High schools across the Atlanta area recently participated in the seven week Student Visionaries of the Year fundraising program with Blood Cancer United, formerly known as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). These schools raised a record setting $3.2 million in support of lifesaving blood cancer research, patient support programs, advocacy efforts, and education initiatives. Certain North Atlanta students played a big role in this historic year for LLS.
The campaign consisted of students from schools across the Atlanta area who spent weeks organizing fundraisers, reaching out to donors, and raising awareness. The campaign ended with a celebratory gala honoring candidates and their team members who raised over $5,000, recognizing months of dedication and community outreach. “The statistic that 40 different Atlanta based teams raised $3.2 million in just seven weeks left me in shock,” said sophomore Addie Patton.
Members from North Atlanta hosted events to bring people together and raise money. Sophomores Addie Patton and Stella Shirah hosted two major events in honor of Blood Cancer United. “I loved our West Stride event and our Scofflaw event — it brought people together and was such a fun time,” said Shirah.
Behind every candidate was a team of students who showed up and put in the work to push the mission forward. For many, the decision to get involved came from a deeply personal place. “No one should have to face a life-threatening illness without hope or access to better treatments,” said Cal Williamson.
Teams thought outside of the box to reach their fundraising goals, using every tool available from social media campaigns to knocking on the doors of local businesses. The effort required persistence, teamwork, and a willingness to ask for help. “It was really just about spreading the word and getting people involved,” said junior Sophie Yano.
One of the most surprising takeaways for participants was how much impact a small time commitment could have. Students found that even a few hours a week, spent sending emails and hosting events, added up quickly. “Who would’ve thought such little time could make such an impact,” said Jesse Spilerman.
Mentor and committee member Zoe Piernik, who previously served as a candidate, said the program reshaped how she sees the power of young people. “I’ve seen the change that just a few high school students can make when they put their mind to something,” she said.
The Student Visionaries of the Year campaign is proof that anyone can make a real difference. What started as a seven-week fundraising challenge turned into a movement driven by students who refused to sit on the sidelines. With a record breaking $3.2 million raised and a community brought closer together in the process, this year’s campaign left a mark that extends far beyond the gala stage.
