Huntington Sophomores Raising $100,000 to Battle Blood Cancer

Ava Bencivenga and Violet Palacios are trying to raise $100,000 over a seven week period to benefit Blood Cancer United, an organization dedicated to battling leukemia and lymphoma. The two close friends are Huntington High School sophomores and members of a small group of teenagers participating in the Student Visionaries of the Year program.

The duo said that being involved in the Student Visionaries of the Year Campaign is important to them because they are both interested in raising money for a good cause and to help people in need.

The sophomores have planned an evening of food, fun, auctions and raffles on Friday, March 6 from 7-10 p.m. at the American Legion Hall in Huntington. A second fundraising evening is set for one week later on Saturday, March 14 at 230 Elm in Southampton from 6:30-9:30 p.m.

To purchase tickets to either event visit this link: https://allstarsunited.arxyn.com/

“My grandmother Bea was a passionate volunteer for this organization and believed in the work they do deeply, I am proud to continue the family tradition and to raise money in memory of my beloved Grandma Bea,” Ms. Bencivenga.

The teenagers said they are “proud” to be a part of the campaign, working to raise as much as possible to achieve a world without blood cancer.

“I got involved because I love to spread awareness and help others in any way I can and this fundraising competition gives me that opportunity,” Ms. Palacios said.

“Student Visionaries are the leaders of tomorrow,” according to Blood Cancer United. “They look to the future—and see infinite possibility. They challenge the status quo—and make the impossible possible. They boldly imagine a better world – and lead the charge to create it.

Blood Cancer United was built on that same vision - of a better world - one without blood cancers. And with the help of high school students across the country, our impact is stronger than ever - and growing.”

The fundraising campaign kicked off on January 26 with the grand finale celebration set for March 19 at the Crest Hollow Country Club. In the opening weeks of their work, Ms. Bencivenga and Ms. Palacios have already raised tens of thousands of dollars at several small events.

The Huntington sophomores have named their team All Stars United and the pair truly are all stars in every possible way. Both are exemplary students and are active in the high school’s club and athletics programs while being surrounded by loving friends and family who provide them with encouragement and support.

“Student Visionaries of the Year is a groundbreaking philanthropic leadership development program for high school students,” according to Blood Cancer United. “Every year, courageous young leaders embark on an exciting seven-week journey with a goal to create a world without blood cancers, striving to earn the Student Visionary of the Year title.”

Click on the link to visit the Huntington teenagers’ fundraising page: https://pages.lls.org/svoy/li/svoyli26/AllStarsUnited

As a global leader in the fight against blood cancer, this organization:

• Funds cutting-edge research leading to breakthroughs in immunotherapy, genomics and personalized medicine that are improving and saving the lives of patients

• Provides free education and support for blood cancer patients and families, including personalized, one-on-one support, assistance with identifying and enrolling in clinical trials, and more.

• Mobilizes thousands of advocates to drive policy changes that accelerate the development of new cancer treatments and break down barriers to care.