Many of JDRF’s most committed members choose to organize their own fundraisers, utilizing their individual skills, abilities, and resources to create personalized and unique events. For the past 11 years, the Tierney family has combined their love for Wiffle ball with their passion to accelerate T1D research, organizing an annual Wiffle for a Cure Tournament as a method of raising money for JDRF and awareness of T1D.

Gabe and Sarah Tierney first created the tournament in 2007, to raise money for JDRF and to support their son, Finn, and his new life with T1D. Little did they know that 10 years later their daughter, Ro, would also be diagnosed with T1D. Over time, the fundraiser has continued to exceed expectations, yielding new successes every year.  In 2017, the event raised over $28,000 bringing the 11-year total to over $100,000!  Gifts are still being counted from last month’s event but they anticipate another record year. All contributions directly support JDRF in advancing key T1D therapies, technologies, and research. The fundraiser takes place the Saturday before Father’s Day in Sacramento, providing an opportunity for families to enjoy time together while supporting an important cause. It operates in a bracket-style tournament, with teams of two facing each other. The event’s massive popularity ensures that there is always a waiting list of interested participants!

We are constantly amazed by the talent and ingenuity of JDRF advocates like the Tierneys — which is why we work hard to provide all the tools, tips, and resources needed to create personalized fundraisers. JDRF Your Way is a unique program that guides users through a series of simple steps to organize events and campaigns with an individualized touch. When you sign up, you’ll receive access to an array of amazing fundraising tools: a customizable fundraising page to share personal stories and event details, a private dashboard that displays fundraiser progress, email and social media templates for promoting events, and a variety of downloadable resources — including a logo and poster template. Choose from a wide range of fundraiser types depending on your personal interests — Athletic Events, Diaversary, Special Occasions and Milestones, Memorials — or create a completely new format! The possibilities are endless, and we can’t wait to see what unique projects you create. Sign up today at www.jdrfyourway.com!

Written By: Lorena Bergstrom