About the Kean Elementary 2004-2005 Fourth Grade Class:

Eylie Buehler was a healthy nine-year-old until a bout with bacterial pneumonia had her fighting for her life at Akron Children's Hospital. When she finally regained consciousness in the Hospital's pediatric intensive care unit, she was comforted by the items (stuffed animals, special blankets, etc.) that are provided to the children thanks to the generosity of individuals and community groups.

Before she left the hospital, Eylie recognized what people had done to help her feel better and started to think of ways that she could help other kids who were in the hospital. Fully recovered and back at Kean Elementary School in Wooster, she told her fourth grade classmates about her experience. However, her focus wasn't on her illness. Her main concern was about helping other sick kids.

Inspired by Eylie, the entire class of 26 students enthusiastically organized a hot dog sale at the area Buehler's supermarket to raise funds for Akron Children's Hospital. Hours of hard work paid off for the students who raised $1,150.75! The unabashed joy and pride in what they had accomplished was evident in their faces, and they immediately began planning a second event for September 2005. The experience that they created for themselves is sure to have made a lasting impression on their lives as well as the people who were touched by their generosity. They are a true example to both children and adults, and they are very deserving of special recognition.

These fourth graders showed everyone who witnessed their hard work and dedication what philanthropy is really all about, and the little ripple that they made is already touching so many lives in our community.