The Ryan McElroy Children's Cancer Foundation is a non-profit organization founded by the family and friends of Ryan McElroy who lost his life on this earth to cancer just shy of his 5th birthday. It was the bravery and determination that inspired us to continue his courageous battle to fight this devastating disease. It is the Foundation's mission to raise funds to support the children living in our community who are afflicted by cancer and other life threatening diseases.by improving the quality of life for them and their families while they courageously battle these devastating diseases.
IN THE NEWS
By Ariel Schwartz
For the Poughkeepsie Journal
The Ryan McElroy Children's Cancer Foundation has had a pretty good year, thanks in part to some local children.
The students of Vassar Road Elementary School in Poughkeepsie in grades K-3 raised $1,900 for the foundation in just a month's time. They were rewarded with a surprise pizza and ice cream party at the school Friday to celebrate the class that raised the most money. The children surpassed last year's fundraising effort by $400.
Foundation Chairman Chip McElroy started the organization seven years ago after losing his son Ryan to cancer at age 5.
"Watching my son and so many other children go through what they do - you can't just walk away," McElroy said.
The foundation has held a variety of events to raise money, including an annual golf tournament and an annual Gala of Hope, which raised $50,000 this year.
"One hundred percent of the money goes to children, and all the money stays local. We have referees from local hospitals," McElroy said. "This year, we've raised close to $200,000."
The foundation has been so successful it was able to give $20,000 to three different families this week.
A charitable idea
The fundraiser idea at Vassar Road Elementary came from Steve Reverri, deputy sheriff of Dutchess County and member of the foundation's board of directors. Reverri had a contact at the school who loved the idea.
"It's kids helping kids," Reverri said.
The fundraiser, which is called "Pocket Change," is particularly moving for McElroy. "These children are about the same age I lost my son. It's very emotional," he said.
The next foundation event is the annual golf tournament at Silo Ridge Golf Course on July 21.
"When my son died, the community was overwhelming with their support," McElroy said. "You just have to give back."
Reach Ariel Schwartz at newsroom@poughkeepsiejournal.com
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