It was a busy Fall for the Greater Blue Ridge Chapter Families.  Families joined in the Walk Awards, Kids Walk, and are preparing for the Gala.  Please take a few moments to review our Family News and Events!  Happy Holidays to All!

Sincerely, Julie Kiser

Family Teams were on hand to celebrate the success of the 2014 Walk to Cure Diabetes at the Walk Awards Event held on November 20^th.  The top fundraising families that received awards were Ben and Bella’s Believers, Caleb’s Crusaders, Lillian’s Lifesavers, Matthew’s Marchers, Peyton Power and Lillee’s Diabetes Buddies.  A special Cure Crusader Award was presented to Advance Auto Parts for their many contributions that fund research.

The JDRF Star City Gala will be held March 21, 2015 at the Shenandoah Club. We had our first committee meeting on October 14th. The committees are as follows: Sponsorship, Procurement, Invitations and Decorations just to name a few. If you would like to serve, contribute a time/talent or procure an item for the silent or live auction, please let me know. You can also participate by donating an item or package that includes items that are special to your child. It can focus on their favorite restaurant, sport, hobby, play, family outing site, game, etc. Use your imagination! These are some examples of items that were donated last year: Autographed cap by Bret Michaels, one hour photo shoot/printing and frame, fitness and dance basket, and an original watercolor.

Kid’s Walks are another great way to raise funds and awareness in the community! If a JDRF Walk is held at your school, all participating students who raise 10 dollars or more are eligible for a fun gift. Ten percent of the total amount raised for JDRF can be awarded back to your school for equipment, books, field trip or anything else your school might need. Some schools that have participated include River Lawn Elementary in Pulaski, Tomahawk Elementary in Lynchburg and Burnt Chimney Elementary in Wirtz. For more information contact the office or go to kidswalk.jdrf.org

Teen Support Group Organizer is needed for our growing type 1 teen population. The Outreach Committee already has some ideas; we just need the right person to put them into action! Please email me at jacksonkiser@verizon.net if you want more information.

Support Group will take place on January 13, 2015 at Green Memorial Methodist Church from 6 to 8 pm. A light dinner will be provided. Special Guest TBA.