ROCHESTER, N.Y. – Back in February, the Roberts Wesleyan athletics department set out to raise money to support the Golisano Children's Hospital and the Onnie Wells Child Life Fund. As a result, a team of Roberts staff, coaches and student - athletes were able to present a final check for over $6,400 last Friday to the hospital.
Beginning with a visit and tour of Golisano Children's Hospital, that included Roberts Wesleyan College President Dr. Deana Porterfield, Director of Athletics
Bob Segave and Senior Woman Administrator
Kristin Concordia the Redhawks athletic department put together a fundraising campaign pitting coaches against their team and staff members against other staff members in order to raise money for the hospital. The "Penny Wars" campaign challenged coaches to raise more money than their team and staff members to compete against each other.
All of the competition led up to a double header men's and women's basketball game on March 3 against Mercy College which served as the Golisano Children's Hospital game and promoted and broadcast live across the WYSL Radio Network. Lia Gage and Jacob Harris served as honorary captains and their families, who have benefited from the children's hospital, served as the VIP's for the games. The day featured free Zweigles hot dogs, a free throw shooting competition sponsored by Salvatore's, Bill Gray's and Dunkin and free admission with donations encouraged and accepted to add to the support Golisano Children's Hospital.
The event ended with wins for the men's and women's basketball teams and raising a total of over $3,000. Some additional donations came in after the event and the total amount was generously matched by a special friend of the Redhawks helping the amount of $6,404.06 be raised for the hospital.
"The best part about raising money for Golisano Children's Hospital and the Onnie Wells Child Life Activity Room was bringing the entire community together," said Concordia, who also serves as head women's lacrosse coach and community service coordinator. "Not only did everyone in out athletics department participate but parents, friends, others on campus and community members participated as well. Knowing that even though the children at Golisano are being well cared for and loved they still need more space and more help. I'm glad we could provide some of that help."
The Redhawks plan to continue to support Golisano Children's Hospital with an annual basketball game event where funds can be raised to provide for the needs of the hospital.
