HPHS Begins Charity Drive for Bear Necessities

Submitted by District 113 schools

Highland Park High School kicked off its 20th annual Charity Drive fundraiser with an emotional assembly on January 30th. HPHS’s School Chest is a Student Senate-led initiative, which over the past two decades has raised $2.9 million for various charitable causes.

“The impact we have had on our local community has been profound, and has positioned us as one of the best high schools in the nation,” said HPHS Principal Tom Koulentes. “Charity Drive serves not only to help others, but to remind ourselves that there is no greater good than joining with others to serve those in need.”

This year’s Charity Drive recipient is Bear Necessities, a pediatric cancer foundation created in 1992 by Kathleen Casey in honor of her son Barrett “Bear” Krupa, who lost his battle with cancer in 1993 at age eight. Before he died, Bear had the idea to start an organization to help kids fight cancer.

The mission of Bear Necessities is “to eliminate pediatric cancer and provide hope and support to those who are touched by it.” Bear Necessities helps children via two major programs: Bear Hugs and Bear Discoveries. A Bear Hug is a special experience that brightens the life of a child going through cancer, and Bear Discoveries gives money to young researchers nationally who are trying to find creative ways to cure cancer.

“You really are spectacular. Thank you for everything that you’re doing to be doing. … You are our future, and the children who are diagnosed are our future. Never underestimate the power of youth to make a difference,” Casey, who also serves as the organization’s CEO, told HPHS students and staff. She added that only three percent of research funding goes towards pediatric cancer.

A 14-year-old cancer survivor, who serves as a Bear Ambassador, received two standing ovations as she told the story of her battle with the disease after being diagnosed at age 12.

This year’s Charity Drive activities and events, which are organized and hosted by numerous clubs, groups and individual students and staff, include a Battle of the Bands competition, taping a dean to the wall, Taste of Highland Park, a dance clinic for young local dancers, several shop/dine and share events in partnership with local businesses, a pancake breakfast, Giant Buddies bake sale, silent auction art bazaar, polar plunge, chili cookoff, student vs. faculty soccer game, HP Idol and a fashion show.

On Friday, February 27, HPHS students and staff, as well as staff from District 113 sender schools, will take on the Harlem Wizards to benefit Charity Drive. This event kicks off at 7 p.m. in the Main Gym at HPHS. Doors open at 6:30. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Tickets also can be purchased online at www.harlemwizards.com.

**Photo: Bear Necessities founder and CEO Kathleen Casey addresses the assembly.