

By signing up for one of the KFTK races this year, you will be supporting the patients and families of UNC Children’s. These funds help cover things that medical insurance cannot, such as travel expenses, food, and more. As a community, we can all come together and work towards this cause.

2. You can join the race from anywhere!

Since Kilometers For The Kids is completely virtual this year, anyone is welcome to participate (not just people in Chapel Hill)! You can run (or walk) wherever you are, whether it be outside, inside, or on a treadmill. Additionally, you can run individually or register with friends, coworkers, family, a club, or a Greek organization.

3. Every participant receives a racer packet, including an exclusive t-shirt and more!

All KFTK runners will receive their own race packet in the mail or by pick-up. No matter what race you sign up for, you will be sure to receive an awesome t-shirt and a few extra goodies!

4. To be a part of an amazing, interactive weekend!

KFTK this year is like no other, being a virtual and weekend-long event. Throughout the weekend, we will be engaging with runners through our social media with a scavenger hunt, raffles, contests and challenges, and even a Spotify playlist for the race. Also, using the hashtag #KFTK2020 will allow everyone to stay connected!

These are just a few of many reasons why you should run in KFTK this year! Kilometers For The Kids is such a fun event and we want as many people to experience it as possible. Click here to read more about the event and click here to sign up to run!

What Will Being a Committee Member Look Like This Semester?

9/8/2020

Madeline Leung is the 2020 Newsletter Subchair

Around this time a year ago, I was a first-year student trying to find my way around UNC and all it had to offer. I was eager to get involved in student organizations, so I decided to try out Carolina for the Kids. In just one year, I’ve gotten to experience so many amazing moments with CFTK including Banner Poster Painting, Kilometers for the Kids, Parents Night Out, and so much more. With Committee Recruitment Week wrapping up, I wanted to say: WELCOME! To all the new and returning members, I am confident this will be a great year!

These times will definitely go down in CFTK history with the unusual circumstances we are facing. Even though we can’t be on campus together, committee members will still have numerous ways to stay involved. For one, committees will still have weekly virtual meetings and have the chance to bond with their teams. Also, members will get the chance to participate in many virtual events throughout the semester – no matter where they are in the world. For example, Kilometers for the Kids is still happening in October and open for members, friends, families, and anyone who wants to run! We are also offering a pen pal program for hospital volunteers to stay involved with patients while hospital visiting is restricted. CFTK will continue offering benefit nights and many more virtual events to benefit the patients and families of UNC Children’s and stick with our mission. CFTK has become like a home to so many of us, and we love adding even more to our family.

Especially this semester, your engagement and support are so important. Connect with us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to keep up with what we’re doing this semester and don’t hesitate to reach out to any members of the Executive Board for questions. I’m so excited to take on this new year and I hope you all are too!

How to Give Back: Quarantine Edition

8/6/2020

Madeline Leung is the 2020 Newsletter Subchair

There is no doubt that COVID-19 has drastically changed the lives of many, but being in quarantine has graced a lot of us with some extra time on our hands. You may have even picked up a few hobbies, like baking or working out. But what about using this extra time to become a volunteer? Here are a few ways you can make a difference without even leaving your home:

1.    Listener for 7 Cups
Become a Listener and connect to people seeking emotional support online.
Visit https://www.7cups.com/listener/become-a-volunteer-listener.php.

2. Volunteer for the United Nations
Explore numerous volunteer options through the UN Volunteer website and find an organization you would be interested in helping with.
Visit https://www.onlinevolunteering.org/en.

3.    Coach for low-income high school students for UPchieve
Learn how to be a tutor for low-income high school students who are disproportionately affected by the pandemic and digital learning.
Visit https://upchieve.org/volunteer.

4.    Digital Transcriber for Smithsonian
Help make historical documents more accessible by transcribing and reviewing them.
Visit https://transcription.si.edu/browse?filter=all&sort=notdone.

5.   Volunteer for COVID-19 related organizations
Browse the numerous different remote volunteer options and aid communities impacted by COVID-19.
Visit https://www.volunteermatch.org/covid19.

Personally, Carolina For The Kids has shown me the importance of giving back to my community and getting involved in service. As a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing emotional, medical, and financial support to the patients and families at UNC Children’s Hospital, CFTK relies on our amazing members. Without the time and effort provided by so many UNC students, this organization would not nearly be as successful as it is today. So, during this time, please think about how you can help other organizations/ communities, as well as seek out additional opportunities outside of just this list. CFTK is proof of how rewarding, fun, and inspiring volunteering can be, so don’t hesitate to start getting involved, especially during a time when it is needed the most!

<<Previous