It’s hard to believe another year is in the books. Here at The Keane Foundation, we would like to thank those who have supported us this year, and to update you everyone on some of the work we have did in 2015.
We held two fund raising events, one in Atlanta, and one on the Jersey Shore. Both were well attended, and raised roughly $20,000 to be distributed to families in need.
Throughout the year, the Southern branch has worked to help our community and families at need. Some of the work includes:
- The Kalafut Family of Kennesaw, GA– Mary and her family lost her husband unexpectedly in 2014. The Keane Foundation supported the family with help on a weekend getaway with her children this past summer.
- The Troxell Family of Woodstock, GA– Stacy and her family lost her husband unexpectedly this past summer. The Keane Foundation stepped in to help pay for maintenance work to the family vehicles.
- The Wilson Family of Gloucester County, NJ – Seven year old Ella has Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) and is going through chemotherapy for brain tumors. The Keane Foundation bought Christmas gifts for Ella and her sister, and also paid a month’s mortgage payment to help lighten their load.
- The Howard Family, Acworth, GA – Leisa Howard is a popular middle school teacher who is bravely battling stage four cancer. The Keane Foundation sent Leisa and her family on a long weekend get-away this past spring
- Establishment of “The Karen Keane Smith Science Fair at Pickett’s Mill Elementary, Acworth GA – Karen loved science fairs, and started the Science Fair at Pickett’s Mill when the school first opened in 2008. Effective in 2016, the foundation is sponsoring this event going forward with an annual $500 gift
All told, the Keane Foundation has distributed the majority of money raised in 2015, and are looking for more ways to help in 2016. Our goal is to give the majority of money away before our next fundraising events in the spring and summer of this coming year. If you know of a family that is going through a crises and could use a little help, please contact us or nominate a recipient.
God Bless, and Happy New Year,
Kirk Smith – Board Member – The Keane Foundation
PS – In 2016, the Atlanta branch of the Keane Foundation will hold a March Madness College Basketball fundraiser. Part of the fun will be a Nationwide Bracket Pool. Details will be out soon!