The B+ Foundation at Alabama hosted “Tide For a Cure” at the Student Center on March 2. The event raised over $210,000 for families affected by childhood cancer.
The B+ Foundation at Alabama is a part of The Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation that honors the memory of Andrew McDonough, who passed away from leukemia on July 14, 2007. The foundation was started by his father, Joe McDonough, and its name comes from Andrew’s blood type and his outlook on life: to “Be Positive.”
“It’s impactful to see how doing small things such as sending fundraising emails and tabling can make such a difference in these kids’ lives,” said Hunter Stamm, a morale director for the UA B+ Foundation. “It’s even better to be face-to-face with them and really get to know our heroes.”
The University organization has certain children affected by cancer titled as “heroes.” These children are sponsored by Greek organizations on campus and interact with the members on a personal basis.
Ava Ferrie, a morale director for the UA B+ Foundation, said she has developed meaningful connections while working alongside fellow members to help the heroes, who also put on a talent show during the event.
“You gain so much not only by raising money to help these kids, but also to create a community around supporting them,” she said. “I’ve met so many great people here, and I love that I get to help the heroes with my best friends.”
Sidney Smallwood, social media director of the UA B+ Foundation, said she enjoys working with the children.
“I love interacting with the heroes and taking photos of them doing whatever fun activity we are doing,” she said. “Getting to capture the happiness that we bring to the heroes’ faces is one of the biggest blessings.”
